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MA Program

• graduate program supplemental information form (download form)
• statement of objectives (download form)
• sample of academic writing
• three letters of recommendation
• interview (Required of applicants residing in Hawai'i.)
• official TOEFL scores — 600/250/100 or above (Required of most non-native speakers of English. Click here for information on exemptions.)

MFA Program

• graduate program supplemental information form (download form)
• statement of objectives (download form)
• sample of academic writing
• video tape (VHS format) of choreography and performance
• three letters of recommendation
• interview (Required of applicants residing in Hawai'i.)
• official TOEFL scores — 600/250/100 or above (Required of most non-native speakers of English. Click here for information on exemptions.)

Dance is the art of human motion. It encompasses the study of human movement as it relates to cultural context, education, history, human expression, music, physical sciences, theater performance and production, and visual design.

The Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa (UHM) is recognized internationally for its unique multicultural approach to the study of theatre and dance. The university's location in the middle of the Pacific allows for a rich exposure to theatre and dance from the East and the West, both for students and the community at large.

The department offers graduate programs leading to the MA and the MFA in dance. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses on theory and a wide variety of dance techniques and styles. The department is especially known for its course offerings in dance ethnology and Asian and Pacific dance. The department is affiliated with the American College Dance Festival Association and the Council of Dance Administrators.

Most graduates in dance pursue teaching careers, but there are many career opportunities in community theaters, dance companies, television, films, and professional theaters. In addition, dance majors gain skills and experiences that are applicable to all professions — including creativity; discipline; self-confidence; analytical, practical and problem-solving skills; and the ability to work toward common production goals.

The MA and MFA programs in Asian dance participate in the Western Regional Graduate Program administered by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). The program enables legal residents of WICHE member states to enroll in selected out-of-state professional or graduate programs at reduced tuition rates. For more information, see Financial Matters < WICHE Program.

The MA program is available in Plan A (thesis) or Plan B (non-thesis).

MA Plan A Degree Requirements
The MA Plan A requires 36 credits (including six credits of thesis research), a written thesis and defense of the thesis.

MA Plan B Degree Requirements
The MA Plan B requires 36 credits, a written comprehensive exam and an oral defense of the exam.

MFA Degree Requirements
The MFA Plan A requires 60 credits and a creative performance thesis with written documentation.

Courses
To view a listing of courses offered, visit www.catalog.hawaii.edu/courses/departments/dnce.htm.