Bachelor of Arts in Dance (BA) | Samford University

Earn a Bachelor of Arts in Dance at Samford University and explore the art of dance through technique, performance, and creative expression. Develop a strong foundation in both the practical and theoretical aspects of dance in a supportive and challenging environment.

Bachelor of Arts

Dance

This program offers a supportive, challenging environment with practical performance and teaching experiences.

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Samford University's Bachelor of Arts in Dance offers a strong foundation for students aiming to excel in the arts industry.

The program offers a supportive, challenging environment with practical performance and teaching experiences. Graduates are ready for diverse career paths within and beyond dance, enhancing artistic skills and communication for roles in concert dance, education and more.

The BA in Dance program perfectly blends a passion for dance with a Christian faith foundation, preparing students for careers in dance while nurturing their spiritual and artistic growth. Through the combination of academic coursework and performance training, the program cultivates creative, professional and dedicated artists.

Is This Program for Me?

Successful candidates typically display a blend of qualities that drive their success.

Together, these qualities ensure a successful experience in Samford's dance program, equipping students for professional careers in dance and related fields.

Passion for Dance

A strong passion and dedication to dance as both an art form and a career.

Discipline and Dedication

A strong work ethic, self-motivation and dedication to improving dance skills and fulfilling academic requirements.

Creativity and Artistic Expression

The ability to think creatively, innovate in movement and express emotions through dance.

Collaboration and Teamwork

Willingness to work effectively with others in ensemble work, choreography projects and performances.

Resilience and Adaptability

The ability to manage challenges, setbacks and critiques positively, while adapting to various dance styles and teaching methods.

Openness to Learning

Keen to broaden dance knowledge, explore various dance genres and adopt new ideas and techniques.

Interpersonal Skills

Excellent communication skills, empathy and respect for diverse perspectives within the dance community.

Professionalism

Commitment to punctuality, reliability and maintaining a positive attitude in both academic and performance settings.

Ethical Integrity

Alignment with the ethical standards and values upheld by Samford University, including honesty, respect and responsibility in all aspects of dance practice and performance.

What Will I Learn?

Successful graduates will acquire a comprehensive understanding of various dance forms, including ballet, modern and jazz.

They will become skilled in dance techniques, choreography, improvisation and performance, enhancing their abilities in movement interpretation, rhythm and spatial awareness. Graduates will learn dance history, theory and criticism, enabling them to analyze and place dance within cultural, social and historical contexts. Additionally, they will cultivate collaborative skills through ensemble work and group performances, and develop the resilience and discipline required for a career in the performing arts.

What Makes Us Different?

Samford’s BA in Dance program stands out for several reasons.

First, it takes a comprehensive approach to dance education, combining rigorous technical training in ballet, modern and jazz with a solid foundation in dance theory, history and interdisciplinary studies. Additionally, Samford’s program creates a supportive and personalized learning environment with small class sizes and individualized attention from faculty who are active professionals in the field. The program also incorporates faith-based perspectives into dance education, promoting values of integrity, creativity and service within the context of Christian principles. Furthermore, Samford University provides unique opportunities for students to engage with the community through outreach programs, performances and collaborations with local arts organizations, enriching their practical experience and career readiness.

Career Preparation

The BA in Dance program prepares students for future careers in dance through rigorous training in ballet, modern, jazz and tap techniques, alongside academic study of dance history, theory and pedagogy. Students gain performance experience in diverse productions, enhancing technical skills and stage presence. The program encourages interdisciplinary exploration, complementing dance studies with courses in theater, music, kinesiology and business, ensuring graduates are equipped for a variety of roles in dance and related fields.

Career Opportunities

Dance Instructor/Owner
Choreographer
Performer
Dance Therapist
Artistic Director
Stage Manager
Production Designer
Costume Designer
Dance Critic
and More...

Internships & Fellowships

The Dance Foundation
Orlando Ballet
Houston Ballet
Chattanooga Ballet
The Pop-Up Project, Chattanooga, TN
Sanspointe Dance Company
Alley Theatre, Houston, TX

“I found my purpose in dance at Samford.

“The instructors are encouraging and truly want what’s best for everyone as a dancer and as a person. Dancing at Samford and learning from the instructors here gave me the space to find joy in my artistry, connect my faith to my artistry and cultivate more love and knowledge of dance. I would not have had the courage to pursue my MFA in Dance at Hollins University if it were not for my experience at Samford.”

—Ashley Taylor (’24), BA in English, Dance minor, MFA in Dance candidate, Hollins University

“This program profoundly shaped me both personally and professionally as an artist.

“As a member of the Samford Dance Company, I had abundant opportunities to perform, participate in dance conferences and travel to engage in arts experiences. This community on campus provided me with a supportive environment to express myself and refine my craft alongside like-minded peers.”

—Sara (Copley) Pulmano, (’18), BS in Human Development and Family Studies, Director of Employer Engagement, University of Kentucky

“Samford Dance Company is my favorite takeaway from my time at Samford University.

“The director, Alisa McCool, is nurturing and skillful and pours into each dancer. I found my best friends and community here. We all had different majors, sororities and campus involvement, but Samford Dance Company united us with a shared passion. Now, as a fifth grade math teacher, I use the skills I learned to choreograph school musicals and theater camps. I am grateful for the four years I spent in the program, and I cannot wait to continue to watch it grow!”

—Catherine (Cowden) Byram (’22), BS in Elementary and Special Education, 5th grade teacher, Trussville Public Schools

“The Samford dance program has taught me to appreciate the artistic element of dance. The goal of any artist is to leave the audience with something to think about. To accomplish this, one must understand the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual preparations that go with it. The faculty give their expertise in all these areas and more, while the curriculum encourages you to be open to your emotions and experiences. When I graduate, one of my biggest takeaways will be to enjoy dance for what it is—freedom of physical motion and emotional expression.”

—Haley Roberts (’26), Biochemistry major, Dance minor