96%
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teaching in Dance
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Top 30
UK University
out of 122 institutions
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97%
positivity for
how staff make the subject engaging
National Student Survey 2025
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Overview
Choreography is the central focus of study here at Chichester. Through this, you’ll develop the creative, imaginative and interpersonal skills that will help you to realise your dance potential. You will be offered a selection of modules that are currently taken by the BA (Hons) Dance students and will be guided by lecturers according to your prior knowledge and experience. This will include the Dissertation module together with a number of choice modules.
Studying dance is a challenging and rewarding experience. It offers the opportunity to extend and develop your dance technique and choreographic skills, while you study and engage in academic and vocational studies.
We offer a challenging experience to study Contemporary Dance taught by expert dance teachers and researchers in a stimulating environment – specialise in areas such as Dance Performance, Choreography and Dance Movement Psychotherapy.
You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake a work placement with a high-profile dance company, arts organisation or educational setting, which will help you to access a number of areas of employment.
This programme provides you with a variety of experiences that will prepare you for your chosen career direction.
Teaching and Assessment
How you will learn
You will complete theoretical and practical study in most of your modules. Your typical study week will include dance technique classes, supplemental training practices, lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory skills sessions, studio-based workshops and application of practice.
Outside of scheduled classes you will complete independent study including researching texts, completing individual or group tasks and working on your assignments.
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The Course
What you will study
You will study a selection of core and optional modules. Each module is delivered differently depending on its content and focus of study.
Modules
Applied Dance: Community, Production & Administration
In this module you will undertake a work placement in a dance-related role. You could work in dance administration, technical production or work in the community dance sector. You will be required to apply your own decision-making skills and exercise your own initiative during your placement, and to reflect on and evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses.
Potential placement venues include:
- Regional dance agencies
- Small scale dance companies
- Community dance venues
- Educational institutions
- Dance magazines.
If you choose to study the 45-credit option of this module you will have selected to work with 3Fall Dance Company or mapdance in an intensive technical theatre practice or administration role.
Choreographic Projects
Clear dialogue between process and product allows you to research, direct and develop a work of choreography.
The following topics will be explored in relation to imaginative, project-specific problem-solving:
- Communication of meaning and imagery
- Development of personal style
- Dance and music partnerships
- Use of scenography to support thematic intent (costume, lighting, visual effects, objects and/or set).
You will consider and analyse the choreographic process through a critically reflective lens, supported by pre-assessments furthering self and peer-appraisal of works in progress.
Dance Criticism
The module considers the meaning and purpose of dance criticism, and how different styles and genres may demand particular approaches.
It focuses on the analysis of selected dance works, live and on video, and questions the relationship between criticism and judgement.
It introduces a range of analytical strategies, including description, interpretation, evaluation, and examines the suitability of these approaches in different contexts – particularly in the context of radical new work.
Understanding develops as you learn how to apply critical theory and analysis to dance in performance and learn more about appreciating and experiencing. You will be introduced to different kinds of critical responses; cultural and theoretical studies and the roles of professional writers/editors/ broadcasters.
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).
Dance Techniques 3
This module allows you to explore how corporeal expressivity manifests the embodiment of breath, flow, weight, skeletal articulation and use of timing, space and focus required for skilful dance performance.
Phrasing is considered in relation to use of transitions, development and elements of risk combined to extend use of physicality and technical range. Complex movement phrases and improvisational situations challenge you to work in greater depth, allowing for development of individual style.
Contextual aspects dance styles and approaches to technique arise through practice and discussions, supported by self, peer and tutor appraisal. You are expected to apply and develop key elements of ‘dance fitness’ in your personal preparation and practice of this module.
Dissertation Project
This investigative project encourages you to demonstrate a systematic understanding of a key area of dance practice or research.
You will use a combination of written and/or practical methodologies to explore a research area that is of personal interest to you and also informed by aspects of the discipline.
You will also engage with more generic skills designed to extend your knowledge in relation to the demands of independent research. For instance, you will learn to select appropriate topics for research; use valid research methods including retrieval skills; engage with critical analysis and the evaluation of source material; and structure a coherent argument or line of enquiry in relation to both written and practical elements of the dissertation.
Interdisciplinary Arts Project
This module allows you to develop a cohesive interdisciplinary production that can be shown within a variety of performance contexts including local and national festivals of the arts and in an international context through exchange between Universities.
The module allows you to develop stage management, design and production skills in preparation for the final showing of the work.
In the process of working towards a final performance and/or exhibition, you will be engaged in the planning, choreographing/making and directing/supporting of your work, replicating an environment of a professional setting, supported by daily practice, feedback and guidance.
Teaching Dance & Creative Practice
This module builds on the experience gained in Teaching Dance Technique to further hone the skills for the effective delivery of dance lesson content to different groups of participants.
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.
Facilities
Rehearse and perform in practical spaces
You will perform in an Arts Council funded Dance Theatre Space and rehearse in four superb dance studios, the large gymnasium and two sprung-floor spaces. You will also be able to take advantage of a programme of dance company performances, workshops and events supported by Arts Council funding.Â
Dance Studios and Rehearsal Spaces
The ShowRoom
Learning Resource Centre
Library
Careers
Where you could go after your studies
Dance offers a variety of exciting career options. At the University of Chichester you will be guided by our team of specialist dance tutors and visiting dance professionals to find the route that most suits your interests and skills. Preparation for further study and employment is an integral part of our dance programme.
You could become a:
- Choreographer
- Independent dance artist
- Community dance practitioner
- Dance company education officer
- Dance or arts administrator
- Dance movement psychotherapist (with postgraduate study)
- Dance journalist or critic
- Independent dance artist (performer, choreographer)
- Stage manager
- Teacher in primary, secondary, further and higher education (with postgraduate study)
- Postgraduate student and researcher.
Further Study
You could choose to continue your studies at postgraduate level.
Study options at the University of Chichester include:
- MA Performance: Dance
- MA Dance Research
- MA Choreography and Professional Practice
- MA Dance, Somatics and Dance Science
- MA Choreography (Independent Research)
- MA Dance: Advanced 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 2025/26
UK fee
International fee
EU/EEA Fee Reduction Scholarship
EU/EEA students automatically pay the equivalent of UK fees via the EU/EEA Fee Reduction Scholarship
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
Typical offer (individual offers may vary):
- Relevant foundation degree or HND with a good grade profile.
For International Top Up Applicants:
International students looking to take the International top up option should either have:
- Completed a Dance Foundation Degree or Performance (Dance) Foundation degree or equivalent to level 5 with 240 credits achieved;
- Completed an overseas undergraduate degree.
- Applicants should normally have a good Level 5 associate degree (or equivalent) from a recognised overseas institution.
- Minimum IELTS 5.5 with no component below 5.5.
International Top Up Route
Students studying this programme as an International Top Up route can commence the Top Up at IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.
Students will study English Study modules alongside their Dance modules. For further information on this route please contact admissions@chi.ac.uk.
Auditions
You will participate in a dance audition (two and half hour practical) which is designed to assess your potential to respond both technically and expressively. You will also complete an interview where you can showcase your interest and training or experience in dance. Find out more about this process below.
Contextual offers
We believe everyone deserves an equal opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of their background.
When we receive your application we consider your personal circumstances and the factors surrounding your achievements to see if you are eligible for a contextual offer. This is an offer with a reduced entry tariff – typically the equivalent of 16 fewer UCAS points (two A-level grades).
Find out more about our contextual offers.
Auditions and Interviews
The application process
Auditions and interviews usually run from December until March. As well as your interview and practical audition, you will submit a short written task before your interview.
We aim to offer you a genuine dialogue during your application process. This gives you a sense of worth and achievement from the audition process itself; a sense of ownership for you during the process and, ultimately, is an opportunity 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.
You will be interviewed in pairs or threes. You will be asked 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.
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 driven workshop.
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.
The written course is designed to show us your potential and for you to share your ideas about dance with us. There are different written tasks depending on which course you apply for.
BA (Hons) Dance
You will need to prepare an essay reviewing a live or recorded performance you have seen recently. Your submission should be approximately one side of A4 and typed in 12-point font.
You are strongly advised not to write about any set works you are studying for your A level or BTEC course.
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 closed 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.
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.
Different courses have different requirements. If you are auditioning for:
- BA (Hons) Dance and BA (Hons) Dance Performance: you should complete the written essay and prepare a solo.
- 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 and prepare a solo.
In your interview we will discuss which course you are most suited to.
BA (Hons) Dance is a broad-based dance education offering a range of modules that lead to employment options in various dance careers. The course concludes with an extended project and there are opportunities for a professional placement.
BA (Hons) Dance Performance offers an increased focus on technical training and performance practice in contemporary dance, resulting in a more directed modular menu across the three years. The course concludes with the students dancing as performers in 3Fall Dance Company.
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.
Your Audition Day
You audition day will include your interview, practical audition and any additional tasks you need for your course. You will attend the campus and have the opportunity to learn about our different courses, department, and the University of Chichester in an initial group meeting.
You will complete your practical audition and your guests can wait and have a coffee. We will accompany during your practical piece so please bring copies of any piano accompaniment parts. Please do not bring photocopies unless you have the written permission of the copyright holder.
If you need particular equipment like a drum kit, orchestral percussion or a concert harp, please let the admissions team know so we can have this available for you. If you need to borrow an instrument because you won’t be able to bring your own, like a double bass or cello, please let us know so we can make sure there is one for you to use.
After the practical audition we will run a Q&A session for you and your guests to ask any questions you have.
On your audition day you will need:
- 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)
- a pre-prepared 1-minute solo in a contemporary dance style if you are applying for BA (Hons) Dance Performance or BA (Hons) Dance, Aerial and Physical Theatre.
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 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 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 don’t do unconditional offers: Unless you already have your grades (you are a mature student), we will always 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.
