UO Department of Dance

Nestled within the vibrant arts community of Eugene, Oregon, the University of Oregon (UO) Department of Dance stands as a distinguished center for the study, practice, and performance of dance. More than just an academic department, it is a dynamic hub where intellectual curiosity, artistic expression, and physical development converge. For decades, the UO Department of Dance has been a cornerstone of the performing arts in the Pacific Northwest, attracting talented students and fostering a deep appreciation for dance as both a rigorous discipline and a profound art form. Whether you are an aspiring professional dancer, an educator seeking to deepen your pedagogical skills, or simply someone with a passion for movement and cultural exploration, the department offers a rich and diverse environment designed to inspire and challenge. We understand that dance is a universal language, and our commitment is to provide comprehensive training that embraces a wide array of dance idioms, from classical ballet to contemporary forms, African dance, hip-hop, and more, all within the esteemed liberal arts framework of the University of Oregon.

The UO Department of Dance is deeply integrated into the cultural fabric of Eugene and serves as a significant resource for the broader Oregon community. Our dedication to fostering artistic growth and academic excellence makes us a unique and valuable institution for anyone interested in the multifaceted world of dance.

The UO Department of Dance is conveniently located at Gerlinger Annex, 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403, USA. This central location places it right on the University of Oregon campus, making it highly accessible for students, faculty, and community members in Eugene and surrounding areas. Being part of the university campus means excellent connectivity to public transportation routes, including local bus services, which regularly serve the campus. For those arriving by car, various parking options, including university parking lots and street parking, are available nearby, although it's always advisable to check university parking regulations and availability, especially during peak hours or events. The department's placement within Gerlinger Annex and Dougherty Dance Theatre ensures that facilities are purpose-built for dance education and performance, providing an optimal environment for learning and artistic creation. The ease of access, combined with its location within a bustling university environment, means that visiting or attending classes and performances at the UO Department of Dance is a straightforward and pleasant experience for anyone in the Oregon region. The campus setting also offers a safe and engaging atmosphere, with additional amenities and services of the university within easy reach.

The UO Department of Dance offers a comprehensive array of services and programs, catering to both degree-seeking students and non-majors interested in exploring the art of dance. Their offerings are designed to provide a holistic dance education that encompasses intellectual, artistic, and physical development.

• Degree Programs: The department offers curricula leading to various bachelor's degrees, including a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), a Bachelor of Arts (BA), and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dance. These programs provide rigorous training and a deep dive into dance theory, history, technique, and performance.

• Certificate in Teaching Dance: For those passionate about dance education, a specialized certificate program is available, preparing individuals to teach dance in various settings.

• Diverse Dance Idioms: Students and participants can explore a wide range of dance styles, ensuring a well-rounded and versatile education. These include:

  • African dance and drumming
  • Ballet
  • Contact improvisation
  • Contemporary dance
  • Jazz
  • Hip-hop
  • Modern dance
  • Partnering
  • Salsa
  • Ballroom (available in some course offerings)
  • Tap (available in some course offerings)
  • Hula (available in some course offerings)

• Performance Opportunities: The department provides frequent opportunities for students to perform in works by faculty, guest artists, and fellow students. Up to ten student-centered concerts and showings take place each academic year, with both majors and non-majors eligible to audition. Performance groups like Dema (an African dance ensemble) and the UO Student Dance Collective also tour Oregon and the Northwest.

• Academic Components: Beyond studio classes, the curriculum includes courses that provide a historical and social context for understanding dance, empowering students to think critically and articulate their ideas effectively. Courses cover dance history, theory, production, wellness, and pedagogy.

• Credit for Production Experience: Students can earn credit and gain practical experience in teaching, lighting, production, choreography, and management, offering a well-rounded understanding of the dance industry.

• Opportunities for Non-Majors: While offering comprehensive degree programs, the UO Department of Dance also provides classes and opportunities for non-majors, allowing any University of Oregon student to engage with dance.

The UO Department of Dance boasts several key features and highlights that underscore its standing as a premier institution for dance education and artistic development in Oregon.

• Comprehensive Liberal Arts Framework: A standout feature is the department's commitment to providing comprehensive dance training within the broader liberal arts framework of the University of Oregon. This approach ensures students develop not only as skilled performers but also as critical thinkers, scholars, and well-rounded individuals with strong intellectual, artistic, and physical foundations.

• Breadth of Curricular Offerings: The sheer diversity of dance idioms offered—from African dance and drumming to ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and salsa—is a major highlight. This extensive range allows students to explore various forms, broaden their movement vocabulary, and prepare for diverse career paths in the dance world.

• Expert Faculty: The depth of faculty expertise is a significant asset. Experienced and dedicated instructors guide students through rigorous studio classes and academic coursework, ensuring a high standard of education and mentorship.

• Abundant Performance and Choreographic Opportunities: Students have numerous avenues to showcase their talents and creative work. With up to ten student-centered concerts and showings annually, and the eligibility for both majors and non-majors to audition, the department fosters a vibrant performance culture. Opportunities extend to performing in works by faculty and guest artists, as well as touring with groups like Dema and the UO Student Dance Collective.

• Professional Discipline and Real-World Experience: The curriculum is designed to instill the rigorous professional discipline inherent in studio classes. Additionally, students can gain practical experience and earn credit in areas such as teaching, lighting, production, and management, preparing them for the multifaceted demands of a career in dance or related fields.

• Focus on Career Readiness: Beyond artistic development, the department aims to produce flexible leaders and cultural influencers. A dance degree from UO can lead to a variety of careers, including choreographer, physical therapist, college professor, costume designer, and more, highlighting the versatility of the education provided.

• Community Engagement through Touring Ensembles: Performance groups from the department actively tour Oregon and the Northwest, presenting live concerts, lecture-demonstrations, and master classes for public schools, colleges, universities, and community organizations. This outreach enriches the broader artistic landscape of the region.

For inquiries, admissions information, or general questions about the UO Department of Dance, please use the following contact details:

Address: Gerlinger Annex, 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403, USA

The University of Oregon School of Music and Dance general admissions phone for non-majors is 541-346-5268. For specific dance program inquiries, it is recommended to reach out via the University of Oregon's School of Music and Dance official website, which often provides direct email contacts for department heads or program advisors.

The UO Department of Dance is an invaluable asset to locals in Oregon, offering far more than just academic programs. For residents of Eugene and beyond, it serves as a cultural cornerstone, providing accessible opportunities to engage with the art of dance. Whether you are a high school student considering a future in performing arts, a current UO student looking for an elective to enrich your university experience, or simply a community member with a love for movement, the department caters to a wide audience. Its diverse course offerings, ranging from various dance techniques to theoretical studies and practical production experience, mean there’s something for every interest and skill level. Furthermore, the regular student concerts and performances provide a vibrant cultural experience for the local community, showcasing emerging talent and diverse choreographic works without requiring a formal university affiliation to attend. The department's commitment to community engagement through touring ensembles and outreach programs ensures that the benefits of dance education extend well beyond the campus boundaries, enriching schools and civic organizations across Oregon. For locals, the UO Department of Dance is a dynamic, accessible, and inspiring institution that contributes significantly to the artistic vitality and educational landscape of our state. It's a place where passion for dance can be nurtured, skills can be honed, and an appreciation for the art form can flourish for everyone.

UO Department of Dance

Gerlinger Annex, 1484 University St, Eugene, OR 97403, USA