Dance

Program Description for University of Suffolk - Dance Bachelor's Degree

The Bachelor of Arts in Dance at the University of Suffolk offers students an in-depth exploration of contemporary dance practices, performance techniques, choreography, and dance theory. This innovative programme is designed to develop students’ technical skills, artistic expression, and critical understanding of dance as an art form within a diverse cultural context. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of dance styles, including contemporary, classical, improvisation, and experimental dance, enabling them to cultivate their unique artistic voices.

The programme encourages both practical performance and academic inquiry, combining hands-on training with theoretical study. Students have access to state-of-the-art dance studios, performance spaces, and resources that support their creative development. The curriculum includes modules in dance technique, choreography, dance history, dance and technology, and performance studies. Additionally, students have opportunities to participate in professional internships, collaborative projects, and community engagement initiatives, helping them to build relevant industry experience.

Emphasising innovation and critical thinking, the programme prepares graduates for careers in a variety of fields such as professional dance performance, choreography, arts education, and arts management. Students are encouraged to develop their own artistic projects, showcase their work in live performances, and create a dynamic portfolio that highlights their skills and artistic vision.

The Dance programme at the University of Suffolk is taught by experienced practitioners and academics dedicated to fostering a supportive and challenging learning environment. Graduates leave with the confidence, creativity, and practical skills necessary to succeed in the competitive dance industry or to continue their studies at postgraduate level. The programme also aims to promote lifelong engagement with dance and the arts, encouraging students to become active contributors to the cultural sector.

Whether you are an aspiring performer, choreographer, or dance educator, this programme provides a comprehensive foundation to embark on a rewarding career in the arts. Our vibrant campus community, combined with innovative teaching methods and industry connections, ensures that students graduate fully prepared to pursue their artistic ambitions with passion and professionalism.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 9550 Year (EEA)
• EUR 12530 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Fees Students starting at UCS from September 2012 will be charged £8000 for a full-time Bachelors degree or £7500 for a full-time Foundation degree. Tuition fees for full-time International Study: Classroom-based 10,500 GBP (£) Laboratory-based 12,600 GBP (£)

• English

Course Content

Content and Modules

The course runs for 5 days a week over two semesters, developing across the three years through a series of progressive modules. Lectures are designed to practically engage students in learning with most modules being taught in the studios at Campus North.

Level 4 modules are designed to lay a foundation through the development of subject specific skills as well as the necessary academic skills required to meet the demands of university study.

Level 5 modules further develop the students critical, analytical and reflective understanding and their ability to apply different principles, theories, techniques and approaches to their work.

Level 6 modules challenge the students understanding of practical and theoretical ideas through the application of their knowledge and experience to a range of more complex professional contexts.

Just five reasons to study Dance at UCS:

• Technique classes for all students are available each day of the week
• Supplemental dance fitness and Pilates training each week, plus access to classes at DanceEast
• Choreographic and compositional exploration in a supportive, refreshing and challenging environment, drawing on the inspiring location of Ipswich and surrounding beauty of the Suffolk countryside and coast
• A focus on creating employable, creative and adaptable dance professionals, capable of undertaking and initiating a range of roles in the dance and arts sector upon graduation, with volunteering opportunities on your doorstep at DanceEast
• A chance to be a member of Forefront Dance, a company for all dance students to work with international choreographers and dance professionals such as Jasmin Vardimon Dance Company and Rachel Cherry

Student testimonials

The course gives us the opportunity to experience working with a range of people of different ages, abilities and cultures, providing a greater knowledge than a normal dance degree and allowing us to find our own specific area of interest. (Oliver Tibble, Level 6)

I feel that this course, which focuses on contemporary dance techniques, creative work and a balance of theory and practice, in really well equipped facilities, will provide me with the platform I need to fulfil my ambitions. (Kirsty Lock, Level 4)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 75(Grade B) TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 79

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

English language requirements

All students need to be able to understand and express themselves in both written and spoken English. Students whose first language is not English will need to take a recognised English Language test in advance of commencing a course at UCS and before the Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) letter is issued for visa purposes.
UCS accepts a range of English qualifications, with the following standards required:

IELTS (academic version): 6.0 for all degrees, apart from Diagnostic Radiography,Radiotherapy and Oncology, ODP and all Pre-Registration Nursing and Midwifery courses that require 7.0. Postgraduate courses generally require between 6.5 and 7.0.
TOEFL: 550 on paper-based test; 213 on computer-based test; or 79-80 on the internet-based test for all degrees
Pearson Test of English Academic - Minimum score of 50 is required
Cambridge Proficiency Certificate: Grade C; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: Grade B
GCE O-level or GCSE English Language/Use of English: Grade C
Test in English for Educational Purposes (TEEP) International Baccalaureate English Grade B (standard level).
Hong Kong Certificate of English Education

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University Campus Suffolk.

Funding

National Scholarship Programme

As part of the new student finance system, students with households incomes under £25,000 per year will benefit from a new National Scholarship Programme. This new scheme is targeted towards students who most need financial help.
The National Scholarship is funded jointly by the Government and Universities. UCS has been awarded a number of National Scholarships which students can apply for Suffolk Access Champion Scheme
The Suffolk Access Champion Scheme will be open to eligible students currently studying at a Suffolk State Sixth form, College or Academy, and applying to study at UCS on a full-time undergraduate degree programme in 2012-13.
The Suffolk Access Champion will work over two years mentoring Year 10 and 11 students to encourage progression on to higher education.

Scholarships for international students

UCS offers a generous scholarship scheme for all undergraduate students paying international fees.
All international students that are offered and have firmly accepted a place on a full-time undergraduate Foundation or Honours degree course at UCS by the 30 September for the year of entry, will be eligible for a scholarship of £1,000 per year for the duration of their course. This scholarship will be awarded each year once annual fees have been paid in full.
Please note that any international students accepted on a course that requires a practice placement with a Primary Care Trust, for example Nursing, Midwifery or Radiography, will incur an additional £3000 fee per each year of study (this excludes all British Islands students except the Falkland Islands).

Dance at the University of Suffolk offers students a comprehensive education in the art and practice of dance, combining practical performance skills with theoretical understanding. The program is designed to develop students’ technical abilities, creativity, and critical awareness of contemporary dance practices. It provides a solid foundation in dance techniques, choreography, and performance, alongside opportunities to explore dance history, culture, and its societal impacts. The course aims to prepare students for careers in dance production, teaching, performance, or further academic study.

Students enrolled in the program benefit from diverse learning experiences, including practical workshops, rehearsals, and performances. The curriculum emphasizes the development of personal expression, innovation, and professional versatility. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art dance studios and facilities equipped with multi-purpose sprung floors, mirrors, and rehearsal spaces that foster both individual practice and collaborative projects. The program encourages participation in industry-related events, competitions, and showcases, enhancing students’ professional portfolios.

In addition to practical training, the program integrates modules on dance anatomy, biomechanics, and health to ensure students understand the physical demands of dance and how to maintain wellbeing. Cultural and historical aspects of dance are also explored through written assignments and seminars, providing context for contemporary trends and practices. Furthermore, the university leverages its connections with local arts organizations, giving students real-world experience and opportunities for internships, community projects, and collaborations with practicing artists.

Graduate pathways include careers as professional dancers, choreographers, dance teachers, arts administrators, and researchers. The program also prepares students to pursue postgraduate studies in dance and performing arts. The University of Suffolk supports students with career development services, networking events, and access to industry contacts to facilitate successful employment after graduation.

Overall, the Dance program aims to nurture creative, confident, and employable individuals ready to contribute to the vibrant world of dance and the performing arts. With a blend of practical training, academic study, and professional development, students graduate with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in a competitive industry or continue their academic journey.