COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Performing Arts with a concentration in Dance at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and provides a comprehensive education that combines dance performance, theory, history, creative practice, teaching experience, and professional development. Students complete university General Education requirements along with a structured sequence of dance and performing arts courses designed to build technical, artistic, and professional skills. The core curriculum includes courses in production processes, production experience, performing arts seminars, inclusion in performing arts, collaborative community projects, professional practices, and a capstone project. Students study the historical development of dance through courses covering ancient civilizations to contemporary dance, while also learning dance teaching methods and educational practices. The program emphasizes body awareness and movement science through somatics and dance kinesiology courses that help students understand human movement, injury prevention, and physical performance. A significant portion of the curriculum focuses on contemporary dance technique, with students completing five semesters of progressive technical training. Additional movement studies allow students to explore dance styles such as hip hop, ballet, jazz, Broadway styles, and tap, creating a well-rounded performance background. Performance experience is further strengthened through dance repertoire and dance technique workshops, where students rehearse and perform choreographic works. Creative development is a major component of the degree, with courses in dance improvisation and multiple levels of choreography that encourage students to create, analyze, and present original artistic works. The program also includes career-focused experiences such as a teaching practicum and cooperative education opportunities, enabling students to apply their skills in professional settings. Elective coursework allows students to pursue language studies or other academic interests outside performing arts, supporting the interdisciplinary nature of the degree. Graduates develop strong skills in performance, choreography, collaboration, teaching, communication, creativity, and leadership, preparing them for careers as professional dancers, choreographers, dance instructors, arts administrators, community arts leaders, and performing arts professionals, as well as for advanced study in dance and related disciplines.