Bachelor of Fine Arts in
Dance Performance

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance is a 4-year professional degree designed to equip students with the artistic, technical, and professional skills for careers in dance performance, choreography, ministry, and related fields. This program offers rigorous training in technique, performance, choreography, and pedagogy, preparing students for success in the professional dance industry. To remain in the program, students must maintain a minimum 2.25 cumulative GPA each semester and actively participate in ORU Dance productions. All dance majors undergo mid-year evaluations, where they receive individualized feedback from the dance faculty. Additionally, BFA candidates must achieve proficiency in Ballet IV or Modern Dance IV, as well as Level III in a secondary technique, at least one semester before graduation.

What makes ORU’s Dance Performance program stand out?

The BFA in Dance is a professional degree in the performing arts, focused on dance studies. Graduates will become Holy Spirit empowered leaders in the dance industry, entering the field with technical and artistic excellence, bold vision, and spiritual integrity, bringing the message of Jesus Christ into the professional world of dance.

Career Pathways for Grads

• The student will demonstrate advanced proficiency in a primary dance technique, showing mastery of alignment, artistry, connectivity, physical capacity, movement principles, musicality, dynamics, and personal agency.
• The student will create and defend choreographic works exploring choreographic form, communication of an idea, and elements of movement: space, shape, time, and effort.
• The student will articulate and defend an understanding of dance’s past and present through research, writing, and criticism, identifying choreographic, theatrical, and performance elements while synthesizing content and opinions based on observational evidence
• The student will articulate and defend their artistic aptitude, rooted in a Christian worldview, through the assimilation of performance, pedagogy, worship practices, and college coursework.
• The student will develop the skills and attributes of a professional artist through practical knowledge in audition, rehearsal, and performance processes for live dance performances.

Program Outcomes

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles in chemistry and biology, integrating this knowledge to explain and predict biochemical processes.
• Apply the scientific method to design and conduct experiments, analyze biochemical data using appropriate statistical methods, and draw valid conclusions.
• Exhibit proficiency in modern laboratory techniques and instrumentation while adhering to best practices in safety and responsible waste disposal.
• Critically evaluate and effectively utilize peer-reviewed scientific literature, communicating biochemical information clearly and concisely in both written and oral formats using appropriate technological tools.
• Employ critical thinking and problem-solving skills individually and collaboratively to address complex biochemical challenges, demonstrating effective teamwork and leadership in diverse groups.
• Understand and uphold ethical principles in scientific research and professional conduct, recognizing the importance of integrity and responsibility in the biochemical sciences.

Admissions Requirements

List the admission requirements for this program if different from those currently listed in the ORU catalog. Admission to the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance requires an audition. Auditions may be completed in person at the university or submitted as self-tape auditions. The audition will include a ballet class, a modern dance class, and an alternative technique. Applicants must also submit a resume and a headshot or dance photo. Auditions will be used to place students in the appropriate technique levels. Full and continued admission is based on the following:

• Successful completion of dance courses as listed on the degree plan.
• Completion of Mid-Year Dance Evaluations.
• Maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher.
• Demonstrating consistent improvement in dance productions.