What is a BFA in Dance?

A BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) in dance is a professional degree — roughly 75% studio training + 25% academic coursework — designed for students headed into performance, choreography, or industry careers.

How competitive is BFA dance program admission?

Most BFA dance programs require an in-person or video audition. Selectivity varies widely, but conservatory-tier programs (Juilliard, USC Kaufman, Ailey School, CalArts) admit 5-15% of applicants; university BFAs range 30-70%.

Do I need dance training to apply for a BFA?

Yes — BFA programs assume prior training. Most look for 5+ years of classical or contemporary technique. Some allow late starters if the audition demonstrates natural ability, but pre-audition summer intensives significantly help.

How many US BFA dance programs are in our directory?

110 programs across 33 states — 55 are NASD-accredited and 9 are standalone conservatories.

Colleges · Degree directory

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Dance Programs

110 US college and university dance programs offering Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Programs are spread across 33 states and 99 cities. Free to browse. Updated weekly.

110
Programs
33
States
55
NASD accredited
9
Conservatories

All BFA programs, by state

State

Type

Accredited

Showing 110 programs

Troy University
Troy · Research University
Details

Frequently asked questions

What is a BFA in Dance?: A BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) in dance is a professional degree — roughly 75% studio training + 25% academic coursework — designed for students headed into performance, choreography, or industry careers.
How competitive is BFA dance program admission?: Most BFA dance programs require an in-person or video audition. Selectivity varies widely, but conservatory-tier programs (Juilliard, USC Kaufman, Ailey School, CalArts) admit 5-15% of applicants; university BFAs range 30-70%.
Do I need dance training to apply for a BFA?: Yes — BFA programs assume prior training. Most look for 5+ years of classical or contemporary technique. Some allow late starters if the audition demonstrates natural ability, but pre-audition summer intensives significantly help.
How many US BFA dance programs are in our directory?: 110 programs across 33 states — 55 are NASD-accredited and 9 are standalone conservatories.

Verify before you decide. DanceFinder works to keep this current, but program details change — always confirm dates, costs, and requirements on the school's official website.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Dance Programs

All BFA programs, by state

New York

Texas

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Maryland

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District of Columbia

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Frequently asked questions