What You Will Learn
If you are driven by creativity and inspired to expand your technique with rigorous training in ballet, modern dance, choreography, performance, dance history and body sciences, consider studying with the dance program at CCM.
Our program provides a solid foundation in various dance techniques and prepares you to feel confident in your craft. You will gain valuable experience dancing on stage in front of an audience and build a portfolio of work.
Upon graduation from CCM you will be prepared for entry-level positions in the dance industry and also be eligible to successfully transfer to a four-year college or university dance program.
Curriculum
The Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) degree program in Dance at CCM features a 37-credit core with a variety of courses in ballet, choreography, dance theater, kinesiology and modern dance.
Careers in the Field
A career in dance is a fulfilling life in the arts that requires skills beyond the simple execution of movement. The nature of dance develops strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills, problem solving skills and teamwork. Dance requires organization, attention to details and discipline. These skills and attributes are essential for success in the workforce.
Students with an AFA degree in Dance from CCM are successful in entering the workforce directly as dance instructors in private dance studios and other entry-level positions in the dance industry, such as dance company administration or dance studio management.
An AFA degree in Dance gives you the skills needed to explore many other creative careers such as:
- Artist Manager and Representer
- Choreographer
- Dance Anthropologist
- Dance Critic
- Dance Historian
- Dance Notator
- Dance or Movement Therapist
- Dance Teacher
- Dance Videographer or Photographer
- Dancer at a Large-Scale Theme Park, Las Vegas Production or Smaller Production on a Cruise Line
- Dancer for Music Videos and Commercials
- Dancer in a Ballet or Contemporary Dance Company, Opera House or Musical Theater Company
- Grant Writing, Development and Finance for Arts Organizations
- Marketing and Public Relations
Transfer Opportunities
Students who earn an AFA degree in Dance from CCM generally transfer to a four-year college or university to earn a bachelor’s degree:
- Hofstra University
- Hunter College
- Montclair State University
- New York University Tisch School of the Arts
- Point Park University
- Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts
- Stockton University
- Temple University
- Towson University
- University of Maryland
- University of the Arts
CCM Transfer Services is here to help you with this seamless process.
Why Study Dance at CCM?
- Faculty are artist educators who are active in the dance field as performers and choreographers.
- A small faculty-to student ratio, so students receive generous individual attention to aid in mastery of their craft.
- Study in a state-of-the-art studio lab equipped with cutting-edge video technology, premiere audio equipment and resilient flooring.
- Perform in a variety of venues on campus including the Music Technology Building Performance Lab, the Black Box Theater and Dragonetti Auditorium in the Student Community Center.
- Audition for exciting productions each semester enabling you to gain valuable experience dancing on stage in front of a live audience.
- Join the student-run Dance Club or choose from numerous other student clubs and organizations.
Paying for Your Dance Education
Earning an associate degree in musical theater is a powerful investment that will pay off over the course of your life, in both increased earnings and job satisfaction. But what is the upfront cost, and how do you afford it?
There’s good news: Money is available to help you pay for school! Our Financial Aid staff can provide lots of information about the process of finding funds to help pay for your education.
Featured Courses
Choreography I and II
These courses focuses on both individual and group creativity of new movement phrases using improvisation and other choreographic tools leading to actual compositions by the students. Movement and written assignments are given and student and professional choreography are viewed. In Choreography II musical interpretation, narrative, prop studies, etc. are stressed. Completed movement phrases leading to actual choreographed dances are developed and considered for the stage. Costuming, lighting and preparation for actual presentation are emphasized. Movement and written assignments, with a final presentation, are required.
Dance History
This course follows the historical development of dance from the movement of prehistoric humans to the theatrical dancing of the 21st century. Videos and examples of dance styles are used to exemplify the different periods of dance development. Written examinations, research papers, projects and attendance at dance concerts are required.
Dance Internship
Dance Majors only. This course enables the student to complete on- or off-campus work/study in the dance field related to the student’s goals as a dance major. Experience is gained in the dance field workforce as a dancer, choreographer, instructor or pre-approved dance program off-campus or dance administrative work on or off campus. The work experience is documented by the student and overseen by the professor. Recommendations are given to prospective employers by the faculty observer. This class should be taken in the student’s final semester.
Prerequisites: Permission of department chair.
Resources
Your Dance Faculty Advisor
Assistant Professor, Dance § Special Projects,
