Dance, School of

Madeleine Scott, Director

Our four-year training program offers two major degree options and three minor degree options: the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, the Bachelor of Arts degree, and minors in dance performance and choreography, dance history, and somatic studies. The B.F.A. degree program is a four-year pre-professional specialization degree within the liberal arts setting of Ohio University. It prepares the individual for future work in the field of dance and related professions by encouraging the realization of individual artistic potential through the integration of creative, physical, and intellectual processes. It emphasizes modern dance choreography and performance and includes theoretical, historical, and practical studies in dance. The B.A. degree is a program of dance studies that develops dance skills necessary to performance and facility in the application of principles and procedures that reflect an intellectual grasp of the art. It presents a strong potential for interdisciplinary studies in the areas of biological, physical and social sciences, humanities and world cultures, and is for individuals who seek a broad program of general education in the undergraduate years.

We provide the general University student with studies in the practice, history, and aesthetics of dance. Through presentation of high-quality performances we contribute to the cultural environment of the University, community, and region. Performances of student and faculty choreography are given regularly in the Shirley Wimmer Dance Theatre and a variety of other theatrical spaces. Workshop performances, internships, and College of Fine Arts performance projects offer additional performance opportunities.

A visiting artist program enriches the curriculum during the academic year. Major figures in the field of dance teach, choreograph, hold special workshops, perform, and are engaged for residencies on campus.

Strong individual academic and professional advising characterizes the School of Dance. The development and progress of each dance major are carefully assessed by a faculty advisor. As a dance major or minor, you are expected to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in dance core work (modern and ballet technique and choreography) and a 2.7 GPA overall in dance courses; if your work is found to be deficient, you may be placed on probation or advised to modify your program of study.

Scholarship auditions for incoming freshmen are held in November and January. Schedule an appointment well in advance by contacting the School of Dance or the Office of Admissions. All transfer students intending to major in dance are required to audition as part of the admission process. An appointment for an audition and information on proficiency requirements can be obtained by contacting the director of the School of Dance.

An honors tutorial program in dance is available for exceptionally talented and motivated students. This individualized program of study requires a distinctive combination of high school grades, test scores, teacher recommendations, and special achievements. Direct inquiries concerning eligibility to the School of Dance. If eligible, you must complete the application, audition, and interview processes by December 15.

Admission Requirements

An audition is required for all students who plan to major or minor in dance except for those who wish to minor in Somatic Studies or Dance History and Theory. The audition is in the form of a dance class and does not require presentation of previously learned materials. If you wish to be considered for talent scholarships, you must audition by February 1; otherwise, an audition appointment can be made during the school year. Contact the School of Dance, 740.593.1826, for information. Though all prospective students are encouraged to attend auditions on the Ohio University campus, videotapes will be accepted under extenuating circumstances.

The School of Dance is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Dance.