PhD Critical Dance Studies at University of California, Riverside

Programme overview

The PhD in Critical Dance Studies (formerly Dance History and Theory), launched in 1993, focuses on the cultural, political and historical study of dance and is closely linked to the MFA in Experimental Choreography.

What you will study

Core courses Dance 239, 254, 255, 257 and 258 in the first two years, Dance 301 (pedagogy and professional development), six further graduate courses (two from related disciplines, four in Dance) and a language requirement of one language other than English. Milestones include a written qualifying exam, a qualifying essay of about 25 pages, an oral exam and a dissertation with final oral exam.

Career pathways

Graduates hold academic positions at UCLA, Florida State, University of Florida, University of Minnesota, Rutgers, University of Washington, York University, University of Surrey and Taipei National University of the Arts.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate Division (university-wide): bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or recognized international equivalent; minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (some programs set a higher standard); transcripts, statement of purpose and letters of recommendation; English proficiency (TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic 7 with no component below 6) unless the prior degree was taught in English; GRE/GMAT only where the program requires it (many no longer do). Source: graduate.ucr.edu/admission-requirements.

UC Riverside operates a quarter system. Summer begins mid-June, Fall late September, Winter early January and Spring late March/early April. Most graduate programmes admit and begin in the Fall quarter only.

New domestic applicants: Fall January 5 (fellowship consideration) / June 1 (admission only), Winter November 1, Spring February 1, Summer May 1. New international applicants: Fall January 5 (fellowship consideration) / June 1 (admission only), Winter September 1, Spring December 1, Summer March 1. Some programmes set earlier priority or fellowship deadlines.

Apply through the official page: https://grad.ucr.edu/apply/

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities