University of Auckland

What you'll study

This honours-year programme builds on prior dance study by combining intensive studio practice with advanced theoretical and research training. You will undertake specialist modules in contemporary technique, choreography and creative process, performance production, and applied somatic approaches. The curriculum includes a sustained research project or honours thesis, taught research methods, and seminars in dance history, critical theory and cultural perspectives, including Aotearoa New Zealand and Pacific dance practices.

Typical components include:

• Advanced Performance and Technique: daily studio classes and rehearsal-based work that extend technical range and performance craft.
• Choreography and Creative Development: modules that support individual and collaborative choreographic projects, composition strategies and dramaturgy.
• Dance Studies and Theory: critical studies in dance history, aesthetics, embodied practice and contemporary discourse.
• Research Methods and Honours Thesis: training in qualitative and practice-led research methods culminating in an independent research project or substantial creative work with written exegesis.
• Applied and Community Practice: workshops and placements that focus on teaching methodologies, community-engaged practice and arts facilitation.

Assessment blends practical performance, choreographic portfolios, written essays, oral presentations and the honours research project. Students often have opportunities to present work in public performances and cross-disciplinary collaborations with theatre, music and visual arts programmes.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a completed undergraduate qualification in dance or a closely related discipline, together with a strong academic record and demonstrated practical ability. The programme is intended for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree with substantial dance content; applicants with equivalent professional experience may also be considered.

Selection may involve submission of a performance and choreography portfolio, an audition or interview, and an outline of a proposed honours research project. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements. Specific entry standards and documentation requirements are published by the University of Auckland and should be consulted when preparing an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the honours year are prepared for a range of careers across the dance and performing arts sector and beyond. Common pathways include professional performance, choreography, and independent artistic practice; dance and movement teaching in schools, tertiary institutions and community settings; roles in arts programming, production and cultural organisations; and leadership in community arts or health-related movement programmes.

The honours year also provides a solid foundation for further postgraduate study (for example, master's research degrees) and for careers that value research, critical analysis and project management, such as arts policy, cultural development and academic research.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland offers dance training within a major research-led university and a contemporary Faculty of Creative Arts and Industries. Students benefit from well-equipped studio spaces, access to performance venues, and opportunities to work with experienced academic staff, visiting artists and local professional companies. The programme emphasises Aotearoa New Zealand and Pacific perspectives in practice and research, supporting culturally responsive approaches to choreography and community engagement.

Being located in Auckland provides strong connections to a vibrant performing-arts scene, interdisciplinary collaboration across the arts and health sciences, and links with national and regional employers. The honours year is designed to help students consolidate their artistic identity, extend research skills and develop professional networks that support transition into careers or further study.