Master's in Dance Education

The Master of Arts in Dance Education at UNC Greensboro is a hybrid, flexible degree designed specifically for public school dance educators and working dance professionals who maintain full-time jobs. Students engage in creative and scholarly work that connects practical dance application with research. A Master’s in Dance Education elevates your career by providing higher earning potential, advanced leadership roles, and more sustainable long-term career options in the dance field.

Master of Arts in Dance Education Program Distinctions

The Master’s in Dance Education is hybrid, combining asynchronous online classes during the regular school year with short, mandatory on-campus summer residencies. This structure allows full-time teachers to earn their degree without leaving their jobs.

UNCG is the only university in the UNC system that allows graduate students with an initial K-12 teaching credential to earn their advanced (M) dance teacher licensure through a master’s program.

The curriculum assumes you are an experienced educator. Assignments are structured so that you can directly test lesson plans, assessments, and curriculum designs on your current students, transforming your active workplace into a living laboratory.

UNCG’s School of Dance is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance and and affiliations include:

• American College Dance Association
• National Dance Education Organization
• N.C. National Dance Education Organization
• Dance Studies Association 

The Masters in Dance Education Student Experience

All MA Dance Education courses are taught online or in the summer on the UNCG campus. Elective courses may be taken at UNCG or another institution. Students may transfer up to 12 credits from an accredited institution, with approval.

Students should expect to spend approximately 12 hours per week in completing assignments for one 3-credit online graduate course.

At least one year of full-time teaching experience with K-12 students is very strongly recommended before beginning the program.

Student use interactive media platforms such as Canvas and Google Chat/Hangouts for collaboration, assignment completion, and staying connected to faculty and peers.

How to Apply to Graduate Programs In the School of Dance

Students interested in the MA in Dance Education complete UNCG Graduate School admission process and provide School of Dance supplemental materials specific to the degree.

After Graduating with a Masters in Dance Education

An MA in Dance Education opens doors to leadership, administration, and higher education roles that go far beyond standard studio or classroom teaching.

Potential career paths include:

• University Adjunct Professor or Lecturer
• Community College Instructor
• Dual-Enrollment Teacher
• District Arts Coordinator
• Curriculum Specialist

Frequently Asked Questions About the Masters in Dance Education