Renowned Conservatory Establishes School of Dance
As an educational leader in arts and entertainment, Point Park University's Conservatory of Performing Arts is home to the newly established School of Dance. Point Park’s Department of Dance has long been recognized as one of the top programs in the United States that propels students to successful careers as professional dancers, choreographers and teachers in dance companies, Broadway shows and tours. Changing the structure adapts to industry needs and offers students more opportunities to focus on their core areas of interest.
“What keeps the industry moving forward is the idea of innovation and reimagination. We are prepared to continue evolving so that our dancers leave Point Park prepared to succeed in whatever field of dance they choose.”
Majors and Departments
The School of Dance offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance or a Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education Certification. The school is comprised of two departments:
Department of Commercial Dance
Department of Concert Dance
B.A. in Dance Education Certification
The B.A. in Dance Education Certification Pre-K through 12 program creates a direct path for dance students who wish to continue high-level dance training and become certified dance educators.
Minors
Students also have the option to minor in musical theatre for dancers or choreography (beginning fall 2025).
Fast-Track Master's Programs
Dance students interested in expanding their career options in the business, communication or education fields can explore our fast-track master's programs:
- B.F.A. in dance and an M.Ed. in Pre-K through 4th grade in 4 ½ years
- B.F.A. in dance and an M.Ed. in Pre-K through 12th dance education certification in 4 ½ years
- B.F.A. in dance and an M.A. in public relations, advertising and social media in 4 years
- B.F.A. dance and an MBA in 4 years
The Dance Student Experience
Video by Dylan Letorney, founder and creative director of Hybrid Media Productions
To provide the best experience and resources for students, the School of Dance is collaborating with UPMC Sports Medicine to upgrade the University's athletic training room. UPMC Sports Medicine's generous support plays an integral part of the student experience in the School of Dance.
Message from Dean Garfield Lemonius
It is my privilege to serve as the dean and artistic director of the School of Dance within the Conservatory of Performing Arts, a nationally recognized center for premier dance education.
Together with dedicated and renowned faculty and staff, we are committed to honoring the legacy of dance at Point Park University in fostering creativity and innovation, while centering the needs of our talented and diverse students in a rigorous and caring learning community.
We remain a beacon to attracting young dance artists to the School of Dance and are committed to ensuring a welcoming space for industry creatives, as we continue to serve as a model of artistic excellence.
Our School of Dance offers the opportunity for faculty to exchange ideas, and develop and implement new and diverse programmatic offerings for students, ensuring they are ready for a changing dance industry.
Through courageous conversations, hard work and determination, together with innovative programming, we give a nod to the past, while eyeing a future of possibilities. Working with other conservatory and university constituents to fulfill the mission of the University, we ensure that all students receive the best quality education they deserve in a diverse, safe, equitable and inclusive learning environment.
Welcome to the School of Dance in the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University!