Certificate in Dance Studies

Also see:

• Coursework Schedule
• Program Expenses
• Requirements for Admission to the Program
• Application for Admission (pdf)
• Who to Contact

Application Deadline for 2007/08 Program: 4 p.m. Friday, November 2, 2007. Mail or Hand Deliver All Application Materials Including Letters of Recommendation to: Erin Law, Vanderbilt Dance Program Coordinator, 207 Sarratt Student Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37240.  Applications for the 2008/2009 program will be available summer 2008.

The Vanderbilt Dance Program Certificate in Dance Studies is a 400-hour program for intermediate/advanced level students, 17 years or older (in rare cases, students under 17 years of age may be considered for entrance into the program). Combining the study of dance technique with dance academics, creative studies, choreography and pedagogy, the program is designed to complement a student's chosen degree at Vanderbilt University, or as an independent certificate program.

The program's aim is to provide students with adequate training for a career in dance-related arts disciplines, including teaching, research or arts administration, or simply for personal interest and enhancement. For those students on a scholarly arts degree path, this program will provide the necessary training to make undergraduates more eligible for graduate degrees in dance.  Please note students in the Certificate Program will not receive college credit on a transcript, rather they may list this comprehensive program on a resume following their completion of required hours.

The Certificate in Dance Studies Program provides a comprehensive array of artistic and academic work, complemented by necessary technical training within an environment that fosters innovative thinking and professional development through the medium of dance. Students in the Certificate Program are expected to complete the 400 hour program in a minimum of two semesters and a maximum of four semesters. A committee of dance faculty recommends selected applicants for admission based on select criteria.

Program Goals:

• To prepare students for advanced dance and academic training in a stimulating and creative environment
• To provide the necessary prerequisites to make students interested in working within a university arts setting admissible for graduate degrees in dance,
• To provide students with adequate training for a career in dance-related arts disciplines, including teaching, research or arts administration
• To strengthen and refine dance technique alongside of scholarly inquiry into the history, science and aesthetics of dance.
• To develop an instructional environment that extends the limits of excellence in teaching, art making, community service and scholarship.
• To advance innovation in learning, diversity, integrity, and creative pursuits at Vanderbilt University.