About the Division of Dance

OUR MISSION

We provide a holistic education through rigorous training across several disciplines while cultivating individual creativity. Our program fosters a physically and emotionally healthy environment, encouraging intellectual and artistic growth to develop professionals who embody agency of self.
The Division of Dance prepares students for a variety of careers in Dance and related fields. Students explore multiple genres of dance, learning to contextualize theory and practice in educational, professional, and community settings. The curriculum emphasizes the role of dance as a catalyst for artistic expression and a means for developing a global perspective. Respecting the body instrument is paramount to the technical dance training at Texas State. Students learn injury prevention techniques and efficient body mechanics, while honing their skills in performing, teaching, and creating original dances.
 
Dancer with haze in background at Texas State University

Our History

Dancers in front of windows at TXST

Graduates work in public and private secondary schools, private studios, and professional dance companies. Graduates also learn how to work in community settings, using dance as a means to connect communities and promote inclusivity. Many of our alumni have continued their dance training in university graduate programs; as well as certification programs in related fields such as Yoga, Pilates, Dance Therapy, and the like.

We boast an award-winning faculty who are actively engaged in scholarly and creative research nationally and abroad. We additionally host internationally renowned guest artists who teach master classes, present lectures, and create new dances with our students. Students and faculty regularly collaborate across disciplines with other departments on campus, as well as within our local Hill Country community.

What Do We Do

Our unique approach to dance is designed to emphasize biomechanical efficiency and develop an aesthetic understanding of the art. Modern dance training creates outstanding performers and fits smoothly into the educational setting, preparing students to enter classrooms and graduate programs.

Graduates from our program are prepared to teach modern dance, recreational dance, jazz, and ballet in schools and in private studios. They have the ability to create dance concerts, participate in professional companies, as well as advance to higher education and other dance related fields.

The Division of Dance in the Department of Theatre and Dance was ranked number 18 in the nation for Best DanceBachelor’s Degree Schools by College Factual in 2022. In 2021, the Division of Dance was ranked number one in the Southwest region, number one for Best Value, number one for non-traditional students, and number two in quality.

Group of dancers with one on stilts at TXST

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