Dancers and Choreographers
Up to £55,516 /year
Dancers and choreographers devise, direct, rehearse and perform classical and contemporary dance routines.
Admissions
Entry Requirements
What You'll Need
- 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Maths and English
- A short audition as part of the interview process
- A genuine passion for dance — we want to see your commitment, whatever your current level
Need GCSE support? If you're still working towards Grade 4 in Maths or English, you can study for these alongside your course. Financial support and learning support assistance are available for everyone who needs them.
Explore Related Courses
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 2 UAL Level 2 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Acting
Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Musical Theatre
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What You'll Learn
Dance Like You Mean It
This course is about finding your voice as a dancer. You’ll train across styles — contemporary, jazz, ballet technique, street, and more — in our fully equipped dance studio with sprung floors and mirrors. But it’s not just about following choreography. You’ll learn to create your own work, understand the history behind different dance forms, and perform to live audiences throughout the year. When you step onto that stage for your collaborative project, you’ll own it.
You’ll also complete 30 hours of work placement in a real dance or performing arts setting — seeing first-hand what professional life looks like. There are no sit-down exams. It’s 60% practical performance and 40% written coursework (reflective journals and research, not test papers), so most of your time is spent moving, making, and performing. Most students go straight into Year 2 for the Extended Diploma, building a portfolio and the UCAS points you need for dance schools, conservatoires, and universities.
Performance Units
- Principles of Performance
- Engaging with an Audience
- Performance Skills and Context
- Collaborative Performance Project
Professional Development
- Introduction to Professional Practice
- Critical and Contextual Awareness
- Production Skills and Context
- Preparation for Specialist Study
How You're Assessed
Assessment Methods
Coursework
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Practical Assessment
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Group Work
Collaborative projects that develop your teamwork and communication skills.
No exams — 100% practical and coursework
Career Destinations
Where This Course Takes You
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Your Progression Pathway
- Level 2 or GCSEs
- Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Dance
- Level 3 Dance – Extended Diploma (Year 2)
- Dance School / Conservatoire / University / Work in the Industry
Life on the Course
See What It's Really Like
Our Facilities
Where You'll Train
Train in the same dedicated performance spaces and fully equipped dance studios used by all three Level 3 specialist pathways. You're using professional facilities from day one.
Full Dance Studio
Full-length mirrors, professional sound system, sprung floors. This is where you'll train, choreograph, and rehearse. The studio is purpose-built for dance and movement work across all styles, from contemporary technique to musical theatre choreography. It's your space from day one.
Drama Hall & Performance Space
A dedicated performance space where you'll rehearse and stage live shows for real audiences throughout the year. This isn't a classroom with the desks pushed back, it's a working theatre space where you learn what it actually feels like to perform under proper conditions.
Industry Guest Speakers
Every year we bring in working professionals from across the performing arts industry: actors, directors, choreographers, producers, and backstage specialists. They work directly with our students. You'll hear how they got started, what the industry actually looks like, and get honest advice from people who do this for a living. It's one of the things our students consistently say makes the course feel real.
Students performing in our own drama hall
Live performances
Student Voice
“
College has helped me become more open-minded and step out of my comfort zone. I’ve loved the opportunities, especially the work placements. I plan to follow my passion for performing. It’s been a great experience—I’ve learnt loads and made memories with amazing people.
For Parents & Carers
Supporting Your Child's Journey
Real Career Prospects
These qualifications lead to real jobs. Our courses are built around the skills that employers are actually hiring for — locally and nationally.
See career optionsA Friendly, Welcoming Place
Students are often surprised by how friendly and welcoming college is. It's a supportive community where they'll build genuine friendships and feel part of something.
About student lifeMental Health & Wellbeing
College is a big change. Our wellbeing team is here for every student — whether they need someone to talk to, help managing stress, or ongoing support. No referral needed.
Wellbeing supportFinancial Support Available
Bursaries are available, and free meals are provided for those who qualify. If cost is a concern, there's help — and it's straightforward to apply.
Financial support info For Careers Advisers
Quick Reference Guide
Level
Level 3
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
UAL
Entry
4 GCSEs Grade 4+ inc. Maths & English
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Group Work
Progression Routes
Route A: Level 3 Diploma (Year 1) → Extended Diploma (Year 2) → Dance School, Conservatoire, University, or Employment
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk