Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

Overview

Earn Your Degree in Dance Education

Dance is an age-old manner of expression, exercise and enjoyment that stimulates the brain and increases agility and awareness. Help others explore and enjoy the art of dance with Grand Canyon University's (GCU) Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education. Offered by the College of Fine Arts and Production in conjunction with the College of Education, this bachelor of dance education program is available for students who are interested in teaching dance in public or private school settings. Curriculum aligns with the standards of the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD) and the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium, preparing you for K-12 certification.

The Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education degree program encompasses progressive dance instruction along with a broad liberal arts foundation. Examine the theories of pedagogy, dance history and kinesiology and choreography as you work to master the art of teaching basic to advanced jazz, ballet and modern dance techniques. During the program, you also review somatic practices, technology and improvisation before completing a full-time student teaching component in your final semester. Learning extends beyond taking dance classes Phoenix and the classroom – dance education majors also participate in the Ethington Dance Ensemble, where they serve in all aspects of production during annual concert series.

Programs leading to teacher certification may require practicum hours, state exams, student teaching and an institutional recommendation from GCU. Please note that an audition is required for acceptance into the dance education program.

This dance education program is offered on GCU’s campus only, but the College of Fine Arts and Production offers other Bachelor of Arts programs online. Learn more.

Degree Outcomes

Focus on Teaching and Dance Techniques

In the bachelor of dance education program, you enhance your critical thinking and communication skills as part of our general education competencies. Through an intentional integration of faith with work and learning, you explore the principles and ethics of serving, grounded in the Christian worldview. Build your understanding of dance instruction through a number of internships that aim to serve the local community and help dancers realize their potential. GCU's global approach to dance education creates skills that can help you succeed in today's marketplace and thrive as you match passion with purpose.

What You Will Learn

Take a Global Approach to Dance Education Curriculum

In this program, you are expected to master the following competencies:

• Advanced dance techniques
• Methods to improve strength, flexibility and endurance
• Ballet, jazz, modern and ensemble performance
• Classroom management and engagement
• Dance pedagogy

Career Outcomes

Explore Careers in Dance Education

The bachelor of dance education degree program provides a balance of theory and practice to prepare you for a future in dance education, performance, choreography and more. As a graduate of the bachelor’s in dance education, you will have the training and guidance to pursue certification for teaching in a K-12 setting. This certification allows you to pursue a career as a dance instructor in private or public school settings or fulfill entrepreneurial goals by developing your own studio.

_{Grand Canyon University's (GCU) regionally accredited and Arizona State Board of Education-approved Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education program affords you the knowledge and coursework to prepare for teaching licensure.}