Dance - Embodied Interdisciplinary Praxis
The Dance: Embodied Interdisciplinary Praxis master’s program at University of Duke offers a two-year curriculum designed to integrate performance, choreography, and interdisciplinary research in the field of dance. Students gain expertise in movement practices, creative collaboration, and critical analysis while exploring the intersection of dance with visual arts, media, and cultural studies. The program emphasizes applied artistic practice, performance labs, and research-driven projects, preparing learners to develop innovative work and contribute to contemporary dance scholarship. Its structured approach ensures students cultivate both technical skill and conceptual depth in their artistic practice.
Participants benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty, collaborative performance opportunities, and access to advanced studio facilities. The curriculum emphasizes movement practices, choreographic innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration and critical research, enabling students to create, analyze, and contextualize original dance works. Through studio work, seminars, and research projects, learners strengthen creative, analytical, and expressive skills, preparing them for professional careers in performance, choreography, teaching, and arts research.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Dance - Embodied Interdisciplinary Praxis
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 18 December 2025
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Dance
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Dance Practice
• Movement Techniques and Embodiment
• Introduction to Choreographic Methods
• Dance Theory and Critical Studies
• Seminar in Interdisciplinary Approaches
Semester 2 – Intermediate Practice & Applied Projects
• Collaborative Choreography
• Performance Studies and Analysis
• Elective in Dance or Interdisciplinary Topic
• Applied Project / Studio Work
Semester 3 – Advanced Practice & Research Methods
• Experimental and Interdisciplinary Performance
• Research Methods in Dance
• Research Project / Applied Study
• Elective in Creative or Cultural Studies
Semester 4 – Capstone & Professional Integration
• Independent Choreographic Project / Thesis
• Performance Production and Presentation
• Seminar: Contemporary Dance Praxis
• Professional Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in dance performance, choreography, arts education, and interdisciplinary arts research. Common career paths include performing artist, choreographer, dance educator and arts researcher. Additional opportunities exist in theater companies, dance collectives, universities, cultural organizations, and research institutions. The program also provides a foundation for students pursuing doctoral studies in dance, performance studies, or interdisciplinary arts. By combining technical training with applied research, graduates are equipped to create innovative works and contribute to the evolving field of dance.
Why Choose This Program
This two-year master’s program is ideal for students seeking a creative and interdisciplinary approach to dance practice and research. The curriculum emphasizes movement practices, choreographic innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration and applied research, allowing learners to integrate artistic skill with critical inquiry. Students engage in studio work, collaborative projects, and faculty-guided research that strengthen creative, analytical, and professional abilities. The program’s structured design ensures graduates are prepared for careers in performance, choreography, arts education, or doctoral study. For those aiming to push boundaries in contemporary dance and develop a versatile artistic practice, this program provides a highly focused and enriching pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
