Please note:
To view the current Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar.html.
Dance Major
The bachelor of fine arts (BFA) with a major in dance approaches dance as an art form and integrates theory with creative and technical studio courses. Emphasis is given to contemporary dance technique, composition and experimentation. Courses are also offered in body conditioning practices, ballet, history and criticism, and movement analysis. Course work in other artistic disciplines is encouraged, and opportunities for participation in a variety of productions are available. The program is intended for students who desire to study dance in relation to other contemporary art disciplines and academic fields.
Students are encouraged to plan their program in consultation with the school’s advisor.
¶¡ÏãÔ°AV Requirements
Program and course admission is contingent upon University admission. Contact Student Services for admission procedures, requirements and deadlines. Entry to all programs and to many courses is by audition, interview or application. Contact the school’s office for information on procedures and deadlines or visit our .
Although the University operates on a trimester system, most CA courses are planned in a two term (fall and spring) sequence. Consequently, students enter in the fall term (September) and are advised to contact the school in the preceding January for program entry and requirements information.
Entry to CA 122 Contemporary Dance I is by audition/interview usually in early spring. Contact the school to make an appointment.
Transfer Credit and Advanced Standing
Unassigned or general elective (type 2 and 3, respectively) transfer credit awarded for courses completed at other recognized post-secondary institutions will not automatically entitle students to advanced standing in the school’s programs. Advanced standing is generally given on an individual basis as a result of an audition or interview.
About the School’s Course Offerings
Students are encouraged to take advantage of interdisciplinary offerings within the school. As many programs depend on a continuing sequence of courses completed in order, students should plan carefully to gain the maximum benefit and efficiency from their study.
Note that not all courses are offered every term and several are offered on a rotational basis, i.e. every third or fourth term. An advisor is available to help plan study programs.
Students are reminded that the school is an interdisciplinary fine and performing arts department, and are strongly advised to acquaint themselves with the many disciplinary courses that are available.
Special Topics Courses
The subject matter (and prerequisites) of special or selected topics courses vary by term.
Prior Approval Prerequisite
Where a prerequisite is or includes ‘prior approval,’ approval must be obtained before enrolling in the course. Contact the school for further information.
Program Requirements
Entry to first year Dance courses required for the major is by audition and interview. Contact the school prior to attendance at the university to request information about audition details and dates.
Students complete 120 units, as specified below.
Academic Continuance Policy
Policy:
All students who successfully complete the acceptance process within the School for the Contemporary Arts are offered the status of “Major” in a specific area of study entering the first year. In order to remain a major, all students are required to maintain a cumulative GPA in CA courses of 2.67. Students that fall below the 2.67 will have a limited time to bring the average up before losing their status as a major.
Process:
All SCA student GPA levels will be evaluated at the end of each academic year, normally at the end of the Spring semester. A student who falls below the required cumulative GPA in CA courses of 2.67 will be notified of their probation status as a major with a limited time to adjust their CA GPA. Students will need to meet with the Area Coordinator and Advisor and plan their academic career for either re-establishing the Major or pursuing an FCAT BA with a double minor program. If the student does not bring the cumulative GPA in CA courses to 2.67 in the allotted time, he/she will be dropped from the major. If the student is in first or second year of study within the major and falls below the required cumulative GPA in CA courses of 2.67, the student will have two semesters to bring up their average to 2.67. If the student is in third year of their major, they will have one semester to bring their average to 2.67. Students who lose their status as a major in the SCA will have the option of pursuing the extended minor as part of the double minor BA option in FCAT, or via other options in the university. In extraordinary circumstances, the area coordinator and director of the school will review academic continuance policy cases.
Lower Division Requirements
Students complete a minimum of 45 units including:
Three core courses below:
Introduction to acoustics, psychoacoustics, sound synthesis, audio sampling and signal processing, and sound production in general as relating to music, film sound, radio, new media, art installations and live performance. Students who have taken CA (or FPA) 184 cannot take CA (or FPA) 149 for further credit. Students with credit for FPA 149 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Stefan Smulovitz |
TBD |
Introduces innovations in the fine and performing arts to show the range of possibilities open to those who wish to employ or understand the use of moving images in their disciplinary and multidisciplinary art practices. By the completion of the course students should have a good sense not only of previous innovations and traditions, but of the contemporary scene as well. Students with credit for FPA 186 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Laura Marks |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, 6:30–8:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E101 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, 8:30–9:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E102 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, 8:30–9:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E103 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E104 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, 7:30–8:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E106 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E107 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E108 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Wed, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E109 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, 8:30–9:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E110 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Wed, 7:30–8:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
E111 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, 8:30–9:20 p.m.
|
|
|
E112 |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Wed, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
|
|
An introduction to the techniques of artistic composition as experienced in a collaborative interdisciplinary studio environment. The emphasis is on the creation, analysis and critique of new compositions created in collaborative groups by students in dance, music, theatre, film/video and visual art. Prerequisite: One of CA (or FPA) 122, 130, 145, 150, 160, 170. Students with credit for FPA 285 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Robert Kitsos |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
plus one additional CA history course outside their major*
and all of
First of two studio courses in contemporary dance and ballet technique. Introduces theoretical approaches to contemporary dance. This is one of four courses required for entry into the dance major and minor programs. Prerequisite: Prior approval as a result of an audition. Corequisite: CA 122 and CA 129 must be taken concurrently. Students with credit for FPA 122 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Marla Eist Megan Walker-Straight Cheryl Prophet |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m. Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 9:30–11:20 a.m. |
Burnaby Burnaby Burnaby |
Continues and expands on the work undertaken in CA (or FPA) 122. Emphasizes work in contemporary dance and ballet technique with attention to theoretical approaches to contemporary dance. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 122. Corequisite: CA 123 and CA 124 must be taken concurrently. Students with credit for FPA 123 may not take this course for further credit.
Selected dance improvisational skills will be explored in a variety of solo, duet, small group and large group forms through structured movement themes. Emphasis will be on sensory awareness, elements of movement, and composition. Recommended: dance or theatre experience. Students with credit for FPA 124 may not take this course for further credit.
Study of the development of modern dance and the reformation of the ballet from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. Emphasis will be placed on seminal dance artists and the impact their work has had upon the art form in western theatre dance. This course may be of particular interest to a range of students in departments across the University. Prerequisite: 12 units. Students with credit for CA (or FPA) 227 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Henry Daniel |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Thu, 4:30–7:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
This studio/theory course incorporates techniques of body awareness, centering, and structural realignment. The emphasis is on body conditioning and body connectedness. This course will be of interest to dancers, actors, kinesiologists, and athletes. This is one of four courses required for entry into the dance major and extended minor program. Students with credit for FPA 129 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Cheryl Prophet |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
The first studio course in a series designed for students pursuing a major or extended minor in dance. Emphasizes work in contemporary dance and is designed to develop technical facility in movement and acquaint the student with form and style in contemporary dance. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 122, 123, 124, 129 and prior approval by interview. Students with credit for FPA 220 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Megan Walker-Straight |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m. Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m. |
Burnaby Burnaby Burnaby |
The second studio course in a series designed for students pursuing a major or extended minor in dance. Expands on the work undertaken in CA (or FPA) 220-4 Contemporary Dance III and aims to develop technical facility in movement and acquaint the student with form and style in contemporary dance. (studio). Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 220. Students with credit for FPA 221 may not take this course for further credit.
An introduction to aesthetic theory as it applies to dance. Lectures will address, among other things, the nature of aesthetic experience, as well as issues pertaining to critical judgment, communication, taste, and high and low art. Students with credit for FPA 228W may not take this course for further credit. Writing.
and three additional units in lower division CA courses outside of dance from below
An approach to the elements of acting for non-theatre performance majors. Work will include development of individual powers of expression - vocal, physical, intellectual, imaginative, and emotional. Students with credit for FPA 150 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Billy Marchenski |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
Tanya Elchuk |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 5:30–8:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
A hands-on studio course modeled on the progressive development of artistic practice from simple mark-making to full scale installation. Through a process of continuous transformation, an original idea is developed in a sequence of methods, materials and scales. Some research is required. A course materials fee is required. Students with credit for FPA 160 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Sabine Bitter |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
Kathleen Slade |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
|
Judy Radul |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
An introduction to the processes, tools and technology used in the production and presentation of the fine and performing arts. Course requirements will include hands-on assignments in the production of theatre, dance, and music events. Students will work directly with equipment and materials, and are expected to be involved in work on productions and exhibitions outside of lecture and lab hours. Laboratory fee required. May be of particular interest to students in other areas and departments. Students with credit for FPA 170 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
John MacFarlane |
TBD |
An introduction to the management, and organization of the performing arts. This course will provide a grounding for students who wish to become further involved in the administration of the performing arts and may include practical experience outside of regular seminar hours. May be of particular interest to students in other areas and departments. Students with credit for FPA 171 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
TBD |
* See advisor for course options.
Upper Division Requirements
Students complete a minimum of 34 units including all of
The first of four upper division courses which build upon the movement vocabulary of contemporary dance. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 221. Students with credit for FPA 320 may not take this course for further credit.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Judith Garay Robert Kitsos |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m. |
Burnaby Burnaby |
Continues and expands upon the work undertaken in CA (or FPA) 320. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 320. Students with credit for FPA 321 may not take this course for further credit.
Students will be introduced to traditional choreographic structures and explore new directions in composition. Emphasis will be on the creation and analysis of work generated by extending the parameters of source, style and form in contemporary dance. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 124, 228W, and 285. Students with credit for FPA 324 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
|
Burnaby |
and 14 units selected from the following**
Explores the vocabulary and movement range of classical ballet technique at the intermediate level. Further attention will be given to the understanding of body placement, balance, flexibility and strength. Practical studio experience is offered within the context of specific theoretical principles. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance into the dance major or extended minor program, or prior approval.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Marla Eist |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
|
Burnaby |
Continuation of CA (or FPA) 322, with an emphasis on expanding the vocabulary and movement range of classical ballet technique at the intermediate level. Further attention will be given to the understanding of body placement, balance, flexibility and strength. Practical studio experience is offered within the context of specific theoretical principles. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 322 or prior approval.
A specific topic or set of ideas will form the basis for choreographic exploration. Students will create one or more works and participate in research and critical analysis, depending on the particular topic in a given term. May be repeated twice for credit if the topic changes. Prerequisite: 40 units in CA (or FPA) courses. Students with credit for FPA 325 may not take this course for further credit.
One of two courses which provide advanced level dance students the opportunity to work as an ensemble rehearsing and preparing for a series of public performances. Choreography will be created and/or selected by a faculty director. This course can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance into the dance major or extended minor, and prior approval. Corequisite: Students must be concurrently enrolled in a technique course at an appropriate level. These courses include CA 220, CA 320, CA 322, CA 420, and CA 421.
One of two courses which provide advanced level dance students with the opportunity to work as an ensemble rehearsing and preparing for a series of public performances. Choreography will be created and/or selected by a faculty director. This course can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance into the dance major or extended minor and prior approval. Corequisite: Students must be concurrently enrolled in a technique course at an appropriate level. These courses include 220, 320, 322, 420, and 421.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 2:30–6:20 p.m.
|
|
The third of four upper division courses which build upon the movement vocabulary of contemporary dance. Can only be repeated for credit once. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 285 and CA (or FPA) 321.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Judith Garay Robert Kitsos |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m. |
Burnaby Burnaby |
Continues and expands the work undertaken in CA (or FPA) 324. This process-oriented workshop will focus on choreographic strategies and devices used to develop dance works. Specific studies in movement generation, improvisation, partnering, spatial design and compositional structures will be explored. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 124 and 285.
Advanced performance studies in intensive specialized workshops and/or participation in choreographic projects culminating in public performance. Course content may include interdisciplinary collaborations and a variety of performance styles and techniques. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 285 and CA (or FPA) 326 or 327 with prior approval by application. Students must also be concurrently enrolled in a dance technique course at the appropriate level. These courses include CA 221, 321, 323, and 421.
An introduction into the theory and practice of movement analysis based on recognized theories of analysis. Experiential work may be included in the course and a dance or similar movement background is necessary. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 124 or 150 and 285. Students with credit for FPA 426 may not take this course for further credit.
An extension of classical ballet technique on an upper intermediate level. Understanding of basic principles is assumed and attention will be focused on combinations of movement, musicality and performance. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 323 or prior approval.
Section | Instructor | Day/Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Marla Eist |
Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
|
Burnaby |
An advanced course. Students must have a thorough background in the vocabulary and techniques of classical ballet. Attention will be given to movement sequences from the ballet repertoire. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: CA (or FPA) 427 or prior approval.
and nine upper division CA units including one upper division history or theory course.
* May be completed more than once for credit.
** Other dance related courses may be substituted with permission of the school.
Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements
Students admitted to ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.
WQB Graduation Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit
Requirement |
Units |
Notes | |
W - Writing |
6 |
Must include at least one upper division course, taken at ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV within the student’s major subject | |
Q - Quantitative |
6 |
Q courses may be lower or upper division | |
B - Breadth |
18 |
Designated Breadth | Must be outside the student’s major subject, and may be lower or upper division 6 units Social Sciences: B-Soc 6 units Humanities: B-Hum 6 units Sciences: B-Sci |
6 |
Additional Breadth | 6 units outside the student’s major subject (may or may not be B-designated courses, and will likely help fulfil individual degree program requirements) Students choosing to complete a joint major, joint honours, double major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors may satisfy the breadth requirements (designated or not designated) with courses completed in either one or both program areas. |
Residency Requirements and Transfer Credit
- At least half of the program's total units must be earned through ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV study.
- At least two thirds of the program's total upper division units must be earned through ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV study.
Elective Courses
In addition to the courses listed above, students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.