Messiah University
Dance · School of Arts, Culture and Society
Mechanicsburg, PA
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About the Program
Messiah University's Department of Theatre and Dance offers a B.A. in Dance within a Christian educational framework, described as "much more than movement, rhythm and fitness; it's a creative form of worship." The 123-credit program provides breadth of experience in ballet, jazz, modern, tap, and musical theatre alongside pedagogy, choreography, dance ministry, and dance history, preparing students for careers in performance, choreography, teaching, or arts administration. Students perform in university theatre productions, three fully-mounted concerts, and dance ministry groups.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Arts in Dance
Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education (PreK-12 Teaching Certification)
Dance Minor
Coursework
Required technique across ballet (I-IV), jazz/dance theatre (I-IV), modern (I-IV), and tap (I-II). Core also includes Dance Pedagogy, Dance Ministry, Dance History, kinesiology, and a capstone. Major requirements ~38-40 credits of a 123-credit degree. Program includes dance ministry emphasis reflecting the Christian mission.
Facilities
Grace Pollock Dance Studio with sprung Marley dance surface, mirrors, barres, blackout curtains, and stage lighting.
Performance Opportunities
University theatre productions, three fully-mounted dance concerts, and dance ministry groups (GiViM, Acclamation, Footprintz) plus chapel and on/off-campus ministry performances.
Rankings & Alumni
Alumni Outcomes
Program reports 98% of the Class of 2025 employed or in graduate school within 6-9 months of graduation (source: messiah.edu dance major page).
Want to Learn More?
Continue on Messiah University's official site.