Dance (B.A.)

Program Overview

The Dance major at Messiah University leads to a B.A. degree with an emphasis in the development of the well-rounded and versatile dance artist. Our curriculum includes technical course work in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and dance ministry. Performance and choreographic opportunities as well as course study in dance history; dance pedagogy, arts management, and kinesiology prepare students for careers in dance performance, dance education, dance ministry, graduate school, and other related fields in dance. Like all arts dance is a significant form of human expression and communication, a way of knowing and understanding the world, and a means of serving God and other people.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Dance program can:

1. Demonstrate foundational abilities in the 4 dance techniques of Ballet, Jazz, Modern and Tap.
2. Develop and defend critical evaluation
3. Demonstrate an understanding for wide selection of dance repertory, the principal eras, genres, and cultural sources.
4. Identify and work conceptually with the elements of dance
5. Demonstrate the choreographic processes, aesthetic properties of style, and the way these shape and are shaped by artistic and cultural ideas and contexts.
6. Apply fundamental knowledge of kinesiology and it’s application to work in dance.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of procedure for realizing a variety of dance styles
8. Develop knowledge and/or skills in one or more areas of dance beyond basic course work and performance appropriate to the individual’s needs and interests.
9. Cultivate the stewardship of the intellect and imagination
10. Explore the intersections between Christian faith and Dance

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Two credits from the following:

Take three credits of the following:

NOTE: 25 -27 credits of the major requirements are from DANC courses.

QuEST Requirements