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Dance

Movement is the language of dance.

Dance gives us the power to communicate across cultural and linguistic barriers. Dancers use motion to evoke feelings, tell stories and provoke thought. As a dance major at Alma, you will: 

  • Take rigorous studio technique courses in ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap and more.
  • Examine practical, pedagogical and philosophical approaches to teaching dance in different settings.
  • Perform in three dance concerts a year.

At A Glance

  • 12:1
    Student-to-faculty ratio
  • 18
    Average class size

Possible Careers

Dance Instructor
Alaina Bushmann, 2021 | Studio 55 School of Dance
Pediatric Physical Therapist
Kesley Dennis, PT, DPT, AT, 2018 | Ivy Rehab for Kids
Director of Dance
Abbie Baublitz, 2019 | Mid American Studio & Pom
Ballet Director & Choreographer
Alexandra Bourne, 2016 | The Dance Academy

Movement is the language of dance.

Dance gives us the power to communicate across cultural and linguistic barriers. Dancers use motion to evoke feelings, tell stories and provoke thought. As a dance major at Alma, you will: 

  • Take rigorous studio technique courses in ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap and more.
  • Examine practical, pedagogical and philosophical approaches to teaching dance in different settings.
  • Perform in three dance concerts a year.

Explore

Student & Alumni Spotlights

No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.

My dance minor really was the thing that pushed me to go on and pursue something that I actively loved.

Andrea Purrenhage `03

My dance minor really was the thing that pushed me to go on and pursue something that I actively loved.

Andrea Purrenhage `03

Get to Know Dance

Meet the Faculty

Our faculty are skilled dancers and choreographers. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll benefit from close, personal mentorship. Learn about your professors.

Remick Heritage Center for Performing Arts

A celebrated live entertainment venue, the Heritage Center showcases a lively program of music, theatre and dance from students, faculty and professional groups.

Explore the Curriculum

Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your bachelor's degree in dance.

Imagine. Create. Perform.

The art of dance involves the expression of the heart, soul, mind and spirit. As such, the dance program at Alma is more than technique, rehearsal and performance. We emphasize self-knowledge, artistry, creativity, ensemble work and interdisciplinary connections. 

At Alma College, we prioritize offering a well-rounded education that prepares you for life both on and off the stage. As a dance major, you’ll build a solid foundation in studio technique, dance theory and choreography. You’ll also take classes in other subject areas, fueling collaboration across disciplines. 

You’ll have plenty of opportunities beyond campus, too. Along with participating in the Alma College Dance Company, our spring term course offers trips to New York and London, where you can attend major theatrical and dance productions. 

What You Need to Know

Demand for dancers and choreographers is high. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in the field will grow by 27% between 2021 and 2031 — far outpacing the national average growth rate. 

Thanks to its well-rounded curriculum, you’ll graduate from our dance program equipped to thrive in various careers. Many of our graduates go on to perform with professional dance companies. Others pursue work in choreography, dance instruction or physical therapy.  

The dance major is also well suited to those who want to go on to roles in arts administration or dance production.  

Student Opportunities 

Alma College Dance Company

The Alma College Dance Company serves as the performance arm of the dance program. As a participant, you’ll receive school credit for engaging in extensive rehearsal processes and performances. Each semester, works are choreographed by faculty and guest choreographers. Recent guest choreographers include: Raphael Xavier, Laura Halzack, Winston Dynamite Brown, and Cisco Graciano. All students are welcome to audition. To learn more, contact Kayt MacMaster.

The Kiltie Dancers

This lively co-ed dance group brings Alma’s Scottish heritage to life and offers instruction in Highland dance at beginner and advanced levels.

Have any questions?

Contact us today for more information on this program and more.

Instructor of Dance

Allison Murad
(989) 463-7176
muradae@alma.edu

Admissions

Admissions Office
800-321-ALMA
admissions@alma.edu