6 Dance Degree Programs in Canada

Contemporary dance encompasses an exciting and eclectic range of performance styles. It is at the forefront of experimental work in the performing arts. Vital professional companies and a small number of excellent schools are spread throughout North and South America, Europe, and other areas of the world. Graduates of our program join this tradition working as dancers, choreographers, teachers, and artistic directors throughout Canada and beyond.

The DEC in Dance gives access to dance programs offered by universities or by professional training institutions in this field, leading to a career in performance, choreography or teaching. It also allows you to enroll in any other university program that does not require specific prerequisites, for example in the arts and human and social sciences.

The focus of the Dance Studies program is to pursue dance research in preparation for careers in academia or the cultural sector. Employment possibilities for graduates range from teaching in post-secondary education to work in archives and museums, arts administration, publishing, journalism and the media.

By studying how to create, perform and analyze dance, you will learn to ask such questions as: What frames our experience of dance? What kind of meaning exists in specific movements, at different times and in different places? What political and historical events have shaped specific dance forms? How do our choreographic choices impact an audience? How can we study dances and dancers from different angles – culturally, emotionally, psychologically, intellectually and scientifically? How does kinesthetic awareness shape the dancing experience? How can we improve dance technique to prevent injury? How can we represent dance through digital technologies and what do such technologies offer our analysis of dance and the dancing body?

Learn traditional circle dances from different cultures and traditions in eastern and central Europe, i.e. Greek, Macedonian, Romanian, Hungarian, Ukrainian, Israeli, etc., as well as newer choreographed dances. Dances are straightforward and are taught, practised, and repeated throughout the course. We will cover basic steps frequently used in dance, e.g. slip steps and grapevines. This form of dance is typically done holding hands in a circle format or in one long line. Why dance? It is a wonderful activity to strengthen aerobic power, lower body muscle, build endurance, agility and gait. It improves mood and overall wellness and health.

A "Beginner Line Dancing" program at Selkirk College is likely designed for individuals with little to no experience in line dancing. These courses usually cover the basics of line dancing, including fundamental steps, simple routines, and an introduction to various line dance styles. The focus is on building confidence, improving coordination, and enjoying the social and physical benefits of dance.