Back to programs
Image carousel. Use arrow keys to navigate.

University Studies — Dance

Blend an education in dance with performance opportunities with the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in University Studies — Dance concentration. This interdisciplinary degree plan provides preparation in dance history, dance education, choreography, and production.

Choose two minors to complement your studies to design a degree plan specific to your interests.

Apply Audition Process

About the University Studies Program

The University Studies Degree format provides the flexibility to combine areas of study that are of special interest. This interdisciplinary format allows you to customize your higher education experience to meet your future career goals.

All University Studies degrees require the completion of two university-approved minors. Although not required, minors in business, music and theatre are excellent complements to this degree program.

University-Approved Minors

Curriculum

Degree Plan 2022–2023*

For more details about each course, view the listings in the Texas A&M Course Catalog.

Year 1 26 credit hours

Fall Semester – 13 credit hours

DCED 202 Dance Appreciation 3 credit hours
Dance Appreciation. Survey of dance as a cultural and artistic form in numerous countries; exploration of the development and influence of dance in various cultures; analysis of various genres of artistic dance and their development; discussion of aesthetic principles of dance as an art form and how choreographers are influenced by society to create work.
ENGL 103 or ENGL 104 Introduction to Rhetoric and Composition or Composition and Rhetoric 3 credit hours
Introduction to Rhetoric and Composition. Intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising and editing, both individually and corroboratively; emphasis on effective rhetorical choices including audience, purpose, arrangement and style; focus on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating and critical analysis.

OR

Composition and Rhetoric. Focus on referential and persuasive researched essays through the development of analytical reading ability, critical thinking and library research skills.
Prerequisite: Freshman or sophomore classification; also taught at Galveston and Qatar campuses.
DCED 260, DCED 361, or DCED 462 Ballet I, II, or III 2 credit hours
Ballet I. Introduction to ballet technique for dancers; series of barre exercises progressing to center work, explanation of positions of the body and port de bras; understand proper body alignment as it relates to ballet technique; appreciation of ballet as an instrument of expression. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisites: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Intermediate study of ballet; historical background and the knowledge and understanding of its cultural heritage; increased level of difficulty in barre, center and across the floor; concentration and continual refinement of body/spatial awareness, musicality, alignment and execution of correct classical technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Technical study of classical and contemporary ballet; elevated barre work, traditional components including turns, footwork, adagios, advanced center and floor phrases; study of Cecchetti, Vaganova and collaborative methods; focus on strength, concentration and correct technique on performance combinations. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.
DCED 271, DCED 372, or DCED 473 Modern Dance I, II, or III 2 credit hours
Study and understanding of modern dance concepts; lateral curve, contraction, spiral, high curve, high release, rotation versus parallel, body alignment, moving in and out of the floor, fluidity of phrase work, musicality and kinesthetic awareness. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisites: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Intermediate study of modern dance; reviews, historical background and its development within society; continual study and understanding of modern dance concepts; fall/recovery, contract/release, use of breath and weight, spine work, inversion and spatial awareness. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Physical and artistic exploration of both traditional and contemporary training methods; three dimensional spine work, inversion, floor work and dynamics. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: DCED 372 or approval of instructor.
Life and Physical Sciences 3–4 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on describing, explaining, and predicting natural phenomena using the scientific method. Courses involve the understanding of interactions among natural phenomena and the implications of scientific principles on the physical world and on human experiences. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, empirical and quantitative, and team work.

Spring Semester – 13 credit hours

KINE 271, KINE 372, or KINE 473 Movement Lab: Modern Dance I, II, or III 2 credit hours
Understand body alignment through modern dance; assess individual muscular and skeletal body imbalances during a modern dance class; introduction of how to work with imbalances in the body while executing proper dance technique; understand the structural and muscular alignment of parallel versus lateral rotation. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Self evaluation of correct body alignment and imbalances while executing proper modern dance technique; observation and assessment of the student's progression throughout the semester in regards to proper alignment and technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Peer evaluation of body alignment, imbalances and biomechanics of movement; explanation of kinesthetic principles and injury prevention through modern dance technique; develop conditioning program for a peer's imbalances and improper technique in a modern dance class. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.
KINE 260, KINE 361, or KINE 462 Movement Lab: Ballet I, II, or III 2 credit hours
Understand body alignment through ballet technique; assess individual muscular and skeletal imbalances during a ballet technique class; video references of proper body alignment; anatomical explanation and assessment of individual's use of lateral rotation in ballet technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Self evaluation of correct body alignment and imbalances while executing proper ballet technique; observation and assessment of the student's progression throughout the semester in regards to proper alignment and technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Peer evaluation of body alignment, imbalances and biomechanics of movement; explanation of kinesthetic principles and injury prevention through ballet technique; conditioning programs for a peer's imbalances and improper technique in a ballet class. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.
Communication 3 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on developing ideas and expressing them clearly, considering the effective of the message, fostering understanding, and building the skills needed to communicate persuasively. Courses involve the command of oral, aural, written, and visual literacy skills that enable people to exchange messages appropriate to the subject, occasion, and audience. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, team work, and personal responsibility.
Life and Physical Sciences 3–4 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on describing, explaining, and predicting natural phenomena using the scientific method. Courses involve the understanding of interactions among natural phenomena and the implications of scientific principles on the physical world and on human experiences. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, empirical and quantitative, and team work.
Mathematics 3 credit hours
relationships. Courses involve the understanding of key mathematical concepts and the application of appropriate quantitative tools to everyday experiences. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, and empirical and quantitative.
Year 2 27 credit hours

Fall Semester – 14 credit hours

DCED 260, DCED 361, DCED 462, DCED 271, DCED 372, or DCED 473 Ballet I, II, or III or Modern Dance I, II, or III 2 credit hours
Study and understanding of modern dance concepts; lateral curve, contraction, spiral, high curve, high release, rotation versus parallel, body alignment, moving in and out of the floor, fluidity of phrase work, musicality and kinesthetic awareness. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisites: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Intermediate study of modern dance; reviews, historical background and its development within society; continual study and understanding of modern dance concepts; fall/recovery, contract/release, use of breath and weight, spine work, inversion and spatial awareness. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Physical and artistic exploration of both traditional and contemporary training methods; three dimensional spine work, inversion, floor work and dynamics. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: DCED 372 or approval of instructor.

OR

Ballet I. Introduction to ballet technique for dancers; series of barre exercises progressing to center work, explanation of positions of the body and port de bras; understand proper body alignment as it relates to ballet technique; appreciation of ballet as an instrument of expression. May be taken 3 times for credit.
American History 3 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on the consideration of past events and ideas relative to the United States, with the option of including Texas History for a portion of this component area. Courses involve the interaction among individuals, communities, states, the nation, and the world, considering how these interactions have contributed to the development of the United States and its global role. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, social responsibility, and personal responsibility.
Mathematics 3 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on quantitative literacy in logic, patterns, and relationships. Courses involve the understanding of key mathematical concepts and the application of appropriate quantitative tools to everyday experiences. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, and empirical and quantitative.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.

Spring Semester – 15 credit hours

KINE 199 Required Physical Activity 1 credit hour
Required Physical Activity. Selection from a wide variety of activities designed to increase fitness and/or encourage the pursuit of lifetime activity; also taught at Galveston campus.
DCED 203 Dance Production 3 credit hours
Overview of philosophy, major aspects and common elements in producing dance concerts; lighting, sound, stage design, terminology, costuming, management, production designs, practical experience with on-stage performances.
Prerequisites: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.
KINE 260, KINE 361, KINE 462, KINE 271, 372, or 473 Movement Lab: Ballet I, II, or III, or Movement Lab: Modern Dance I, II, or III 2 credit hours
Understand body alignment through ballet technique; assess individual muscular and skeletal imbalances during a ballet technique class; video references of proper body alignment; anatomical explanation and assessment of individual's use of lateral rotation in ballet technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Self evaluation of correct body alignment and imbalances while executing proper ballet technique; observation and assessment of the student's progression throughout the semester in regards to proper alignment and technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Peer evaluation of body alignment, imbalances and biomechanics of movement; explanation of kinesthetic principles and injury prevention through ballet technique; conditioning programs for a peer's imbalances and improper technique in a ballet class. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Understand body alignment through modern dance; assess individual muscular and skeletal body imbalances during a modern dance class; introduction of how to work with imbalances in the body while executing proper dance technique; understand the structural and muscular alignment of parallel versus lateral rotation. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Self evaluation of correct body alignment and imbalances while executing proper modern dance technique; observation and assessment of the student's progression throughout the semester in regards to proper alignment and technique. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor.

OR

Peer evaluation of body alignment, imbalances and biomechanics of movement; explanation of kinesthetic principles and injury prevention through modern dance technique; develop conditioning program for a peer's imbalances and improper technique in a modern dance class. May be taken 3 times for credit.
Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.
American History 3 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on the consideration of past events and ideas relative to the United States, with the option of including Texas History for a portion of this component area. Courses involve the interaction among individuals, communities, states, the nation, and the world, considering how these interactions have contributed to the development of the United States and its global role. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, social responsibility, and personal responsibility.
Social and Behavioral Sciences 3 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on the application of empirical and scientific methods that contribute to the understanding of what makes us human. Courses involve the exploration of behavior and interactions among individuals, groups, institutions, and events, examining their impact on the individual, society, and culture. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, empirical and quantitative, and social responsibility.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
Year 3 32 credit hours

Fall Semester – 17 credit hours

DCED 306 Dance Composition I 2 credit hours
Introduces choreographic devices in solo and duet movement studies; exploration of design principles; creating multiple movement studies using various elements of choreography.
Prerequisites: Dance science majors, dance concentration majors and dance minors; or approval of instructor; junior or senior classification.
POLS 206 American National Government 3 credit hours
American National Government. Survey of American national government, politics, and constitutional development; also taught at Galveston and Qatar campuses.
Language, Philosophy and Culture 3 credit hours
Courses in this category focus on how ideas, values, beliefs, and other aspects of culture express and affect human experience. Courses involve the exploration of ideas that foster aesthetic and intellectual creation in order to understand the human condition across cultures. The following skills will be addressed in the courses that comprise this area: critical thinking, communication, social responsibility, and personal responsibility.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.

Spring Semester – 17 credit hours

DCED 400 Dance Composition II 2 credit hours
Introduces choreographic devices related to group movement studies; explore and create movement studies as a means of first and second function art, use choreographic tools in the dance making process as it relates to group work.
Prerequisites: DCED 306 or approval of instructor.
KINE 120 or KINE 223 The Science of Basic Health and Fitness or Introduction to the Science of Health and Fitness 1–3 credit hours
Overview of the human body; scientific fundamentals of stress, fitness, nutrition, disease and drug use; interdisciplinary focus on wellness and longevity; integrated physical activity experiences centering on principles and applications of the scientific basis of conditioning; not open to students who have taken KINE 223; also taught at Galveston campus.

OR

Overview of the human body systems; interdisciplinary focus on wellness, fitness, nutrition, disease, drug use; integrated physical activity centering on principles and applications of conditioning; collect data, evaluate information, formulate plans based on findings; experience with pedometers, heart rate monitors, bioelectrical impedance devices, software and other technology; also taught at Galveston campus.
POLS 207 State and Local Government 3 credit hours
State and Local Government. Survey of state and local government and politics with special reference to the constitution and politics of Texas; also taught at Galveston and Qatar campuses.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.
Year 4 31 credit hours

Fall Semester – 15 credit hours

DCED 308 Safe Practices in Teaching Dance 3 credit hours
Effectively teach a dance technique class safely; explore scientific research and evidence through three areas including environmental, physical and psychological components of a dance class for a multitude of genres and ages; create a safe supportive dance environment; application of relevant anatomical principles; develop a safe dance class.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.

Spring Semester – 16 credit hours

DCED 405 Career Preparation in Dance 1 credit hour
Preparation for entering desired career field within dance after graduation, including areas of dance performance, dance science, and dance pedagogy; development of materials for self-promotion for jobs or graduate school; develop original portfolio of work.
Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in DCED 306 or concurrent enrollment; approval of instructor.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
Minor 3 credit hours
Two university approved minors are required for this degree program. One of the two minors must be completed in a college outside of the college that provides the concentration for the student's degree. See advisor for assistance.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.
General Elective 3 credit hours
Some electives should be selected to meet the International and Cultural Diversity and/or Cultural Discourse graduation requirement. Must be 300 or 400 level course in order to meet university residency requirement.

*Subject to change

Performance

Students in our dance science programs have multiple opportunities to perform, including:

Dance Events

Other Opportunities

Dance faculty often receive grants for other performances throughout the university in collaboration with faculty from other colleges. Students are also given the opportunity to attend various festivals and conferences.

The Dance Program also offers students the capability to work with guest artists in master classes, watching performances and learning repertory. This gives students a unique opportunity to work with a variety of professionals in the field while building their resumes.

FAQ About the Program

Who can I go to with questions?

Please feel free to contact our front office at 979.845.4530 for further questions.

How much does it cost to attend?

The cost to attend varies depending on a variety of factors, including semester of admission, student type, how many hours you take per semester, and rate type. Use the Texas A&M Tuition Calculator to get the best estimate of your tuition cost per semester.

Additional costs to consider include course materials, housing, meal plans, parking, and fees.

I am a transfer student and I want to change my major to dance science. What courses will transfer?

For courses not specified in our transfer requirements per major, refer to our Transfer Course Equivalency Guide.

How can these programs help me get into professional school?

Our programs typically have prerequisites built in, or can be paired with courses offered at Texas A&M. Your advisor will work with you on your academic goals while keeping graduation a top priority. You will be encouraged to get in contact with the Professional School Advising Office; they provide resources and services that can help you get into the professional school of your choice.

What financial aid and scholarships are available to students?

The Dance Program offers scholarship opportunities for its students, including the Emma Sue Gibbons scholarship. Scholarships are awarded once a year in the fall and are funded from the profits made through the Teen Summer Dance Intensive Program.

Applications for the 2022–2023 academic year are due no later than December 1, 2021. Applicants must attend the November audition to be considered. An audition is required for all incoming freshman and transfer students.

Numerous scholarships and financial aid are available through Texas A&M University and the School of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts. Incoming freshmen applicants are considered for university scholarships through the ApplyTexas Application or the Coalition Application. Continuing students can apply for additional scholarships through the University Scholarship Application for Continuing Students. For more information about university scholarships, visit scholarships.tamu.edu.

I live out of state. Do you accept out-of-state applicants?

Yes, we accept in-state and out-of-state applicants.

Applied Research in Dance Wellness

Students in the dance science program undergo an extensive screening process known as the Dancer Wellness Project, which applies scientific research to improve dance technique.

Through this screening, dance science students and faculty work closely with the graduate students and faculty in the Athletic Training Program to assess the dancer’s strengths and weaknesses. This testing enables students to learn about the areas of the body they need to work on. Students have access to their profiles, including their strengths, weaknesses, and specific exercises (with video instructions) to help improve their overall technique.

Faculty use the information about the overall structure of a student’s body to safely work on improving the student’s technique. Students are assisted through this program with dance faculty and are re-evaluated every year.

Helpful Resources

Student Services

Financial Aid

Read more

Student Resources

Read more
Student Services

Now That You’re Admitted Checklist

Read more
Get on the right track. Meet with an Advisor
Take the next step. Apply today