Modern Dance Teaching Preparation and Performance
Certificate of Achievement Dance Folk · Laney College · 2026-2027 Catalog
The Modern Dance Technique Certificate of Achievement recognizes the completion and mastery of modern dance technique 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, Dunham Technique, 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.
Career Opportunities
Dance choreographers; dance company members; rehearsal and performance directors; private dance and fitness instructors; arts program directors. With further education and dance training, the dancer with a contemporary modern dance training background is prepared to enter the dance world with one of the most highly recognized dance skills in the USA.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
- 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.
- DANCE MECHANICS: Students will develop anatomical awarenes within the realm of personal movement possibilities for efficient and sustainable body maintenance.
- 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.