The Santa Monica College Dance Department offers a comprehensive AA degree in dance rooted in theory and practice that prepares students for BFA and BA transfer and dance related careers, while serving the general student population through a breadth of dance experiences. The Dance Department is dedicated to nurturing versatile dance artists through a combination of rigorous technical training in contemporary modern, ballet, commercial, and world dance forms with performance opportunities, theoretical study and creative exploration. Our aesthetically and culturally diverse curriculum inspires students to cultivate personal artistry, think critically, value difference, and become responsible global citizens.
Transfer Preparation
Many colleges and universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university need to know which courses completed at Santa Monica College will be accepted at the specific college/university. Please consult a Counselor. SMC has transfer articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as many private and out-of-state institutions.
Degrees and Certificates
Associate in Arts Degree - Dance
29 units + General Education Requirements
The Dance program prepares the serious dance student for university transfer and provides dance training and enrichment for both the beginner and the advanced dancer. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with a broad range of dance courses to nurture versatile dance artists. The dance department encourages students to think independently, to value creative thought and diversity, and to be responsible global citizens.
The goal of the Dance Program is to prepare students for future careers in performance, choreography, teaching and related careers in dance. The program offers a wide array of dance classes designed to cultivate technique, creativity and performance skills while enhancing self-confidence, creative thought/expression, and critical thinking.