Graduate Dance Courses

DAB501R Advanced Classical Ballet I (4 credits) Fall Spring

As a part of a two-year studio MFA program, the course offers professional level of Classical Ballet class. The class will include advanced Ballet barre, center, and cross floor work. The excerpts from classical ballet repertoire will be taught in the center and cross floor combinations. Students are expected to know the names of the ballet syllabus, pronunciations, and the proper use of the movement. Prerequisite: Professional Dance Experience or instructor consent. (This course must be repeated once with credits awarded.)

DAN501R Advanced Classical Chinese Dance I (4 credits) Fall Spring

This first-year graduate-level course aims to refine students' expression and execution of classical Chinese dance and related techniques. The course focuses on clarity of movement, distinctions in articulation, and the integration of the outer form with the inner spirit. Students practice complex sequences of movements with attention to expressive clarity and amplified expression. Upon completion of the course, students will have a better command of the technical and stylistic variations in classical Chinese dance.

DAN510 Advanced Pedagogy I (2 credits) Fall

The purpose of this course is to train students to become confident and critical dance teachers who can conduct classes that are both purposeful and engaging. Because teaching itself is an art that requires considerable planning and collaboration, students will work extensively to develop and prescribe appropriate course material, provide corrective remedies for movements, and experiment with various teaching methodologies. Students will also observe various contexts in pedagogy such as those for teaching children and grade-level students. By engaging in topical discussions and putting their ideas into practice, students will move beyond conceptual understanding and ultimately improve their skills as dance educators. (This course must be repeated once with credits awarded.)

DAN511 Advanced Pedagogy II (2 credits) Spring

Advanced Pedagogy II course focuses on application, analysis, and creation. By giving students opportunities to teach full-length classes, students will be able to analyze and evaluate their peers while developing their own philosophies and teaching ideals. The course trains students to examine the contextual complexities of dance education and to develop course materials with respect to higher education. By the end of this course, students will hand in a portfolio that recounts their pedagogical findings and designs for a systematic course in either classical ballet or classical Chinese dance. Prerequisite: 2 credits of DAN510 or instructor consent.

DAB512 Graduate Choreography I: Classical Ballet (2 credits) Fall

This course offers professional level of Classical Ballet choreography. Students are expected to first study the dance compositions, music visualization, and gradually learn to choreograph in classical ballet style by choreographing on chorus, solos, and pa de deux. Prerequisite: Professional Dance Experience or instructor consent.

DAN512 Graduate Choreography I: Classical Chinese Dance (2 credits) Fall

This course introduces the expressive dancer to new ways of thinking and creating. In their first year of the graduate dance program, students expand their artistic potential and explore how to make their choreographic work more compelling. By tailoring thematic movement sequences to befit specific personas and considering other theatrical factors, students will learn to view their work as a whole, and most importantly, from the audience’s standpoint. This course also instills in students an appreciation for the reiterative creative process.

DAB521R Repertory I: Classical Ballet (2 credits) Fall Spring

This course introduces various repertoire to MFA students. Students will participate in critique and analysis of dance repertoire from different dance styles and genres. Discussions will be held regarding choreographic techniques, music selection, and modes of presentation.

DAN521R Repertory I: Classical Chinese Dance (2 credits) Fall Spring

DAN523 Holistic Health for Artists (2 credits)

This course aims to introduce the concept of holistic health from both Western and Eastern perspectives with emphasis on concepts that support the learning and performing of classical Chinese dance and classical ballet. Students will finish the course with basic knowledge of how health is viewed as a holistic integration of body, mind, and spirit. This course will include lectures, group discussions, and mentored research projects.

DAN531 Acting for Stage (1 credit)

This graduate-level acting course focuses on refining acting skills with respect to clarity of expression for a variety of performance settings. It gives students the opportunity to practice and refine their performing skills by revisiting fundamental acting concepts and engaging in a wide range of improvisational exercises. Through this course, students will study the portrayal of characters and situations with reference to traditional culture and history.

DAN532 Modern Dance (2 credits)

This course introduces MFA dance students the basic technique of Graham-based Modern Dance, covering materials of level I and level II. There will also be lectures and discussions about the icon of Modern dance, Martha Graham, and her history, cultural background, choreography, and her influence on American and European culture.

DAN542 Dance Throughout the Ages (3 credits) Fall

This course provides the theoretical foundation for the advanced study of dance by exploring the philosophical, cultural, and aesthetic underpinnings of both eastern and western dances. Topics include: the origins and aesthetic basis of dance, the influence of traditional Eastern and Western ideologies on dance, the systematization and methodology of dance, the evolution of ethnic and folk dances, and the role of dance in modern society.

DAN551 Integration of Dance and Music (1 credit) Fall

This course offers students of the opportunity to make use of their knowledge and experience in the production of joint performance projects. Each course is expected to produce at least one project. For dance, this may involve choreography, directing, and dance performance. For music, this may involve composing dance music in collaboration with choreographers, conducting the music, and performing the music. The technical work related to the production project, such as sound engineering, theater lighting, or filming, may be shared among the students. The end product should be a self-contained piece, which will be performed or played for the College community at a scheduled time and venue.

DAN555 Graduate Practicum (4 credits) Spring

The practicum allows students to build their professional experience with different companies and institutions. By practicing and applying their artistic skills in real-world settings, students gain first-hand knowledge and experience related to their career goals and build professional relationships invaluable to their future careers. Students may choose to have a practicum emphasis in performance, choreography, pedagogy, production, artistic management, or any other specification directly related to their graduate studies. Regardless of their emphasis, all students receive one-on-one guidance and mentoring from assigned instructors or preceptors. All practicums are designed to help students build a strong work ethic and enhance their professional knowledge.

DAN556 Independent Study or Project (1–6 credits) Spring

Allows graduate students to explore topics of individual or professional interest that do not fall within the standard curriculum. Each Independent Study course is flexible and personalized—designed by each student with his/her guiding instructor—so that students can get the most out of their specific studies and achieve their intended goals.

DAN561 Seminar: Dance in Cultural Context (2 credits) Fall

This seminar approaches the study of dance both as an art form as well as a means of understanding different cultures by exploring the historical, cultural, and social contexts of various dance practices. It intends to help students bridge the gap between Eastern and Western dance traditions and better understand the role of dance in the global arts community. A primary focus of the course is to expose students to differences in dance traditions. Students also practice how to communicate about their dance experiences—from explanations of dance fundamentals to the description of the emotions, aesthetics, and cultural implications—and discuss how to help others better appreciate classical Chinese dance and classical ballet.

DAN563 Topics in Dance Ethnography (2 credits) Fall

This seminar course is designed to address various topics regarding selected dance forms from diverse cultural backgrounds. Students will study and analyze social, cultural, and political influences on ethnic dance forms in the past and present. Through a series of workshops, guest instructors will introduce students to various dance styles, providing them with direct exposure through active participation. Workshops include movement analysis and discussion of cultural connotations that build the underlying dance aesthetic. Topics will be determined based on guest speaker availability.

DAB601R Advanced Classical Ballet II (4 credits) Fall Spring

As the last year of a two-year studio MFA program, the course offers professional level of Classical Ballet class. The class will include advanced Ballet barre, center, and cross floor work. The excerpts from classical ballet repertoire will be taught in the center and cross floor combinations. Students are expected to know the names of the ballet syllabus, pronunciations, and the proper use of the movement. Students will also learn the classical music compositions suitable for each basic exercises and combinations. Female dancers should wear toe shoes in the class. Students will be asked to teach the classes periodically with teacher’s supervising. Prerequisite: 8 credits of DAB501R or instructor consent. (This course must be repeated once with credits awarded.)

DAN601R Advanced Classical Chinese Dance II (4 credits) Fall Spring

This second-year graduate course in classical Chinese dance challenges students to perform composite routines that require both expressive versatility and technical competency. The course allows students to hone their artistry and technique through self-tailored routines and stylistic solos. Apart from fundamental training, students will also receive mentorship and engage in movement exploration for particular dance pieces. They will be prompted to reflect upon their progress and develop their own artistic forte, as part of becoming a well-rounded and distinguished dancer. Prerequisite: 8 credits of DAN501R or instructor consent. (This course must be repeated once with credits awarded.)

DAN611 Psychology in Dance Education (2 credits) Spring

This course introduces the essentials of psychological principles, theories, and concepts as they apply to the educational environment related to dance. Through various activities, students will explore how to structure effective pedagogical approaches in order to meet the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor needs of learners and to forge a positive learning atmosphere in dance education.

DAB612 Graduate Choreography II: Classical Ballet (2 credits) Spring

This course is the culmination of students' previous studies in choreography and is designed to help students come up with ideas while invoking within them with a sense of traditional aesthetics. Students will delve deeper into the realm of artistic creation by drawing inspiration from works on various levels—from historical narrative works to contemporary artistic interpretations, and from the effective development of choreographic elements to what makes a dance piece poignant and powerful. Prerequisite: 2 credits of DAN512 or instructor consent.

DAN612 Graduate Choreography II: Classical Chinese Dance (2 credits) Spring

DAB621R Repertory II: Classical Ballet (2 credits) Fall Spring

Repertory II offers in-depth critique and analysis of dance repertoire specific to each MFA students' dance concentration. Students will delve into choreographic elements used specifically for classical ballet repertoire.

DAN621R Repertory II: Classical Chinese Dance (2 credits) Fall Spring

DAN623 Dance Kinesiology (2 credits) Fall

An investigation into the field of dance science, this course will introduce students to the human skeletal system; joint biomechanics; muscle origin, insertion, and action; and the concept of tensegrity in biomechanics. It will explore the principles of physical structure, function, and dynamic alignment as they relate to dance performance enhancement and injury prevention. The course will introduce students to healthy living concepts such as nutrition and holistic mind-body connections. Course activities will include lectures, class discussion, skill and technique demonstrations, and relevant audiovisual content.

DAN641 Intermediate Techniques of Classical Chinese Dance I (2 credits) Fall

Designed for students who are technically proficient in other dance forms, this course will heighten students' breadth of skill, allowing them to practice Classical Chinese Dance technique and movements. The course will feature various exercises on the flexibility and capabilities of the legs and the waist while helping students to acquire a growing sensitivity to the shift of the center of gravity in movements. Through barre, floor and center exercises, students learn to master individual movements, combinations, and turning and acquire coordination among the neck, the chest, and the waist.

DAN642 Intermediate Techniques of Classical Chinese Dance II (2 credits) Spring

For this rotation of Intermediate Techniques of Classical Chinese Dance II, the course builds upon the skills students have attained in the previous Classical Chinese Dance course by introducing more advanced-level movements and more difficult routines that require more control, coordination, and technical competency. The course continues to develop students' body flexibility and capabilities in classical Chinese dance by focusing on developing students' ability to perform different types of jumps flipping, turning, and movement control. At the same time, students will be guided to explore the expressive and dramatic qualities of the bodily movements. Gradually, they will gain a deeper understanding of the concepts of essence (jing 精), energy (qi 氣), spirit (shen 神), body postures (shen fa 身法), and momentum in rhythm (dong lü 動律) in classical Chinese dance. Prerequisite: 2 credits of DAN 641 or instructor consent.

DAN645 Intermediate Techniques of Classical Ballet I (2 credits) Fall

This course aims to instruct students who are technically proficient in other dance forms with intermediate techniques of classical ballet. This course will broaden students' range of skills, allowing them to practice ballet fundamentals and beginning to intermediate-level technique and movements. The course will feature various exercises on barre and center, as well as targeted practice in various leaps, turns, and steps in ballet.

DAN646 Intermediate Techniques of Classical Ballet II (2 credits) Fall

For this rotation, the course builds upon the skills students have attained in the previous ballet course by introducing advanced-level movements and more difficult routines that require more control, coordination, and technical competency. Aside from regular barre and center work, students will also practice various solo enchaînements while examining and performing excerpts from classic repertoire, which allow students to refine their artistry and perform with further emphasis on character and musical style. By the end of this course, students will be versed in ballet terminology and proficient in intermediate-level ballet technique. Prerequisite: 2 credits of DAN645 or instructor consent.

DAN650 Master’s Project (6 credits) Spring

The Master’s Project is a yearlong endeavor that allows students to research and contribute knowledge to the field of dance. Students work with their assigned thesis advisor to determine their topic and method of investigation. They consult with their advisor frequently for progress checks and will have the opportunity to collaborate with students from other programs during the process. By the end of the year students will have completed their project, which they will present through a concert, demonstration, and/or written documentation. The goal of the master’s project is to validate students' abilities to investigate and bring to light new perspectives and understandings within the field of classical Chinese dance or classical ballet.

DAN663 Perspectives on Dance Aesthetics (2 credits) Spring

This is a seminar course. Through a series of lecture topics, graduates will be given opportunities to develop their aesthetic tastes and refine their aesthetic preferences. Students will be exposed to a range of repertoire; afterwards, they will analyze them within the context of aesthetic principles. Ultimately, this course aims to motivate students to appreciate aesthetic ideals that have inspired artists for millennia and to provide new wisdom to fuel their artistic goals.

DAN671 Internship (4 credits)

Fei Tian College offers internships so that graduate students can connect knowledge gained in on-campus courses with hands-on professional experience. Students can apply to dance companies, schools and institutions, media groups, and other hosts to find internships that fit their individual specialties and interests. Internships may or may not be paid, depending on the host institution. This course aims to help students think more about their career development. Other than completing assigned duties and demonstrating professional competencies, graduate students will need to evaluate themselves by reflecting on their personal strengths, where they need to improve, and what actions they should take to achieve their goals. While internships are not required for graduation, they are strongly encouraged as they can enhance a student’s résumé and allow students to explore different fields of interest while gaining practical experience.

LAS550 Research Methodology in the Arts (2 credits)

This class presents an overview of research methodology in the arts with a concentration in dance research. Qualitative and quantitative methods are explored through readings, lectures, practical application, discussions, and written assignments.

LAS522 Seminar in Performing Arts Management (3 credits)

This course provides an overview on performing arts management, and its various structural components and practices. Students will learn key concepts and terminology, and essential managerial knowledge for running companies and organizations. The course culminates with a final project, in which students will create a theoretical model for a performing arts company or organization, ultimately preparing students to play leadership roles in the field of performing arts management.