Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The programme blends daily studio technique with academic courses to build technical excellence, creative voice and critical understanding. Core studio work commonly includes ballet, modern/contemporary technique, jazz and improvisation, with additional classes in tap, partnering and specialty techniques depending on offerings. Coursework typically covers choreography and composition, dance history and criticism, anatomy and kinesiology for dancers, somatic approaches to training, and music for dancers.

Students also take part in ensemble rehearsals, repertory projects and staged productions; laboratory and performance courses provide ongoing practical experience. The course sequence normally culminates in a senior project or choreographic recital, integrating creative research, production skills and performance presentation. Electives and interdisciplinary options allow study in related areas such as theatre, music, education, arts management and wellness.

Typical modules and experiences

• Technique classes: ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz, improvisation
• Choreography and composition
• Dance history, criticism and cultural contexts
• Anatomy, kinesiology and injury prevention for dancers
• Somatic practices and movement analysis
• Performance lab, repertory and company work
• Production skills: lighting, costuming and stagecraft
• Teaching methods and practicum (for those pursuing educator pathways)

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admission to the programme typically includes a practical audition demonstrating technical ability, musicality and performance potential; some applicants may submit a video audition where in-person attendance is not possible. Academic transcripts and a personal statement outlining dance experience and goals are normally required. The university may request letters of recommendation, and candidates for teaching routes should be prepared to meet additional certification or practicum requirements aligned with state education standards.

Non-traditional applicants with substantial dance experience or post-secondary training are considered; transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the performing arts and related fields. Common pathways include:

• Professional performance with contemporary companies, regional theatres, cruise lines and commercial dance work
• Choreography and freelance creative practice for stage, film and community projects
• Dance teaching in schools, community centres and private studios (with additional certification for K–12 public school teaching where required)
• Arts administration, production and company management
• Community engagement and outreach, including social and educational dance programmes
• Complementary careers in fitness, wellness and movement therapy (often requiring further qualifications)
• Postgraduate study in dance, performance studies, choreography or arts leadership

The programme's combination of practical training, teaching experience and production work equips graduates to adapt across professional contexts in the arts and education sectors.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a focused undergraduate dance environment with consistent studio contact hours, regular performance opportunities and faculty who combine pedagogic experience with professional practice. Students benefit from dedicated rehearsal and performance spaces and a schedule that integrates technique, choreography and production experience.

The university emphasises small classes and mentorship, enabling personalised feedback and growth. Cross-disciplinary collaboration with theatre, music and education departments, plus community partnerships and touring opportunities, allows students to build a diverse portfolio of experience. For those aiming to teach, the programme provides pathways into classroom practicum and preparation for certification requirements. Overall, Slippery Rock supports dancers seeking both practical professional preparation and a broad liberal-arts foundation.