Academics

Dance BA

BA • Major

Dance students perform onstage.

Turn your love of movement into a career that changes lives. Montclair State University’s BA in Dance blends rigorous artistry with hands‑on teaching practice, preparing you to lead classes in Pre‑K–12 schools, studios, community centers and beyond. Choose from two teaching‑focused concentrations, taking technique and choreography courses alongside our BFA dancers for a high‑caliber studio experience.

Why Montclair?

  • Real‑World Teaching: Start leading classes early and graduate ready to educate children, teens and adults.
  • Performance Every Semester: Dance on campus in three well-equipped theatres, at local schools, and on renowned stages like NYC’s Joyce Theater.
  • Inclusive Community: Our anti‑biased, anti‑racist curriculum celebrates diverse voices, bodies and traditions.
  • NYC at Your Doorstep: Study with guest artists, see world‑class performances and land internships—just 30 minutes away.
  • National Recognition: Named one of DanceUS.org’s Best College Dance Programs for 2025.
  • Accredited: The Montclair State BFA in Dance is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance which has high standards for dance degree programs and assesses them every 10 years.

NOTE: You must have a bachelor’s degree and 5 or more years of professional experience in dance to be considered.

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Dance Concentrations

Explore specific areas of focus within the Dance program

Dance Studio Teaching

Prepare to Work in a Dance Studio or Lead Your Own — The Dance Studio Teaching concentration combines dance, education and business training to prepare you for a career in studio instruction. You’ll take four business courses—covering marketing, finance and management—that count toward a Business minor, plus complete a studio internship for real-world experience.

To graduate, you will complete 120 credits with a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and meet all major-specific GPA and performance review requirements.

See the curriculum.

Dance Education with P-12 Certification

Teach dance and inspire students — The BA in Dance with a Dance Education concentration prepares you to become a certified dance teacher in New Jersey public schools (P–12). Students apply to the Teacher Education program, typically in the spring of their sophomore year. Once accepted, you’ll add Secondary Education as a second major.

To graduate, you will complete 120 credits with a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and meet all major-specific GPA and performance review requirements.

See the curriculum.


Audition Pre-Screen Requirement

To be considered for admission to Montclair State University’s Dance program, you must submit a 2–3 minute pre-screen audition video through the registration portal using a YouTube or Vimeo link. This video determines whether you advance to a full audition.

Video Guidelines:

  • Perform a solo in modern or contemporary dance (in a studio, onstage, or outdoors)
  • Video must be recorded within the past 6 months
  • At the start of the video, state or display:
    • Your full name and state
    • The choreographer(s) of the piece

Optional Second Video:
You may submit an additional 2–3 minute video in another style (e.g., ballet, hip hop, flamenco, tap). If submitted, follow the same intro format.

Attire Tips:
Wear clothing that clearly shows your movement. Avoid dark outfits on dark backgrounds, oversized layers or hair covering your face.

Important:
Pre-screens will only be reviewed once all materials are received and must include two letters of recommendation, one from a dance professional and one from an academic teacher.

Montclair dance students perform on stage

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Among Top Dance Programs in U.S.

Montclair State University’s dance program has been named one of the best in the country, according to a recent ranking from DanceUs.org. With Manhattan just 30 minutes away, students connect with both world-class dance productions and numerous internship opportunities.

Featured Faculty

Seven permanent faculty members and more than 12 visiting professionals mentor our MFA in Dance students through their time at Montclair State.



Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Office of Undergraduate Admissions

The office of Undergraduate Admissions will guide you every step of the way on your journey from learning about the University and its offerings, to applying for a program through to acceptance and enrollment.

Theatre and Dance

The College of the Arts’ Department of Theatre and Dance has trained actors, dancers, production artists, educators and arts managers to create “magic” for the stage for more than 50 years. Our location 14 miles west of Manhattan puts students just minutes away from Broadway productions, world-class dance performances, internships and all that attracts artists from all over the world.
  • Life Hall

Program Coordinator: Susan Pope

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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Montclair Online offers the same nationally recognized faculty, engaging coursework and supportive community as our on-campus classes - designed to fit your life. With multiple start dates each year, you can begin when the time is right for you.

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