Dance at the University of Oregon is a unique and exciting program of study that celebrates individual artistry. Students are inspired to:
- Develop physical and expressive skills by exploring African, ballet, contemporary, hip hop, and other movement practices.
- Nurture their unique choreographic voice through improvisation and composition.
- Understand their body’s systems and structural design through somatic practices.
- Discover how cultural and historical investigation intersects with their personal history.
- Build the confidence to trust that their artistic voice can transform them, their community, and the field of dance.
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science
The Dance Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Science (BS) are both 78 credit hour degrees. Requirements for the BA and BS are mostly the same. The difference lies in the requirements from the university.
Bachelor of Fine Arts
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is a 133-credit hour degree (currently under revision to 120 hours) designed for students who seek a professional career in the field of dance and plan to make dance their primary focus in college. Requirements for the BFA are available through the UO catalog. We are often asked if BFAs can double major. Because of the commitment and dedication required to successfully complete the extensive course work and rehearsal/performance activities associated with the BFA, the answer to that question is, “it depends.” Factors might include how much college credit you have earned before coming to UO, how intensive the second major is, and if you can earn credit in that major during summer terms at UO or another institution.
Dance Faculty
The faculty carries a breadth of experience in performance, choreography, somatics, dance science, music composition, cultural/historical research, and filmmaking.
Dance Courses
Students are encouraged to bring elements of their work in other areas of the university such as the Honors College, a second major, or a minor, into our community through creative work and research projects.
Perform at UO
BFA, BA, and BS students are eligible to audition for all departmental concerts which include works by our accomplished faculty, renowned guest artists, and fellow students. They also have opportunities to choreograph for showcases, special projects, and for a fully produced concert.
Apply Today!
An audition is required to be accepted into the BFA.
BA and BS students are accepted through the application process and do not need to audition. Placement classes are held to determine what technique levels are the best fit for you. More information is available after you apply.
Be sure that you apply to both UO and the School of Music and Dance.
If you have questions, reach out to our Dance Coordinator, Dana Gorman at dgorman@uoregon.edu.
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Student Support
Have questions about your degree requirements? Need information on undergraduate scholarships and awards? Check out these resources to get the support you need.