COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performing Arts with a concentration in Dance at Wichita State University is a professional degree requiring a minimum of 120 credit hours and is designed for students seeking intensive preparation for careers in dance performance, choreography, and related artistic fields. Students must complete the university’s General Education requirements, maintain an overall GPA of at least 2.0, earn 45 upper-division credit hours, and achieve a grade of C or better in all required dance and theatre courses. The curriculum includes 72 credit hours in dance and emphasizes advanced technical training, artistic development, creative practice, and professional experience. Core courses introduce students to production processes, performance experiences, inclusion in the performing arts, collaborative community projects, professional practices, and a capstone project that showcases their skills and growth. Students study dance history from ancient civilizations through contemporary times and learn methods of teaching dance, providing both historical and pedagogical perspectives. The program also incorporates body science courses such as Somatics and Dance Kinesiology to promote healthy movement practices, injury prevention, and an understanding of physical performance. A major focus of the degree is contemporary dance technique, with students completing eight semesters of progressive training, including advanced Contemporary Technique 4 courses in their final years. Additional movement studies allow students to gain experience in hip hop, ballet, jazz, Broadway styles, and tap dance, creating versatility as performers. Extensive performance opportunities are provided through Dance Repertoire and Dance Technique Workshop courses, where students rehearse and perform throughout their studies. Creative development is strengthened through dance improvisation and a three-course choreography sequence that teaches students to create, develop, and present original works. Career preparation includes a teaching practicum and cooperative education experience, helping students gain professional exposure before graduation. The program combines rigorous technical training, creative exploration, performance experience, and professional development, preparing graduates for careers as professional dancers, choreographers, teaching artists, company performers, and arts professionals, as well as for advanced study in dance and performing arts.