Best Colleges for Choreography: Top Dance Programs, Training & Career Prep

Explore Your Future: Dance Colleges and Choreography Degree Programs

If you dream of turning your love of dance into a rewarding career in choreography, choosing the right college is essential. The top dance programs in the United States offer rigorous training, professional networking, and career preparation that set you up for real-world success. This guide will help you understand what makes these programs unique, what to look for in choreography degree colleges, and how specialized training can launch your future as a choreographer.

Why Choose a College for Choreography and Dance?

Earning a degree in choreography or dance performance opens doors to creative careers in the performing arts. Leading colleges for dance provide:

• Expert faculty, often with professional dance and choreography experience
• World-class dance facilities and studios
• Access to internships, performances, and industry connections
• Courses in a wide range of dance styles including ballet, modern, contemporary, hip hop, and more
• Career support for fields such as choreography, dance education, and stage production

Dancers with college training gain essential skills in technique, movement, production, leadership, and collaboration. This helps you stand out in auditions and thrive in competitive arts careers.

Top Colleges for Choreography and Dance Training

The best dance programs in the United States combine artistic excellence with practical training. While each college has its own strengths, here are some of the most recognized schools for choreography and dance:

• Juilliard School (New York, NY): Renowned for intensive dance conservatory education, Juilliard offers a BFA in Dance with a focus on both performance and choreography. Students benefit from high-profile productions and connections in New York’s dance world.
• New York University Tisch School of the Arts (New York, NY): NYU Tisch’s Department of Dance provides robust technical training and emphasizes choreography, dance production, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): The UCLA World Arts and Cultures/Dance department blends performance, choreography, and academic study in diverse dance styles.
• University of North Carolina School of the Arts (Winston-Salem, NC): Known for its rigorous conservatory model, UNCSA’s ballet and contemporary dance programs prepare students for stage and choreography careers.
• Fordham University / The Ailey School (New York, NY): This partnership blends liberal arts education with world-class modern dance and choreography through The Ailey School’s training.
• Boston Conservatory at Berklee (Boston, MA): BCM offers both classical and contemporary dance training with a strong focus on choreography and creative expression.
• Indiana University Jacobs School of Music (Bloomington, IN): Recognized for ballet and modern dance, this program includes choreography, pedagogy, and dance history.
• Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL): FSU’s School of Dance stands out for its emphasis on collaborative choreography and performance.

Other colleges to consider include the University of Michigan, California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), Pace University, and SUNY Purchase.

What to Look For in a Choreography College Program

When researching the best colleges for choreography, consider these important factors:

• Accreditation: Look for regionally accredited institutions and those recognized by arts organizations.
• Faculty: Find programs with experienced choreographers and dance professionals as instructors.
• Curriculum: Top dance schools offer classes in technique, dance theory, choreography, dance technology, and performance studies.
• Performance Opportunities: Choose schools with frequent concerts, showcases, and chances to choreograph your own pieces.
• Facilities: Modern studios, theaters, and rehearsal spaces are essential for hands-on learning.
• Alumni Success: Look at where recent graduates work—on Broadway, in dance companies, or as choreographers for TV and film.
• Location: Urban campuses often provide more exposure to professional dance scenes and internships.

Types of Dance Degrees and Career Paths in Choreography

Colleges typically offer several options for dance and choreography studies:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance: Focuses on performance, technique, and choreography, preparing you for careers on stage or as a creative director.
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance: A flexible path combining dance studies with other academic interests or double majors.
• MFA or MA in Choreography: Advanced degrees designed for dancers seeking college-level teaching or top-tier choreography roles.

Graduates with a choreography degree can pursue roles such as:

• Professional choreographer for stage, film, or live events
• Dance company or ensemble director
• Arts educator or dance teacher
• Movement coach for actors and entertainers
• Arts administrator or producer

Getting Ready for College Dance Program Auditions

Most top dance colleges require auditions in addition to an application. To prepare:

• Build a strong foundation in ballet, modern, jazz, or hip hop
• Attend dance intensives or workshops
• Create a choreography portfolio or dance reel showcasing your unique style and creativity
• Prepare a personal statement about your passion for choreography and future goals

Take advantage of open houses or college dance program tours to find your best fit.

How College Dance Programs Support Your Career in Choreography

Enrolling in a leading college for choreography does more than advance your technique. You gain access to industry mentors, professional networks, and valuable performance experience. Internships and guest artist workshops further expand your understanding and connections in the field.

Career prep resources often include:

• Resume and portfolio building workshops
• Alumni networking events with working choreographers
• Master classes from iconic dance artists
• Assistance with auditions and agents

You’ll graduate ready to launch your journey in the creative world of dance and choreography.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best colleges for choreography and dance in the U.S.?

Top colleges include Juilliard School, New York University Tisch School of the Arts, University of California-Los Angeles, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and others. Each offers outstanding dance and choreography programs with strong faculty and industry connections.

What degree do you need to become a choreographer?

Most choreographers earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance or a related field. Some pursue advanced degrees like an MFA in choreography for college teaching or leadership roles. Strong practical experience and a solid portfolio are equally important.

What should I include in my audition for a dance college?

Prepare a solo piece that showcases your movement style and choreography. Be ready to demonstrate technique in ballet, modern, or contemporary dance. Some schools also require an improvisation or a choreography sample.

Which careers can I pursue with a choreography degree?

A choreography or dance degree prepares you for jobs as a stage or screen choreographer, dance educator, movement coach, artistic director, performing artist, or arts administrator.

Do dance colleges offer scholarships for dancers and choreographers?

Yes, many top dance programs offer talent-based scholarships, merit awards, and financial aid to help students pursue their passion. Check each college’s dance department or financial aid office for details.