Dance Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Dance Studies at The University of Auckland offers students a comprehensive and vibrant education in the art, theory, and practice of dance. This programme is designed to develop students' technical skills, creative expression, and critical understanding of dance as a cultural phenomenon. Throughout the degree, students explore a wide range of dance styles including contemporary, classical, and experimental forms, gaining hands-on experience through workshops, rehearsals, and performance opportunities. The curriculum combines practical dance training with academic study, encouraging students to analyze dance in historical, social, and cultural contexts. Students will engage with topics such as choreography, dance history, performance analysis, and dance pedagogy, preparing them for diverse careers within the performing arts industry or further postgraduate study. The programme also emphasizes the development of research skills, enabling students to undertake independent projects and contribute new knowledge to the field of dance. With access to state-of-the-art dance studios and resources, students are supported by experienced faculty members who are active practitioners and scholars. Whether aiming to become professional dancers, choreographers, dance educators, or researchers, students graduating from this programme will have a solid foundation in dance practice and theory, fostering their artistic growth and critical thinking abilities. The Bachelor of Arts in Dance Studies at The University of Auckland prepares graduates to thrive in a dynamic and evolving industry, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue their artistic and professional goals.

Year One

• DANCE 120—Dance Vocabulary I
• DANCE 131—Dance Education
• MĀORI 190 —Kapa Haka 1
• PACIFIC 110—Pacific Music and Dance
• DANCE 107—Dance History and Contexts
• DANCE 110—Contemporary Dance and Choreography 1
• DANCE 112—Dance Kinesiology
• DANCE 121*—Dance Technique

Year Two

• DANCE 220—Dance Vocabulary II
• DANCE 231—Community Dance
• DANCE XXX* —Dance Elective Course
• General Education
• DANCE 210—Contemporary Dance and Choreography 2
• DANCE 212—New Zealand Dance Contexts and History
• DANCE 222—Safe Dance Practices
• General Education

Year Three

• DANCE 314—Dance and Technology
• DANCE 320—Dance Vocabulary III
• DANCE 322—Professional Practices
• DANCE XXX** —Elective Course
• DANCE 302—Dance in Aotearoa / New Zealand
• DANCE 310—Contemporary Dance and Choreography 3
• DANCE 331—Dance Education Research
• DANCE XXX** —Elective Course

*Two courses (30 points) must be from DANCE 121, 201, 207, 211, 215, 250, 300, 301, 312, 350, 351

**Dance Undergraduate Elective Course or any other available course

General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. A minimum of three A-Level subjects completed, with at least 'C' grade or higher attained or Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma (minimum total score of 24).

Additional programme entry requirements:subject to the qualitative evaluation of a CV, written statement and an audition/interview.

Written statement

All applicants are required to submit a 500 word written statement outlining your reasons for wanting to participate in the Bachelor of Dance Studies programme.

Curriculum Vitae

All applicants are required to submit a complete CV. This should list all relevant training, experience (professional and amateur), involvement in community and extracurricular activities, dance experiences and accomplishments.

Group audition workshop

Applicants are required to participate in a group workshop audition and/or attend an interview*. The workshop includes a 1-2 hour movement exploration workshop followed by a group discussion. Please wear comfortable clothing (there is no expectation of body type, fashion or uniform). No set pieces are required for the audition. Once you have submitted your Application for Admission, you will receive an invitation to register for an audition. 

All applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide satisfactory evidence of their proficiency in English:

• IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.0 and all bands 5.5 or better
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): Overall score of 80 plus a written score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL: Overall score of 550 plus Essay (TWE) of 4.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Overall score of 169 and all bands 162 or better
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 50 and no PTE communicative skills score below 42. You must authorise the University to view and verify your PTE scores.

The University of Auckland offers a range of funding options and financial support for students enrolled in the Dance Studies programme. Domestic students may be eligible for government-subsidized study loans and allowances, such as the Student Loan Scheme and Student Emergency Fund, which help cover tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, the university provides various scholarships specifically targeted at students pursuing dance and performing arts, including merit-based awards, needs-based assistance, and regional scholarships. International students studying Dance Studies may access different financial aid options, such as private scholarships, bursaries, and external funding opportunities, though they are generally ineligible for New Zealand government loans.

The university also promotes part-time employment opportunities on and around campus, which students can utilize to support their financial needs during their studies. Furthermore, the university’s financial aid office offers personalized advice and assistance to help students navigate available funding options and manage their study costs effectively. Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships and grants, as many have specific application deadlines and eligibility criteria. Besides external grants, some students may also consider funding through family support or external dance and arts organizations that offer bursaries.

The university’s comprehensive approach aims to make Dance Studies accessible to a broad spectrum of students by providing financial assistance, flexible payment options, and guidance throughout their academic journey. Overall, financial support for Dance Studies at the University of Auckland is designed to reduce economic barriers, encouraging talented individuals to pursue their passion for dance and performance arts without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Performing Arts with a specialization in Dance Studies at the University of Auckland offers students a comprehensive education in the performing arts, with a focus on dance. This program is designed to develop students' technical skills, artistic expression, and critical understanding of dance as an art form and cultural practice. Students engage in a variety of practical classes, including dance technique, choreography, improvisation, and performance, which are complemented by theoretical courses covering dance history, dance theory, and cultural studies related to dance. The curriculum aims to foster creativity, discipline, and a critical awareness of dance's role in society, enabling graduates to pursue careers in dance performance, choreography, teaching, arts administration, or further postgraduate studies. The program leverages the university’s strong links with local and international arts communities, offering students opportunities for internships, collaborations, and performances. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars who guide students through rigorous training and critical analysis, encouraging innovative approaches to dance. Facilities include specialized dance studios equipped with high-quality flooring and audio-visual technology. The program also emphasizes the importance of research and academic development, preparing students to contribute to scholarly discussions and debates within the field of dance studies. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in stage dance, dance education, choreography, dance criticism, arts management, and community dance projects. The University of Auckland provides a vibrant cultural environment with access to numerous arts festivals, performance spaces, and professional development opportunities. Overall, the Dance Studies program combines practical training with academic inquiry, fostering versatile graduates equipped to contribute creatively and critically to the dance industry and beyond.