Certified dance instructors typically have a strong background in dance and enjoy sharing the art with children and adolescents. Keep reading to learn more about state requirements and degree programs that could prepare you for teaching certification.
What Are the Education Requirements For Dance Instructor Certification?
While certification may not be required for dance instructors in recreational programs or private studios, certification is typically required for individuals who want to teach dance in a public elementary or secondary school. If you are an education major, you might enroll in a bachelor's or master's degree program that includes preparation for teaching certification. Many university-level dance schools offer bachelor's and master's degree programs that give you instruction in both dance and teaching. You can earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Education (Ed.M.) in Dance with teacher certification.
Bachelor's programs are intended for those with no previous degree or teacher certification. Master's programs are geared towards aspiring public school dance instructors who have a bachelor's degree and a significant amount of experience in the field. Due to in-person course requirements, most of these degree programs are campus-based.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Education Requirements</b></td><td> State certification required for teaching in all public schools; teaching/subject certification may be available for non-teacher professionals working in public schools</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Degree Levels</b></td><td> Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Education (Ed.M.)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Ballet, modern choreography, analysis of movement, methods of teaching dance, student teaching internships</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification Requirements</b></td><td> Application, educational transcripts, written exam</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Median Salary (2020)</b> </td><td> $19.11/hour (<i>for all dancers and choreographers</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 6% growth (<i>for all dancers and choreographers</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWillITake">What Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>The curriculum of a B.A. or B.F.A. in Dance degree program usually includes courses such as ballet, modern choreography and analysis of movement. In programs that offer certification preparation, you'll also study methods for teaching dance, instructional techniques in elementary education and the psychology of learning. Most bachelor's programs require completion of a student teaching internship; participation in public dance performances may be required as well.
</p><p>In an M.A. or Ed.M. in Dance program, you could learn about improvisational movement, dance instruction for children and the cultural history of dance. Similar to bachelor's programs, master's programs that offer certification preparation will expect you to complete a student teaching experience.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatIsTheCertificationProcess">What Is the Certification Process?</h3><p>In order to receive teaching certification in most states, you'll need to submit an application and any educational transcripts to the appropriate state department or commission. Most states also require completion of a written exam. In some cases, you might need to earn continuing education credits during your teaching career in order to maintain certification.</p>
