Dance Science, BS
Combine your passion for dance with a comprehensive understanding of the moving body.
In our interdisciplinary program, you’ll engage with dance on multiple levels—creatively, intellectually, and physically. Guided by our outstanding faculty and a diverse range of guest artists, you’ll receive conservatory-caliber training in the dance studio alongside laboratory-based courses in biology, chemistry, kinesiology, and somatics. Theory courses in dance will also offer the opportunity to attend shows throughout the Bay Area. Your studies will culminate with a self-generated senior project that demonstrates mastery in your chosen field.
Learn More About the Program
Get to know our well-respected faculty and their specialties, as artists and scholars. Or explore scholarship opportunities and an array of performance possibilities.
Curriculum
What can you do with a degree in Dance Science?
A degree in Dance Science provides students with integrated training in dance, anatomy, biomechanics, and physiology for careers in movement health and performance.
Physical Therapist (prep) / PT Aide
Support rehabilitation programs; prepare for DPT with the required prerequisites and clinical hours.
Athletic Trainer / Strength & Conditioning Coach
Prevent injuries, program conditioning; pursue ATC/CSCS certifications.
Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Conduct exercise testing/prescription; monitor cardiometabolic health (ACSM pathways).
Dance Medicine Specialist
Screen dancers, design cross-training, manage return-to-performance protocols.
Biomechanics / Human Performance Lab Tech
Run motion capture, force-plate, EMG; analyze gait and jump/landing mechanics.
Pilates / Yoga / Somatics Instructor
Deliver evidence-based conditioning and movement re-education.
Choreographer / Performer / Teaching Artist
Create, perform, and teach technique, conditioning, and injury-aware practice.
Kinesiology / Rehab Research Assistant
Collect and analyze data; contribute to IRB protocols, manuscripts, and grants.
Occupational Therapy (prep)
Apply movement science to functional rehab; complete OT prereqs and shadowing.
What's happening Now
Testimonials
“The SMC Dance program has always provided a positive learning environment for its students and me. They offer a lot of diverse dance classes such as Modern, Ballet, West African, Ballet Folklorico and many more. The dance professors are always very warm, positive, caring and fun to be around within the studios. They are always there for their students and help push them to achieve their goals.”
Eesha Shah, Class of 2022
The Princeton Review, 2023