Program Information

Dance is the art of movement and a fundamental expression of human experience. Through dance, as in all the arts, students develop the capacity to transform themselves, to become artist-leaders in their communities, to educate, to heal and to effect positive social change. In the past few decades, the study and application of dance knowledge has crossed over into other areas: the humanities, health/fitness, medicine, rehabilitation, therapy, and education. Dance has been increasingly brought into the mainstream of the helping professions and K-12 education.

The dance major gives students the opportunity to develop their talents, creativity, technique, knowledge and cultural/historical understanding, and to prepare for a career in dance or a related field. The curriculum fully prepares students for graduate programs in dance in areas such as performance and choreography, dance education, dance/movement therapy, somatics, and other related fields.  Other career preparations include dance education, dance therapist, or small business owner.  Advanced placement in fieldwork and internships provide students with the opportunity to work closely with dance professionals in dance studios, dance companies, public and private schools, or established dance institutions such as Jacob’s Pillow.

Degree Information

Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with a major in Dance

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change.

Contact Information

For more information about the dance major, contact Dr. Cynthia Nazzaro, Director of the dance program in the Visual and Performing Arts Department at (413) 748-3158 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Curricular Requirements

General Education Program (40 - 46 credits)

The General Education program at Springfield College is informed by its century-old Humanics tradition of educating the whole person in spirit, mind, and body, for leadership in service to humanity. These requirements have the goal of developing literate, thoughtful, socially responsible students, and instilling in them a spirit of inquiry into the nature of humankind and the universe. Towards those ends, the requirements emphasize and encourage: the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and competency essential for the improvement of the human condition in a diverse society; a search for personal and spiritual values; and the development of an understanding and appreciation of physical well-being. 

For specific requirements, see the General Education Program (40 - 46 credits)  section.

II. Major Requirements

III. Electives (to complete a minimum of 120 credits)

IV. Program Standards

In order to achieve advanced standing and be eligible for advanced coursework and fieldwork experiences, dance majors must have a record that demonstrates standards of professional skill and competency related to: attendance, preparation, academic honesty, creativity, maturity, professional behavior, mastery of dance forms, community service and sound aesthetic judgement.  Students must also meet the following academic standards:

A grade of B- or above in all DANC courses.