Department of Dance
Dance Technique Classes
Although we offer contemporary dance, ballet, jazz, African dance, and other forms, the majority of the requirements for technique for the BFA are in contemporary dance; all students are required to take at least one semester of African dance; at least one additional semester of African, jazz, or another global form; and at least two semesters of both contemporary and ballet.
Entering students are placed in ballet and contemporary as part of the audition required for admission. Normally, most freshmen are placed in DCE 112 (contemporary) and 114 (ballet). If you feel that a mistake was made in your placement, contact the Department Head (Jan Van Dyke), but know that it is extremely rare to make changes.
The procedures for registration for ballet and contemporary dance are complex; they are revised each semester and posted on the Department’s home page. Follow these procedures carefully, since you may be withdrawn from technique classes if you do not!
If you are a major in dance, you may register for the following classes without permission, as long as space is available; it is generally recommended that you be at the 112 level of modern before doing this, although there is occasionally reason for exception: DCE 216 (intermediate jazz), 230 (somatics), 231 (global), and DCE 232 (African). Anyone may register for DCE 116 (Beginning jazz), 132 (Beginning African), and 233 (Tap--fall semester is for those with no tap experience).
For technique classes please wear clothes which will reveal the body line (no baggy pants or shirts) and allow full movement range. Some faculty have more specific requirements for dance attire.