Home Courses Dance BSc (Hons) Dance Science & MSci Dance Science
18 Dance Science 1920 X 1080 14

Combine personal practice with scientific research approaches to examine what happens to our bodies and minds when we dance

UCAS LogoUCAS Logo
W5C6
3 years (BSc) or 4 years (MSci) full time
Bishop Otter Campus (Chichester)

Top 40

UK University

The Guardian University Guide 2024

Gold

rated university in the Teaching Excellence Framework

TEF 2023

7th

best university in the South East

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

Join us at one of our Open Days!

Saturday 22 June  |  Saturday 12 October  |  Friday 1 November  |  Saturday 23 November

Saturday 22 June

Saturday 12 October

Friday 1 November

Saturday 23 November

Our next Open Day is in:

Day
Hour
Minute
Second

Overview

Explore the world of human performance sciences and develop your technical dance skills

Our BSc (Hons) and MSci Dance Science courses use scientific research approaches combined with personal practice to examine what happens to our bodies and minds when we dance.

If you have a passion for dance, are curious about how our bodies and minds work when dancing and how to make the most of our dancing potential, then this course is for you.

Learn the science to optimise dance performance

This course develops your understanding of the physiology, psychology, and biomechanics involved in dance, as you use this knowledge to help improve performance potential, reduce injury risk, and enhance the wellbeing of both you and anyone who dances.

Dance science looks at all dance participants including elite performers, dancers in training, people who dance as a hobby, and populations with specific health conditions.

Develop your technical and performance skills

To keep your love of dancing at the heart of your experience, you will continue to develop your skills and passion for dance through practical dance classes with students from across our dance department to help create an integrated dance community.

Apply your research in our dedicated laboratories

Throughout your degree, you will develop applied research skills in practical laboratory sessions, where you will develop your research skills by engaging with existing research and developing research of your own.

There is also potential to connect your research to our resident student dance companies, 3Fall, Mapdance, and HIVE.

dance science student working with respiratory equipment

Build your studies around your interests

Our specialist pathway routes in either Applied Performance or Health and Wellbeing allow you to focus on the aspects of dance science that interest the most.

You could choose to focus on the science of dance training and performance or explore the benefits and applications of dance in wide range of diverse populations and contexts.

Choose your qualification level

You can study this Dance Science degree to BSc (Hons) level over 3 years full time, or choose the integrated master’s option, MSci Dance Science, which is 4 years of full-time study.

If you study the MSci you will extend your specialism at master’s level by completing a research dissertation and pursuing modules that focus on professional and applied techniques within dance science. If you choose the four-year MSci Programme you will be eligible for a tuition fee loan for the entire course.

Seize performance and career development opportunities

Throughout your degree you will have opportunities to perform, undertake work placements, and study modules aligned with professional qualifications, such as CIMSPA professional standards in Gym Instruction, Personal Training, Health Navigator and Long-Term Conditions, as well as Safe in Dance International’s Healthy Dance/Dancer Certificates.

International exchange opportunities

As part of your dance course, you can take part in an international exchange programme during your second year, as you experience new cultures whilst you continue your dance training.

BASES-endorsed course

In addition to the Dance Science specialist focus, this course is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), in recognition of covering the necessary foundation of sport and exercise science knowledge, technical skills and professional development competencies required to succeed across dance, sports or exercise professional contexts.

BASES logo

CIMPSA-endorsed course

This course is endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), which shows that it provides the scientific theory and practical skills required to work as a sport and exercise scientist, or health and exercise practitioner, with a dance science specialism.

On this course you will:

  • Take dance technique classes in a range of contemporary styles, including ballet.
  • Undertake extensive human performance science research in our specialist laboratories.
  • Focus your studies in either Applied Performance or Health and Wellbeing.
  • Seize work placement and professional qualification opportunities.
  • Learn from experienced and sector-active dance and dance science practitioners and researchers.
  • Join a close dance community and work with students from other dance and sports science courses.
  • Have the opportunity to complete an international exchange.

The Course

Examine what happens to our bodies and minds when we dance

Choose your pathway

In your third year you will choose a focused pathway of Applied Performance or Health and Wellbeing for your final year(s) of study. You will shape your pathway by choosing from optional modules during the course.

Applied performance pathway

The Applied Performance pathway focuses on dance training and performance contexts, looking closely at the dancer in training, or professional dancers.

Health and Wellbeing pathway

The Health and Wellbeing pathway explores the potential benefits and applications of dance to a wide range of diverse populations, such as young people who dance as a hobby, or people with specific medical conditions.

Professional qualification links

Some modules are aligned with professional standard qualifications and certifications, such as those offered by Safe in Dance International (SiDI), the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

Both pathways are recognised education partners of CIMPSA

This list is indicative and subject to future change.

Select a year

Applications of Psychology in Dance

Dance contexts provide a fascinating and complex opportunity to investigate elements of the psychology of human behaviour. In this module you will be introduced to the diverse areas of psychology that you will explore throughout your degree. This could be in the context of dance performance, health and wellbeing, or skill acquisition and teaching.

Dance Techniques 1

You will complete daily technique classes to develop your performance and dance understanding. You will refine your technical skills through reflective practice. You will explore key elements of dance fitness.

Fundamentals of Human Physiology

This module will allow you to examine how key systems such as the musculoskeletal system, the cardio-vascular system, and the respiratory system affect human performance. Specific attention is paid to energy metabolism in the context of the exercising human across the breadth of the energy spectrum.

Introduction to Applied Exercise Physiology

This module aims to develop an understanding of the application of scientific principles and techniques to evaluate human performance. Consideration will be given to the selection of an appropriate data collection environment (i.e. laboratory versus field) and the applicability across a range of activities that spans energy provision.

Movement Studies: Analysis and Awareness

You will complete practical sessions informed by established models of practice and underpinned with theoretical insight. You will use the principles of Laban Movement Analysis (LMA) to develop an understanding of the concepts of body, shape, space and effort in theory and practice.

Muscles and Movement in Dance

In this module, you will explore definitions of human movement terms, the human body including health, safety and healing as physics including Newton’s laws of motion, kinetic energy, potential energy, and work power. You will use biomechanical kinetic and kinematic measurement methods and tools to assess and analyse performance.

Understanding Science and Dance Practice

This module will introduce you to a range of research procedures and methodologies from the perspective of the performing arts, humanities and the scientific paradigms. You will develop foundational research skills which will support your research work throughout your degree.

Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise

The biomechanical principles underpinning performance in a range of sports will be considered in relation to practical performance of sport. The module content will include analysis methodologies and research, which has enhanced biomechanics knowledge of sports performance.

The biomechanics analysis and evaluation of selected sport and exercise activities will be considered e.g. golf, football, tennis, high jump, long jump, javelin, discus, gymnastics, cycling, swimming.

Clinical Exercise Physiology

This module explores the relationship of physical activity and sedentary behaviour with both the development and control of non-communicable diseases (NCD).

You will examine the physiological responses to physical activity, and methods to assess health and fitness for those individuals suffering from such disease states.

You will explore the application and appraisal of exercise prescription guidelines for NCDs, with consideration of those that are serviced by exercise/GP referral schemes.

This module is aligned to the CIMSPA professional standards Health Navigator and Long-Term Conditions.

Dance Education: Culture and Community

This module will introduce you to the breadth of opportunities there are to teach dance.

Through the examination of key organisations and philosophies of teaching dance, you will explore the part that dance plays within our cultural society and the benefits to people of all ages.

You will be encouraged to undertake independent research and experiment practically with different methodologies to enhance your understanding of dance education in different settings.

Dance Journalism

This module introduces you to dance journalism. You will explore the demand for different styles of writing, ranging from specialist and academic journals to national and international newspapers.

You will examine the process of journal publishing from both sides of the fence – the writer’s and the publisher’s – looking at the work of an editor in formulating policy and commissioning work, and at the different skills involved in writing; subbing, copy editing and proof correcting.

In addition, you will learn how to design pages for publication – and as the finished journal is evolving you will be helped not only with your writing but also with your journal’s design and layout.

Dance Techniques for Dance Science

This module builds on level four Dance Technique to further develop technical skills in dance practice; integrating motional complexity with qualitative interpretation in relation to particular dance styles and approaches to technique. You will be guided to apply your technical knowledge to deepen your awareness and application of good working practice reflective of the professional dance sector.

Developing and Monitoring Physical Performance

This module aims to provide you with the skills and knowledge to design interventions for improving both health and skills-related physical fitness. You will develop the ability to complete a health screening and needs analysis on clients and athletes, establish goals, select appropriate methods of individual physical performance assessments, and design interventions to improve physical performance.

Improvisation & Performance

This module focuses on further development of performance skills and vocabulary from the solo to the group improvisation.

The use of spontaneous compositional practice within group situations, relationship possibilities and the development of:

  • Awareness
  • Kinaesthetic
  • Spatial
  • Aural

Will form the core of issues explored.

The course will build toward the setting of structures for performance through an understanding of scores.

Movement and Character

This module creatively and critically engages you with the skills and processes of working with character, relationships and intentionality in a physical theatre style.

It extends and builds on previous Dance choreography modules by exploring and contextualising the techniques used in physical theatre to devise, sustain, develop and deliver character through movement.

Nutrition for the Prevention and Treatment of Illness and Disease

This module will examine the combined effects of nutrition and physical activity on health with particular focus on prevalent diseases associated with these factors. Topics covered will include: dietary guidelines, dietary analysis, measurement of energy, macro- and micro-nutrient intake, digestion, absorption and metabolism; the role of micro-nutrients; nutrition and prevalent diseases; obesity; eating disorders; food allergies; under-nutrition and special populations e.g. diabetics.

Performance Psychology

This module will introduce you to the key theories and concepts in performance psychology, examining theory and research into a range of factors (e.g., confidence, motivation, emotional regulation) that have been proposed to contribute to performance in sport and other achievement domains. the module content will seek to develop understanding of the importance of these concepts for performance, their determinants and how to change them.

Physiological Limitations to Performance

This module examines the metabolic, neuromuscular, neuroendocrine and cardiovascular systems of the human body to develop knowledge on the nature of limitations to performance across this intensity spectrum.

Psychology of Physical Activity and Health

The course will examine contemporary theories relating to the adoption and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. It will also examine the relationship between activity involvement and individual affective responses, cognitions of self and health-related behaviour. Specifically, theories of behaviour change and self-concept will be explored alongside an emphasis on the positive and negative consequences of exercise involvement.

Researching Dance Science

In this module, you will explore the research process and design a small scale qualitative study and a group experimental study. This will allow you to gain experience in data collection and in both qualitative and quantitative data analyses.

Safe Dance Practice

This module addresses the five knowledge areas identified by Safe in Dance International (SiDI) and their 10 associated core principles of healthy dance practice. You will cover topics including health and safety in the dance environment, injury reduction and management, anatomical and biomechanical principles of alignment, and psychological aspects of dance practice. You will also explore the principles of integrated and supplemental fitness and conditioning for dancers, effective warm-up and cool-downs, dance science informed considerations for progression, sequencing and structure of dance activities, an overview of nutrition and hydration needs for the dancer and considerations for varying group-specific needs and risk factors (such as age and ability/disability of dance participants). You will have the option to complete the industry standard Safe in Dance International (SiDI) certification which credits safe dance practice knowledge and application and supports future employability.

Sports Injury and Prevention

In this module, you will study basic musculo-skeletal anatomy, including features particularly prone to injury in sport e.g. ligaments; incidence of sport injury. You will explore common injuries to the body and their methods of occurrence, as well as first aid procedures and injury assessment. You will also study the role of biomechanics in predisposing factors, psychology, and prevention of injury, as you consider treatment methods, rehabilitation, and real-world case studies.

Advanced Biomechanics

This module aims to allow you to develop your conceptual biomechanics knowledge, knowledge of current practice, and independent practical skills. It gives the opportunity to follow interests within the field that may have been stimulated by either the third year biomechanics techniques module, or by areas you have come across in the course of your independent project work and which you would like to investigate further. It aims to develop your independence in the laboratory.

Application of Technique for Dance Science

This module advances level five dance techniques for dance science, through daily technical practice, at advanced intermediate level, focusing on performance artistry. You will be guided to apply your technical knowledge to deepen your awareness and application of good working practice reflective of the professional dance sector.

Applied Dance Science: Portfolio of Practice

This module provides you with the opportunity to gain first-hand, experience of applied dance science practices. This module aims to support your personal and professional development as a dance science practitioner, directing the focus of your applied experience to an area of practice that is relevant to both your existing skills and your future career goals

Applied Sport Psychology: Delivering Mental Strategies

Traditionally, sport psychologists have advocated the use of numerous mental training strategies that are purported to enhance the cognitive, affective, and behavioural states of the performers that they work with. This module provides you with an understanding of the efficacy of these strategies, to provide opportunities to deliver these mental strategies and to reflect on the delivery of these strategies.

Biomechanical Techniques

This module aims to enable you to develop experimental skills that may be of relevance, not only in biomechanics, but also in other scientific fields where accuracy of measurement is important.

Body Image and Performance

In this module students, you will examine the psychology of body image from the perspective of the social and environmental antecedents of objectification, the psychological consequences of such objectification to the individual’s wellbeing and finally psychological interventions that can be employed with performers to overcome issues encountered.

Cardiovascular Rehabilitation

This module critically examines the process of rehabilitation as it pertains to cardiovascular disease. Detailed exploration of the aetiology of coronary heart disease (CHD), lifestyle management, and psychology of behaviour change in relation to lifestyle.

The evidence-base for exercise and nutritional interventions will be critiqued within the framework of primary, secondary, and tertiary care alongside the skills required to compile multi-disciplinary interventions for secondary prevention.

Contemporary Issues in Sport, Exercise and Health

This module will explore a selection of contemporary issues that may have ethical and moral considerations, in relation to sport, exercise and health.

Dance Movement Psychotherapy

In this module, you will examine the theory and practice of dance movement psychotherapy (DMP) and explore a range of theoretical bases which can underpin your practice.

The module covers psychodynamic, humanistic and transpersonal approaches, and explores integrative creative practice. You will draw upon the related models of Authentic Movement and movement-based expressive arts therapy (deriving from the Halprin/Tamalpa model).

Exercise and Physical Activity Interventions

This module applies health behaviour change theory and research to the promotion of physical activity in specialised populations, such as those with chronic health conditions or physical disabilities. It looks at different types of interventions, such as those targeting individuals, groups, and national campaigns.

Exercise Referral Clinic

This module aims to provide you with an opportunity to complete a unit of directed study incorporating experience in a practical-based setting, relevant to working with clinical populations. You will develop new knowledge and skills whilst in a practice-based setting, in addition to applying, consolidating and reflecting on the learning gained in their prior modules. You will gain experience that enables them to develop, apply and reflect on the clinical practice of exercise within the health service including, but not limited to GP/ Exercise Referral, cardiovascular rehabilitation, the Obesity 4 Tier approach, and to draw on, and review, the profession’s evidence-base for lifestyle modification.

Nutrition for Sports Performance, Physical Development and Health

Sports performance and the development of athletic ability relies on the individual being in peak health and having the correct nutrition support to fuel training adaptation and exercise performance. This module aims to examine the ways in which dietary intake influences energy metabolism, recovery of skeletal muscle after exercise, exercise performance, training adaptation, injury risk, and immunity.

Planning and Monitoring of Training and Performance

A focus on planning and monitoring training of athletes and how a programme of physiological support can be used to enhance performance.

You will engage in current literature identifying the physiological demands of the athletes chosen sport, key measures of physical fitness, and how we can enhance them.

An athlete’s ability to focus on training to gain maximal physiological adaptations, and relax in competition can represent the difference in making the podium or winning major tournaments.

Principles of Motor Learning for Dance

In this module, you will explore theories and practices of motor learning and control. Specific topics will cover include: organisation of motor control, perception, anticipation, instructional strategies, conditions of practice, attention and feedback. the intersection of somatically informed approaches to practice will also be considered. Consideration of different learners will be addressed in relevant weeks in relation to the novice or advanced dancer.

Psychology of Injury and Rehabilitation

This module enables you to critically evaluate the psychological, social, and cultural factors in injury risk, theories of psychological responses to injury, recovery, and adherence to rehabilitation programmes. It will critically evaluate theory and research, and consider practical approaches to working with injured athletes to assist them with their response to and rehabilitation from injury experiences.

Research Project

‘The research project provides an opportunity to apply appropriate knowledge, concepts, and techniques to an in-depth study of a particular question or problem relating to sport,  exercise or healthcare. This module aims to foster a greater understanding of the processes to undertake a small-scale research project and marks the culmination of the student’s learning experience over their undergraduate programme of study

Teaching Dance Technique

You will build on your experience from Teaching Dance Technique and further develop your teaching skills to effectively deliver dance lesson content to different groups of participants.

Where possible your group will observe, work with or teach groups outside of the university to experience real situations in preparation for their final practical teaching assessment.

You will use micro teaching and group experiential sessions to focus on exploring appropriate lesson content and teaching methods.

The Conscious Dancer

This module will give you the opportunity to discover more about your own movement potential through the Feldenkrais Method and the movement practice of Deborah Hay. By drawing attention to functional anatomy of the skeleton, you will discover more about efficiency and ease of motion through Feldenkrais lessons and become more aware of your potential as a mover by introducing questions within a variety of improvisational scores. This work will be influenced by the philosophy of Deborah Hay, together engaging with the body as an active processing organism, encouraging attention to perception and noticing to enhance the practice of performance and awareness of the body in motion. This learning and enriched body knowledge will provide you with more understanding, potential and confidence as a mover and be valuable preparation for further training or work within the dance field.

Advanced Performance Psychology

This modules examines psychological characteristics that have been proposed as important determinants of success in sport with specific focus on mental toughness.

Developing As An Applied Practitioner in Biomechanics

This is an opportunity to develop your skills in delivering applied consultancy in the biomechanics of sport and exercise.

Enhancing Physical Activity Participation and Wellbeing

This module deepens your knowledge of health behaviour change in the context of exercise and physical activity.

You will explore aspects of physical activity behaviour change that enable positive psychological and physical well-being outcomes for individuals.

You will also explore key concepts of self-concept, motivation, and behaviour change, whilst appreciating the range of psychosocial barriers and facilitators that can result in positive or maladaptive affective responses, cognitions, and behaviours.

Pedagogical Approaches

Through a combination of lectures, seminars and practical tasks, you will analyse, deconstruct and reconstruct technical exercises and phrases in order to build a critical base of teaching material. Planning, phrase construction and giving corrections will be explored in the context of somatic development and consideration of issues relating to health and safety. You will also be expected to undertake critical analysis and evaluation of professional dance classes. You will be introduced to lesson planning, devising schemes of work appropriate to different teaching situations such as primary and secondary syllabus work, special needs and working with the elderly and community-based groups.

Principles and Practice of Public Health and Physical Activity

This module offers a broad introduction to the subject matter of public health and physical activity. You will develop your understanding of epidemiological measures and explore a selection of contemporary areas of physical activity research such as data modelling, physical activity in green/blue space, and health economics.

Research Dissertation or Applied Dance Science: Supervised Research Portfolio

In this module, you will either undertake a final research dissertation project or an applied dance science research portfolio. the research dissertation acts as the culmination of your postgraduate study. You will develop a substantial dance research project of your choice. You can choose to include a varying amount of dance practice alongside written critical commentary. for the research portfolio, you will gain real-world experience of the demands of applied dance science and have an opportunity to learn and develop research-informed applied skills, whilst having access to specialist support and equipment.

Techniques for Performance

This module will include daily technical training to develop your interpretive and presentational skills in preparation for performance. You will explore motion complexity, qualitative interpretation, musicality, alignment, flexibility, core strength, and stamina as you develop the technical skills you will need as a professional dancer.

Whole Body Metabolism: Measurement and Application in Exercise Physiology

This module examines the application of whole-body metabolism to a variety of contexts within sport and exercise physiology ranging from elite sporting performance to clinical settings. Existing knowledge will be challenged through critical evaluation of relevant peer reviewed publications. Additionally, through a theoretical and practical evaluation of measurement techniques available in the area of whole-body metabolism, an appreciation will be given to validity and reliability of methodological approaches.

Teaching and Assessment

Feel the support of our experienced and practicing teaching staff

Teaching

Our expert and experienced dance practitioners get to know you as individual so you can feel more confident to develop your technical skills and explore your creative ideas in a supportive environment.

Typical study weeks include:

  • Dance technique classes
  • Laboratory skills sessions
  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Studio-based workshops

Assessment

You will be assessed through a range of assignments such as essays, examinations, portfolios, practical lab and studio-based assessments, lab reports, and oral presentations.

Student

MSci Dance Science (Health and Wellbeing Pathway)
"I chose Chichester because of the high quality, professional dance training and scientific theory from a team of friendly and supportive teachers. I felt that the Dance Science course would prepare me for an exciting career in an ever-growing discipline, with many different future career options” The teachers are really supportive and understand that everyone has different strengths. Before coming to Chichester I had never done ballet before; I was worried that I would struggle and not be able to keep up with everyone else but the teachers have really helped me and pushed me the right amount so that I feel more confident and comfortable in class."

Student

BSc (Hons) Dance Science (Applied Performance Pathway), accepted on to MSc Sports Nutrition
“The lecturers at the University of Chichester are incredibly inspiring and supportive of our education; we are always listened to and no question is too small… I am very glad that I discovered Dance Science and am excited for my future and the development of my new-found passion.”

Facilities

Discover our rehearsal studios, performance spaces and research laboratories

Student

BSc (Hons) Dance Science (Applied Performance Pathway)
"We’re really lucky at Chichester to have the facilities that we do, the dance studios are amazing and the labs too. The staff are incredible at making sure you’re comfortable and happy with what you’re doing and always there for support. The course has a great combination of practice and theory. It’s interesting how we learn something in a physiology lesson and then are able to apply it to technique or performance classes. This transfer of knowledge helps us understand the information from multiple perspectives."

Work Placements

Reach out and gain vital experience in a range of professional settings

Depending on your module and pathway choices, you will have the opportunity to undertake work placements during your degree to help prepare you for a range of careers after you graduate. Work placements are a chance for you to use the skills you learn during your degree in a real-world context.

You could complete a placement with a specific dance company or dance organisation working in the community or in health settings. You could also complete a placement with a sports centre, mainstream school, afterschool club or special educational needs organisation.

We will support you to find the best placement match for you and highlight any relevant opportunities that we can.

Previous students have worked at companies including:

  • Motionhouse
  • Loop Dance
  • Stop Gap
  • Jasmin Vardimon
  • South East Dance
  • Sussex Dance Network
  • The Point
  • Yorke Dance Project
  • One Dance UK
  • Scottish Ballet
  • National Dance Company of Wales
  • Pavilion Dance South West
  • Far Flung Dance Theatre

International Exchange

See our opportunities for incoming and outgoing international study

Whether you are considering studying Dance here and want to take either a semester or year out to study abroad, or if you are currently studying at a University who has a partnership with the University of Chichester – engaging in an international exchange study programme enriches and broadens your educational experiences.

Outgoing students

As a Dance student at the University of Chichester, you will have the opportunity to study at one of our partner institutions in your second year of study.

Students who have undertaken this in the past have found it to be an amazing experience to broaden their dance horizons, a great opportunity to meet new people, undertake further travelling and to immerse themselves within a new culture.

See our Outgoing Exchanges page for more information.

Incoming students

Coming to study Dance at the University of Chichester, you will be welcomed into our community of dancers and will be surrounded by creativity and cultural exchange opportunities. The city of Chichester is a beautiful and historic place for you to get to know.

You are also close to the lively cities of Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton as well as a train journey away from getting into London.

See our Incoming Exchanges page for more information.

Ellie and Tara

Dance graduates
"The exchange to Toronto was the best opportunity we both ever could have asked for. Toronto is an incredible and vibrant city and we are both grateful that we could call it home for a year. In summary, the exchange enabled us to meet amazing people that we can both call friends for life; as well as people that provide connections for future endeavours. As dance students, the exchange allowed us to try new techniques and classes that widened our understanding of contemporary dance, as well as giving us the chance to work with new Professors - that were extremely insightful and inspirational. In addition to exploring Toronto, we both chose to travel further around North America, mainly including the West of Canada and the USA, we found that this adventure was a perfect way to conclude our year abroad."

Careers

Open up your future career options

Our BSc (Hons) and MSci Dance Science courses prepare you to meet the ever-increasing demand for well-qualified dance scientists.

You could work in professional, training, educational, recreational, or community-based dance and exercise settings.

You could become a:

  • Dance teacher or lecturer in community or educational settings
  • Gym instructor or personal trainer
  • Fitness consultant
  • Dance science advisor or support personnel in educational or professional settings
  • Dance science informed dancer / choreographer
  • Advocate for dance-science informed dance practice
  • Employee within professional bodies representing dance science and healthy dance practice
  • Health promotion worker

Benefit from department links with local, national, and international organisations including:

  • The International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS).
  • The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA)
  • The British Association of Sports and Exercise Sciences (BASES)
  • Safe in Dance International (SiDI)
  • The Point Eastleigh
  • One Dance UK

Our department links with professional and pre-professional dance companies include:

  • Lîla Dance
  • Flexer & Sandiland
  • Ceyda Tanc Dance Company
  • Tribe Company
  • AKA Dance Theatre Company
  • Mapdance

Further Study

If you complete the BSc (Hons) Dance Science degree, you may choose to continue your studies to postgraduate level. You could apply to postgraduate programmes in Education, Dance, Dance Science, Sport and Exercise Science, or Somatics.

The University of Chichester offers a range of postgraduate programmes across the field of dance and sport disciplines. Our research interests stem from extensive applied experience and a desire to deliver meaningful research findings that relate to the ‘real world’ of dance, dance science or sports and exercise.

Study options at the University of Chichester include:

  • PGCE Dance
  • MSc Dance Science
  • Masters in Sport Science, Sports Therapy or similar
  • MSc Physiotherapy
  • MA Dance Research
  • MA Dance, Somatics and Dance Science
  • MA Choreography (Independent Research)
  • MA Dance: Advanced Practice
  • MA Performance: Dance (MapDance)
  • MA Choreography and Professional Practice

University of Chichester alumni who have completed a full undergraduate degree at the University will receive a 15% discount on their postgraduate fees.

Course Costs

Course Fees 2024/25

UK fee
£9,250
International fee
£15,840

If you choose the four-year MSci Programme you will be eligible for a tuition fee loan for the entire course.

For further details about fees, please see our Tuition Fee page.

For further details about international scholarships, please see our Scholarships page.

To find out about any additional costs on this course, please see our Additional Costs page.

Entry Requirements

BSc (Hons) typical offers (individual offers may vary):

UCAS
96-120
A levels or combination with AS/EPQ/BTEC/Cambridge Technical
A Levels
BBB-CCC
Normally to include a science-based subject (such as social sciences, biology, PE, psychology, sport science) at Grade C. (Note: MSci requires BBB)
BTEC/Cambridge Technical
DDM-MMM
Science, Sport, or Performing Arts (Dance). (Note: MSci requires DDD)
IELTS
6.0
Overall with no element lower than 5.5.
International Baccalaureate
28 points

Auditions

You will be asked to attend an audition event where you will participate in a dance class and an informal interview (normally in pairs). Find out more about this process below.

MSci progression

At the start of the third year, you’ll have an opportunity to join the MSci. Entry to this will be based on the first two years of the BSc route.

Auditions and Interviews

Everything you need to know

Our dance auditions are designed to support you to showcase your skills and passion for dance in a friendly, and creative environment. You can find out more about the audition process below. 

We aim to engage you in a genuine dialogue during your audition process. We promote an open and friendly environment so that you can enjoy your experience and feel a sense of worth and achievement from the audition process itself. The audition is a chance for you to get to know us here at The University of Chichester dance department and for us to get a clear understanding of who you are, what you need, and how we can best prepare you for your degree. 

We judge you on your skills, your potential, and your personality, not your background. 

Audition cost

There is a £25 fee for the audition which can be paid via our online store. 

Practical

You will dance alongside fellow applicants in a 90-minute high-energy contemporary dance class, designed to assess your potential to respond both technically and expressively.

The practical audition is designed to mirror a first-year experience so you will also take part in a tutor-led contemporary technique class and a creative task exploration.

We are looking for your potential for contemporary dance study (technique and creative practice) and how you work with others on practical tasks. We understand that you may feel nervous about dancing in front of an audition panel and will do our best to put you at ease so that you can perform to the best of your ability.

Please wear dance clothes that you can move easily in. For example, tights, leggings or dance trousers with a leotard or fitted top. You will dance in bare feet for your contemporary dance and creative session.

We like our students to be enthusiastic, excited about studying contemporary dance, and prepared to have a go even if something is challenging. Please don’t worry about any aspect of the practical audition and remember that our students come from a range of dance backgrounds for all of our course. We do not expect perfection and are looking for your potential.

Interviews

You will attend an interview with a member of the University of Chichester dance team for where you can discuss your training or experience in dance and explore specific areas that interest you.

You will be interviewed in pairs or threes. You will be asked to talk about your experience and interest in dance and why you wish to study dance. This interview format is similar to the tutorials and seminar-based activities you will experience at the University, so you are encouraged to discuss ideas with each other. We offer a range of courses, so we are likely to ask about why you have selected this specific course.

We want to see a student who is genuinely interested in studying contemporary dance and is prepared to move beyond dance practice as a hobby. We like to hear about the professionals (choreographers, dancers, researchers) who interest and inspire you and your aspirations for the future.

How to Book Your Audition

If you are invited to audition you will receive an email asking you to book your audition date on ChiView. If you are unsuccessful we will email you to let you know.

You can usually book two or three different days on ChiView at one time. Once these dates are close ChiView will refresh to show new options. If none of the current dates suit you then you should wait until the dates renew and check again. Dates are released two to three weeks in advance.

Once you have booked your audition or interview you will have access to the relevant documents on ChiView.

Log in to the ChiView portal, click on ‘Events schedule’ and then ‘View details’ to view, download, or print documents telling you how to prepare for your audition and what to expect on the day.

If your situation changes and you can no longer attend your interview date you should cancel your booking in ChiView by visiting your ‘Event Schedule’ and clicking ‘Cancel Attendance’. You also need to inform the admissions team by emailing admissions@chi.ac.uk so we can send you a new audition invitation.

Using ChiView

Sometimes if you are viewing your ChiView portal on a phone you will not be able to see the page correctly. If this happens you should try again on another device.

You may need to clear your browser history.

If you are still unable to see the ‘View details’ button, please check that you have successfully booked your audition/interview by clicking ‘respond to interview invitation’.

If all else fails please email admissions@chi.ac.uk with query and applicant number.

Auditioning for More Than One Course

Different courses have different requirements. If you are auditioning for:

  • BSc (Hons) Dance Science and BA (Hons) Dance: you should complete the dance science essay
  • BSc (Hons) Dance Science and BA (Hons) Dance Performance: you should complete the dance science essay, upload a solo and complete the ballet class
  • BSc (Hons) Dance Science and BA (Hons) Dance Aerial and Physical Theatre: you should complete the dance science essay and upload a solo
  • BSc (Hons) Dance Science and BA (Hons) Dance Teaching and Education: you should complete the dance science essay

In your interview we will discuss which course you are most suited to.

Can I change my application to a different course?

Yes. Email the Admissions Tutor for the course you want to change to; complete the preparation for that course. At your audition please highlight your change of course with a member of staff.

I am interested in Dance Science, but not sure whether I want to do the BSc or the MSci, do I need to decide now?

There are different entrance and progression criteria for the BSc and the MSci programmes. If you meet these criteria you can opt for either course. If you enrol on the MSci from the outset you will be more likely to have your funding guaranteed for the full four years. It is possible to transfer from one programme to the other after you begin your studies, up until commencing your third year.

What if I forget my written task or Health and Injury Questionnaire?

You can send it to us after the audition, although we won’t be able to process your application until we have received everything.

On The Day

Your audition day will include a practical audition, your interview, and any additional tasks you need for your course. You will have the option to attend a campus tour prior to your audition to see the student accommodation, dance and sports facilities and get a sense of the layout of the campus.

Whilst you complete your practical audition your guests can visit our campus canteen, coffee shops or take a wander into the nearby city centre for a coffee.

After the practical audition you will take part in a small-group interview session where you can discuss your passion for dance and ask any questions you may have about the course and university life.

If you have not already uploaded the following items, please bring with you on your audition day:

  • a passport-sized photograph of you to help us identify you
  • your completed Health and Injury Questionnaire (available on ChiView after you book your audition)
  • your written task(s)

Parking

You can park on-site if you buy a pay-and-display ticket but please note that the demand for car park spaces exceeds the spaces available, particularly during term time. For this reason, there are specific parking controls and restrictions to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the University, equity of access and fairness. 

There are clearly marked disabled parking bays available at both campuses. 

After Your Audition

After your audition we will discuss your application and our decision onto the admissions team who will update our decision on UCAS. We aim to let you know within a few working days of your audition.

  • We make bespoke offers: Your offer is specifically for you. If we offer less than your predicted grades, this is because we want you to join us and we want to take a bit of pressure off of you heading into your exams.
  • We only offer unconditional offers in exceptional circumstances. Unless you already have your grades (you are a mature student), we normally insist on certain grade achievements because we want you to succeed in all aspects of your academic life including your A levels, BTEC, etc.
  • If you do not get the grades you wanted, don’t panic. You received an offer because you were good enough for the department at audition. Ring us on the clearing hotline so we can discuss things with you.
  • We may offer you a different course: We may offer you a place on a course within the department that is different to the one they applied for. If this is the case, we will speak to you about this at your audition or shortly afterwards. We will explain our reasoning, which will revolve around placing you on the most appropriate course where we think you will thrive.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply?

Click the ‘Apply now’ button to go to relevant UCAS page.

What are UCAS tariff points?

Many qualifications have a UCAS Tariff value. The score depends on the qualification, and the grade you achieved.

How do I know what my UCAS tariff points are?

Head to the UCAS Tariff Points web page where you can find a tariff points calculator that can tell you how much your qualification and grades are worth.

Our address

For visits

I’m looking for