Dance

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive and rigorous training pathway to develop their skills as professional dancers, choreographers, and dance educators. This program combines foundational knowledge with advanced practice, fostering creativity, technical mastery, and a deep understanding of dance as an art form and cultural practice. Students engage in a diverse curriculum that includes contemporary dance techniques, classical ballet, improvisation, composition, dance theory, and historical contexts. The program emphasizes experiential learning through performances, workshops, and collaborations with local and international artists, providing students with opportunities to showcase their talent and develop professional networks.

Throughout the degree, students are encouraged to explore various dance styles and develop their unique artistic voices. They also gain practical experience in choreography and teaching, preparing them for diverse careers in dance performance, education, and arts management. The university's state-of-the-art facilities, including dance studios equipped with modern flooring and sound systems, support extensive practice and rehearsal schedules. Faculty members are accomplished artists and scholars dedicated to mentorship and personalized guidance, fostering an environment of creative exploration and academic excellence.

In addition, the program integrates interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to connect dance with other arts and cultural disciplines. The university's vibrant arts community, coupled with opportunities for community engagement and collaborative projects, enhances students' professional readiness. Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance are well-equipped to pursue further studies, embark on professional dance careers, or contribute to the cultural sector through innovative and socially engaged dance practices. The program’s dynamic curriculum, combined with experiential learning and professional development opportunities, ensures that students graduate with the skills, knowledge, and artistic confidence to thrive in the evolving world of dance.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the art of dance, combining rigorous technical training with innovative creative practice. This program aims to develop both the physical skills and artistic sensibilities necessary for a successful career in the diverse world of dance. Throughout the degree, students engage in a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, jazz, ballet, and experimental forms, allowing them to find their unique voice as performers and choreographers.

The curriculum emphasizes the development of technical proficiency, performance skills, and choreographic abilities. Courses include dance technique classes, improvisation, composition, dance history, and theory, all designed to deepen understanding and foster a well-rounded artistic perspective. Students also have opportunities to participate in performances, internships, and collaborations with other departments and external organizations, providing practical experience and professional development.

Faculty members are accomplished dancers, choreographers, and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and encouraging innovative approaches to dance. The program encourages critical thinking about performance and explores the role of dance within cultural, social, and political contexts. Students are supported in exploring contemporary issues related to dance and body politics, ensuring their education remains relevant and impactful.

In addition to coursework, students can access state-of-the-art facilities, including fully equipped dance studios, rehearsal spaces, and performance venues, allowing them to experiment and refine their craft in a professional environment. The program also offers various performance opportunities throughout the academic year, enabling students to showcase their work to diverse audiences and gain exposure in the arts community.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance are prepared for diverse careers within the performing arts sector, including professional dance performance, choreography, teaching, arts administration, and further graduate study. The program fosters a vibrant, creative community where students can grow as artists, innovators, and cultural contributors, supporting them on their journey to make meaningful impacts through dance both locally and internationally.

The Bachelor of Arts in Dance at the University of Calgary requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster artistic, technical, and theoretical understanding of dance. The program typically includes foundational courses in dance techniques such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, and choreography, allowing students to develop versatility and technical proficiency. Students are also engaged in courses that explore dance history, theory, and criticism to deepen their contextual understanding of dance as an art form.

In addition to their coursework, students participate in performance labs and productions that provide hands-on experience in staging and performing dance works. The program emphasizes the development of creative and analytical thinking, encouraging students to engage in independent projects and research related to dance practices and pedagogy. Practical components often include movement classes, improvisation, and composition, which are designed to enhance students’ expressive abilities and understanding of physicality.

Students are typically required to complete a certain number of elective courses, which may include interdisciplinary studies, arts management, or related fields, to enrich their educational experience. To graduate, students often need to maintain a minimum grade point average as specified by the university and fulfill a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their cumulative learning and artistic growth.

The program offers opportunities for students to participate in master classes, workshops, and collaborations with professional dancers and artists, enabling networking and professional development. Internship or practicum placements may also be part of the curriculum, providing practical industry experience. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded dance artists equipped with technical skills, creative insight, and theoretical knowledge to pursue careers in performance, choreography, education, or related fields within the arts industry.

The University of Calgary offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Dance program, designed to support both domestic and international learners in pursuing their academic and artistic goals. Tuition fees for the Dance program vary depending on the level of study, whether undergraduate or graduate, and the student's residency status. For undergraduate students, domestic tuition fees typically range from approximately CAD 7,500 to CAD 10,000 per year, while international students may be charged between CAD 20,000 and CAD 25,000 annually. Graduate students benefit from different fee structures, with master's and doctoral students paying variable rates that reflect their specific program requirements.

In addition to tuition fees, students are encouraged to explore a wide array of financial aid options available at the university. The University of Calgary provides numerous scholarships and awards based on academic merit, artistic excellence, leadership skills, and financial need. Some of the prominent scholarships relevant to Dance students include the President's Award of Excellence, Calgary International Film Festival Scholarships, and specific faculty-based awards offered by the Faculty of Arts. Applicants are advised to review the scholarship criteria carefully and submit their applications well in advance of deadlines to maximize their chances of receiving financial support.

Furthermore, students can apply for government-funded financial aid programs, such as Canada Student Loans and Grants, which provide needs-based assistance for eligible students. These programs are intended to make higher education more accessible by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. International students might also consider external funding sources, including private scholarships, grants from cultural organizations, and sponsorships from dance and arts foundations.

Work-study programs are available to eligible students, allowing them to gain practical experience in dance-related fields while earning income to support their studies. The university's Career Services Centre offers career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance to enhance students’ employment prospects both during their studies and after graduation. Additionally, some courses may offer internship or practicum opportunities that can sometimes be paid, further assisting students financially.

Students are also encouraged to consider part-time employment opportunities on campus, such as teaching assistantships or administrative roles within the Faculty of Arts or related departments. These positions often provide flexible hours and relevant experience in arts education and administration. For those enrolled in full-time study, budgeting and financial planning resources are available through the university to help manage expenses effectively throughout their academic journey.

Overall, the University of Calgary aims to make dance education accessible through a comprehensive range of financial support mechanisms, ensuring that talented students can focus on their artistic development without undue financial burden. Continued funding opportunities and financial planning advice are provided regularly through university channels to assist students in navigating their financing options effectively throughout their studies.

The Bachelor of Arts in Dance at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive education in the performing arts, emphasizing both practical dance skills and theoretical understanding. The program provides a balanced curriculum that includes modern dance techniques, classical ballet, choreography, dance history, and the cultural contexts of dance. Students have opportunities to engage in studio practice, performance, and academic coursework aimed at developing their artistic and critical skills. The program is designed to foster creativity, technical proficiency, and an understanding of the role of dance in society.

Students can expect to participate in numerous performances and productions, gaining hands-on experience in choreography, stagecraft, and collaborative work with fellow dancers and artists. The curriculum integrates interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to explore dance through various lenses, including cultural, historical, and contemporary perspectives. Faculty members are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance tailored to individual artistic goals.

In addition to performance and technical training, the program emphasizes the importance of scholarly inquiry, with courses that explore dance theory, anatomy, and pedagogy. This allows students to prepare for diverse careers within the dance industry, such as performance, choreography, teaching, and arts administration. The university provides state-of-the-art dance studios and facilities, fostering a conducive environment for creative exploration and professional development.

Graduates of the Dance program at the University of Calgary are well-equipped with a versatile skill set and a thorough understanding of dance as an art form. They are prepared to pursue careers in dance companies, education, choreography, and related fields. The program also encourages alumni engagement and offers opportunities for networking within the arts community. With a focus on both artistic excellence and academic rigor, the Bachelor of Arts in Dance aims to nurture innovative and informed dance artists who can contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape.