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 artistic leaders in their communities, to educate, to heal and to advocate for 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.

The dance major and minor programs at Springfield College are challenging, dynamic, and consistently on the edge of contemporary trends in dance. Coursework, prestigious internship opportunities at places such as the internationally recognized Jacob’s Pillow Dance festival, performance (Repertory Touring Company) and scholarly opportunities (members of National Dance Education Organization), interdisciplinary work, and community engagement provide students with rich opportunities to expand their range of dance knowledge towards career preparation. With small class sizes, students enjoy strong, supportive, mentoring relationships with nationally recognized faculty as well as close relationships with other students. Students also receive the exclusive benefits of networking and educational opportunities (master classes, performances, workshops) through Springfield College’s partnership with the prestigious and internationally known Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival. Likewise, dance students become members of the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) that provides opportunities to network with nationally recognized dance artists and educators, take workshops, and present scholarly work at national conferences. In addition, students have the opportunity to audition for the touring Repertory Company, work with international guest artists, and perform and showcase choreography each year at the American College Dance Association Regional Conference.

The curriculum has successfully prepared students for employment as educators, choreographers, and performers as well as prepared them for acceptance into graduate programs in dance or related fields. Teacher preparation towards dance certification is based on the national standards for dance education.

To view a major program sequence to assist with course planning, click here.

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 Sarah Zehnder, 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 - Traditional Undergraduate Students (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.