Bachelor of Fine Arts – Dance Major
Why Choose Our BFA Program?
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance at the University of Arizona is more than performance training—it’s an investment in your future as a versatile artist equipped for a dynamic career.
Our curriculum offers rigorous, equal training in ballet, modern, and jazz, providing a strong technical foundation and the adaptability essential for today’s dance industry. As students progress, they have the opportunity to shape their artistic path while continuing to develop across all three disciplines.
At Arizona Dance, we prepare students not only for the stage, but for sustainable, successful careers that extend beyond performance. With the resources of an R1 research university and the mentorship of nationally recognized faculty, our students graduate ready to lead as choreographers, educators, producers, creative directors, and innovators shaping the future of dance.
Who Should Apply?
We’re looking for dancers who have:
- A strong dance foundation (minimum 5 years of focused training)
- Experience in all three genres: ballet, modern, and jazz
- Strong technique and musicality
- Clear footwork and body alignment
- The ability to quickly absorb and apply new movement
- Performance experience (recommended)
Exclusive Opportunities
Career Prospects
Agencies and companies from across the country, including Go2Talent, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and Cirque du Soleil, to name a few, regularly audition our students in person right here on campus. These private auditions with industry professionals provide invaluable opportunities for our dancers to launch their careers.
Dancer Well-Being
Our program prioritizes the longevity and overall health of dancers through our dedicated Performance Medicine Program. With an onsite dietitian and athletic trainer, we ensure students receive comprehensive support for their physical well-being.
Performances & More
Students have the invaluable chance to perform and collaborate with renowned faculty and guest artists both on and off campus. Each year, they are guaranteed a performance on the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre stage, providing real-world experience and enhancing their resumes with vital industry exposure.
A Customized Experience
Our program offers a diverse range of empowering features that grant students the freedom to personalize their journey towards a successful career. The highlights outlined below empower students to explore every facet of dance, fully realizing their aspirations. By strategically customizing their learning experience, we ensure that each student’s path is distinctive and aligned with their individual goals.
Concert Dance
Dive into the intricacies of concert dance! Students are equipped with the skill sets and creative expertise necessary to thrive in dance company settings. Learning firsthand from both legacy and contemporary artists ensures they embody the movement quality sought after by leading companies.
Commercial Dance
Specializing in a range of techniques, students are prepared for success in the entertainment industry. From collaborations with musical artists to roles in music videos, industrials, and cruise lines, we equip students for diverse professional opportunities.
Dance Portfolio
Arizona provides dancers a unique chance to delve into choreography, somatic practices,
arts entrepreneurship, and dance pedagogies alongside performance training. With the option to double major, students strategically shape their career paths, ensuring well-rounded success in the dance industry.
Program Highlights
- Africana
- Ballet
- Contemporary
- Hip-Hop
- Improvisation
- Jazz
- Partnering
- Pointe
- Tap
- Voice
- Careers in Dance
- Choreography
- Dance & Digital Media
- Dance History
- Dancer Anatomy
- Headshot, Resume, & Reel
- Injury Prevention
- Mock Auditions
- Pilates & Yoga
- Study Abroad
- Teaching Methods
Key Features
Stevie Eller Dance Theatre
The UArizona dance majors call this exclusive award- winning 300-seat facility home, where they perform and rehearse over 30 times annually. The studio above mirrors the stage size, offering beautiful campus views.
Legacy & Emerging Artists
In addition to our renowned faculty, students have the privilege of experiencing choreographic works and workshops by both legacy and contemporary choreographers, including Tyce Diorio, Al Blackstone, Joe Lanteri, Martha Graham, and George Balanchine – semesterly.
Student Choreography
Students engage in choreography classes to develop their artistic voice. Each semester, a dedicated show provides a platform for students to showcase their work, supporting their growth as young choreographers.
Alumni Success
Our Alumni can be found around the world!
- Giordano Dance Chicago
- American Ballet Theatre
- Hubbard Street
- Pacific Northwest Ballet
- Eisenhower Dance
- Ballet Hispanico
- Big Muddy
- Washington Ballet
- LA Contemporary Dance
- Ballet Austin
- An American in Paris
- Radio City Rockettes
- The Outsiders Musical
- Cirque du Soleil
- Wicked
- Royal Caribbean
- Cats
- Disney
- Hamilton
- Taylor Swift Eras Tour
No. Our foundation is in ballet, jazz, and modern, and students are required to train in all three styles throughout their time at Arizona Dance.
Yes! We also offer classes in hip hop, tap, pointe, Africana, ballet repertory, and more.
Students take courses like Careers in Dance, Teaching Methods, Choreography, Improvisation, Injury Prevention, Dancer Anatomy, Voice, Production, and more—supporting both artistic and professional development.