Associate Degree in Dance
The Associate Degree in Dance teaches fundamental dance techniques and performance skills, preparing students for entry-level roles in dance or further study in performing arts.
About
The Associate Degree in Dance is a two-year program in the United States designed for students passionate about dance and performing arts. It offers foundational training in various dance styles and performance techniques. This diploma is aimed at those who want to develop their skills for professional opportunities or to continue their education in dance or related fields.
- The program focuses on building strong technical abilities in dance and stage presence.
- It is suitable for students who have completed high school or equivalent education.
- The degree prepares graduates for entry-level roles in dance companies, theaters, or educational settings.
- Students gain experience in both solo and group performances.
- The diploma also helps develop creativity, discipline, and physical fitness essential to a dance career.
What you study
The curriculum of the Associate Degree in Dance combines theory and practice over two years to develop well-rounded dancers. Early courses focus on basic techniques and body conditioning, while later years emphasize choreography and performance skills.
- Students study various dance styles such as ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance.
- The program includes dance theory covering history, anatomy, and music related to dance.
- Practical training is a major part, with daily classes and rehearsals.
- Students participate in performances to apply their skills in real situations.
- Workshops and masterclasses with professionals may be offered to enhance learning.
- Progression is designed to increase technical complexity and artistic expression year by year.
How to get in
To enter an Associate Degree in Dance program in the US, students typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Admission often involves demonstrating dance skills and motivation.
- Applicants usually submit a portfolio or audition showcasing their dance abilities.
- Some schools may require an interview or written statement about the candidate’s interest in dance.
- Basic academic qualifications such as a high school diploma are necessary.
- The selection favors candidates with prior dance experience and commitment to the art.
- Students from diverse backgrounds with a passion for dance can apply.
Day to day
A typical year in the Associate Degree in Dance involves a busy schedule of classes, rehearsals, and performances. Students balance technical training with creative projects.
- Daily classes focus on technique, conditioning, and choreography.
- Students often participate in group rehearsals preparing for shows or recitals.
- Some programs include internships or workshops with dance companies.
- The academic calendar usually follows two semesters with breaks for rest and practice.
- Students may work on individual projects to develop their own choreography or performance style.
Careers this degree leads to
Graduates with an Associate Degree in Dance can find opportunities in various areas of the performing arts, though many continue their studies to advance their careers.
- Entry-level roles include dancer in companies, performer in theaters, or assistant choreographer.
- Some work in dance education assisting in schools or studios.
- The entertainment and cultural sectors often recruit graduates for live performances and events.
- Employment can be competitive, and gaining experience through auditions and networking is important.
- The degree provides a foundation, but ongoing training and experience are key to career growth.
Continuing your studies
After completing the Associate Degree in Dance, students can pursue further education to deepen their expertise and improve job prospects.
- Many continue with a Bachelor’s degree in Dance or Performing Arts.
- Other options include specialized diplomas in choreography, dance therapy, or arts management.
- Some students may choose to explore related fields such as theater or physical education.
- Changing direction towards other creative or educational careers is also possible.
Where to study this degree (85)
Liste des 85 établissements
- Montgomery County Community CollegeBlue Bell
- Community College of Beaver CountyMonaca
- Rockland Community CollegeSuffern
- Utah Valley UniversityOrem
- Tyler Junior CollegeTyler
- Modesto Junior CollegeModesto
- College of the SequoiasVisalia
- Long Beach City CollegeLong Beach
- Scottsdale Community CollegeScottsdale
- Southwestern College - CaliforniaChula Vista
- Queensborough Community College, CUNYBayside
- Houston Community College SystemHouston
- Dean CollegeFranklin
- Cabrillo CollegeAptos
- Chandler–Gilbert Community CollegeChandler
- Mt. San Antonio CollegeWalnut
- Citrus CollegeGlendora
- Fresno City CollegeFresno
- Glendale Community CollegeGlendale
- San Diego Mesa CollegeSan Diego
- Austin Community CollegeAustin
- American River CollegeSacramento
- Paradise Valley Community CollegePhoenix
- Folsom Lake CollegeFolsom
- Fullerton CollegeFullerton
- Chaffey CollegeRancho Cucamonga
- Diablo Valley CollegePleasant Hill
- Santa Monica CollegeSanta Monica
- Bucks County Community CollegeNewtown
- Casper CollegeCasper
- Barton County Community CollegeGreat Bend
- MiraCosta CollegeOceanside
- San Diego City CollegeSan Diego
- Mt. San Jacinto CollegeSan Jacinto
- College of Southern IdahoTwin Falls
- Moorpark CollegeMoorpark
- Mesa Community CollegeMesa
- Maricopa Community Colleges - Glendale Community CollegeGlendale
- Napa Valley CollegeNapa
- Riverside City CollegeRiverside
- Allan Hancock CollegeSanta Maria
- Pasadena City CollegePasadena
- Palomar CollegeSan Marcos
- Raritan Valley Community CollegeBranchburg
- Rio Hondo CollegeWhittier
- Santa Rosa Junior CollegeSanta Rosa
- Snow CollegeEphraim
- Estrella Mountain Community CollegeAvondale
- Grossmont CollegeEl Cajon
- University of Saint FrancisFort Wayne
- Nassau Community CollegeGarden City
- Antelope Valley CollegeLancaster
- Laney CollegeOakland
- Irvine Valley CollegeIrvine
- Orange Coast CollegeCosta Mesa
- City College of San FranciscoSan Francisco
- South Mountain Community CollegePhoenix
- Saddleback CollegeMission Viejo
- Santa Barbara City CollegeSanta Barbara
- Cottey CollegeNevada
- Adrian CollegeAdrian
- Phoenix CollegePhoenix
- Mendocino CollegeUkiah
- Palo Alto CollegeSan Antonio
- Cypress CollegeCypress
- Los Angeles Pierce CollegeWoodland Hills
- Rio Salado CollegeTempe
- Western Wyoming Community CollegeRock Springs
- El Paso Community CollegeEl Paso
- El Camino CollegeTorrance
- San Antonio CollegeSan Antonio
- Victor Valley CollegeVictorville
- GateWay Community CollegePhoenix
- College of MarinKentfield
- College of Southern NevadaLas Vegas
- Monterey Peninsula CollegeMonterey
- Cerritos CollegeNorwalk
- Henry Ford CollegeDearborn
- San Joaquin Delta CollegeStockton
- Skyline CollegeSan Bruno
- College of San MateoSan Mateo
- San Jose City CollegeSan Jose
- Santa Ana CollegeSanta Ana
- Golden West CollegeHuntington Beach
- Northwest Vista CollegeSan Antonio
Frequently asked questions
What prior experience do I need to apply?
Applicants usually need some dance training or experience to pass auditions. However, requirements vary by school, and some accept beginners with strong motivation.
Is this degree enough to become a professional dancer?
The degree provides foundational skills, but becoming a professional dancer often requires further training, auditions, and gaining performance experience.
Can I work while studying this degree?
The program is intensive with daily classes and rehearsals, so working alongside studies can be challenging but may be possible with good time management.
Are there opportunities to perform during the program?
Yes, students usually participate in performances and recitals to apply their skills and gain stage experience.
What kinds of dance styles will I learn?
Programs typically include ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance, but exact offerings depend on the school.
Can I continue my studies after this degree?
Yes, many students pursue bachelor’s degrees or specialized diplomas to deepen their knowledge and improve career prospects.
Is financial aid available for this program?
Financial aid options depend on the institution and student eligibility. It’s important to check with each school’s financial office.
Are internships part of the program?
Some programs include internships or workshops with dance companies to provide practical experience, but this varies by school.





















