Dance program

A blend of artistry and athleticism.

The dance minor at UW-La Crosse, housed within the nationally-recognized Department of Theatre and Dance, offers a supportive and inspiring environment where students can grow both technically and creatively. Rooted in a commitment to cultivating a positive dance culture, the program empowers students to reach their full artistic potential.

Through a blend of academic coursework and performance experiences, students explore dance through the lens of critical thinking and creative exploration. Opportunities to perform, collaborate with guest artists and present original choreography allow students to engage deeply with their craft.

Whether preparing for a career in the arts or pursuing dance as a lifelong passion, students in the dance minor program gain the skills, confidence and insight to thrive in creative pursuits at UWL and beyond.

Undergrad minor

A program within the Department of Theatre & Dance

What is the dance minor?

The dance minor focuses on developing technique and individual expression through movement. By experiencing a variety of dance styles, studying dance history, and acquiring knowledge of injury prevention, students will discover that dance encompasses a variety of movement qualities and expressions. The minor offers technique courses such as ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and musical theatre, each with two levels of training. It also includes theory and practice courses such as dance foundations, history, composition and improvisation.

I love being a part of the dance program at UWL because we have such a variety of classes and the skills you learn are so valuable to the theatre department and to the student body as a whole!

Kenadi Tossing

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Why minor in dance?

The creative activity that accompanies dance appeals to students across campus from all fields who have an interest in dance. For many students, declaring a dance minor is not only an enjoyable addition to their daily routine, but also a way to improve creativity, physical development, discipline, dedication and mind-body connection. Students are encouraged to embrace their individual creativity, explore new ways of moving, and recognize their personal growth. By incorporating dance into their college experience, students can apply these valuable lessons toward all future careers.

Career opportunities

Dancer
Choreographer
Dance educator/instructor
Dance studio owner
Dance science researcher
Dance/movement therapist
Dance designer (lighting, sound or costume)
Arts administration for dance organizations
Dance collaborator (musician, photographer or videographer)

What distinguishes UWL's dance program?

Academic, artistic and athletic focus

As a dancer at UWL, students develop their skills as an artist, athlete, and scholar. The dance curriculum includes a mixture of technique, theory and practice courses. Students build their knowledge of historical dance and pursue culturally-relevant information in the dance community. With emphasis on developing artistic expression, students have opportunities to perform and create their own choreographic work. Through physical practice, dancers enhance their knowledge of anatomical understanding to create longevity for their life.

Classroom learning + practical, production experience

Dance minors will take on creative responsibility, both in class and onstage. Students will draw upon the technical skills they learn in courses and apply them to auditions, rehearsals and performances. Dance minors gain a well-rounded education with opportunities to create their own choreographic works, often presenting them in concerts. Additional hands-on experience is also available through classroom projects, senior recitals and more.

Collaborative experience

Through coursework and performances, students collaborate with faculty and peers on a regular basis. This experience allows students to strengthen their collaborative skills, which is valuable and necessary in all facets of life. Oftentimes, students are given the opportunity to collaborate with other students and/or faculty in other fields across campus.

Reputable faculty and guest artists

UWL theatre and dance faculty have a wide range of professional experience including performing, choreographing and teaching around the country. Faculty are members of the National Dance Educators Organization (NDEO) and the Wisconsin Dance Council. The department frequently brings in guests for choreography residencies. Students spend multiple days working with a choreographer and/or company members while learning professional dance repertory.

Inclusive and friendly environment

The dance minor is a welcoming and non-competitive community. Students are encouraged to focus on and recognize individual progress. Our dynamic dance culture brings together students involved in majors including communications, psychology, education, theatre, art, biology, and more. Each student adds to the unique and vibrant dance experience at UWL!

Sample courses

THA 227 Ballet Dance I This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of ballet techniques and styles. As a technique, ballet focuses on grace and fluidity while strengthening control and body awareness. Through physical practice, this course focuses on beginner level technique, vocabulary, coordination, movement retention, and musicality. Emphasis is placed on proper alignment and technique for injury prevention. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

THA 304 History of Music Theatre A survey of music theatre history and literature from origins to the present and its effect on popular culture, this course provides an understanding of the development of music theatre into the present day. Particular attention is given to the writers and composers who greatly influenced and/or continue to influence the development of this art form. Prerequisite: ENG 110. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

THA 311 Dance Improvisation This course is the exploration of improvised movement through exercises and fundamentals. Through physical practice, students learn how to create movement in the moment and connect that movement to ideas, sounds, or concepts. By understanding the tools for movement generation, this introductory experience of dance improvisation works as a skill for developing the core conceptual elements of dance composition. Focus is placed on personal aesthetic and individuality. Prior dance training is not required. Lect. 1, Studio 2. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.