Rehearse for your future through an exploration of movement and expression.

The dance program at Pacific University combines practical experience with rigorous academics while facilitating a holistic learning environment. The program provides opportunities to perform and choreograph, while integrating dance with a liberal arts education.

Study and Practice Dance

Students train in techniques devoted to ballet, contemporary and jazz. They study dance history, choreography, pedagogy, kinesiology and world cultures. Dance majors complete integrative capstones in dance and other areas, such as dance, art, media arts, chemistry, music, education and more.

“My experience with dance in higher education has been so different and so rewarding. ”

— Chika Matsumoto '21

Dance Performance

The department produces two main stage dance concerts a year, and students receive the opportunity to participate in our pre-professional university company, Pacific Dance Ensemble. Students who have a strong interest in choreography can audition original dance works into the fall concert and gain the skills that will prepare them to present in professional dance festivals upon graduation.

”Pacific
“I’ve been a dancer my entire life and wanted to continue to pursue that in college. I hope to become a dance teacher.”
— Olivia Oetker '23

Careers in Dance

Many Pacific dance students choose career paths in performance, choreography, education and physical therapy, and are prepared to enter into graduate dance programs.

Dance Scholarships

Pacific University offers Dance Talent Scholarships for qualifying students who plan to major or minor in dance. Submit your application and audition materials to earn $1,000 to $6,000 a year in scholarships for your dance experience. Learn More

Headlines

The Autumn Choreographers Concert and Jazz Nite are approaching. Get your tickets now for in person and virtual performances!

Marsh Lawn

One Woman, Too Much is an hour-long play about the juggling act of a single working mom. The play is written and produced by Ellen Margolis, the chair of the Pacific University Theatre & Dance Department. 

Chika Matsumoto '21

Chika Matsumoto '21 received the 2021 Outstanding Contributions to Student Life Award from Pacific University.