Dance Science

Program Overview

A degree in Dance Science blends both the art and science of dance into a singular curriculum. Students will study the art and movement of dance - fundamentals of classical dance forms; history and theory of dance, composition and performance - while simultaneously exploring the science underlying human performance.  They will understand socio-political-historical aspects of dance, and be able to discuss meaning in movement. Students will learn to integrate mind-body and develop strength, coordination, flexibility, musicality, and expression, while studying how the human body functions as a dancer to achieve optimal performance.

Curriculum Overview

Students will learn how to conceptualize, create, and analyze dance as they study the art of movement.  They will receive a comprehensive education in both the art of dance and the instrument of dance - the body. Students will have opportunities to both perform on stage and work, shadow, and research with our physical therapist who specializes in movement logic and injury prevention. Each student will select a capstone, multi-disciplinary, or research project. Understanding biomechanics will increase understanding and equip students with the skills, theoretical framework, and experience necessary to enter the workforce as dance teachers, choreographers, directors, producers, and candidates for graduate school in education, dance, or sciences.

Degree Offered

  • B.A. in Dance Science

Contact

Jonathan Karp, Ph.D.
Professor and Acting Chairperson
Department of Health Sciences and Nursing
School of Science, Technology and Mathematics
Science and Technology Center 339E
609-895-5658
jkarp@rider.edu

Related Programs: 

Dance Science Program Requirements

General Remarks

For all courses offered through the Department of Performing Arts (course prefix DAN), students must earn a minimum grade of "C" in those courses required in the major area in order to make satisfactory progress.  If a grade of "C-" or lower is earned, the student must repeat the course.

(76 major credits and 44 General Education and Free Elective credits)

Required Science Courses
BIO 115
115L
Principles of Biology I
and Principles of Biology I Lab
4
BIO 221
221L
Human Anatomy & Physiology I
and Human Anatomy & Physiology I Lab
4
BIO 222
222L
Human Anatomy & Physiology II
and Human Anatomy & Phys II Lab
4
EXS 320
EXS 321
Exercise Physiology
and Exercise Physiology Laboratory
4
EXS 360
EXS 361
Foundations of Strength and Conditioning
and Foundations of Strength and Conditioning Lab
4
HSC 110Introduction to Human Nutrition3
HSC 210Nutrition for Exercise and Physical Activity3
HSC 302
HSC 303
Kinesiology
and Kinesiology Lab
4
PSY 345Health Psychology3
or PSY 283 Sport Psychology
Internship/Practicum and/or Research3
Independent Research and Study
Internship in Dance
Senior Capstone
Required Dance Course
DAN 121Introduction to Dance Science3
Required Ensemble/Performance Courses
DAN 111Dance Lab (7 terms) 10
DAN 210Rider Dances: Repertory & Productions1
DAN 210TRider Dances Rep&Produc:Tech1
Required Applied Studio Courses
DAN 112Ballet I1
DAN 113Ballet II1
DAN 201Ballet III1
DAN 202Ballet IV1
DAN 100Contemporary Dance Forms 24
or DAN 300 Lecture & Studio in Dance
DAN 151Modern Dance I1
DAN 152Modern Dance II1
Studio Electives
DAN 100Contemporary Dance Forms (including 1 credit of Combo: Mindbody)4
or DAN 300 Lecture & Studio in Dance
Dance History and Theory18
Survey of Dance History
Movement Theory and Somatic Practice
Music for Dance
Dance Composition
History of Ballet, Modern & Jazz Dance
Pedagogy and Methodology in Dance
Suggested Core Courses
MTH 105Algebra and Trigonometry4
PHL 304Medical Ethics3
PSY 100Introduction to Psychology3
SOC 101Sociological Imagination3
Additional Core Courses21
Select courses in Languages, History, Writing, or Literature
Free Electives13
Total Credits120
1

Double majors should consult their advisors to determine the most pedagogically appropriate lab to attend. Students should not register in more than one lab per semester. Students are required to complete at least three lab sections in each of their majors before graduation. Students must meet the minimum total credits of lab required by each major though some of those credits may come from a different discipline.

2

3 credits of Ballet, 1 credit of Hip Hop or Jazz

Note:

  • All majors and minors will participate in ongoing Dance Screening with a certified Dance Physical Therapist, fees for which are assessed as part of overall tuition package.

Academic Plan

The following educational plan is provided as a sample only.  Rider students who do not declare a major during their freshman year; who are in a Continuing Education Program; who change their major; or who transfer to Rider may follow a different plan to ensure a timely graduation.  Each student, with guidance from their academic advisor, will develop a personalized educational plan.

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1
Fall SemesterCredits
CMP 120 Seminar in Writing and Rhetoric 3
DAN 105 Survey of Dance History 3
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
DAN 112 Ballet I 1
DAN 151 Modern Dance I 1
MTH 100
Intermediate Algebra
or Algebra and Trigonometry
3-4
PSY 100
Introduction to Psychology
or Life Science
3
 Semester Credit Hours14-15
Spring Semester
BIO 115
115L
Principles of Biology I
and Principles of Biology I Lab
4
CMP 125 Seminar in Writing and Research 3
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
DAN 113 Ballet II 1
DAN 152 Modern Dance II 1
DAN 350 History of Ballet, Modern & Jazz Dance 3
DAN 210T Rider Dances Rep&Produc:Tech 1
EXS 121 Exercise Injury Control and Management 1 3
 Semester Credit Hours16
Year 2
Fall Semester
DAN 100 Contemporary Dance Forms (Princeton Ballet Studio) 1
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
DAN 201 Ballet III 1
DAN 460 Movement Theory and Somatic Practice 3
BIO 221
221L
Human Anatomy & Physiology I
and Human Anatomy & Physiology I Lab
4
PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology 3
SOC 101 Sociological Imagination 3
 Semester Credit Hours15
Spring Semester
DAN 100 Contemporary Dance Forms (studio) 1
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
DAN 310 Music for Dance 3
DAN 202 Ballet IV 1
BIO 222
222L
Human Anatomy & Physiology II
and Human Anatomy & Phys II Lab
4
HSC 110 Introduction to Human Nutrition 3
PSY 283
Sport Psychology
or Health Psychology
3
 Semester Credit Hours15
Year 3
Fall Semester
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
DAN 220 Dance Composition 3
DAN 300 Lecture & Studio in Dance 2
EXS 320
EXS 321
Exercise Physiology
and Exercise Physiology Laboratory
4
HSC 210 Nutrition for Exercise and Physical Activity 3
CAS General Education/Elective 3
 Semester Credit Hours15
Spring Semester
DAN 100 Contemporary Dance Forms 1
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
DAN 210 Rider Dances: Repertory & Productions 1
DAN 450 Pedagogy and Methodology in Dance 3
HSC 302
HSC 303
Kinesiology
and Kinesiology Lab
4
PHL 304 Medical Ethics 3
CAS General Education/Elective 3
 Semester Credit Hours15
Year 4
Fall Semester
DAN 100 Contemporary Dance Forms 1
DAN 111 Dance Lab 0
PSY 345 Health Psychology 3
CAS General Education/Elective 3
CAS General Education/Elective 3
CAS General Education/Elective 3
Elective 3
 Semester Credit Hours16
Spring Semester
DAN 100 Contemporary Dance Forms 1
DAN 498
Senior Capstone
or Independent Research and Study
or Internship in Dance
3
EXS 360
EXS 361
Foundations of Strength and Conditioning
and Foundations of Strength and Conditioning Lab
4
CAS General Education/Elective 3
CAS General Education/Elective 3
 Semester Credit Hours14
 Total Credit Hours for Graduation120-121
1

Substitute for DAN 121. See advisor for note.

2

Capstone may be completed in another semester. See advisor for requirements and planning.

Courses and Descriptions

BIO 115 Principles of Biology I 4 Credits

An introductory biology course focusing on major themes of biology: what is life?; Cells as fundamental structure and functional unit of life; information transmission, storage and retrieval; Diversity and unity of life explained by evolution. Three hours of lecture and one three- hour lab per week.

Corequisite(s): BIO 115L.

BIO 115L Principles of Biology I Lab 0 Credits

This lab is a co-requisite and must be taken with the corresponding course.

Corequisite(s): BIO 115.

BIO 221 Human Anatomy & Physiology I 4 Credits

A comprehensive survey of the structure and function of musculo-skeletal systems, neuroendocrine systems and related tissues and cellular interactions. Physiological applications include homeostasis, muscle dynamics, and cell activities. Laboratory exercises complement lecture material through the use of animal dissections, wet labs, computer-assisted investigations, microscopy, and models. Exams, case histories, personal investigations, and lab practicums assess learning. Course emphasis supports allied health and pre-professional training. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab per week. Designed for allied health students; does not satisfy requirements for the biology major. Prerequisite(s): HSC major ONLY or Permission of instructor.

Corequisite(s): BIO 221L.

BIO 221L Human Anatomy & Physiology I Lab 0 Credits

This lab is a co-requisite and must be taken with the corresponding course.

Corequisite(s): BIO 221.

BIO 222 Human Anatomy & Physiology II 4 Credits

A comprehensive survey of the organ systems of the body including special senses, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory, reproduction and development. Physiological components include electrolytes, metabolism, nutrition, and the mechanisms of homeostasis and cell reception. Lab studies support lecture material through dissections, wet labs, computer-assisted learning, microscopy, and models. Assessment includes lab practicums, exams, and reports. Course emphasis supports allied health and pre-professional training. Designed for allied health students; does not satisfy requirements for the biology major. Prerequisite(s): BIO 221.

Corequisite(s): BIO 222L.

BIO 222L Human Anatomy & Phys II Lab 0 Credits

This lab is a co-requisite and must be taken with the corresponding course. Prerequisite(s): BIO 221L.

Corequisite(s): BIO 222.

DAN 100 Contemporary Dance Forms 1 Credits

Designed to offer students training in a range of dance genres such as Hip Hop, West African, Latin, Commercial, Lyrical, Tap, and Jazz. Forms rotate each semester. This course may be taken more than once for credit.

DAN 105 Survey of Dance History 3 Credits

An introductory course to familiarize students with the breadth and depth of dance in human society. It will chronologically examine dance through four lenses: Dance and Community, Dance and Religion, Dance and Politics, and Dance as Art. Students will be exposed to various dance forms from around the world with varying purposes, functions, and motivations from the beginning of recorded history to present.

DAN 111 Dance Lab 0 Credits

DAN 112 Ballet I 1 Credits

This course provides a foundational study of ballet for dancers within a university setting. Classes concentrate on foundational concepts within ballet technique and theory. Work focuses on alignment and core connection; balance and/or aplomb; physical strength and flexibility; upper and lower body integration and coordination; clarity of line and direction in movement; qualitative range and expressivity inside movement; use of dynamics, weight and breath; mental dexterity; and self-motivation discipline. Over the term students become familiar with terminology and positions of the body, and gain broad knowledge of the protocols and traditions of ballet class.

DAN 113 Ballet II 1 Credits

This is a continuation of the fundamental practices covered in Ballet I, including proper use of alignment, feet, rotation, and use of the core in the classical vocabulary. In addition this course extends the coverage of discourse, terminology and vocabulary of the classical technique. Course pre-req(s): DAN 112 with a C+ or better.

DAN 121 Introduction to Dance Science 3 Credits

This orientation to dance science will consider important aspects of the study of human performance including anatomy, biology, kinesiology, and psychology of movement and performance. Covered are the foundations and research findings in Movement Theory, Motor Development, and Well -Being. Topics include the Care and Prevention of Injuries, Movement Analysis, Dance Movement Therapy, Mind-body Connection, Dance Fitness and Optimal Performance.

DAN 151 Modern Dance I 1 Credits

Modern Dance I is a foundation level technique class that aims to inform students' dance skills through studying the concepts and techniques of modern dance by expanding knowledge and expressive range to increase potential as a dancer and artist. The course will progress throughout the semester and is based on the foundational exercises. Variation on the exercises will be practiced as the class progresses. The sequence of movements - floor work, standing center work, and traveling across the floor - is usually taught in order. The contraction and release principle is used throughout the classwork.

DAN 152 Modern Dance II 1 Credits

Modern Dance II is a continuation of Modern Dance I and is a foundation level technique class that aims to inform students' dance skills through studying the concepts and techniques of modern dance by expanding knowledge and expressive range to increase potential as a dancer and artist. The course will progress throughout the semester and is based on the foundational exercises. Variation on the exercises will be practiced as the class progresses. The sequence of movements - floor work, standing center work, and traveling across the floor - is usually taught in order. The contraction and release principle is used throughout the classwork. Permission of Instructor or prescreen placement is required.

DAN 201 Ballet III 1 Credits

This course provides a foundational study of ballet for dancers within a university setting. Classes concentrate on foundational concepts within ballet technique and theory. Work focuses on alignment and core connection; balance and/or aplomb; physical strength and flexibility; upper and lower body integration and coordination; clarity of line and direction in movement; qualitative range and expressivity inside movement; use of dynamics, weight and breath; mental dexterity; and self-motivation discipline. Over the term students become familiar with terminology and positions of the body, and gain broad knowledge of the protocols and traditions of ballet class. Permission of Instructor or prescreen placement is required.

DAN 202 Ballet IV 1 Credits

This course is a continuation of DAN 201. The course provides further skills in basic classical ballet vocabulary and preparation for professional study at the intermediate level. Permission of Instructor or prescreen placement is required.

DAN 210 Rider Dances: Repertory & Productions 1 Credits

This course provides an in-depth experience with the art of dance production from creation to performance. Students will be chosen to learn and perform repertory; fulfill technical roles such as sound, lighting and costume design; and assume production and managerial responsibilities such as promotion, publicity, front of house management and stage management.

Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.

DAN 210T Rider Dances Rep&Produc:Tech 1 Credits

DAN 220 Dance Composition 3 Credits

This course prepares the dance student for the creation of dance through critical analysis, reading, writing and practical assignments. Students will examine the creative process as applied to dance artists and various forms and genres of dance. Weekly choreographic studies that deal with space, time, energy, gesture, and form are assigned.

Prerequisite(s): DAN 215 with a C+ or better.

DAN 300 Lecture & Studio in Dance 2 Credits

Dance 300 series is also designed to offer students concurrent participation and theoretical inquiry in specific dance forms. Students must register for four classes per week at the Princeton Ballet School. One additional hour is comprised of video observation, lecture, or readings and is held at Rider’s Lawrenceville campus. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor; Dance Studio Courses Ballet I.

DAN 310 Music for Dance 3 Credits

This course teaches dancers to consider Western and non-Western music, building the necessary vocabulary to analyze, develop, and communicate musical ideas. We will explore the basic elements of music through the study of rhythmic structures, an introduction to fundamental music theory, critical analysis of compositions and choreography of various genres, and experiential activities that combine music and movement. This course explores temporal and rhythmic organizations of movement and dance analyzed for the purpose of enhancing clarity in performance, choreography, and teaching. Elementary musical notation, scoring, and accompaniment skills are developed.

DAN 350 History of Ballet, Modern & Jazz Dance 3 Credits

Studies the major periods in the development of Western Theatrical Dance from the Renaissance to the present focusing on ballet, modern, jazz, tap and musical theater dance. The course will examine the ideas and individuals that caused the development of choreographers, producers, designers and productions.

DAN 450 Pedagogy and Methodology in Dance 3 Credits

This course provides the student with first-hand experience inside a classroom setting to broaden the students’ understanding of dance techniques, teaching styles and strategies, analysis of skills and critical feedback, class preparation and design, and assessment. Course requirements include off-campus field work. Cross-listing existing entry-level teaching course with analogous graduate-level course (CURR 711).

DAN 460 Movement Theory and Somatic Practice 3 Credits

Somatic Dance Explorations investigates basic kinesiological principles that have informed a range of somatic practices such as Feldenkrais, Bartenieff Fundamentals, Alexander Technique, and yoga. These practices have become widely incorporated into the contemporary dance field as a means of developing greater movement efficiency, enhancing mindfulness, and preventing injuries. In this course, students will gain an understanding of dance performance as it relates to functional anatomy. Building knowledge of the body's structures and regions, particularly the musculoskeletal system, the course will incorporate imagery and kinesthetic exercises to expand the students' technical proficiency and expressivity.

Prerequisite(s): C+ or better in DAN 450.

DAN 490 Independent Research and Study 1-4 Credits

Students may pursue a special topic for which they have prepared through prior course work. Only one project may be scheduled in a semester. The project may involve 1-4 Credit hours. Approval of the faculty sponsor, department chair, and dean required prior to enrollment.

Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing, good academic standing.

DAN 491 Internship in Dance 1-4 Credits

Provides junior or senior dance majors with the practical experience of working within an educational or professional dance environment. Students must be sponsored by a dance professor. For each academic credit, interns must work 48 hours for the semester, or approximately 3.7 hours each week.

Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.

DAN 498 Senior Capstone 3 Credits

EXS 320 Exercise Physiology 3 Credits

An entry level exploration of the physiological processes, metabolic requirements, and consequences of exercise in humans. Emphasis is placed on bioenergetics, as well as circulatory, respiratory, and neuromuscular responses to the physical stress of exercise performed for health and disease prevention.

Prerequisite(s): BIO 221, BIO 222.

EXS 321 Exercise Physiology Laboratory 1 Credits

EXS 321 is the laboratory course that accompanies EXS 320. Topics will include entry-level practical skills and competencies related to exercise capacity evaluation, interpretation of exercise data, and application of exercise interventions in a clinical setting. Prerequisite(s): BIO 221, 222 Co-requisite(s): EXS 320.

EXS 360 Foundations of Strength and Conditioning 3 Credits

This course examines the advanced methods and techniques associated with the design of strength and conditioning programs to enhance human performance in sport and fitness. This course is designed to develop, enhance, and apply knowledge and skills to prepare the student for the profession of strength and conditioning. Prerequisite(s): EXS 320, EXS 321, and HSC 302.

Corequisite(s): EXS 360L.

EXS 361 Foundations of Strength and Conditioning Lab 1 Credits

This course examines the advanced methods and techniques associated with the design of strength and conditioning programs to enhance human performance in sport and fitness. Prerequisite(s): EXS 320, EXS 321, and HSC 302.

Corequisite(s): EXS 360.

HSC 110 Introduction to Human Nutrition 3 Credits

This course is designed to offer the student an understanding of fundamental human nutrition concepts including, but not limited to, digestion, absorption, metabolism, functions, and sources of macronutrients and micronutrients. The theme of the course will align with human health and disease states and the important conceptions about the food industry and its relation to healthy dietetic choices.

HSC 210 Nutrition for Exercise and Physical Activity 3 Credits

An introductory exploration of evidence based nutritional theory and applications in sport and exercise.

Prerequisite(s): HSC 100 with a minimum grade of D or BCH 225 with a minimum grade of D.

HSC 302 Kinesiology 3 Credits

The purpose of this course is to explore human movement during performance of activities. This course will explore the relationship between anatomical structures and function in the production of movement. The application and relationships between the fundamental principles of mechanics and musculoskeletal system function will be addressed within the framework of clinical and research perspectives. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches will be applied towards a better understanding of human movement, the analysis of physical activity. Prerequisite(s): BIO 221 & MTH 105 (or equivalent) or POI.

Corequisite: HSC 303.

HSC 303 Kinesiology Lab 1 Credits

This lab is a co-requisite and must be taken with HSC 302.

Corequisites: HSC 302.

MTH 105 Algebra and Trigonometry 4 Credits

The course is an in depth and rigorous study of functions and graphs, equations and inequalities, polynomial and rational functions, exponential, and logarithmic functions, basic trigonometric functions and their inverses, trigonometric identities.

Prerequisite(s): A mathematics SAT score of 570, departmental placement or MTH 100 with a grade of C or higher.

PHL 303 Philosophy of Law 3 Credits

An examination and analysis of selected topics including classical and contemporary theories in the philosophy of law and moral philosophy. Such topics as the nature of the law and legal reasoning, the legal enforcement of morality, protection of personal liberty, and the moral justification of punishment are considered. Such philosophers as Aquinas, Austin, Holmes, Bentham, Hart, and Dworkin are read and discussed.

PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology 3 Credits

This course covers major facts, principles and concepts about human and animal behavior and experience, research findings, major problems, basic vocabulary, methodologies, and contributions in the field. Topics include psychology as a science; human development; individual differences; intelligence and its measurement; special aptitudes and interests; personality and social behavior; motivation and emotion; frustration and personality deviations; and learning, thinking, remembering and forgetting.

PSY 283 Sport Psychology 3 Credits

This survey course will focus on the social and psychological factors related to performance and participation in sport and exercise, health, and injury rehabilitation settings. Two general questions will be explored: (a) how do social and psychological variables influence performance and participation in physical activity pursuits? And (b) how does physical activity participation affect the psychological well-being of the individual? To better understand these questions, this course will overview theoretical and methodological approaches to a variety of sport and exercise psychology topics, including: socialization, motivation, group processes, competition, and performance enhancement. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131.

PSY 345 Health Psychology 3 Credits

This course focuses on the biopsychosocial model of health in which biological, psychological and social factors contribute to health and wellbeing, as well as illness and disease. After a brief introduction to systems of the body, i.e. nervous, endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, immune, this course will examine health-enhancing behaviors such as exercise and nutrition, as well as health-compromising behaviors such as drug abuse and other reckless behaviors, along with models that explain behavior maintenance and change. Additionally, attention is devoted to a discussion of how health psychology can function in shaping health care policy.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131 and 45 credits.

SOC 101 Sociological Imagination 3 Credits

Introduction to principles and concepts for the sociological analysis of human societies. Social relations, social structure, and institutions characteristic of societies past and present are examined, and causes and directions of social change are considered. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.