Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Dance and Social Science] From Hope College

Hope’s diverse resident and guest faculty, five studios and performance facilities, performance and teaching opportunities and curriculum, divided among modern, contemporary, ballet, jazz, and tap technique and dance theory, contribute to the department’s goal of developing well-rounded dancers who are prepared for careers in dance performance, production, education, therapy, medicine, and engineering.

Freshmen considering a dance major will meet with the department chair or a dance faculty member early in the academic year in order to plan their curriculum. All freshmen considering a dance major are encouraged to complete as many of the general education requirements as possible during their freshmen year.

Adjudication by resident faculty in the fall of the junior and an exit interview senior years is required for all students majoring in dance. At this time the department will assess the student’s academic, creative, and technical ability in the areas of performance, choreography, and pedagogy. Students will be advised as to their potential success as dance majors; faculty will counsel dancers regarding their strengths, weaknesses, and future career opportunities. Additional information concerning the assessment is available from the department chairperson.

All students pursuing the Performance/Choreography major are required and dual majors are strongly encouraged to audition for the annual faculty dance concerts and participate in the bi-annual Student Dance Showcase. 

 Dance movement therapists work in a variety of therapeutic educational and clinical settings, assisting individuals in their emotional, psychological and physical development and well-being.