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Dance & Dance Education
(College of Fine Arts)
The College of Fine Arts Website: Department Site: Program Description Dance and dance education majors are immersed in dance technique, creative projects, historical and theoretical thinking, performance and aesthetics, all taught by a highly qualified faculty. Ballet, modern and jazz dance forms are equally strong. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance and is based on that professional organization's guidelines. The B.F.A. degree program in dance prepares students for professional careers as performers, teachers, choreographers or in dance-related fields. A four-year program of study, it can be tailored to provide the necessary prerequisites to go on to advanced study. The B.A. degree program in dance and dance education offers intensive training in technique and choreography, with flexibility so additional studies in other fields may be added. The dance education major includes the general requirements for teacher certification with an intensive program of dance study. Students who wish to major in dance education also should refer to the "Education" information sheet for education-related requirements. Curriculum Overview The core of the dance major’s studies is at least one daily technique class, essential to the development of the young artist. Required courses in choreography, dance history, teaching methods, and kinesiology give a well-rounded background to the dance program. Additional courses in art, music, and theatre arts complete the degree requirements. A curriculum also can be specifically tailored to provide the student with the necessary prerequisites to go on to advanced study, including the areas of dance history and dance therapy. Opportunities are provided for the student to gain the necessary practical experience in dance performance, choreography, and other practical technical skills. Academic Preparation In addition to meeting the University’s admission requirements, prospective dance majors must audition in person or submit a performance video tape. Auditions can be arranged during the academic year. It will consist of participation in an intermediate level ballet and modern dance technique class. A jazz solo may be additionally performed if desired. Facilities & Resources The dance program is housed in the state-of-the-art Brest Dance Pavilion, which contains two large, naturally-lit studios dressing rooms with showers and lockers, dance faculty offices and costume area. Main stage productions are performed in Swisher Auditorium, a 503-seat proscenium hall. Internship & Career Opportunities Internships are specifically designed to the need of the individual dance major. Dance education majors have interned in dance programs throughout Duval County, at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, LaVilla Middle School for the Arts, Pine Forest Elementary Magnet School for the Arts, Bolles School, and private dance studios. Additionally, students interested in dance medicine or dance therapy have opportunities to intern with First Coast Orthopedics & Sports Medicine and the Harkness Center for Dance Medicine in New York City. Sponsored Student Activities Numerous performance opportunities are offered each semester including the annual Holiday Dance Concert, Student Choreography Concert, Spring Dance Concert, with special guest artists and in community performances of The Nutcracker. Dance majors become involved with the Sigma Rho Delta, the national dance fraternity that functions to promote dance. This organization gives students an opportunity to work and socialize with other students with similar interests. Participation in Jacksonville University Dance Theatre, the performing company, is by audition or invitation of the dance faculty. The JU Dance Theatre offers multiple performances throughout the academic year, including three main stage productions, numerous community and regional events, and participation in the American College Dance Festival Association. Faculty – Dance and Dance Education Brian A. Palmer (Assistant Professor of Dance) B.F.A., Radford University; M.F.A., Florida State University
Contacts For additional or specific information, you can write, call or e-mail us: Office of Admissions 904-256-7000 or 800-225-2027 (toll-free) E-mail: admissions@ju.edu
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