Mercyhurst University
Department of Dance · School of Arts
- Where
- Erie, PA
- Degrees
- BFA · BA · Minor
- Ballet
- Modern
- Jazz
- Tap
- musical_theater
About the Program
The Mercyhurst Department of Dance is a classical ballet program rooted in the liberal arts tradition, offering Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Arts degrees that emphasize the development of professional dancers, teachers, choreographers, and scholars. The ballet-based curriculum is supplemented by modern, jazz, tap, and music theatre techniques, along with courses in history, choreography, pedagogy, theory, and dance-related sciences. Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, the program provides rigorous professional training within a liberal arts environment.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance
- Professional performance and choreography
Bachelor of Arts in Dance
- Pedagogy concentration
Minor in Dance Studies
Concentrations
CourseworkRepresentative courses and the shape of the curriculum.
Ballet-based (classical focus) curriculum supplemented by modern, jazz, tap, and music theatre techniques; includes dance history, choreography, pedagogy, theory, and dance-related sciences. Returning Professional Program allows dancers with 3+ years professional experience up to 37 transfer credits toward a BA (pedagogy) or BFA.
Study abroad available
Notable Faculty
- Jennifer McNamara
- Mark Santillano
- Solveig Santillano
- Tauna Hunter (Professor Emeritus)
FacilitiesStudios, theatres and performance spaces on campus.
Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center and Walker Recital Hall.
Performance Opportunities
Mainstage productions at the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center (2-4 annually); four performance ensembles (Mercyhurst Dancers, Liturgical Dance Ensemble, SoMar Dance Works, Dance Outreach); student choreography showcases (Raw Edges); regional, national, and international touring.
Rankings & AlumniWhere the program ranks and the alumni it has produced.
Rankings
Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD) as of July 2026, per the school's dance department page and the NASD accredited-institutions directory.
Want to Learn More?
Continue on Mercyhurst University's official site.
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