Ballet Dance Teaching Preparation and Performance

The Ballet Dance Teaching and Performance Certificate of Achievement recognizes the completion and mastery of European Folk Ballet techniques in one of the six folk traditions: Royal Academy of Dance method (English style), or Balanchine method (American) as a critical foundation for teaching and performance in dance and related performing arts careers. Students will examine basic form and function, movement theory, improvisation, and Dance History with an emphasis on art as a tool for building social justice awareness. Musicality, dance forms, spatial awareness, performance readiness, injury prevention, and dance making through creation of group and solo choreography. After completing this program, students will be able to teach dance in camp and afterschool settings, perform in multi-level dance companies, run rehearsals, compose choreography for musicals, plays, and amateur dance companies, or continue with their studies towards an associate degree. This certificate may be used to supplement professional experience and meet conditions for course requirements as entry into BA dance programs and preparation for the Theater Arts and Dance Assessment Credential (TADA).

Career Opportunities

Students will be prepared with the skills and knowledge to teach in dance studios, recreation or Afterschool settings and performance companies. With additional education and training, students may pursue careers in K-post secondary education dance programs, professional, and other arts related professions.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:

1. GLOBAL COMMUNICATION: Students will be able to analyze, write and speak about historical, theoretical and cultural dimensions of multiple dance genres within a greater global context that reflects diverse, cultural perspectives.
2. DANCE MECHANICS: Students will develop anatomical awareness within the realm of personal movement possibilities for efficient and sustainable body maintenance.
3. TEACHER PREPARATION: Successful students will examine, synthesize, and evaluate teaching methods of modern dance through critical dance pedagogy with a focus on arts activism and dance as a tool for social justice.