Master of Arts in Dance
Start Term: Fall 2026 | Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
Program Length: 3 Summers (6 weeks each) | Total Units: 31
Total Program Cost: $17,825 | Location: On Campus
CSULB’s Master of Arts in Dance is a summer-intensive program designed specifically for K–12 dance teachers ready to elevate their practice and advance professionally. Spend three focused summers at The Beach — six weeks each — earning your master’s degree while connecting with dance educators from across the country.
The curriculum integrates technique, choreography, pedagogy, and scholarship in courses intentionally designed to connect to your classroom experience. Every summer you’ll return to your students with new skills, fresh perspectives, and deeper expertise.
Contact the Graduate Advisor to learn about the next application cycle. Dr. Colleen Dunagan can be reached at colleen.dunagan@csulb.edu.
Why This Program
Built for K–12 teachers: Every course connects directly to your classroom and studio practice.
Summer-intensive format: Six weeks per summer, three summers — advance your degree without leaving teaching.
Three-year completion: Earn your master’s in three focused summers at CSULB.
In-person at CSULB: Study on campus with faculty and peers from programs across the country.
Holistic curriculum: Technique, choreography, pedagogy, and dance scholarship — all integrated.
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Our team is happy to talk through your background and goals.
The Master of Arts in Dance at °µÍøÊÓƵis a three-summer, campus-based program designed for K–12 dance teachers seeking professional advancement. Students complete 31 units over three consecutive summers, earning a graduate degree while maintaining their teaching careers. Each six-week summer session is held in CSULB’s well-equipped dance studios and covers technique, choreography, pedagogy, and scholarship.
Each summer session builds on the previous, with courses in:
- Technique Laboratory (all three summers)
- Composition (two summers)
- Advanced Design for Costuming
- Dance Science
- Seminar in Dance
- Advanced Design for Lighting
- Seminar in Dance History
- Special Topics
All coursework is intentionally designed to connect to your experience as a practicing educator and artist.
The MA in Dance program is led by faculty in the °µÍøÊÓƵDepartment of Dance. For information about specific instructors or the graduate advisor, please contact Dr. Colleen Dunagan at colleen.dunagan@csulb.edu.
How long does the Master of Arts in Dance at °µÍøÊÓƵtake to complete?
The program is completed over three consecutive summers, with six weeks of coursework each summer. Most students finish in three years.
Is the MA in Dance program offered online?
No. The Master of Arts in Dance at °µÍøÊÓƵis an on-campus, summer-intensive program. Courses are held in person in CSULB’s dance studios.
What is the application deadline for the MA in Dance?
The application deadline is December 1 for admission to the following summer’s program.
Is an audition required to apply to the MA in Dance at CSULB?
Yes. A movement audition and personal interview with the Department of Dance are required as part of the application process.
Who should apply to the MA in Dance program?
This program is designed for K–12 dance teachers who hold a valid teaching credential and want to advance their practice, elevate their credentials, and deepen their impact in the classroom and studio.
How much does the MA in Dance cost?
The total program cost is $17,825 for 31 units at $575 per unit.
Join a free information session to learn more about the Master of Arts in Dance at °µÍøÊÓƵand get your questions answered in real time.
