We CU Performing at Centenary University!
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts: Dance
Build technique, choreography skills, and performance experience while preparing for careers in dance performance, instruction, or arts leadership.
The Theatre Arts major at Centenary University offers its students a comprehensive, process-centered curriculum in the study of theatre
Centenary is home to Centenary Stage Company, a nonprofit professional theatre group.
This unique relationship gives our Performance Studies students the opportunity to:
- Act right alongside professional actors, including Broadway veterans, in Centenary Stage Company productions.
- Train in three distinct performance venues in the Carol and David Lackland Center, widely considered the premier theatre of its kind in northwest New Jersey.
- Perform in groups ranging from our touring Young Audience Series to main stage productions.
Dance is not only an art form in itself, but it is also a critical skill for most actors and performers
Centenary University’s Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts, Dance concentration, will provide you with high quality dance training in the disciplines of ballet, jazz, modern, tap, ethnic dance, choreography, creative movement, musical theatre and more. The curriculum also includes courses in dance science, kinesiology and dance appreciation.
Pre-professional training
At the state-of-the-art dance studio in the Carol and David Lackland Center, you will have the chance to train with professionals who are currently working as choreographers, dancers and educators in the world of dance.
You can also participate in the Community Dance Company, where you will have the opportunity to:
- Create a repertory of dance pieces
- Perform for schools and other venues in the community
The company involves professional dancers as well as community members looking to perform.
A 20-credit Minor in Dance is also available for Theatre Arts students as well as students in other disciplines.
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include MFA/MA in Theatre, arts administration, stage management, design/production certificate, teaching certification, or nonprofit management credential.
Career Pathways:
Choreographer, Dance Instructor, Company Dancer
Industry Outlook:
Growth is slow for full-time dance jobs; however, teaching and freelancing provide additional opportunities.
Regional employers include
NJPAC; Paper Mill Playhouse; McCarter Theatre Center; George Street Playhouse; Two River Theater; State Theatre New Jersey; Count Basie Center; New Jersey Ballet; regional production companies; school districts.
Salary Outlook:
$30,000 – $50,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to BA in Theatre Arts: Dance, a reasonable starting range is approximately $35,000–$52,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $60,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $85,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice.
*Salary and Outlook Data