Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
No Interview
University App Required
Program Highlights
EMPHASIS FOCUS
•History, theory, critical studies, and cultural studies of dance
•Senior thesis focused on scholarly research, may include a creative component
•Coursework in dance history, performance theory, and critical analysis
GUEST ARTISTS & SCHOLARS
•Robust residency program with visiting artists and scholars working directly with students
•Recent guests include Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, Ballet Hispánico, Eiko Otake, and Reggie Wilson/Fist and Heel Performance
EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
•Dance-intensive exchanges in New York, Paris, Jerusalem, and Havana
•Cross-registration available at nearby Lewis & Clark College
•Grants and fellowships available for scholarly research or performance opportunities
JUNIOR QUALIFYING EXAM
•Essay questions requiring close analysis of dance works and historical/contemporary practices
•Studio practicum developing and refining choreographic phrases
STUDENT OUTCOMES
•Prepares students for graduate study and professional work in dance scholarship
•Student honors include Watson Fellowship, NEH grants, and Dance Studies Association awards
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atCoalition App
Deadlines
Early Decision INov 1, 2025
Early ActionNov 1, 2025
Early Decision IIJan 15, 2026
Regular DecisionJan 15, 2026
Good to Know
APPLICATION PLATFORMS
•Apply via Common App or Coalition Application (Scoir) — neither is favored
•Reed writing supplement required (up to 500 words)
APPLICATION DETAILS
•Test-free — SAT/ACT scores neither required nor used in admission decisions
•Two teacher evaluations required (from different academic disciplines)
•Students may apply Early Decision I, Early Decision II, Early Action, or Regular Decision
•Early Decision is binding — applicants are twice as likely to gain admission
ENROLLMENT
•Fall enrollment only
•Students declare their major after enrolling — no pre-admission to the dance program
What's The Process
ADMISSION PROCESS
•No audition, prescreen, or interview required for admission
•Students apply to Reed College and declare their major after enrolling
•Placement into studio dance classes assessed based on prior experience
Program info updated Mar 24, 12:24 AM
EMPHASIS FOCUS
•History, theory, critical studies, and cultural studies of dance
•Senior thesis focused on scholarly research, may include a creative component
•Coursework in dance history, performance theory, and critical analysis
GUEST ARTISTS & SCHOLARS
•Robust residency program with visiting artists and scholars working directly with students
•Recent guests include Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, Ballet Hispánico, Eiko Otake, and Reggie Wilson/Fist and Heel Performance
EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
•Dance-intensive exchanges in New York, Paris, Jerusalem, and Havana
•Cross-registration available at nearby Lewis & Clark College
•Grants and fellowships available for scholarly research or performance opportunities
JUNIOR QUALIFYING EXAM
•Essay questions requiring close analysis of dance works and historical/contemporary practices
•Studio practicum developing and refining choreographic phrases
STUDENT OUTCOMES
•Prepares students for graduate study and professional work in dance scholarship
•Student honors include Watson Fellowship, NEH grants, and Dance Studies Association awards
Updated Mar 24, 12:24 AM
Academic School Information
4.01
Avg GPA (W)
25%
Admit Rate
74%
Grad Rate
1,320
Enrollment
$62,927
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$69,350
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$33,013
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$12,674
Family Income $30k - $48k$12,514
Family Income $48k - $75k$14,513
Family Income $75k - $110k$23,421
Family Income $110k+$46,711
