Dance FAQs - GCU's College of Arts & Media

Can non-dance majors enroll in dance classes?

Yes, each semester, there are courses offered for non-majors including DAN-120Introduction to Modern, DAN-313 Vernacular Dance: Urban/Hip Hop I, and DAN-312Vernacular Dance: Tap I are offered in the fall. DAN-100 Introduction to Ballet and DAN-101Introduction to Jazz are offered in the spring. Non-majors should avoid registering in sections that include the code, “AD” or “ADV,” which is intended for majors who have attained a higher level of technical proficiency.

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Is the GCU Dance Team affiliated with the Dance Department?

There is no affiliation. The BA Dance Education and BA Dance are undergraduate degree programs housed in the College of Arts and Media while GCU Dance Team is part of GCUEvents and Athletics. Auditions occur separately. Both the GCU Dance Team and the CAM Dance Program have significant rehearsal and performance obligations. For that reason, directors have determined that it is not possible for students pursuing a degree in dance to also be on the dance team.

For information about GCU’s Dance Team, contact gcudanceteam@gcu.edu.
Please refer to the PDS Resource Dance Degree Program vs. Dance Team on LopeNet.

What types of dance will students study?

Modern, ballet and jazz dance techniques are required for three semesters for both dance and dance education majors. In addition, two semesters of tap and hip-hop are required for dance majors and recommended for dance education majors. Introductory coursework in each dance form will focus on alignment, memorization and vocabulary building with exposure to foundational principles and a survey of styles within the form. Upper levels of ballet technique courses may include pointe, variations and partnering.

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What is the dress code for dance classes?

Guidelines will be made available by each instructor. Students will be expected to wear dance attire that is specific to the demands of the particular dance discipline. However, the following guidelines apply across all dance disciplines.

Close-fitting, opaque dance-wear that covers the body appropriately; no street shoes on the dance floor; pant legs should be easily rolled up and secured if below ankle-length
Appropriate footwear to the dance genre; Professional fittings are recommended
Long hair in a ponytail or bun; short hair secured away from the face
No bulky jewelry or distracting clothing designs

What is the National Honor Society for Dance Arts?

Any dance major or minor student at Grand Canyon University may apply for induction into the National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA). Inducted members are eligible to Graduate with Honors for their outstanding artistic, academic, and leadership achievements. Membership in NDEO is required for consideration, along with documentation of accomplishments in the field of dance education, performance, choreography, and scholarship. Contact the Dance Director for more information about joining.

Are there any dance clubs?

Yes. All dance majors and minors are encouraged to participate in the Student Dance Organization. Bi-weekly meetings for the general membership will occur on Mondays from 12:30-1PM in 46-104.

What are scholarship hours?

If you are a dance major on a performance scholarship you will be required to complete 30 hours of service per semester. Opportunities to fill these hours will be communicated by the Dance Director.

What are the Student Spotlight Concerts?

Our bi-annual Fall and Spring Student Spotlight Dance Concerts at Thunderground showcase the work of our student choreographers. Any current dance major or minor is eligible to submit choreography for consideration.

What are the dance ensembles?

All dance majors are required to enroll in a dance ensemble course. In order to be cast you must audition. Auditions take place during the first two weeks of classes. Any current GCU undergraduate student is eligible to audition for the Winter and Spring Dance Concerts. Dance and Dance Education majors are required to audition each semester. Check Halo for audition information.

Where are the dance classes offered?

A majority of the dance technique classes are offered in the Saguaro Dance Studios 46-104, 46-107. Some classes are offered in the Sanctuary located in the Lopes Performance Center 12-204.

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