Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a major in Dance at Simon Fraser University is designed to approach dance as a multifaceted art form. This program integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through creative and technical studio courses. Students will focus on contemporary dance techniques, composition, and experimentation, while also exploring body conditioning practices, ballet, history and criticism, and movement analysis. The program encourages students to engage with other artistic disciplines and offers numerous opportunities for participation in various productions. It is tailored for those who wish to study dance in conjunction with contemporary art forms and academic fields, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance is structured to provide a comprehensive education in dance, emphasizing both practical and theoretical aspects. The program is designed to be completed in a standard duration of four years. Key features of the program structure include:

Integration of creative and technical studio courses.
Emphasis on contemporary dance techniques and composition.
Encouragement of interdisciplinary coursework across various artistic disciplines.
Opportunities for participation in a variety of productions.
Advising support to help students plan their academic journey effectively.

Students are advised to consult with the school’s advisor to tailor their program according to their interests and career goals, ensuring a personalized educational experience.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance offers a range of unique experiences that enhance the learning process and provide practical exposure to the field. Notable features include:

Participation in various dance productions, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings.
Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities with students from other artistic disciplines.
Access to workshops and guest artist sessions that provide insights into the professional dance world.
Focus on both contemporary dance and traditional techniques, ensuring a well-rounded skill set.
Emphasis on composition and experimentation, encouraging students to develop their unique artistic voice.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job options:

Professional Dancer: Perform in dance companies, theaters, or as a freelance artist, showcasing a range of dance styles.
Choreographer: Create and direct dance pieces for performances, competitions, or educational institutions.
Dance Educator: Teach dance techniques and theory in schools, studios, or community programs.
Dance Therapist: Use movement and dance as therapeutic tools to support mental and emotional well-being.
Arts Administrator: Manage and promote dance organizations, festivals, or events, ensuring the smooth operation of artistic initiatives.

These career options reflect the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to the arts and culture sector in Canada.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance program, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
International students must submit a transcript that includes interim marks for their senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior level academic subjects.
For Vietnamese students, the Bàng Tót Nghiêp Phó Thông Trung Hoc (Upper Secondary School Graduation Certificate) is required.
All applicants must meet the university's Quantitative and Analytical Skills requirements, which includes a minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).

It is important to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered. For any clarification or support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at SFU. All applicants, regardless of country of origin or citizenship status, will be required to have demonstrated competence in the English language prior to admission. Competence is required in all four of the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the options below:

Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country in which the principal language of instruction is English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a country in which the principal language of instruction is not English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 3
Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a C- (C minus)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 4 (or C)

Alternatively, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
- Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125

Enrolment in first-year writing intensive courses requires higher grades than admission grades. Students must meet the University’s literacy requirements in addition to the English language Requirement.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-12

Program overview