Career Profiles: Dance
Dance is the study of rhythmic movement of the body used as a means of creative expression. Careers in dance range from performance to production, teaching to dance therapy. Professional dancers may perform in ballet, modern dance companies, musical comedy shows, opera, music videos, television production, movies, commercials or other types of performances. Other careers include dance direction and choreography. A dancer must be prepared for a very strenuous physical life of training; practice never ends. Dancing demands excellent health, physical stamina, and the ability to be graceful along with an intense desire to succeed. Self-discipline, dedication, perseverance, and initiative are necessary for auditions for competitive entry jobs. Rehearsals and performances occur nights, weekends, and on holidays.
Career Possibilities:
Additional experience and/or education may be required
- Booking Agent
- Choreographer
- College and university level (requires a master's or doctorate or equivalent professional experience)
- Critic
- Dance Company Director
- Dance Kinesiologist
- Dance Therapist
- Dance/Aerobics Instructor
- Dancer
- Movement Notator
- Performing Arts Administrator
- Pilates Instructor
- Teacher
- Teaching (K-12) requires a bachelor's degree and state credentials.
Where Employed:
- Colleges and universities
- Community recreation departments
- Dance studios and conservatories
- Hospitals and clinics
- Private and public schools
- Professional dance companies and motion picture studios
- Sports clubs and health spas
- Theater and television
- Youth organizations
Career Research Resources:
- Career exploration, exclusive jobs & internships for CSULB students can be found on CareerLINK
- Guide to career information on Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Career exploration and job analysis - O*Net Online
CSULB College and Department Links:
- College website: College of the Arts
- Academic Advising: Undergraduate Advising Resources
- CSULB Degrees & Options: Colleges & Departments
