BFA in Dance
California Institute of the Arts — Valencia, CA
About this program
The BFA Dance program at California Institute of the Arts is a rigorous four-year degree that builds a strong foundation in ballet and contemporary dance styles. Students engage in two technique classes daily, four days per week, alongside comprehensive instruction in Dance Composition and Choreography. The program is distinguished by its emphasis on creative development, with all students required to choreograph group works and present original solos. CalArts fosters a unique collegial community through weekly Dance Showings that combine works in progress with peer and faculty feedback. The curriculum extends beyond technique to encompass comprehensive training in dance production, including stagecraft, lighting design, costume design, audio and video production, and dance for camera. Students benefit from CalArts' interdisciplinary environment, taking courses across the Schools of Art, Theater, Music, and Film/Video to deepen their understanding of dance in relation to other art forms. Numerous concerts throughout the year provide extensive performance opportunities, and all students must successfully pass a Mid-Residence Review and Graduation Review to complete the degree. Graduates are prepared for careers as professional dancers, choreographers, dance teachers, company directors, or in related fields such as dance therapy and arts administration.
Audition & application overview
- Requires a live or recorded audition
- Requires a dance audition
- Requires an essay
Live in-person audition strongly recommended (CalArts campus or select US cities, October–February); video audition available for those who cannot attend live; fee per portfolio submission
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