Florida State University

What you'll study

The undergraduate programme combines daily technique classes with coursework in choreography, dance history and somatic approaches. Core practical training typically includes ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz and improvisation, supplemented by repertory rehearsals and ensemble performance projects.

• Technique and performance: progressive levels of ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz and partnering classes designed to build alignment, strength and performance readiness.
• Choreography and composition: phrase-work, choreographic processes, composition labs and opportunities to mount student choreography in public concerts.
• Repertory and production: study and performance of works by faculty and guest artists, plus production seminars covering staging, lighting and costume collaboration.
• Dance studies and history: survey courses in dance history, critical writing, analysis of movement and contextual studies linking dance to cultural and social issues.
• Somatics and kinesiology: alignment, injury prevention, conditioning, and movement sciences to support longevity in a dance career.
• General education and electives: liberal studies requirements alongside transferable electives that allow interdisciplinary collaboration across theatre, music, film or health sciences.
• Capstone/senior project: a culminating performance, choreographic project or research paper that demonstrates technical, creative and scholarly development.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a secondary-school qualification equivalent to a high-school diploma and must satisfy Florida State University's general admission standards. Candidates for the professional track are required to audition; application materials often include academic transcripts, a written statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

• Audition: in-person or recorded audition demonstrating technical proficiency and performance quality in specified styles (ballet and modern are typically expected).
• Academic transcript: official record showing successful completion of secondary education; portfolio or supplemental materials may be requested.
• Personal statement: a short essay outlining goals, experience and artistic interests.
• References: at least one academic or professional reference who can speak to the applicant's readiness for a rigorous dance programme.
• Additional requirements: some applicants may be invited to interview or attend a callback; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers as performing artists, choreographers, educators and arts administrators. The programme prepares students for a range of professional pathways within and adjacent to dance.

• Professional dancer with contemporary, ballet, commercial or touring companies
• Choreographer creating work for stage, film, television or interdisciplinary collaborations
• Dance educator in schools, universities, conservatories and community programmes
• Arts administrator, producer or presenter working in companies, festivals and cultural organisations
• Movement director or consultant for theatre, film and media projects
• Health and movement specialist roles such as pilates or somatic practitioner, or further study in dance science/physical therapy
• Graduate study in choreography, performance, dance studies or related fields

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University's dance programme offers conservatory-level training embedded in a major research university, giving students both intense studio practice and broad academic resources. Students benefit from regular performance seasons, opportunities to work with visiting choreographers and interdisciplinary collaborations across arts departments.

• Experienced faculty who are active teachers, choreographers and researchers in the field of dance.
• Extensive performance opportunities and a supportive environment for presenting student choreography.
• Well-equipped dance studios and access to campus production facilities to learn both performance and technical production skills.
• Location in Tallahassee with a vibrant campus arts community and connections to regional companies and festivals for internships and professional development.