BA in Dance: Course Details, Colleges, Eligibility, Admission, Scope & Salary

• Updated on  Aug 01, 2025, by Dharti Bhadla

BA Dance is an undergraduate course in the performing arts. The course duration is 3 years and can be pursued after passing 12th in the Arts stream from any recognised board. The course aims to impart knowledge of Dance history, different dance techniques, various cultures, and forms of dance.

 

Bachelor of Arts in Dance (BA) is an undergraduate course for students passionate about dance. The course fee varies depending on the type of college. In government institutes, it usually ranges between INR 10,000 and 30,000, while private colleges may charge anywhere from INR 2 to 4 lakhs, depending on the dance specialization.

 

During the final semester, students often get the chance to work closely with professional choreographers and dance academy owners, gaining real-world experience. The candidates can opt for various jobs, such as a dancer, choreographer, trainer, dance teacher, etc., in schools, academies, etc.

 

Table of Contents
  1. BA in Dance Course Highlights
  2. Why Pursue BA in Dance?
  3. BA in Dance Eligibility Criteria
  4. BA in Dance Admission Process
  5. BA in Dance Colleges in India
  6. BA in Dance Syllabus
  7. BA in Dance Scope & Salary in India
  8. BA in Dance Vs BFA
  9. BA in Dance FAQs

 

BA in Dance Course Highlights

Given below are some of the key highlights for the Bachelor of Arts Dance:

Particulars

Details

Programme name

Bachelor of Arts in Dance

Duration

3 years

Eligibility

10+2 in Arts stream

 

Candidates with other backgrounds can also apply

Admission Process

Merit based

Average tuition fee

Government institutes: INR 10,000 to 30,000

 

Private institutes: INR 2 to 4 Lakhs

Average salary

INR 2 to 10 Lakhs

Job Positions

Dance Teacher, Sales Executive, Dance Expert, Freelance Dance Performance Artist, Music, Dance & Theatre Team Member, etc.

Top recruiting areas

Music & Dance Firms, Film Industry, Educational Institutes, Dance Academies, Theatres, Stage Show Bands, Cultural Activity Offices, etc.

 

Why Pursue BA in Dance?

Pursuing BA in Dance provides the best opportunities to gain sustainable employment in the commercial dance/entertainment sector.

  • A BA in Dance offers a diverse career with expertise in various dance specialisations.
  • Practicing dance regularly improves concentration ability and presence of mind.
  • The degree can lead to working with established and reputable dance companies.
  • One can also establish a classical dance school to train beginners.
  • The candidates who want an advanced career and want to enroll in the MA Dance can opt for this course.

 

BA in Dance Eligibility Criteria

The BA Dance eligibility for admission is 10+2 with Arts background. However, candidates from other streams can also apply for this course.

  • Minimum score of 50% (45% for SC/ST/OBC candidates) at the 10+2 level is required.
  • Students must know different forms of dance (Western, Folk, and Classical categories).

 

BA in Dance Admission Process

The admission to the BA in Dance is based on the merit of the candidate. Candidates have to apply to the chosen institute through an online portal. After verification, colleges will release the cut-off marks. For your reference, given below is the step-by-step admission process for the Bharati Vidyapeeth:

 

Step 1: Start by visiting the official website of the institute, head to the registration page and fill out your basic details. This step helps the institute know that you're interested and gets the application process started smoothly.

 

Step 2: Now, once you've registered, you'll receive an OTP on your mobile number. Verifying it ensures your identity and secures your application access going forward.

 

Step 3: After verification, you’ll be asked to complete the application form with your academic background and personal details. This helps the university understand your profile better.

 

Step 4: Next, proceed to the payment section and complete the application fee transaction. This confirms your intent to apply and moves your application to the next stage.

 

Step 5: After successful submission and payment, you can download a PDF copy of your completed application. It’s useful for future reference and verification during the admission process.

 

BA in Dance Colleges in India

Many colleges are offering a Bachelor of Arts Dance degree. Some of the best BA Dance colleges are tabulated below.

Name

Location

NIRF 2024 Ranking

Fee/Year (Approx)

Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi

5th (university category)

INR 6,000

Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University

Pune

78th (University)

INR 18,000

Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda

Gujarat

-

-

Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit

Kerala

-

INR 3,000

St Bede’s College

Shimla

-

INR 25,000

Government Degree College

Shimla

-

INR 3,000

Yashwantrao Mohite College

Pune

-

INR 2,000

Parul University

New Delhi

-

INR 2,00,000

 

BA in Dance Syllabus

BA Dance includes theoretical and practical learning of dance. Major subjects taught to BA dance students are Dance Techniques, Principles of choreography, History of dance, etc. The table below represents the BA Dance Syllabus designed by the University of Mumbai by UGC guidelines.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Introduction to Performing Arts

Dance Aesthetics

History of Dance & Choreography in India

Principles & Elements of Dance Choreography

Movement in Performance

Dance Technique II

Dance Technique I

Dance Technique III

Repertory, Collaborations, Performance I

Dance Beyond the Studio

Semester 3

Semester 4

Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance

Dance Choreography Process and Devices

Dance Technique IV

Final Live Performance to an Audience

Dance Technique VII

Dance Technique VI

Repertory, Collaborations, Performance II

Dance Technique VII

Independent Study in Dance

Dance Technique VIII

-

Work Integrated Learning Opportunity

Semester 5

Semester 6

Preparing for a Performing Arts Production

Performing Arts Production

Choreography for Live Performance

Dance Health & Fitness

Folk Dances of India

Usage of Technology in Dance

Professional Development

Performance Project

Work Integrated Learning Opportunity

-

 

BA in Dance Scope & Salary in India

There is a wide employment scope for graduates having a degree in BA Dance.

 

Some BA in Dance jobs are Choreographer, Dance teacher, Dance Director, Production Manager, Dance Performance Artist, etc.

  • One can work in Dance Firms, Film Industry, Educational Institutes, Dance Academies, Theatres, Stage Show Bands, Cultural Activity Offices, etc.
  • Also, there are opportunities to work as a freelance choreographer and performing artist in various shows, theater, film, etc.
  • Those wanting to enhance their dance skills and knowledge can pursue higher studies like M.A. (Dance), Ph.D. (Dance), D.Litt. (Dance) etc.
  • BA in Dance salary depends on the job position, expertise, organization type, and location.
  • In India, one can expect a starting salary of 3 to 4 LPA that may further increase with promotion or experience.

Here are some popular job profiles with average salaries as per current market rates.

Job profile

Average salary (INR)

Dance Teacher

2 to 3 LPA

Production Manager

7 LPA

Dance & Theatre Team Member

4 to 5 LPA

Dance Performance Artist

6 Lakhs

Choreographer

4 LPA

 

BA in Dance Vs BFA

Bachelor of Arts in Dance has a basic component of dance history, theory, pedagogy, choreography, and training, and the candidates can have careers, such as a dance teacher, studio administrator, or arts administrator. BFA is more specialized and rigorous and demands more credit hours, particularly in dance technique, dance choreography, and dance performance.

Aspect

BA in Dance

BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts)

Course Focus

Balanced study of dance theory, history, culture, and practical skills; includes liberal arts subjects

Intensive, professional-level focus on dance technique, performance, choreography with more studio/practical hours

Duration

Usually 3 years

Usually 3 to 4 years

Curriculum Weightage

Mix of theoretical courses and practical dance training, with flexibility for other academic subjects

Emphasizes rigorous dance practice, technique, and artistic development with fewer non-dance courses

Admission Requirements

Often merit-based; may or may not require audition

Usually requires an audition or portfolio submission

Career Preparation

Prepares for diverse roles including teaching, choreography, cultural management, research

Prepares for professional dance careers – performer, choreographer, dance educator

Typical Job Roles

Dance teacher, cultural officer, choreography, arts administration

Professional dancer, choreographer, dance director, performer

 

BA in Dance FAQs

How much do theatre dancers get paid?

In India, the salary of a theatre dancer can vary based on experience, role, and the type of production. It ranges from an estimated INR 2,00,000 LPA for a general dancer to potentially INR 10-15 LPA for a senior-level position.

Is a BA Dance degree worth it?

Yes, a dance degree like a BA in Dance or a BPA Dance offers in-depth training in various dance styles, techniques, and choreography that prepares the learner for jobs as a performer, teacher, film and theater choreographer. One can also own a dance academy after completing BA in Dance.

Can I pursue BA in Dance online course?

Distance education of BA Dance is not available in India. However, one can learn dance remotely as many dance academies offer online classes for western, classical, and zumba dance.

What is the salary of a Dance Teacher?

In India, a dance teacher working in schools can earn an average salary ranging from INR 2 to 3 LPA with the potential to earn up to INR 5 LPA. It is important to note that this range varies among different locations across the country.

What is the difference between BA Dance and BA Performing Arts?

BA Dance is specific as compared to BA Performing Arts because it encompasses dance, music, and drama altogether, and exposes the student to a wider arts perspective without much in-depth experience in the field of dance.

What are some options for higher studies after a BA in Dance?

Popular choices are MA/MFA in Dance, Ph.D in Dance, and MPA (Master of Performing Arts) and specialized diplomas in choreography, movement therapy, arts management, or dance pedagogy.

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