Dance, Bachelor of Fine Arts

Available: On Campus

Prospective students interested in joining SHSU's Department of Dance are required to complete an audition prior to admission.

The Department of Dance at Sam Houston State University delivers a dynamic, challenging experience that integrates creativity, performance and scholarly pursuits designed to prepare each student for a 21st century career in dance.

Intensive study in concert dance techniques, abundant performance opportunities, concerts to showcase student choreography, guest artist residencies, and a solid academic foundation: this is the dance experience at SHSU.

Program Admission & Scholarships

Admission to the Department of Dance requires an audition. A schedule of audition dates, information, and applications are available on our website. Approximately $25,000 in performance-based scholarships is awarded each year.

Curriculum

SHSU Dance majors pursue the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. They may elect to earn a minor and certification in Secondary Education through the Department of Education.

The curriculum includes four increasingly challenging levels of Ballet, Modern Dance, and Choreography. Other required courses include Dance and Technology, World Dance, Pilates, Folk and Social Dance, Pedagogy, Laban Movement Analysis, Criticism and Analysis, and Repertory. Students may also elect to study Contact Improvisation, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, and Pointe.

Facilities

The Department of Dance is housed in the beautiful James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center. Dance majors enjoy use of four spacious studios, a 160-seat dance theater, dressing rooms with showers and lockers, a fully equipped costume shop, an 18 station Mac lab, and a Pilates conditioning studio.

Careers in Dance

  • Professional Dancer
  • Dance Instructor
  • Choreographer
  • Director
  • Dance Studio Owner
  • Health-related Practitioner

Or continue your education with a graduate degree.

Program Breakdown

Brief breakdown of the type, or types, of degree(s) available, their length, available enrollment, and estimated cost.
Category Degree Summary
Catalog Entry Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A)
Length 120 Credit Hours
Enrollment Fall, Spring
Tuition/Costs Rates Per Semester

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

  • Fall: August 1
  • Spring: December 15
  • Summer: May 15