Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance
Students on Summer 2024, Fall 2024, or Spring 2025 requirements DANCEBFA
Requirements
The major requires at least 84 credit hours, including the requirements listed below.
- Theoretical Foundations.
- Foundational Studies. One (1) course:
- FOLK-F 111 World Music and Culture
- CMLT-C 147 Images of the Self: East and West
- CMLT-C 261 Introduction to African Literature
FOLK-F 111 World Music and Culture
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to ethnomusicology and the cross-cultural study of music and culture. Explores music, performance, and ideas from around the world. Analyzes the role music plays in human life, including a variety of social, political, and personal contexts. Music training is not required.
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CMLT-C 147 Images of the Self: East and West
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Topics such as the individual in society, the outcast as hero, and artistic sensibility, examined in selected works of Western and Eastern literature from ancient to modern times.
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- Summer 2025CASE GCCcourseSpring 2025CASE GCCcourseFall 2024CASE GCCcourse
CMLT-C 261 Introduction to African Literature
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Oral and written poetry, epic, fiction, drama, and film from around the continent with reference to historical and cultural contexts, and debates on language choice, "authenticity," gender, and European representations of Africa.
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- Summer 2025CASE GCCcourseSpring 2025CASE GCCcourseFall 2024CASE GCCcourse
- Twentieth-Century Concert Dance. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 332 Twentieth-Century Concert Dance
THTR-D 332 Twentieth-Century Concert Dance
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Survey of Twentieth-Century concert dance history.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 332 or THTR-D 332.
- Summer 2025CASE AHcourseSpring 2025CASE AHcourseFall 2024CASE AHcourse
- Summer 2025CASE DUScourseSpring 2025CASE DUScourseFall 2024CASE DUScourse
- Anatomy. One (1) course:
- ANAT-A 225 Human Anatomy
- MSCI-M 115 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
ANAT-A 225 Human Anatomy
- Description
- This course presents a systemic approach to studying the human body. Students learn the gross and microscopic anatomy of the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, urinary, and reproductive. The lab component is face-to-face only and reinforces lecture using models, slides, bones, and cadaver demonstration.
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
MSCI-M 115 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
- Description
- This one semester lecture-based course examines the basics of human anatomy and physiology including anatomical terminology, basic biochemistry, cells, and tissues. The primary focus of the course is the study of organ systems including integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. The course includes an introduction to common human disease processes.
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
- Introduction to Acting or Music Theory. One (1) course:
- THTR-T 120 Acting I: Fundamentals of Acting
- MUS-Z 111 Introduction to Music Theory
THTR-T 120 Acting I: Fundamentals of Acting
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to theories and methodology through sensory awareness, physical and vocal exercises, improvisations, and scene study.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of THTR-T 120 or THTR-T 121.
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MUS-Z 111 Introduction to Music Theory
- Description
- A study of fundamentals of the language and notation of music: listening, music reading and writing, and the elements of music as used in a variety of genres and historical periods.
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
- History or Anthropology of Dance. One (1) course:
- THTR-T 370 History of Theatre and Drama I
- THTR-T 371 History of Theatre and Drama II
- THTR-T 460 Development of Dramatic Art I
- THTR-T 461 Development of Dramatic Art II
- THTR-T 462 Development of Dramatic Art III
- THTR-T 463 Topics in Theatre History and Literature
- THTR-T 468 Asian Performance
- THTR-T 469
- AAAD-A 295 Survey of Hip Hop
- AAAD-A 320 Black Dance History
- ANTH-A 208 Topics in the Anthropology of the Arts and Expressive Behavior
- ANTH-E 203 Stigma and the Expressive Arts: Cultivating Compassion
- ANTH-E 208 Global Jazz, Reggae, and Hip-Hop: African Diasporic Music Beyond the African Diaspora
- ANTH-E 317 Ethnographies of Media Worlds
- ANTH-E 386 Performance, Culture, and Power in the Middle East and North Africa
- ANTH-E 460 The Arts in Anthropology
- ANTH-E 463 Anthropology of Dance
- ANTH-E 464 Body, Power, and Performance
- FOLK-E 295 Survey of Hip Hop
- HISP-S 324 Introduction to the Study of Hispanic Cultures
- Another 300-499-level course approved by the department so long as it informs the understanding of dance theory and practice
THTR-T 370 History of Theatre and Drama I
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-T 100; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Worldwide development of theatre and drama from beginnings to present. Study of theatre arts and culture institutions; focus on historical context for plays and performances; emphasis on research methods in theatre history. Beginnings to circa 1700.
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THTR-T 371 History of Theatre and Drama II
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-T 100 or consent of instructor
- Description
- Development of theatre and drama in Western world from beginnings to present. Study of theatre arts and cultural institutions; focus on historical context for plays and performances; emphasis on research methods in theatre history. Circa 1700 to present.
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- Summer 2025CASE GCCcourseSpring 2025CASE GCCcourseFall 2024CASE GCCcourse
THTR-T 460 Development of Dramatic Art I
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Dramatic art in Western world from beginnings to the present. Study of dramatic genres, plays in production, and theatrical approaches to plays of the past. I: Classical to early Renaissance drama; II: Late Renaissance to modern drama; III: Modern and contemporary drama.
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THTR-T 461 Development of Dramatic Art II
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Dramatic art in the Western world from beginnings to the present. Study of dramatic genres, plays in productions, and theatrical approaches to plays of the past. II: Late Renaissance to Modern Drama.
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THTR-T 462 Development of Dramatic Art III
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Dramatic art in Western world from beginnings to present. Emphasis on drama in theatre of its origin and on methods of interpreting plays of the past in contemporary theatre. III. 1940 to present.
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THTR-T 463 Topics in Theatre History and Literature
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Studies in special topics related to theatre history, theory, and literature not ordinarily covered in other departmental courses.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated with different topics for up to 6 credit hours.
THTR-T 468 Asian Performance
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- An in-depth study of the major forms and styles of traditional and contemporary theatre, dance, and puppet performances from around Asia (broadly defined).
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AAAD-A 295 Survey of Hip Hop
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Examines rap music and hip hop culture as artistic and sociocultural phenomena with emphasis on historical, cultural, economic, and political contexts. Topics include the coexistence of various hip hop styles, their appropriation by the music industry, and controversies resulting from the exploitation of hip hop as a commodity for national and global consumption.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of AAAD-A 295, FOLK-E 295, or FOLK-F 295.
- Summer 2025CASE AHcourseSpring 2025CASE AHcourseFall 2024CASE AHcourse
- Summer 2025CASE DUScourseSpring 2025CASE DUScourseFall 2024CASE DUScourse
AAAD-A 320 Black Dance History
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Acquaints students with dancers and choreographers from the African American and African Diaspora who choose to communicate historical, political, recreational, and social themes through the modern, jazz, ballet, tap, and traditional (African and Caribbean) forms of dance and the expressive nature of movement from the black perspective and experience.
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ANTH-A 208 Topics in the Anthropology of the Arts and Expressive Behavior
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to selected topics in the anthropology of art, performance, music, literature, folklore, belief, and ritual. Examines the methods anthropologists use to study the arts or other expressive behaviors and explores art and expression in a variety of cultural settings.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated with a different topic for a maximum of 6 credit hours.
- Summer 2025CASE AHcourseSpring 2025CASE AHcourseFall 2024CASE AHcourse
ANTH-E 203 Stigma and the Expressive Arts: Cultivating Compassion
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Stigma theory shows how cultural norms create marked categories of persons, who then face social barriers to equal treatment. This course explores expressive arts -- including written and spoken word, film and video, and live or mediated performance -- as effective strategies for disarming the stigmatizing gaze in the U.S.
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- Summer 2025CASE DUScourseSpring 2025CASE DUScourseFall 2024CASE DUScourse
ANTH-E 208 Global Jazz, Reggae, and Hip-Hop: African Diasporic Music Beyond the African Diaspora
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- With focus on jazz, reggae, and hip hop, this course links musical production and consumption in the African diaspora to issues of social identity. Among those aspects of social identity considered are race, nation, religion, class, and gender. The course investigates the spread of these musical genres around the world.
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ANTH-E 317 Ethnographies of Media Worlds
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Examines the challenges that focusing on the mass media--including technologies, production processes, content, and reception--present for studying cultures. Explores the relationship between media and culture to understand people's experiences and conceptualization of time, space, communities, families, and identities.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of ANTH-E 317 or CMCL-C 310.
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ANTH-E 386 Performance, Culture, and Power in the Middle East and North Africa
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Middle Eastern cultures are well known for their rich and diverse performance practices. Taking an ethnographic perspective, this course views performances as communicative events through which social relations are organized. It explores how performances both participate in local arrangements of power and constitute responses to colonialism, nationalism, and globalization.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of ANTH-E 386 or CMCL-C 422.
- Summer 2025CASE GCCcourseSpring 2025CASE GCCcourseFall 2024CASE GCCcourse
- Summer 2025CASE SHcourseSpring 2025CASE SHcourseFall 2024CASE SHcourse
ANTH-E 460 The Arts in Anthropology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Visual art, music, dance, drama, and oral literature, viewed as structural entities, as aspects of human behavior, and in terms of their anthropological context.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated with different topics for a maximum of 9 credit hours.
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ANTH-E 463 Anthropology of Dance
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Techniques of dance research, bibliographic and archival sources, historical and comparative studies, function and structure of dance, distribution of dance styles, and symbolic aspects of dance performance. A variety of dance forms will be considered in their social and cultural contexts.
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ANTH-E 464 Body, Power, and Performance
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Looks at performance in relation to social power by focusing on the body. Examines the extent to which several interdisciplinary readings on performance theory--largely emerging as they have from Western intellectual traditions--speak to embodied/performative negotiations of social power outside "the West."
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FOLK-E 295 Survey of Hip Hop
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Examines rap music and hip hop culture as artistic and sociocultural phenomena with emphasis on historical, cultural, economic, and political contexts. Topics include the coexistence of various hip hop styles, their appropriation by the music industry, and controversies resulting from the exploitation of hip hop as a commodity for national and global consumption.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of AAAD-A 295, FOLK-E 295, or FOLK-F 295.
- Summer 2025CASE AHcourseSpring 2025CASE AHcourseFall 2024CASE AHcourse
- Summer 2025CASE DUScourseSpring 2025CASE DUScourseFall 2024CASE DUScourse
HISP-S 324 Introduction to the Study of Hispanic Cultures
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- HISP-S 280 or HISP-S 310; or appropriate placement exam score
- Description
- Through the examination of a variety of texts, this course explores Spanish, Latin American, and U.S. Latino culture from historical, social, artistic, and political perspectives.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HISP-S 275 or HISP-S 324.
- Summer 2025CASE AHcourseSpring 2025CASE AHcourseFall 2024CASE AHcourse
- Summer 2025CASE GCCcourseSpring 2025CASE GCCcourseFall 2024CASE GCCcourse
- Foundational Studies. One (1) course:
- Contemporary Practices.
- Dance Practices I. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 108 Dance Practices I
THTR-D 108 Dance Practices I
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Elemental explorations of modern and contemporary dance techniques focusing on current physical training practices and foundational vocabulary of the genre. Learning theory and somatic work are also introduced.
- Dance Practices II. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 112 Dance Practices II
THTR-D 112 Dance Practices II
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 108
- Description
- Continued introduction to concert dance techniques, as well as strengthening skills to prepare for those techniques. Practice with emphasis on dance vocabulary and theory.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 112 or THTR-D 112.
- Dance Practices III. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 211 Dance Practices III
THTR-D 211 Dance Practices III
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 112
- Description
- Designed to allow the student to develop a higher level of technical proficiency, with an emphasis on the application and analysis of various movement principles as they relate to dance and performance.
- Dance Practices IV. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 212 Dance Practices IV
THTR-D 212 Dance Practices IV
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 211
- Description
- An extension of principles examined in THTR-D 211 with an emphasis on style and performance, through the use of longer and more complex movement sequences.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 212 or THTR-D 212.
- Dance Practices V. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 311 Dance Practices V
THTR-D 311 Dance Practices V
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 212
- Description
- Designed as an intensive immersion in both theory and practice of dance technique. Through readings, discussions, writings, and experiential learning, students gain an intimate understanding of both the artistic and physiological principles that guide performance in modern dance.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 311 or THTR-D 311.
- Dance Practices VI. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 312 Dance Practices VI
THTR-D 312 Dance Practices VI
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 311
- Description
- Continuing intensive immersion course in both the theory and practice of dance techniques. Through readings, discussion, writings, and experiential learning, students gain an intimate understanding of both the artistic and physiological principles that guide performance in modern dance.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 312 or THTR-D 312.
- Dance Practices VII. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 411 Dance Practices VII
THTR-D 411 Dance Practices VII
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 312
- Description
- Instructor-guided practicum in current issues regarding contemporary dance technique and trends in performance. Provides a practical culminating experience for senior dance majors as they prepare to enter the professional world.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 411 or THTR-D 411.
- Dance Practices VIII. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 412 Dance Practices VIII
THTR-D 412 Dance Practices VIII
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 411
- Description
- Instructor guided practicum in current issues regarding contemporary dance technique and trends in dance performance. Provides a culminating experience for senior dance majors as they enter the professional world.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 412 or THTR-D 412.
- Dance Practices I. One (1) course:
- Supporting Technique. 21 credit hours:
- Cultural Choreographies. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 341 Cultural Choreographies
THTR-D 341 Cultural Choreographies
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 109
- Description
- A foundation in contemporary global and urban styles of dance that are interwoven and fused within professional contemporary dance such as hip-hop, krump, Israeli ga ga style, and others. Prepares pre-professional dancers to be well versed physically and intellectually in current contemporary, global dance styles.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours in THTR-D 241 or THTR-D 341.
- Tap Dance. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 154 Beginning Tap Dance
- THTR-D 254 Intermediate Tap Dance
- THTR-D 354 Advanced Tap Dance
THTR-D 154 Beginning Tap Dance
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- An introduction to the technique and styles of tap dancing, emphasizing rhythmic accuracy and efficiency of movement. Course will include history and appreciation of tap dance.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-E 154 or THTR-D 154.
THTR-D 254 Intermediate Tap Dance
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 154; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Second-level course in the technique and styles of tap dance and the use of tap dance steps to create original choreography. Development of tap dance as a musical and visual art form.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-E 254 or THTR-D 254.
THTR-D 354 Advanced Tap Dance
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 254; or consent of instructor
- Description
- For students who have taken intermediate tap and want to continue learning the art of rhythm tap. Others with a solid foundation in tap are also welcome. Explores more complex rhythmic patterns and skills through routines, challenges, and improvisation. Students will be required to present routines of their own at the end of the semester.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 2 credit hours for any combination of HPER-E 354 and THTR-D 354.
- Supporting Technique Electives. Additional courses as needed to reach 21 credit hours:
- THTR-D 302 A Somatic Approach to Contemporary Ballet Practices
- THTR-D 355 Advanced Modern Dance
- THTR-D 456 Advanced Jazz Dance
- THTR-D 483 Topics in Dance
- THTR-D 484 Professional Body Work Certification
- THTR-T 175 Pilates for the Performing Artist
- THTR-T 301 Musical Theatre Dance Styles I
- THTR-T 302 Musical Theatre Dance Styles II
- THTR-T 304 Advanced Musical Theatre Dance Styles
- THTR-T 311 Introduction to Movement for the Theatre
- THTR-T 410 Movement for the Theatre I
- AAAD-A 100 African American Dance Company: Foundations and Practices
- AAAD-A 221 Dance in the African Diaspora
- AAAD-A 338 African American Dance Company: Advanced Studies and Practices
- MUS-J 100 Ballet Elective/Secondary
- SPH-I 190 Yoga I
THTR-D 302 A Somatic Approach to Contemporary Ballet Practices
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Focuses on anatomically based ballet technique, with respect for individual physical differences. Emphasizes classical ballet vocabulary, along with sound alignment, deep muscular core support, and efficient movement mechanics. Explores contemporary trends in ballet performance and choreography.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum total of 21 credit hours in HPER-D 100, THTR-D 100, and THTR-D 302.
THTR-D 355 Advanced Modern Dance
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 255; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Advanced techniques in modern dance with emphasis on performance of movement patterns and individual creative work.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credit hours in HPER-E 355 or THTR-D 355.
THTR-D 456 Advanced Jazz Dance
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 256; or consent of instructor
- Description
- A continuation of instruction in the modern jazz style of movement with special emphasis on movement precision, clarity, and performance style. Students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of alignment and a mastery of advanced jazz-level combinations, demonstrate advanced and improved movement memory, demonstrate advanced and improved clarity, precision, and musicality, and show stylistic differences through the performance of movement combinations
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credits in HPER-E 456 or THTR-D 456.
THTR-D 483 Topics in Dance
- Credits
- 1–4 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Studies in special topics not ordinarily covered in other departmental dance courses.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for credit up to eight times with different topics.
THTR-D 484 Professional Body Work Certification
- Credits
- 1–3 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- ANAT-A 215
- Description
- Provides students the opportunity to gain knowledge in the arena of somatic body work as well as pursue professional certifications in specific areas. Certifications in yoga, as granted through the Yoga Alliance, and Stott Pilates will be offered in alternating years.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 7 credit hours
THTR-T 175 Pilates for the Performing Artist
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- Based on the practice of Pilates, with a focus on increasing core strength and stabilization, muscle balance, tone, coordination, flexibility and injury prevention techniques. Technique will be explored in basic dance movement the performing artist practices, to connect the body work somatics.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 8 credit hours.
THTR-T 301 Musical Theatre Dance Styles I
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- Dance styles of the 1920s through the 1950s are explored and performed, including the works of choreographers Fred Astaire, Hermes Pan, Agnes DeMille, Jerome Robbins, and Gower Champion.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours.
THTR-T 302 Musical Theatre Dance Styles II
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- A continuation of THTR-T 301. Dance styles of the 1950s to the present are explored and performed, including the works of choreographers Bob Fosse, Michael Bennett, Bob Avian, and Susan Stroman.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours.
THTR-T 304 Advanced Musical Theatre Dance Styles
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- Provides fast-paced instruction in advanced-level musical theater dance. Explores a wide range of musical theater dance styles, advanced jazz, and repertoire from the rich canon of classic musicals as well as new interpretations of classic musical theater choreography are taught.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated up to 8 times for a maximum of 24 credit hours.
THTR-T 311 Introduction to Movement for the Theatre
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-T 120 or THTR-T 121
- Description
- Drawing from multiple movement modalities, this course provides a foundation of physical training designed to make students aware of the world around them, and of their bodies in space. The training will increase student flexibility, strength and stamina through exercises and techniques designed to prepare artists for fully embodied performance.
THTR-T 410 Movement for the Theatre I
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-T 120 or THTR-T 121
- Description
- Introduction to fundamental principles and methodologies of movement training for the actor. Emphasis on connecting to imagery and impulse, conditioning, centering and alignment, physical characterization, and kinesthetic awareness in relation to the self, other actors, and the space.
AAAD-A 100 African American Dance Company: Foundations and Practices
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor by audition
- Notes
- R: Previous dance training desirable but not essential
- Description
- Emphasis on ethnic and jazz traditions, although other genres are regularly performed. Repertoire varies from semester to semester. Participation in on- and off-campus concerts, workshops, and lecture demonstrations required.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated individually or in combination with AAAD-A 110 or AAAD-A 120 for a maximum of 12 credit hours.
AAAD-A 221 Dance in the African Diaspora
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to the history, culture, music, and body movements of dances in the African American and African Diaspora tradition with a focus on African-derived dances, primarily from Cuba, Puerto Rico, and America. Instruction through classroom lectures, discussions, videos, readings, and movement sessions.
- Summer 2025CASE GCCcourseSpring 2025CASE GCCcourseFall 2024CASE GCCcourse
AAAD-A 338 African American Dance Company: Advanced Studies and Practices
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- AAAD-A 100
- Description
- Students learn dance technique and experience performance from the perspective of the African American and African diaspora. Students perform in choreographic works created by the director and in works produced from student collaborative projects.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 8 credit hours individually or in combination with AAAD-A 337 and AAAD-A 339.
MUS-J 100 Ballet Elective/Secondary
- Description
- Classical Ballet technique class offered at a variety of levels. Course includes barre exercises and centre practice.
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
SPH-I 190 Yoga I
- Description
- None
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
- Cultural Choreographies. One (1) course:
- Dance Theory and Dance Making.
- Improvisation for Contemporary Dance I. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 121 Improvisation for Contemporary Dance I
THTR-D 121 Improvisation for Contemporary Dance I
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Experiences in creative movement expression through participation in structured dance activities.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 121 or THTR-D 121.
- Performance as Art and Design. One (1) course:
- THTR-T 125 Performance as Art and Design
THTR-T 125 Performance as Art and Design
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduces the process of design as it relates to the performing arts and entertainment. Explores methods of collaboration, design thinking, concepts of style, and perceptions of both individual and socio-historical aesthetic as it relates to storytelling for an audience.
- Summer 2025CASE AHcourseSpring 2025CASE AHcourseFall 2024CASE AHcourse
- Improvisation for Contemporary Dance II. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 161 Improvisation for Contemporary Dance II
THTR-D 161 Improvisation for Contemporary Dance II
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 121
- Description
- A survey of modern dance in contemporary society; theories, philosophies, trends, and schools of thought will be explored through lecture, discussion, and movement. Improvisational approaches will be emphasized.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 161 or THTR-D 161.
- Contemporary Dance Workshop. Complete the following course three (3) times and for a total of three (3) credit hours:
- THTR-D 301 Contemporary Dance Workshop
THTR-D 301 Contemporary Dance Workshop
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- A wide variety of movement experiences in technique, movement analysis, movement correctives, and social dance forms.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum total of 4 credit hours in HPER-D 201, THTR-D 201, and THTR-D 301.
- Approaches to Dance-Making I. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 221 Approaches to Dance-Making I
THTR-D 221 Approaches to Dance-Making I
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 161
- Description
- An introduction to the craft of choreography. Students explore basic rhythmic, spatial, and dynamic materials through group improvisation and individual studies.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 221 or THTR-D 221.
- Approaches to Dance-Making II. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 222 Approaches to Dance-Making II
THTR-D 222 Approaches to Dance-Making II
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 221
- Description
- Elements for forming and structuring movement into complete dances.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 222 or THTR-D 222.
- Indiana University Contemporary Dance Theatre. Complete the following course four (4) times and for a total of four (4) credit hours:
- THTR-D 361 Indiana University Contemporary Dance Theatre
THTR-D 361 Indiana University Contemporary Dance Theatre
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- A modern dance repertory company.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum total of 4 credit hours in HPER-D 261, THTR-D 261, and THTR-D 361.
- Dance Pedagogy. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 351 Dance Pedagogy
THTR-D 351 Dance Pedagogy
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 211
- Description
- Study of various approaches, methods, and materials for teaching concert dance on the secondary level, including procedures for evaluation.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 351 or THTR-D 351.
- Choreographic Performance Project. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 421 Choreographic Performance Project
THTR-D 421 Choreographic Performance Project
- Credits
- 2
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 222
- Description
- Under faculty guidance, each student is responsible for initiating and developing a completed work for concert performance.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 421 or THTR-D 421.
- Methods of Movement Analysis. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 461 Methods of Movement Analysis
THTR-D 461 Methods of Movement Analysis
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- Methods of analyzing movement in dance.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 461 or THTR-D 461.
- Senior Dance Summary. Complete the following course two (2) times and for a total of two (2) credit hours:
- THTR-D 462 Senior Dance Summary
THTR-D 462 Senior Dance Summary
- Credits
- 1
- Prerequisites
- Open to senior dance majors only
- Description
- Explores current issues and trends in dance performance and education through discussion and practicum.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated up to 2 times for a maximum of 2 credit hours.
- Improvisation for Contemporary Dance I. One (1) course:
- Professional Studies. One (1) course:
- THTR-D 480 Advanced Choreographic Investigations
- THTR-D 483 Topics in Dance
- THTR-D 484 Professional Body Work Certification (Complete 3 credit hours for Pilates; 4 credit hours for yoga)
- THTR-X 476 Practicum in Community Dance Partnerships
- PSY-P 315 Developmental Psychology
- PSY-P 324 Abnormal Psychology
- SPH-A 387 Management of Dance Injuries
- SPH-K 405 Exercise and Sport Psychology
- SPH-K 409 Basic Physiology of Exercise
THTR-D 480 Advanced Choreographic Investigations
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 222
- Description
- Provides the dedicated and advanced choreography student with an opportunity to create their own choreography, utilizing the principles of dance composition and incorporating personal insights and ideas into the works. The resultant product will be informed by contemporary and cutting-edge practices within the field. Each student works individually with a faculty mentor.
THTR-D 483 Topics in Dance
- Credits
- 1–4 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Studies in special topics not ordinarily covered in other departmental dance courses.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for credit up to eight times with different topics.
THTR-D 484 Professional Body Work Certification
- Credits
- 1–3 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- ANAT-A 215
- Description
- Provides students the opportunity to gain knowledge in the arena of somatic body work as well as pursue professional certifications in specific areas. Certifications in yoga, as granted through the Yoga Alliance, and Stott Pilates will be offered in alternating years.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 7 credit hours
THTR-X 476 Practicum in Community Dance Partnerships
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- THTR-D 200
- Description
- Dance majors will design, implement and teach a dance education program for community partners in local social service settings that promote well-being and dance appreciation through personal, and physical creative expression.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of HPER-D 421, THTR-D 497, or THTR-X 476.
PSY-P 315 Developmental Psychology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- PSY-P 101 and PSY-P 102; or PSY-P 155
- Description
- An introduction to how and why behavior changes over time. The theories and methods used to study behavioral change in both human and nonhuman models. Topics include development in perception, movement, language, cognition, and social/emotional behavior.
- Summer 2025CASE SHcourseSpring 2025CASE SHcourseFall 2024CASE SHcourse
PSY-P 324 Abnormal Psychology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- PSY-P 101 and PSY-P 102; or PSY-P 155
- Description
- A first course in abnormal psychology with emphasis on forms of abnormal behavior, etiology, development, interpretation, and final manifestations.
- Summer 2025CASE SHcourseSpring 2025CASE SHcourseFall 2024CASE SHcourse
SPH-A 387 Management of Dance Injuries
- Description
- An introduction to the health care issues encountered by dance professionals. Students will recognize basic problems and injuries that occur in the field and have a solid understanding of essential first aid and treatment concepts
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
SPH-K 405 Exercise and Sport Psychology
- Description
- Having knowledge of the behavioral factors which contribute to participation in sport and exercise activities is necessary for those interested in professions within this context. This three credit course will involve a broad survey of the field of sport psychology and exercise and health behavior. Although a major thrust of American sport psychology involves the application of techniques intended to enhance athletic performance, this course will also cover subjects in the area of exercise and health behavior, such as the influence of exercise on mental health, and public health policy in regards to adherence to physical activity. Topics such as the psychology of coaching in sport and exercise/health programming will be evaluated in order to determine best practices for application to solve contemporary issues such as the growing concern of stress and the associated health issues within contemporary environments, such as the workplace. Comprehension of this material will be synthesized into possible interventions which promote prevention and positive lifestyle behaviors. Traditional topics in sport psychology will also be discussed, such as the relationship between anxiety and athletic performance and the purported benefits of anxiety reduction techniques But because there is a widespread lack of empirical evidence to support their use, there will be a strong emphasis on important issues in sport psychology, as well as exercise and health behavior research; drawing attention to credibility, professionalism and the utility of this field. Ultimately, the material covered in this course will improve the knowledge of sport and health professionals in regards to these issues. This will better able those in these professions (and the public) to discriminate in judging the value and usefulness of information and applications in sport psychology and exercise and health behavior.
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
SPH-K 409 Basic Physiology of Exercise
- Description
- None
- Additional information
- Credit hour, prerequisite, and other information cannot be displayed for this course. If this is a course outside of the College of Arts and Sciences, please see the appropriate school's bulletin for additional information.
- Major GPA, Hours, and Minimum Grade Requirements.
- Major GPA. A GPA of at least 2.000 for all courses taken in the major—including those where a grade lower than C- is earned—is required.
- Major Minimum Grade. Except for the GPA requirement, a grade of C- or higher is required for a course to count toward a requirement in the major.
- Major Upper Division Credit Hours. At least 18 credit hours in the major must be completed at the 300–499 level.
- Major Residency. At least 18 credit hours in the major must be completed in courses taken through the Indiana University Bloomington campus or an IU-administered or IU co-sponsored Overseas Study program.
Major Area Courses
-
Unless otherwise noted below, the following courses are considered in the academic program and will count toward academic program requirements as appropriate:
- Any course at the 100–499 level with the
THTR-D
subject area prefix—as well as any other subject areas that are deemed functionally equivalent - Any course contained on the course lists for the academic program requirements at the time the course is taken—as well as any other courses that are deemed functionally equivalent—except for those listed only under Addenda Requirements
- Any course directed to a non-Addenda requirement through an approved exception
- Any course at the 100–499 level with the
This program of study cannot be combined with the following:
- Minor in Dance (DANCEMIN)
Exceptions to and substitutions for major requirements may be made with the approval of the unit's Director of Undergraduate Studies, subject to final approval by the College of Arts and Sciences.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree requires at least 120 credit hours, to include the following:
- College of Arts and Sciences Credit Hours. At least 100 credit hours must come from College of Arts and Sciences disciplines.
- Upper Division Courses. At least 42 credit hours (of the 120) must be at the 300–499 level.
- College Residency. Following completion of the 60th credit hour toward degree, at least 36 credit hours of College of Arts and Sciences coursework must be completed through the Indiana University Bloomington campus or an IU-administered or IU co-sponsored Overseas Study program.
- College GPA. A College grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.000 is required.
- CASE Requirements. The following College of Arts and Sciences Education (CASE) requirements must be completed:
- CASE Foundations
- CASE Breadth of Inquiry
- CASE Culture Studies
- CASE Critical Approaches: 1 course
- CASE Foreign Language: Proficiency in a single foreign language through the second semester of the second year of college-level coursework
- CASE Intensive Writing: 1 course
- CASE Public Oral Communication: 1 course
- CASE Sustainability Literacy: 1 course
- Major. Completion of the major as outlined in the Major Requirements section above.
Most students must also successfully complete the Indiana University Bloomington General Education program.
Subject areas
- Any AAAD course that carries degree credit
- Any AAST course that carries degree credit
- Any ABEH course that carries degree credit
- Any AFRI course that carries degree credit
- Any AMST course that carries degree credit
- Any ANTH course that carries degree credit
- Any ARTH course that carries degree credit
- Any ASCS course that carries degree credit
- Any AST course that carries degree credit
- Any BIOC course that carries degree credit
- Any BIOL course that carries degree credit
- Any BIOT course that carries degree credit
- Any CEUS course that carries degree credit
- Any CHEM course that carries degree credit
- Any CJUS course that carries degree credit
- Any CLAS course that carries degree credit
- Any CLLC course that carries degree credit
- Any CMLT course that carries degree credit
- Any COGS course that carries degree credit
- Any COLL course that carries degree credit
- Any EALC course that carries degree credit
- Any EAS course that carries degree credit
- Any ECON course that carries degree credit
- Any ENG course that carries degree credit
- Any EURO course that carries degree credit
- Any FOLK course that carries degree credit
- Any FRIT course that carries degree credit
- Any GEOG course that carries degree credit
- Any GER course that carries degree credit
- Any GLLC course that carries degree credit
- Any GNDR course that carries degree credit
- Any HHC course that carries degree credit
- Any HISP course that carries degree credit
- Any HIST course that carries degree credit
- Any HON course that carries degree credit
- Any HPSC course that carries degree credit
- Any HUBI course that carries degree credit
- Any IMP course that carries degree credit
- Any INST course that carries degree credit
- Any INTL course that carries degree credit
- Any JSTU course that carries degree credit
- Any LAMP course that carries degree credit
- Any LATS course that carries degree credit
- Any LING course that carries degree credit
- Any LTAM course that carries degree credit
- Any MATH course that carries degree credit
- Any MELC course that carries degree credit
- Any MEST course that carries degree credit
- Any MLS course that carries degree credit
- Any MSCH course that carries degree credit
- Any NEUS course that carries degree credit
- Any OVST course that carries degree credit
- Any PACE course that carries degree credit
- Any PHIL course that carries degree credit
- Any PHYS course that carries degree credit
- Any POLS course that carries degree credit
- Any PSY course that carries degree credit
- Any REEI course that carries degree credit
- Any REL course that carries degree credit
- Any RMI course that carries degree credit
- Any SEAS course that carries degree credit
- Any SGIS course that carries degree credit
- Any SLAV course that carries degree credit
- Any SLHS course that carries degree credit
- Any SLST course that carries degree credit
- Any SOAD course that carries degree credit
- Any SOC course that carries degree credit
- Any STAT course that carries degree credit
- Any THTR course that carries degree credit
An audition is required for acceptance into the B.F.A. program in Dance.