BA in dance
At Rowan, the dance major is an opportunity to push boundaries, participate in rigorous training and create work that’s uniquely your own.
Why choose Rowan’s dance program?
Rowan University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in dance degree program invites you to grow as both a performer and a creative thinker.
You’ll study contemporary and modern dance, choreography, improvisation, dance history and the science of movement, while collaborating with faculty and peers to develop original work. The program blends rigorous studio training with academic exploration, helping you understand dance as both a physical practice and a field of research and innovation.
At Rowan, the stage is part of your classroom. You’ll perform regularly in on-campus Main Stage productions, collaborate with faculty and guest artists and even have professional opportunities in neighboring cities like Philadelphia. The program’s liberal arts design also makes it easy to pursue a minor or dual degree in another area so that you can connect dance with areas such as education or business. This combination of training, performance and flexibility prepares you to enter the field as a versatile and well-rounded dance professional.
Key considerations
Quick Facts
Months To Complete
Credits
Application Deadlines
Fall Entry Term
Spring Entry Term
Summer Entry Term
Studying dance at Rowan
What You’ll Learn
Rowan’s dance degree is a 120-credit program that focuses on both the technical and creative sides of the art form. You’ll study modern technique, improvisation, choreography and dance history, as well as explore the science of human movement. Nearly every class involves making and performing original work, encouraging you to see dance not only as performance but also as a space for research and finding your artistic voice.
Alongside these core requirements, the program allows you to follow your own interests. Elective courses range from ballet, jazz and tap to world dance forms and performance design. Every dance major also performs in Rowan’s Main Stage seasons, gaining meaningful experience in rehearsal and production. And with the flexibility to take additional technique courses, add a minor or even pursue a double major, you can shape the degree around both your creative passions and your future career plans.
Dance key courses
- Choreography
- Dance Composition I
- Dance History
- Dance Theatre Workshop
- Dynamics of Human Movement
- Stagecraft Fundamentals
Note: The course information above is not official and is subject to change. For an official list of available courses, please review the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
How You'll Learn
From your first year through graduation, you’ll take part in regular public performances and choreography projects that give you practical experience. You may even have the opportunity to work closely with full-time and adjunct faculty to perform in professional settings, like Philadelphia’s dynamic arts scene.
Additionally, your studies culminate with the Senior Project in Theatre Arts, a capstone that lets you create and present an original project in performance, choreography, design or criticism under the guidance of a faculty mentor. These opportunities ensure that by the time you graduate, you not only have strong technique but also a portfolio of original work and connections to the broader dance community.
Admission Requirements
Ready to take the stage at Rowan? Review the application requirements below to complete Rowan's dance program admission process.
- First-year application through one of three platforms:
- Application fee of $65
- Official high school transcript(s)
- Letter(s) of recommendation/teacher evaluations
- Personal essay
Additionally, prospective students must audition for the BA in dance degree program after completing Rowan University’s application requirements. Learn more about the audition process.
Once you submit your application, a representative from Rowan’s Office of Admissions will confirm your application status and notify you of any missing materials. There may be additional actions or materials required for admission to the program.
Note: Rowan University is test-optional. You may submit your SAT or ACT scores, but you won’t be penalized if you choose not to.
Need assistance with your application? Our Office of Admissions team is here to support you—email admissions@rowan.edu to reach out.
Tuition and Aid
We make pursuing your passion for dance more affordable. You can also apply for institutional, state and federal financial aid opportunities and scholarships. Rowan University even offers scholarships specifically for dance majors.
Get more information about tuition and aid.
I have been inspired and motivated as a dancer since taking my first modern class with Professor Dawn-Marie Bazemore.
Haley M. Gloucester County, NJ
I like the freedom that we have to explore the many avenues of dance. We are a technical-based program, and we continue to hone our skills in dance.
Kate Rose W. Camden County, NJ
The professors come into class with passion and knowledge that makes me happier. I know that my future in dance can be so much better now that I am here.
Gregory W. Middlesex County, NJ
Studying dance in college has been a dream of mine that has finally come true. I learn so much from all of the wonderful professors. Every day is so much fun.
Heather D. Delaware County, PA
Careers and outcomes
Upcoming virtual information sessions and events
Inside the dance major: Tap dancing
Seven dance majors share how their degree supports their dreams and goals
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