College vs. Conservatory Programs
Many dancers envision themselves having a professional career. Although the passion is there, the career goal can seem daunting. After high school, college is often the next step.
Applying to college in general can be complicated and confusing. We find that the more informed students are, the easier the process can be.
Performing Arts students are faced with a major choice: college dance or conservatory program?
We’re going to map out some answers for you, but please take note - not all programs are created equally. There are exceptions in many cases – our goal is to open your eyes to what’s out there. This information can be used to add to your list of questions you prepare for college visits.
Conservatory programs are designed to train students in a particular art form. Dancers in these intense containers are often working toward a performance-based Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Choosing this program will give the dancer a specific experience of the discipline.
These are often dancers who grew up dancing at a studio and are looking to become professional dancers, teachers, professors, etc. Here, the curriculum is heavy in dance, with just a few non-arts courses. Students have serious requirements for attendance and participation. Generally two-thirds of your classes are in the arts, and one-third is made up of general education core classes. Conservatory classes will focus on dance technique, performance, foundations, choreography, fundamentals, and somatics. Our terminology guide in the College Application Toolkit explains somatics.
Conservatories are notorious for rigorous training. Classes are smaller, giving dancers individual attention. Students often remain together, and rarely participate in the typical college experience. If you’re interested in sports, sororities, or fraternities, be sure to ask what options you’ll have.
Students get to spend a lot of time in the studio, and less time in academic classrooms. Guest Artists are often brought into conservatory programs to work with students and share their expertise, experience, and guidance.
Jovanni Soto attended Juilliard, one of the most popular examples of a conservatory. In The Genius Guide to College Dance Programs, he illustrates his journey through the process - from application and audition to his professional career today.
Conservatories almost always require auditions. You can find Audition Tips here. Remember, these are tips – each program has its own set of guidelines and requirements.
Getting accepted into a conservatory program is competitive, but with the right preparation, you can do it!
Liberal Arts College Programs have a heavy focus on core academics, and a smaller focus on dance. These programs often offer Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS). There are programs that offer a BFA as well. Here, you often have the opportunity to create a double major. This experience will give the dancer a general experience of the discipline.
College programs tend to be heavily based in ballet and modern. A wonderful opportunity here is pedagogy. Also listed in our College Application Toolkit, pedagogy is the method, approach, and practice of teaching.
In this case, 1/3 of your classes will be dance related, and about 2/3 will be general like math, science, etc. Expectations can be a bit more relaxed with liberal arts programs. When making your selections, inquire about the structure of each degree. As said earlier, each school has its own structure, foundation, curriculum, and overall way of doing things.
Students who choose the liberal arts college route often choose to participate in Greek life, sports, extra-curricular activities, and other interests.
Some schools will allow you to create your own degree. If this appeals to you, ask what’s possible!
“Going to UNCSA was great. I was exposed to different types of artists, musicians, actors, visual artists, production crews, and filmmakers. There were always performances, exhibits, and improvisation sessions to attend. We were immersed in a bubble which gave us freedom to explore ourselves as artists. ”
Get clear on what you want, set your goals, then begin the decision process. It is very important to research and understand factors in each department you are considering in relation to your goals.
So many components make up your college decision. Location, school size, tuition, financial aid, opportunities, performances, faculty, the list goes on. Choose a path that will assist in the continuing of your growth and development.
Angela Carter, Creator - The Genius Guide to College Dance Program