Dance

Certificate

Join San Jacinto College’s Dance Program and pursue your dreams. Whether you aspire to become a performer, teacher, or choreographer, we provide you with the opportunities and training you need to succeed.

Why choose San Jac's Dance program.

Hands‑On Training in Multiple Dance Styles

Take classes in ballet, modern, jazz, improvisation, performance, and choreography. You’ll build strong technique and skills in many styles.

Pathways for Careers and Further Study

Easily transfer to a four-year university or start your career in performance, teaching, or choreography with our choice of a certificate or degree.

Performance Opportunities and Community Engagement

Perform in concerts and special events, like the Dance Performance Company shows and Artists for Hope. Gain confidence and real performance experience.

Professional Experiences and Supportive Community

Meet choreographers and go to workshops and conferences like the American College Dance Association Conference. Build a network and get support from instructors. Scholarships are available to help you pursue your passion.

Careers

Dancer

$27.16/hour

Choreographer

$44,663

Opportunities

Graduates of our program have gone on to pursue careers as:

Professional performers
Choreographers
Dance educators
Wellness instructors
Physical therapists
Dance therapists
Researchers in dance
Dance critics

Locations

South Campus

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Salary Source: Texas Wages

Dance Instructor, Certificate of Technology

Certificate

The Dance Instructor Technical Certificate is for those of you who love dance and want to teach others. In this program, you'll take focused classes with experienced instructors in professional dance studios. You'll learn the skills and knowledge needed to start a career immediately as a studio dance instructor. The certificate can be completed on its own or build into the Associate of Arts, Fine Arts in Dance degree.

1.5 Years

If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 41 credits for this program in three terms.

IMPORTANT LINKS

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Ready to take the first step toward an exciting future? It’s time to apply to San Jac. We’ll guide you through the process and help you start building your future, today.

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Experience the artistry of dance live! Our upcoming concerts showcase the passion, creativity, and dedication of our dancers and choreographers. Come support our artists and share in the energy of live performance.

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Find answers about classes, performances, certificates, and dance degree options.

What will I learn in the dance program?

You will study dance technique, choreography, and performance. Classes may include ballet, jazz, modern dance, improvisation, and composition. You will also learn how to teach dance and create choreography.

What skills will I learn to become a dance instructor?

You will learn how to teach dance techniques, plan lessons, and work with students of different ages. The program also covers dance pedagogy, movement, and performance skills.

Will I get real teaching experience?

Yes! The program includes a two-semester internship at a local dance studio, where you gain hands-on experience working with students and learning how dance studios operate.

Will I learn about technology or careers in dance?

Yes. Students study topics like dance technology, wellness for dancers, and career preparation. These courses help you learn how to promote yourself and succeed in the dance industry.

Can I transfer after completing this program?

Yes! If you complete the full Associate of Arts program, you can easily transfer to area universities.

Join the Performing Arts Dance Company and get hands-on experience on stage and behind the scenes. We perform two concerts a year along with the Artists for Hope charity event. Anyone can join - just sign up for the Dance Performance Class.

San Jac Dance students.

San Jacinto College Student with Advisor

At San Jac, you’re never alone. Our teams ensure you have the support you need to achieve your academic goals.

Financial Aid Academic Support Personal Support

Originally a music major, Ash Cook signed up for a single dance class to satisfy his PE credit. That’s all it took to change the course of his career. Cook went on to earn an associate degree in dance from San Jac in 2013, followed by bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Houston–Clear Lake.

How did your dance journey begin, and what led you to the San Jac Dance program?
It began at San Jac. I was a vocal music major and I had never danced before. I fell in love with dance, started watching the ballet class and eventually signed up for it. I was encouraged to keep going and dedicated my studies to dance.

What have you done since San Jac?
I attended UHCL, originally planning to become a physical therapist, while teaching at local studios and dancing at the Houston Met. I earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and my alternative teaching certificate. I became assistant director of the Celebrities Dance Team at Clear Brook High School in 2015, then head director three years later. I also earned a master’s in counseling and educational leadership at UHCL and serve on the Texas Dance Educators Association executive board.

What did you learn at San Jac that you still use today?
Not to give up. As a first-year dancer, I had to work harder than most, and that persistence led to a scholarship. Progress isn’t always quick, but patience and consistent work pay off.

What would you pass down to the next generation?
Give it everything you’ve got. There are many ways to work in dance, so never let that passion go.