Dance
The dance major at Coker University offers students a broad range of courses that prepare them for several career options in dance and provides the opportunity for some students to enter advanced professional training. In keeping with the mission of Coker University and the School of Visual and Performing Arts, the Dance Program is committed to providing a well-rounded, student-centered learning experience rich in dance technique, choreography, theory, and performance. Grounded in engaged teaching, our faculty create an environment that encourages students to cultivate their technical, artistic, creative, and scholarly abilities. Study in dance as an academic discipline integrates inquiry and theory to develop skills in observation, critical thinking, problem-solving, and evaluation. We believe each student has the potential to reach their goals in whatever career they pursue: performer, choreographer, dance educator, studio owner, arts administrator, dance advocate, etc. We strive to develop thoughtful and active artists in the classroom, studio, and world.
Scholarship Audition Requirements
Students interested in talent based scholarships in dance must complete the following requirements:
- A dance technique class
- A two-minute (minimum) solo in any style of dance
BFA and BA- Dance Education Application and Review
Current students interested in pursuing either the B.F.A. in Dance - Choreography or the BA in Dance Education must complete the following requirements prior to being accepted into those programs. Students should also have a 3.0 GPA in Coker dance courses upon application and are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA in dance courses to remain in these programs. Students can apply to the BFA or Dance Education programs at the end of their freshman year. Students have two chances to pass this review. Students not accepted into the BFA or Dance Education program may continue to pursue the BA in Dance degree. (Note: Sophomore Review is required for all dance majors)
- BFA/Dance Education Application Form and Resume
- For the BFA: At least 2 examples of choreography from either the Informal Dance Concert or the Student Choreography Showcase (SCS)
- For Dance Education: Pass EDU 102 or EDU 200/201
- Statement of intent, that includes a career plan (1-2 pages)
Courses in special topics and independent studies may be taken in addition to other major requirements. All courses counting toward a major or minor in dance must be completed with a minimum grade of C or 2.0.
Studio courses meet two contact hours for each semester hour of credit and may be repeated for credit. Studio courses at every level may culminate in a graded informal concert showing. Specific prerequisites are listed under each course.
Students wishing to change degree tracks must discuss this with their faculty advisor. Students wishing to change to a degree that requires an audition must re-audition for that specific degree.
Sophomore Review Process
All dance majors are required to pass the Sophomore Review process by the spring semester of the sophomore year. This process is defined in the Dance Program Handbook.