Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
No Interview
University App Required
Program Highlights
BATES DANCE FESTIVAL
•Required participation in the nationally renowned Bates Dance Festival
•Festival features original choreographies by nationally renowned artists-in-residence
•Annual Marcy Plavin Spring Dance Concert celebrating the program's legacy
TRAINING & CURRICULUM
•Integrates theory and practice within a liberal arts framework
•Coursework in choreography, dance repertory, cultural context, and physical practice
•Multiple dance technique forms required (at least three different styles)
•Production and design coursework including lighting, costume, video, and sound
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
•Senior thesis capstone — substantial creative research project in choreography, performance, or written work
•Faculty are active professionals in their field providing close mentorship
•Program size allows for personalized attention and strong community
DEGREE FLEXIBILITY
•Cross-listed courses with Theater, Music, American Studies, and African American Studies
•Study abroad with advance departmental advising
•Prepares students for professional training, graduate study, or direct career entry
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atCoalition App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early DecisionNov 15, 2025
Early Decision IIJan 10, 2026
Regular DecisionJan 10, 2026
Good to Know
ARTS SUPPLEMENT
•Optional arts supplement may be submitted through the Common App
•Supplement is not required for admission or for declaring the major
APPLICATION
•Apply via Common App, Coalition App (Powered by Scoir), or Bates application portal
ENROLLMENT
•Fall enrollment only — no mid-year or rolling admission
•Test-optional admissions policy
•No application fee
What's The Process
NO AUDITION REQUIRED
•Admission is to Bates College, not to the Dance program directly
•Students declare the Dance major after enrolling
•All interested students are welcome to participate in dance events regardless of major
Program info updated Mar 27, 1:47 AM
BATES DANCE FESTIVAL
•Required participation in the nationally renowned Bates Dance Festival
•Festival features original choreographies by nationally renowned artists-in-residence
•Annual Marcy Plavin Spring Dance Concert celebrating the program's legacy
TRAINING & CURRICULUM
•Integrates theory and practice within a liberal arts framework
•Coursework in choreography, dance repertory, cultural context, and physical practice
•Multiple dance technique forms required (at least three different styles)
•Production and design coursework including lighting, costume, video, and sound
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
•Senior thesis capstone — substantial creative research project in choreography, performance, or written work
•Faculty are active professionals in their field providing close mentorship
•Program size allows for personalized attention and strong community
DEGREE FLEXIBILITY
•Cross-listed courses with Theater, Music, American Studies, and African American Studies
•Study abroad with advance departmental advising
•Prepares students for professional training, graduate study, or direct career entry
Updated Mar 27, 1:47 AM
Academic School Information
4.01
Avg GPA (W)
13%
Admit Rate
90%
Grad Rate
1,760
Enrollment
$69,498
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$66,590
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$29,351
after typical aid
Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.
Family Income $0 - $30k$2,397
Family Income $30k - $48k$8,958
Family Income $48k - $75k$11,336
Family Income $75k - $110k$19,468
Family Income $110k+$45,886
