BA Dance Performance Degree

Overview & facilities

Dance as a vital art form is the focus of our BA Dance Performance Degree with Honours. We will help you develop performance, creative and critical skills and enhance your awareness of dance in its cultural context. You can take full advantage of London's diverse dance activity.

The BA Dance Performance Degree with Honours is designed so that you candevelop the requisite skills, knowledge and understanding of the many facets of dance performance, which will allow you to pursue a career in the professional dance world. You will engage in a comprehensive study of dance technique, performance, choreography and critical appreciation.

Core work is augmented with other practical and theoretical studies so those who aim to be practicing dance artists will be educated and informed about this chosen art form. The emphasis is on contemporary dance involving Humphrey-based, Graham-based, Release-based and Cunningham-based techniques. Supplementary studies in classical ballet and fitness for dance make an important contribution to the progressive development of technique and performance skills.

Content & modules

The first year of study allows you to build a basis through technique classes, anatomy and composition. Additionally, you will gain knowledge about the historical context of dance as an art form and insight into the field of community dance. To set the academic background, you will learn to contextualise knowledge and skills and develop awareness of dance as an artistic and academic activity.

Years two and three are composed of core elements that include dance technique and-or composition. These elements will deepen the understanding of the art form and, together with criticism, help formulate and articulate independent views. The options given in those years will allow you to take an individual approach to your studies.

Assessment strategies will enable you to demonstrate your level of attainment in a variety of knowledge and skills. At level 1, assessment is diagnostic in that it identifies strengths and weaknesses. At all other levels, grades contribute to the final degree profile.

In Dance, you will be assessed in a range of modes such as practical and written coursework, seminars and public performance. Assessment may occur in an independent or collaborative context, and peer assessment is used as a learning strategy. Formative assessments take place at various points during the module. Formal assessment (i.e summative, graded assignments) are normally disseminated at the beginning of each module.

Modules

• Year 1

  Dance Core 1 (60 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module will introduce the student to the study and practice of the fundamental principles involved in dance technique, composition, performance and anatomy. It will establish an awareness of the physical creative complexities involved and how these disciplines can be applied in a broader context. The module contains core material paramount to the understanding of dance and is the key foundation for progression of all other modules in years 2 and 3 DAN2010/DAN3400/DAN3500

  Dance Studies (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to develop knowledge of the social and historical influences on the arts and to develop understanding of the field of community dance in the UK from a primarily practical perspective with reference to historical, sociological/administrative aspects. On an overall level, the module also aims to raise awareness of the social construction of dance knowledge, dance practices and a critical approach to source material. The module introduces students to independent research, library research/source location skills and critical thinking. It will prepare students for DAN2010 Critical Studies component and DAN2013 Dance Histories and Cultures in Year 2.

  Dance: Learning in Context (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to be an effective learner, with particular relevance to dance and the performing arts. It also aims to develop student awareness and experience of dance as an artistic, social and professional activity. The main emphasis is to introduce research, library, reading and writing skills to students through different strategies and modes of learning. The module forms the basis for both programmes and sets dance, as artistic expression, into an artistic and academic context.

• Year 2

  Body, Mind, Movement (30 Credits) - Optional

  Students will engage through theory and practice, with the principles of some key movement forms, exploring their relationship with Contemporary Dance. Experience of disciplines such as Yoga and Tai Chi Chuan, will enable the student to gain fresh insights into their personal posture, placement and energy flow. This module in addition serves to support the study of Release-based technique DAN2010/DAN3400 through increased understanding of the fundamental use of breath and weight/flow through movement

  Dance Core 2 (60 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module aims to extend and develop the student s knowledge and understanding in dance technique, choreography, performance through continuation from DAN1001 Dance Core 1 and introduce critical studies by building on knowledge from DAN1002 Dance Studies and skills of DAN1100 Learning in Context. It enables students to identify, contextualise, analyse and interpret key issues relating to the professional repertoire in order to enhance their knowledge of dance. The module is designed to establish a logical connection between practice, composition and theory. It will link into the third year modules of DAN3400 Technique and Performance, DAN3500 Choreography and DAN3800 Independent Project.

  Dance Histories and Cultures (30 Credits) - Optional

  The module aims to extend knowledge of the historical and cultural conditions which have given rise to selected forms of contemporary dance and to enhance awareness of current debates in historical research. It will also develop knowledge of the concepts, nature and practice of cultural identity and diversity with special reference to dance in Britain today. The module builds on knowledge and skills gained in DAN1002 and DAN1100 from year 1 and acts as a bridge into DAN3700 Professional Studies and DAN3800 Independent Project of year 3.

  Jazz Dance (30 Credits) - Optional

  This module aims to identify the principles and styles of the Jazz dance genre; to develop practical dance skills in relation to the demands and conventions of the professional performance context; to introduce aspects of the history and development of Jazz dance; to develop composition and choreographic skills; research and study skills. This module works alongside dance technique and performance and choreography DAN2010 focusing the application of complimentary skills to a specific genre of dance.

  Science of Movement (30 Credits) - Optional

  Students will deepen the knowledge gained in the Anatomy component of DAN1001. This module will introduce the concept of experiential anatomy in relation to movement posture and function for dance. Should students wish to extend their knowledge further in the field of Dance Science they may elect to take the Science of Movement 2 option in year 3 DAN3700 optional component ..

• Year 3

  Independent Project (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module aims to equip students with the skills, methods and procedures to enable them to research and present a major, individually chosen, designed and managed project. It will draw upon research and study skills acquired in DAN1002, DAN1100, DAN2010, DAN2013 and DAN2014 to include library searches, data analysis, academic writing, argumentation, critical thinking / discussions and analysis as appropriate for the chosen topic

  Professional Studies (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  Students on this module will gain an awareness of career paths in dance, especially those outside the routes of choreography and performance. The module will cover a range of professional areas, providing information on opportunities for employment and skills required for entry into the dance profession in the UK. Students will also gain a grasp of funding structures that support dance and the performing arts in the UK. This module allows students to step outside of the safety of university training and make vital links both in research and practice with the wider dance profession. Students will then have a choice of one component out of three possible strands: a The Teaching Dance Technique component aims to provide experiential understanding of the teaching of contemporary dance technique through study and practice. b The Work Placement component will provide first-hand experience of a UK dance/arts organisation along with an opportunity to reflect on that experience: c The Science of Movement 2 component will extend knowledge gained from DAN2014 pre-requisite for this component choice All elements of DAN3700 have the potential to feed into students Independent Projects DAN3800 dissertation

Entry & applying

Current practical experience in dance is a prerequisite and a high level of fitness is essential. A level dance is desirable but not essential. Initial selection is made on the basis of the application form and successful candidates are called for audition and interview. We normally make offers on 280 Tariff points but will accept relevant Access to Higher Education Foundation Courses and/or relevant professional/life experience for mature students.

Entry requirements

Apply now

Qualifications accepted

For a comprehensive list of qualifications accepted by Middlesex, see further information under entry requirements

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components) or TOEFL paper based 550 (no less than 4 in test of written English) or TOEFL internet based 80 (with no less than 17 in each component). Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks, depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk. For details of other equivalent English language requirements that Middlesex accepts see international entry requirements. 

Entry into year two or three (transfer students)

If you have achieved a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex course in year two or three. For full details of how this works see transfer students

UK/EU applicants with existing higher education qualifications

If you have already been awarded a qualification at the same level as the course you are applying for, you may not be eligible for a tuition fee loan, see fees and funding for more information.

Applying

Applications for UK and EU students should be made to UCAS – the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. The institution code for Middlesex is M80, and the code name is MIDDX. You also need the code for the course you wish to apply for – this is found in the 'at a glance' box above.

International students from outside the EU can make a direct application.  We have a network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application.  They have worked with people from your region coming to Middlesex before and can help. Read more on international applications

Fees & funding

The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for UK/EU students is £9,000.
The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for International students is £10,400.

Click here to find out more about fees, funding and our scholarships in 2012.

Careers & placements

A wide range of opportunities exist in performance, choreography, community dance, education, health and fitness industry and arts administration.

Our graduates continue their work in the area of dance successfully. Stella Azzurra Squadroni organises Butoh workshops and researches the paradigm of body-mind split, whereas Kelly Brown moved on to work for the NHS in the area of Physical Rehabilitation and Movement and Jai Farris to work in Secondary School education.

Placements

Work placements are proven to increase your success in the job market – as well as being a fantastic experience. Dance is a highly competitive field so we encourage as many students as possible to grasp this opportunity. As part of your third year you will have the possibility to carry out a short placement of a minimum of 35 hours.  This will provide you with first-hand experience of a UK dance/arts organisation. We have a Placement Office which will support you through the placement process.

Past students

Leroy Dias Dos Santos and Nathan Gordon

Middlesex University Dance graduates Leroy Dias Dos Santos and Nathan Gordon recently achieved national profile as members of the Flawless dance troupe, on the television show Britain's Got Talent. They were finalists and although they did not win, their performances received widespread critical acclaim.

Leroy developed his contemporary technique and dance knowledge at Middlesex University. He graduated in 2007 and in addition to performing and touring with Flawless, has also appeared in films and West End theatre, ballet and opera productions. He has worked with a number of distinguished choreographers and leading performers such as Leona Lewis and Lemar.

Nathan also recently graduated from Dance Performance at Middlesex University and has a passion for choreography and expressing his thoughts and feelings through movement.

I have been blessed by my education at Middlesex. I am grateful for being provided with a safe and creative environment through which to study and perfect the intimate subtleties of choreography. It is a vital advantage in the current dance industry, both in the UK and internationally.

Murilo Leite D' Imperio, BA Dance performance

I was a direct entry student into the Year 3. Where I was studying previously I was taught only one of the four dance techniques on the curriculum at Middlesex. I was a direct entry student into the Year 3. Over this last year I discovered a lot about myself as a person and as a performer. In order to improve and tackle any areas of weakness I had to be focused, self-motivated and professional.

What's next? At the moment I'm auditioning for dance work, looking to find a place with a small contemporary dance company with opportunities to create and perform work nationally or internationally. For now I have a job lined up already in August where I will be performing in a small independent film. We'll see where it goes from there!