The American dance teacher degree is focused on developing employable dancers and teachers for the entertainment industry. The American dance teacher program has three core focuses: dance technique training, choreography & pedagogy instruction and arts management & business administration. The dance training core focuses on tap, jazz, theater dance and ballet as used in musical theater. The arts management and business administration cores focus on developing the knowledge and cultivating the expertise essential to managing successful arts organizations. Students develop technical and professional skills necessary to have life-long careers in show business.
Dance Training
The American dance teacher degree is focused on developing employable dancers and teachers for the entertainment industry. The American dance teacher program has three core focuses: dance technique training, choreography & pedagogy instruction and arts management & business administration. The dance training core focuses on tap, jazz, theater dance and ballet as used in musical theater. The arts management and business administration cores focus on developing the knowledge and cultivating the expertise essential to managing successful arts organizations. Students develop technical and professional skills necessary to have life-long careers in show business.
Choreography & Pedagogy
American dance teacher majors receive the most instruction in choreography and pedagogy of all three dance majors. Students will take 6 hours of choreography theory and application, and 12 hours of tap, jazz and ballet pedagogy. Choreography and pedagogy courses will focus on choreographing and teaching all ages at all levels. In addition to choreography and pedagogy courses, students will teach in the Community Dance Center which is a learning laboratory for dance majors. Dance professors will observe students teaching throughout the semester and will give individual feedback to each student.
Arts Management & Business Administration
American dance teacher majors take a variety of arts management classes to equip them with a wide variety of skills that will help ensure success in any business venture. Arts management courses include:
Managing Dance Studios
Dance Studio Technology
Costuming
Managing Non-Profit Arts Organizations
Contracts and Management
Business administration classes provide students with a sophisticated view of management and the skills necessary for effective leadership within arts organizations. Business classes include:
Management
Accounting
Economics
Advertising
Extensive teaching, managerial and performance opportunities are available through the Community Dance Center, American Spirit Dance Company, the Student Choreography Show, the Performing Arts Ticket Office, a variety of special events, Oklahoma Opera & Musical Theater Company, Oklahoma Children's Theatre, and domestic and international performance tours.
This degree is designed for first time undergraduate students. Students who have already completed a Bachelor degree are not eligible to apply for the American Dance Teacher degree.
