The knowledge of dance technique, history, biomechanics, kinesiology, choreography, music forms, and literature gained from a major in Dance forms a strong foundation for careers in the arts. Dance majors may become career performers or choreographers, or may incorporate skills and background learned in the major to work in education, outreach, therapy, arts advocacy, and fitness promotion.
Dance, like many majors, teaches content and skills that can be applied to a wide variety of career fields. This major does not restrict you to a specific field. The career fields most closely related to this major are competitive. Many individuals who graduate with bachelor’s degrees in this major establish paying careers in other fields.
Some of the career areas and job titles below may require an advanced degree or certificate.
Potential Career Areas:
- Dance performance
- Choreography
- Teaching
- Dance notation
- Recreational therapy
- Program design/leadership
- Arts advocacy
- Public/patron relations
Sample Employers:
- Dance and theatre companies
- Performing arts centers
- Dance halls
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Camps and educational programs
- Arts organizations
- Art therapy agencies
- Festival and event organizers
- Cruise ships
- Fitness centers
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Dancer
|
$15,142 - $25,000
|
|
Choreographer
|
$18,600 - $37,700
|
|
Cruise Ship Performer
|
$7,200 - $19,068
|
|
Dance Therapist
|
$25,000 - $65,000
|
|
Dance Teacher
|
$17,000 - $62,000
|
|
Aerobics Instructor
|
$15,000 - $55,000
|
|
Dance Notator
|
$18,000 - $39,000
|
|
Studio Manager
|
$19,000 - $32,000
|
|
Dance Hall Host/Hostess
|
$21,000 - $34,000
|
|
Dance Director
|
$31,000 - $63,000
|
|
Ballroom Dance Instructor
|
$28,000 - $42,000
|
|
Audience Development Director
|
$18,000 - $50,000
|
|
Public Relations Specialist, Performing Arts
|
$21,000 - $60,000
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011); Economic Research Institute, Inc. Salary Expert (2011).