Division of Dance named among top 25 dance programs in nation

Posted by Jayme Blaschke
University News Service
September 25, 2014

The Division of Dance at Texas State University has been named one of the top 25 dance programs in the nation by Dance-Colleges.com.  

Texas State was ranked 24th overall--one position higher than the Juilliard School. Among schools that only offer undergraduate degrees in dance, Texas State ranks 5th.

"We are elated to be included on the list of the top 25 dance programs in the U.S.," said Michelle Nance, associate professor and BFA performance/choreography coordinator at Texas State. "Our faculty, staff and students strive daily to do the best work possible in class and on stage. This designation really validates for us that we are attracting talented, dedicated performers and future dance teachers."  

Dance-Colleges.com, a guide to dance schools in the United States, evaluates 322 schools offering dance programs, providing contact information, majors availability and diploma selection, as well as nationwide, regional and state rankings, and campus safety ratings.

"It has been a joy watching the dance program as it has grown and evolved over the years," said John Fleming, dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication. "The quality of the work is clearly evident in their dance concerts. I am proud of my colleagues and am very glad that they and their students are getting the national recognition that they deserve."

The Division of Dance at Texas State prepares professional performers and choreographers, and certifies teachers for public schools. Students explore several forms of dance and learn to use those forms in educational and community settings. The role of dance as an art form and a means of developing sound aesthetic values are paramount in the program. Graduates work in public schools, private schools, private studios and professional dance groups. Some have also gone on to pursue advanced degrees, conducting further preparation for performance or teaching at the college and university level. 

Dance-Colleges.com is not affiliated with any school or college group. The site indicates this independence allows the organization to provide unbiased analysis of various governmental and independent sources of college data and to provide both positive and negative information about dance schools and dance programs.