Department of Dance

For aspiring dancers, choreographers, and dance educators across Maryland, the Department of Dance at Towson University stands as a nationally recognized center of excellence. This isn't just a collection of dance classes; it's a comprehensive university program committed to professional training, artistic development, and expanding academic opportunities in the multifaceted world of dance. If you're a local resident considering a collegiate path in dance, understanding the depth and distinction of Towson University's Department of Dance is crucial. This article will provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this esteemed university department, highlighting its programs, unique features, and why it's a prime choice for Maryland's next generation of dance professionals.

The Department of Dance at Towson University advocates for "Dancing for a Lifetime," challenging students to examine and refine their approaches to the arts of dancing, choreography, and dance education. The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Dance Performance and Choreography provides rigorous preparation for entry into the professional world of dance, cultivating skilled technicians, creative artists, and independent thinkers. Students in this program delve into a comprehensive curriculum that blends intense studio practice with theoretical and historical studies, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the art form. The program is specifically designed to prepare graduates for diverse career paths, whether performing with prestigious companies, creating innovative choreography, or becoming inspiring educators. A testament to its quality, Towson University's Dance B.F.A. program has been consistently ranked as the best dance program in Maryland and among the top in the nation by independent publications like Dance US. This recognition underscores the department's commitment to high standards, the expertise of its faculty, and the success of its alumni. As one satisfied reviewer noted, the "outstanding professors with a wide range of experience in professional companies" and their "personal interest" in students contribute significantly to the high level of instruction and student satisfaction.

The Department of Dance is located within the vibrant campus of Towson University, specifically at 7700 Osler Dr, Towson, MD 21204, USA. This location offers excellent accessibility for prospective students and visitors from across Maryland and the surrounding mid-Atlantic region. Towson is a well-connected suburb of Baltimore, providing multiple routes for vehicular access via major highways and local roads. For those utilizing public transportation, Towson University is a significant hub for several Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) bus lines, which connect the campus to various parts of Baltimore City and County. The university also offers on-campus parking for students, faculty, and visitors, typically with designated areas that may require permits or hourly fees. The department's facilities, including dance studios and performance spaces, are primarily housed within the Center for the Arts building on campus, making navigation straightforward once you arrive. The surrounding Towson area itself is a lively college town with a range of amenities, including dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, further enhancing the student experience and convenience for locals.

The Department of Dance at Towson University offers a robust suite of academic programs and services tailored to professional development in dance:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Dance Performance and Choreography: A rigorous undergraduate program preparing students for professional careers as dancers, choreographers, and dance educators.
• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Dance Education: A flexible, part-time graduate study program for certified dance teachers seeking advanced certification and for dance professionals looking to deepen their teaching practice.
• Core Dance Technique Classes: Daily classes in Ballet, Modern Dance, and West African Dance, with opportunities for upperclassmen to specialize.
• Composition and Improvisation Courses: Developing students' creative process for original dance choreography.
• Dance History and Theory Courses: In-depth study of dance aesthetics, evolution, and cultural significance, including courses like "Dancing in the Past and Present" and "The Politics of Performance."
• Anatomy & Kinesiology for Dance: Scientific understanding of movement to promote healthy technical achievement and somatic understanding.
• Labanotation: Learning a system for recording and analyzing human movement.
• Dance Technologies: Exploring the intersection of dance and technology.
• Dance Pedagogy: Courses focused on teaching methodologies for dance, including K-12 Dance Education.
• Performance and Choreography Opportunities: Extensive chances to perform in student concerts, faculty concerts, and with the TU Dance Company.
• Internship Opportunities: Connecting students with professional dance companies and organizations for applied experience.
• Study Abroad Programs: Approved dance programs for international exposure and learning.
• Courses for Non-Majors: A variety of dance classes like Ballet, Modern, Yoga, Conditioning, Jazz, Tap, and Aerial Dance open to all Towson University students.

The Department of Dance at Towson University boasts several distinguished features and highlights that solidify its position as a leading dance program:

• Nationally Recognized Faculty: Comprised of active professionals with extensive experience in prestigious companies (e.g., Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Washington Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago), offering students world-class instruction and mentorship.
• Accreditation: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD) since 1984, ensuring adherence to high professional standards.
• Small Class Sizes: Providing personalized attention and strong mentorship opportunities between students and faculty.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Including four large, well-equipped dance studios and two performance spaces within the Center for the Arts.
• Rigorous Conservatory-Like Training: Offering intensive technical and artistic development within the context of a comprehensive liberal arts education.
• Diverse Performance and Choreography Opportunities: Students gain professional-level performing experiences through the TU Dance Company, various repertory classes, senior projects, and end-of-semester performances.
• Guest Artist Programs: Regular masterclasses and residencies with world-renowned visiting artists, such as MacArthur Foundation Fellows and directors from internationally acclaimed companies, providing invaluable exposure and networking.
• Unique B.F.A. and M.A. Programs: Offering the only B.F.A. in dance performance and choreography with a PreK-12 Teacher Concentration in Maryland, and a flexible M.A. in Dance Education.
• Strong Career Outcomes: Graduates go on to become principal dancers, choreographers, artistic directors of private studios, and educators in prestigious organizations.
• Commitment to "Dancing for a Lifetime": The department emphasizes preparing students for sustainable careers and a lifelong engagement with dance, whether as performers, educators, or arts advocates.

For more information about programs, admissions, or general inquiries, please contact the Department of Dance at Towson University:

Address: 7700 Osler Dr, Towson, MD 21204, USA (Located within the Center for the Arts building on the Towson University campus)

Phone: (410) 704-4527 (Department of Dance Main Office)

General University Phone: (410) 704-2000

For Maryland residents with a serious interest in pursuing dance at the collegiate level, Towson University's Department of Dance stands as an unparalleled choice. Its accessible location in Towson, combined with its national recognition and comprehensive programs, makes it an ideal institution for local talent. The exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse performance opportunities provide a conservatory-like training experience within the supportive framework of a large university. Whether aspiring to become a professional performer, an innovative choreographer, or a dedicated dance educator, students here receive the rigorous training, artistic development, and personal mentorship necessary to thrive. The strong emphasis on technical mastery, creative exploration, and career preparation ensures that graduates are well-equipped for a lifetime in the dance profession. For our Maryland community, the Department of Dance at Towson University is more than just a place of study; it's a springboard to a successful and fulfilling career in the arts.

Department of Dance

7700 Osler Dr, Towson, MD 21204, USA