Calling All Future Teachers: 5 Unique Opportunities to Study Dance Pedagogy

Pedagogy opportunities vary widely across schools. Whether you’re looking for an undergraduate or graduate program, search thoroughly to find the one that works for you. These are just a few of your options:

• At Central Connecticut State University, the BS in dance education focuses on equipping students to teach in public schools. Seniors work full-time in local schools, and are certified to teach in Connecticut schools upon graduation.

CCSU BS student Lenard Foust. PC Carl Vernlund

• Wright State University
  BFA students are required to take dance pedagogy as part of their coursework. Students have the opportunity to work with preschool-aged children, and to teach technique class to musical theater majors.

• Columbia University Teachers College
  ‘s new doctoral program in dance education is aimed at artists who already have a master’s degree and experience as a dance educator. The launch date has yet to be announced.

Dance educator Jody Gottfried Arnhold is spearheading the Teachers College program. PC Deborah Feingold

• At Rutgers University, students can choose from myriad pedagogy opportunities. The school offers certification in yoga and Pilates, pedagogy courses for BFA students, a master’s in education (EdM) program that includes K–12 certification, and an MFA program that partially focuses on teaching at the college level. Students can even receive both a BFA and an EdM through a combined five-year program.

Rutgers students Brittany Cohen teaching at an elementary school. PC Jaqlin Medlock

• Through New York University Steinhardt and American Ballet Theatre‘s partnership program, students can receive an MA in Teaching Dance in the Professions, with a certificate from ABT’s National Training Curriculum. NYU Steinhardt also has master’s programs that lead to initial or professional New York State certification as a dance teacher for grades K–12.