Duration
Full-time: 3 years
Part-time: Varies
Next start date
2025 Semester One – 3 March
2025 Semester Two – 21 July
Available locations
City
Points
360
Programme type
Undergraduate

Programme overview

In the BDanceSt, you’ll grow as an educator, performer, choreographer and researcher. Your award-winning teachers will help you develop confidence in leading others and working in teams. We focus on contemporary, cultural and community dance, interacting with different dance forms and working with people of all ages and abilities. Regular teaching and performance opportunities give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned while building your professional networks. Dance Studies operates in a family-orientated environment where your individual talents and background are valued.

Programme structure

In your first year, you and your classmates will begin to explore and understand your moving bodies, and the choreographic and general creative processes related to dance. You will increase your dance vocabulary and investigate the different ways dance can be taught and learned. You will also take a Waipapa Taumata Rau course in your first year. 

In second year and beyond, you’ll continue to strengthen your personal choreographic style and performance skills. You’ll visit different community groups and develop your teaching and leadership abilities. You’ll learn more about improvisation, technology and professional practices. You’ll develop your business skills and have the chance to research personal areas of interest. In your second year, you can enrol in a General Education course which gives you the chance to supplement your studies in a subject area of your choice.

Elective courses: During the BDanceSt programme, you will need to take two 15-point Dance electives. Along with these two Dance electives, you can take up to 30 points from courses available for any other bachelors degree at this University.

Read the Dance course descriptions.

Most students need to take one General Education course.

Students should also be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Sample programme structure

Year 1 120 points

  • Code:
    DANCE 120
    Name:
    Dance Vocabulary I
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 131
    Name:
    Dance Education
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    MĀORI 190
    Name:
    Kapa Haka 1
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    PACIFIC 110
    Name:
    Pacific Music and Dance
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 107
    Name:
    Dance History and Contexts
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 110
    Name:
    Contemporary Dance and Choreography 1
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 112
    Name:
    Dance Kinesiology
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Waipapa Taumata Rau course
    Type:
    Core course
    Points:
    15 pts

Year 2 120 points

  • Code:
    DANCE 220
    Name:
    Dance Vocabulary II
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 231
    Name:
    Community Dance
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE XXX
    Name:
    Dance Elective Course
    Type:
    Elective taught courses
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE XXX
    Name:
    Dance Elective Course
    Type:
    Elective taught courses
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 210
    Name:
    Contemporary Dance and Choreography 2
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 212
    Name:
    New Zealand Dance Contexts and History
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 222
    Name:
    Safe Dance Practices
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    General Education
    Type:
    General Education course
    Points:
    15 pts

Year 3 120 points

  • Code:
    DANCE 314
    Name:
    Dance and Technology
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 320
    Name:
    Dance Vocabulary III
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 322
    Name:
    Professional Practices
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE XXX
    Name:
    Elective Course
    Type:
    Elective taught courses
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 302
    Name:
    Dance in Aotearoa/New Zealand
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 310
    Name:
    Contemporary Dance and Choreography 3
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE 331
    Name:
    Dance Education Research
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    DANCE XXX
    Name:
    Elective Course
    Type:
    Elective taught courses
    Points:
    15 pts

2025 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Secondary school qualifications

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You are guaranteed entry to this programme if you meet these requirements.

  1. First, you must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard.
  2. You must also meet the rank score for this programme. Not sure about your rank score? Use our rank score calculator.
  3. You may need to have studied certain subjects or achieved credits in particular subjects.
  4. Some programmes have additional requirements, such as an interview, portfolio or references.

Guaranteed rank score, subject and other requirements

If your rank score is slightly lower than the guaranteed score, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be able to apply under our Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.

  • Qualification
    NCEA National Certificate of Educational Achievement
    Score required
    150
  • Qualification
    CIE Cambridge International Examinations
    Score required
    150
  • Qualification
    IB International Baccalaureate
    Score required
    26

Read more about entry requirements for New Zealand secondary school applicants.

Further requirements

Selection into the BDanceSt programme will be based on your CV, written statement and a group audition workshop. All applicants are required to upload a 500 word written statement and a CV of relevant dance experience as well as attend a group workshop/interview.  

Group workshop/interview

This audition includes a 1–2 hour movement exploration workshop followed by a group discussion. No set pieces are required for the audition. You will receive an invitation to register for this workshop/interview, held in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. Alternative arrangements may be made for applicants who are unable to attend the group session.

View this year's times and venues on the Workshop/interview tab.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should list all relevant training, experience (professional and amateur), involvement in community and extracurricular activities, dance experiences and accomplishments.

Written statement

You must upload a 500-word written statement outlining your reasons for wanting to participate in the programme.

Profile of a successful applicant

Dance Studies students value dance as an academic discipline of study. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate:

  • An awareness of dance activity in New Zealand
  • An understanding of choreographic processes and products
  • An ability to move, to dance  
  • A genuine interest in studying dance that will go beyond any initial technique training
  • An interest in a broad spectrum of arts activity and interdisciplinary collaborations
  • An ability to articulate ideas and listen to others
  • An ability to work in groups and independently
  • An openness to exploring a diverse range of dance activities
  • A willingness to take creative risks and support others' experimentation
  • A healthy physical readiness to participate in a breadth of dance activity
  • Commitment

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution, or another University of Auckland qualification, if you meet these requirements.

Minimum grade requirements

These are the likely grades required, but they do not guarantee entry. Applicants may require higher grades to gain entry to this programme.

Further requirements

You must have completed one semester of successful bachelor degree study from a New Zealand tertiary institution, or one year of successful study as part of an acceptable sub-degree qualification from a New Zealand tertiary institution.

Selection into the BDanceSt programme will be based on your CV, written statement and a group audition workshop. All applicants are required to upload a 500 word written statement and a CV of relevant dance experience as well as attend a group workshop/interview.

Group workshop/interview

This audition includes a 1–2 hour movement exploration workshop followed by a group discussion. No set pieces are required for the audition. You will receive an invitation to register for this workshop/interview, held in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. Alternative arrangements may be made for applicants who are unable to attend the group session.

View this year's times and venues on the Workshop/interview tab.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should list all relevant training, experience (professional and amateur), involvement in community and extracurricular activities, dance experiences and accomplishments.

Written statement

You must upload a 500-word written statement outlining your reasons for wanting to participate in the programme.

Profile of a successful applicant

Dance Studies students value dance as an academic discipline of study. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate:

  • An awareness of dance activity in New Zealand
  • An understanding of choreographic processes and products
  • An ability to move, to dance
  • A genuine interest in studying dance that will go beyond any initial technique training
  • An interest in a broad spectrum of arts activity and interdisciplinary collaborations
  • An ability to articulate ideas and listen to others
  • An ability to work in groups and independently
  • An openness to exploring a diverse range of dance activities
  • A willingness to take creative risks and support others' experimentation
  • A healthy physical readiness to participate in a breadth of dance activity
  • Commitment
Transfer of Credit - You can apply for transfer of credit for tertiary courses completed elsewhere as part of your Application for Admission. For more information, see External transfer of credit.
 
If you have completed study at another New Zealand University, get an estimate of the transfer credit you may be eligible for, using our Transfer Credit Calculator.
 

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

My highest qualification is from this country or region:

Secondary school qualifications

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You need to have one of the following:

  • International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24.
  • General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects. 
  • Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA and Pearson Education Limited taken outside of New Zealand.

Minimum grade, subject and other requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place. Your CIE/GCE A level score is calculated on the best three academic subjects and General Studies cannot be included.

  • Qualification
    IB International Baccalaureate Diploma
    Score required
    26
    Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.0

    No bands less than 5.5.

    See alternative English language requirements

  • Qualification
    GCE A Level/CIE General Certificate of Education Advanced Level
    Score required
    CCC
    Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.0

    No bands less than 5.5.

    See alternative English language requirements

Further requirements

Selection into the BDanceSt programme will be based on your CV, written statement and a group audition workshop. All applicants are required to upload a 500 word written statement and a CV of relevant dance experience as well as attend a group workshop/interview.

Group workshop/interview

This audition includes a 1–2 hour movement exploration workshop followed by a group discussion. No set pieces are required for the audition. You will receive an invitation to register for this workshop/interview, held in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. Alternative arrangements may be made for applicants who are unable to attend the group session.

View this year's times and venues on the Workshop/interview tab.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should list all relevant training, experience (professional and amateur), involvement in community and extracurricular activities, dance experiences and accomplishments.

Written statement

You must upload a 500-word written statement outlining your reasons for wanting to participate in the programme.

Profile of a successful applicant

Dance Studies students value dance as an academic discipline of study. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate:

  • An awareness of dance activity in New Zealand
  • An understanding of choreographic processes and products
  • An ability to move, to dance
  • A genuine interest in studying dance that will go beyond any initial technique training
  • An interest in a broad spectrum of arts activity and interdisciplinary collaborations
  • An ability to articulate ideas and listen to others
  • An ability to work in groups and independently
  • An openness to exploring a diverse range of dance activities
  • A willingness to take creative risks and support others' experimentation
  • A healthy physical readiness to participate in a breadth of dance activity
  • Commitment

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution if you meet these requirements.

You need to have the following:

One year successful bachelor-degree level study at a recognised university (or similar institution) overseas. 

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Minimum grade requirements

These are the likely grades required, but they do not guarantee entry. Applicants may require higher grades to gain entry to this programme.

Further requirements

Selection into the BDanceSt programme will be based on your CV, written statement and a group audition workshop. All applicants are required to upload a 500 word written statement and a CV of relevant dance experience as well as attend a group workshop/interview.

Group workshop/interview

This audition includes a 1–2 hour movement exploration workshop followed by a group discussion. No set pieces are required for the audition. You will receive an invitation to register for this workshop/interview, held in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. Alternative arrangements may be made for applicants who are unable to attend the group session.

View this year's times and venues on the Workshop/interview tab.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should list all relevant training, experience (professional and amateur), involvement in community and extracurricular activities, dance experiences and accomplishments.

Written statement

You must upload a 500-word written statement outlining your reasons for wanting to participate in the programme.

Profile of a successful applicant

Dance Studies students value dance as an academic discipline of study. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate:

  • An awareness of dance activity in New Zealand
  • An understanding of choreographic processes and products
  • An ability to move, to dance 
  • A genuine interest in studying dance that will go beyond any initial technique training
  • An interest in a broad spectrum of arts activity and interdisciplinary collaborations
  • An ability to articulate ideas and listen to othersAn ability to work in groups and independently
  • An openness to exploring a diverse range of dance activities
  • A willingness to take creative risks and support others' experimentation
  • A healthy physical readiness to participate in a breadth of dance activity
  • Commitment

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

  • Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme.
  • If you have an offer of place from us that is conditional on meeting English language requirements, you may be considered for English Pathway courses from the University of Auckland English Language Academy (ELA)
  • If you are 20 on or before the first day of semester, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for special admission.
For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

How much does a Bachelor of Dance Studies cost per year?

2025 fees

Domestic students
NZ$8,288.40*
International students
NZ$44,972*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $9.24 per point, estimated at $1,108.80 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Key dates

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Semester One 2025
8 December 2024
Semester Two 2025
4 July 2025

Start dates

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

First you must submit your Application for Admission. 

Upload your curriculum vitae (CV) and written statement as part of your Application for Admission. You will then be contacted regarding the audition workshop/interview.

The auditions for admission into the 2024 BDanceSt are being held on the following dates:

  • Saturday 23 September 2023
  • Saturday 4 November 2023
  • Saturday 2 December 2023

Virtual: Individual auditions are available online Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm. To request a virtual audition please contact a Student Hub.

How to apply

Applying for an undergraduate programme? Check out our step-by-step guide.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Watch a video explaining the application process. First, you must complete and submit your Application for Admission. You'll need to upload your curriculum vitae (CV) and a written statement. These documents help us learn more about you. After reviewing your application, we'll send you an invitation to participate in a group workshop/interview.

What to expect during the workshop/interview

Movement exploration workshop (1–2 hours): Engage in a group movement exploration workshop, where you'll demonstrate your collaborative, creative and physical abilities. No prepared pieces required.

Group discussion and short interview: Join a group discussion with other applicants and current Dance Studies students to exchange ideas. You will then have a short individual interview with our teachers where we'll discuss your dance experiences and aspirations.

Location and dates: Mark these dates on your calendar. You only need to attend one audition.

  • Saturday 14 September 2024, 10am-1pm, City Campus
  • Saturday 2 November 2024, 10am-1pm, City Campus
  • Saturday 7 December 2024, 10am-1pm, City Campus

Can't attend an in-person session? Request a virtual audition!

If you can't make it to an in-person workshop/interview, we offer virtual auditions. Virtual auditions are available online from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 3pm. Once we receive your application we will contact you to arrange your preferred audition process and date.

Help and advice

We welcome any questions you may have about this programme or the audition process. Contact our undergraduate adviser:
Undergraduate Adviser
Sarah Knox
Email: sarah.knox@auckland.ac.nz

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Where could this programme take you?

New Zealand’s professional dance industry requires articulate performers, choreographers, educators, production specialists and directors. Graduates confidently create their own businesses such as dance studios, dance companies and event management companies. Many also gain employment as dance teachers (at early childhood, primary and secondary level) or as production assistants in creative fields.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Artistic director
  • Arts administrator/manager
  • Community dance practitioner
  • Dance teacher (Primary school arts specialist)
  • Dance teacher (Secondary school dance specialist)
  • Dance photographer/journalist
  • Professional choreographer
  • Professional dancer

Some career paths may require further study.

Further study options

See all study options
Maddy Golightly strikes a pose in the dance studio and smiles to the camera

Maddy Golightly

Studying the Bachelor of Dance Studies opened up endless opportunities for Maddy to develop her performance skills and find her creative voice.

Read Maddy's story

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

button for easy access to information about this qualification button for easy access to information about this qualification

Experience the University

Students inside a Dance studio on campus during the filming of the tour video.

Take a 360° tour with Dance Studies students

Enjoy a 360° virtual tour of some of the Dance Studies spaces on campus.

Do you need help?

AskAuckland

Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?

Our student support team is here to help. Use our online contact form.

Need to speak to someone?

You can phone us directly.

Auckland
923 5025
Outside Auckland
0800 61 62 63
International
+64 9 373 7513