The UK is one of the best places in the world to study unique and dynamic vocational subjects such as Dance and Choreography. A combination of theory and practice is used to develop knowledge and skills when studying Dance in the UK. Studying Dance at UK universities will teach you how to communicate with an audience through performance and teach you the history of dance and choreography.
You will study modules such as dance technique, contextualising dance, choreography composition, improvisation, performance and place, dance portfolio, bodywork and community dance teaching. You can study a range of dance genres at UK universities and choose from several specialisms as part of your studies.
Learn about studying for an undergraduate Dance degree at top UK universities (Guardian University Guide 2023) and conservatoires below, or start your application by arranging your free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Top Five Universities for Studying Dance in the UK
1. Conservatoire for Dance and Drama
Located in the UK’s vibrant and cosmopolitan cities of London, Bristol and Leeds, the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama delivers world-leading education and vocational training in the Performing Arts. The school offers an immersive experience and access to industry links post training. Notable alumni are Olivia Colman, Naomi Harris and Dane Hurst.
Practical classes, workshops, lectures, seminars, and ‘laboratory-style’ practical sessions are the major modes of teaching. Students get tutorials and faculty interaction moments to solve their queries effectively. The institute has state-of-the-art facilities you will use throughout your course.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Contemporary Dance
- Entry requirements: Entry is through a successful audition and interview. Additionally, you require five GCSE passes (grade C/4 or above)
- International fees: £17,500
2. University of Central Lancashire
The University of Central Lancashire, popularly known as UCLan, is one of the UK’s top modern universities. Studying Dance at UCLan will help prepare you for life as an independent dance artist. Also, UCLan offers two purpose-built dance studios with a sprung floor surface and audio playback equipment. UCLan boasts a 96% student satisfaction rate for undergraduate dance studies at the University.
The first year is dedicated to introducing you to dance and performing arts fundamentals. You will work off-campus in the second year by visiting choreography centres, theatres, and primary and secondary schools. Students become part of the University’s Dance Company in their final year, instrumental in enhancing their exposure to real-time performances and workshops. The course values sustainable growth over competing with others, a key approach to transforming you into a well-rounded dance professional.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Dance
- Entry requirements: UCAS: 96 points at A2, BTEC Extended Diploma: MMM, BTEC Diploma: DD
- International fees: £14250
3. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
This conservatoire of music and dance, located in Glasgow, Scotland is the busiest performance arts venue in Scotland. It offers several vocational undergraduate degree programmes in dance, and you will develop classical and contemporary dance techniques and become a technically strong dancer.
As the only conservatoire in Europe to offer all the performance art forms, RCS is known for its concentration on building students’ robust technical and artistic expertise. The BA (Hons) Modern Ballet degree is delivered in partnership with Scottish Ballet and provides multiple opportunities to acquire invaluable professional skills.
The three-year programme promotes pas de deux, pointe work, virtuosity, conditioning and contextual studies in great detail. You will get a chance to better your choreographic skills by collaborating with other departments and university partners. In the third year, you will also get touring opportunities and can join company classes with several performance companies.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Modern Ballet
- Entry requirements: Five passes at a minimum of National 5 or equivalent such as Standard Grades (Grade 1—3) or Intermediate 1 or 2
- International fees: £20,859
4. University of Birmingham
A Russell Group university, the University of Birmingham is one of the most internationally diverse places to study in the UK. The Performing Arts programmes offered at the University of Birmingham are designed to nurture and enhance raw talent and develop a career in the professional entertainment industry. You will get special training in dance, singing and acting all combined or with an emphasis on any one, depending on what you wish to specialise in.
Birmingham is home to world-class conservatoire and music facilities, including the Bramall Music Building and the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group. The deep association with the industry ensures students get enough opportunities to showcase their talents and hone their skills in a down-home environment. After programme completion, you will get expert assistance from Birmingham’s careers network to help your transition into the professional world.
- Suggested course: MA Music: Global Popular Musics pathway
- Entry requirements: Honours degree (2:1), or equivalent, in Music or a related subject with a substantial musical component
- International fees: £21,150
5. Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance
A world-renowned leader in the education of contemporary dance artists, Trinity Laban offers an environment of creative and technical excellence where you are encouraged to push your artistic boundaries. You will learn through intensive technical training, in-depth study, extensive studio time, collaborative projects and performance opportunities at the UK’s only music and contemporary dance conservatoire.
The BSc Dance Science programme enables students to develop their passion for dance and music by expanding their technical understanding and creative skills. Being in the company of a world-class conservatoire community, they study the importance of biomechanics, exercise physiology, performance psychology, fitness and wellbeing. The course equips graduates to work in various roles in the dance and fitness industries.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dance Science
- Entry requirements: Practical experience of at least one dance form, 5 GCSEs 9-4 (or A*-C), Two A Levels at Grade E or above
- International fees: £16,490 (Dance Science), £21,020 (Contemporary Dance)
Careers in Dance
Apart from the Performing Arts and Education, other industries in which dance graduates usually find employment are arts administration, health, welfare, tourism and fitness.
Dancers and choreographers can work as performers in films, tv shows, and musicals and teach in dance academies or as subject teachers in regular schools. They can be fitness instructors, performance directors or vocational trainers.
Freelancing is common in this profession, and strong networking is required to find good employment opportunities or to stand out in the competitive crowd.
Study Dance in the UK
By studying Dance and Choreography in the UK, make a career out of your passion. Book a free consultation today to connect with our expert consultants and enquire about course details, entry requirements, scholarships, post-study work visa and more.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 