Dancing isn’t just a high school extracurricular activity—it can be a lifelong journey of expression, fitness, community, and even career. For many, the end of high school brings uncertainty: will there still be ways to keep dancing? The answer is a resounding yes. Whether you dream of performing on international stages, teaching future generations, or simply enjoying dance as a way to stay healthy and connected to yourself, numerous paths allow you to continue long after graduation.
This guide explores every viable option available to dancers after high school, covering formal education, career opportunities, community involvement, and personal growth strategies. Equipped with expert insights, real-life examples, and practical tips, you’ll be inspired and informed to take your next steps confidently.
Why Continuing to Dance After High School Matters
Dance provides benefits that extend far beyond performance. Research shows that consistent physical activity like dance reduces stress, improves cognitive function, and enhances emotional well-being. According to studies from the American Psychological Association, creative movement helps form neural pathways associated with memory and emotional regulation.
While high school dance programs foster foundational skills—technique, discipline, and stage presence—post-secondary opportunities elevate dancers both personally and professionally. Continuing to dance helps:
- Maintain physical health and coordination
- Foster self-expression and confidence
- Build networks with like-minded creatives
- Explore new styles and cultural influences
- Pursue a fulfilling career in the arts or related fields
Leaving organized dance after graduation doesn’t mean the end of your journey—it’s the beginning of a more intentional, self-driven chapter.
Formal Education: College and University Dance Programs
One of the most structured paths to continue dancing is enrolling in a higher education institution with a dedicated dance program. Universities across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and other countries offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in dance, combining technical training with academic study.
Types of Degree Programs
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance
Often performance-focused, BFAs provide intensive training in classical and contemporary dance forms. Students spend most of their time in the studio, preparing for careers as professional dancers. Programs may include choreography, anatomy, dance history, and performance opportunities.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance
BA programs offer a broader curriculum, allowing students to combine dance with other academic disciplines such as psychology, education, or business. This path is ideal for those interested in interdisciplinary applications of dance.
Minor or Double Major Options
Many universities allow students to minor in dance or double major, enabling them to explore other academic interests while continuing to train. This flexibility supports career diversification, especially for dancers considering teaching, therapy, or dance science.
Top Institutions for Dance Education
Several schools are renowned for their dance programs. Consider institutions such as:
| Institution | Location | Notable Programs |
|---|---|---|
| The Juilliard School | New York, NY | BFA in Dance, renowned faculty, performance opportunities |
| University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) | Winston-Salem, NC | Conservatory-style training, strong alumni network |
| Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | Pioneering choreography, research in dance science |
| London Contemporary Dance School | London, UK | Contemporary and postmodern dance emphasis |
Admission Requirements and Auditions
Getting into a competitive dance program requires more than passion. Institutions typically require:
- Pre-screening video submissions
- In-person or virtual auditions
- Academic transcripts and standard application materials
- Personal statements or artist statements
Some schools, like Juilliard, require multiple days of auditions, assessing technique, improvisation, and collaboration skills. Preparation is key—start building your audition package a year in advance.
Becoming a Professional Dancer: Pathways and Possibilities
While not everyone will become a Broadway star or soloist with a world-renowned ballet company, a professional dance career is still attainable with the right mindset, strategy, and persistence.
Different Dance Career Routes
Modern dance scenes offer diverse employment options:
Company Dancer
Joining a dance company—whether local, national, or international—provides steady work, performance opportunities, and artistic collaboration. Examples include Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, and Tanztheater Wuppertal.
Freelance/Independent Artist
Many dancers build careers as independent artists, choreographing, performing at festivals, and teaching workshops. This route offers greater creative freedom but requires strong business skills and networking.
Commercial and Event Dancing
Opportunities abound in entertainment sectors such as music videos, commercials, cruise lines, theme parks (e.g., Disney), and award shows. These gigs often pay well and don’t require classical training—strong stylistic versatility is more important.
Dance for Media and Digital Platforms
With the rise of TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, dancers are launching careers as digital creators. Viral dance content can lead to brand partnerships, choreography jobs, and public appearances—without ever stepping into a traditional audition room.
Building a Strong Résumé and Portfolio
To succeed professionally, you need compelling evidence of your skills. Consider including:
- Headshots and performance reels (edited, well-lit, and under 2 minutes)
- Performance history (roles, venues, choreographers)
- Training background (notable teachers, workshops, intensives)
- Testimonials or letters of recommendation
Platforms like Vimeo and YouTube are ideal for storing and sharing digital portfolios. Make sure your social media presence aligns with your professional brand.
Networking and Auditions
In the dance world, who you know often matters as much as what you can do. Attend workshops, summer intensives, and open auditions to connect with industry professionals. Organizations like Dance/NYC, Performing Arts Alliance, and regional dance councils often host networking events and job fairs.
Teaching Dance: Share Your Passion and Build a Career
Another meaningful way to keep dancing after high school is through teaching. Educating others not only reinforces your own technique but develops leadership and communication skills.
Pathways to Becoming a Dance Educator
Certification Programs
Most teaching positions require certification. In the U.S., the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) offers resources and accreditation paths. In the UK, the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is widely recognized.
Teaching Assistant Roles
Many dancers begin as assistants in their former studios. This allows them to gain experience, observe teaching techniques, and build their reputation before leading classes.
Substitute and Guest Teaching
Being a guest teacher at workshops or filling in at studios can boost visibility and income. It also helps you experiment with teaching styles and build a client base.
Where Can You Teach?
The options are broader than you might think:
- Private dance studios
- Public or private schools (K–12 with proper certification)
- Community centers and recreation departments
- University adjunct or guest instructor roles
- Online dance instruction platforms (e.g., STEEZY, DancePlug)
Teaching online has exploded in popularity. With just a laptop and stable internet, you can host live classes or record videos for global audiences. Platforms like Patreon allow creators to monetize exclusive content.
Alternative Careers in Dance: Beyond the Studio
Dance opens doors to many related fields. These careers allow you to stay connected to the art form while exploring broader interests.
Dance Therapy and Somatic Practices
Dance/movement therapy (DMT) uses movement to support emotional, cognitive, and physical integration. Certified therapists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health clinics. The American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) offers accredited training programs, typically requiring a master’s degree.
Arts Administration and Management
Dancers with organizational skills often thrive in arts management. Roles include:
- Company manager
- Box office and ticketing coordinator
- Festival director
- Grant writer or fundraising specialist
Understanding the dancer’s perspective gives you a unique edge in managing performance organizations.
Dance Science and Fitness Training
With growing interest in dancer wellness, careers in dance science are on the rise. Areas include:
- Physical therapy and injury prevention
- Strength and conditioning coaching for dancers
- Research in biomechanics and performance optimization
Organizations like IADMS (International Association for Dance Medicine & Science) support professionals in this niche.
Choreography and Creative Direction
Choreographers shape how movement tells stories. Many start by creating student pieces or independent projects before moving to larger companies, TV shows, or films. Building a portfolio through festivals and competitions (e.g., Youth America Grand Prix, Jacob’s Pillow) can lead to national recognition.
Staying Active in Dance Without Formal Training
Not every dancer has the financial means, time, or desire to pursue formal education or a full-time career in dance. The good news is—you don’t have to. Many passionate dancers maintain a lifelong relationship with movement through informal but meaningful avenues.
Joining Community Dance Groups
Local dance groups and recreational collectives offer inclusive environments for all skill levels. Look for:
- Cultural dance troupes (e.g., African dance ensembles, Bollywood groups)
- LGBTQ+ inclusive dance workshops
- Airport or flash mob performance groups
These groups prioritize fun, camaraderie, and expression over perfection.
Taking Adult Dance Classes
Many studios now offer adult beginner and intermediate classes in styles like ballet, hip-hop, salsa, and contemporary. These sessions are typically non-auditioned and focus on enjoyment, fitness, and growth.
Some popular adult class networks include:
| Studio/Network | Style Offered | Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Broadway Dance Center (BDC) | Commercial, jazz, hip-hop | New York City, online |
| Glovent Studios | House, waacking, voguing | Los Angeles, Oakland |
| Steps on Broadway | All levels ballet, tap, modern | New York City |
| DanceWorks | Fusion, world dance | Houston, online options |
Many of these studios offer sliding-scale pricing or scholarships to ensure accessibility.
Dancing for Health and Fitness
Dance is a powerful form of exercise. Zumba, barre, and dance cardio classes are popular fitness offerings. If traditional gyms aren’t your thing, these high-energy sessions provide a fun, social, and effective workout.
Moreover, dancing has been clinically linked to:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Increased flexibility and balance
- Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Stronger neural connections as we age
A 2022 study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found that seniors who participated in weekly dance classes reported significantly higher life satisfaction and mobility scores compared to non-dancers.
Building a Sustainable Dance Lifestyle
Long-term engagement in dance requires intentional habits and self-care.
Set Clear Goals
Whether your aim is to perform professionally, teach 10 classes a week, or simply dance once a month for fun, clear goals keep you motivated. Try the SMART framework:
- Specific: “I want to learn salsa”
- Measurable: “I will take one class per week for 6 months”
- Achievable: “I have the time and budget”
- Relevant: “This aligns with my love for Latin music”
- Time-bound: “I’ll master basic steps by December”
Incorporate Cross-Training
To prevent injury and maintain performance quality, dancers should cross-train. Practices like yoga, Pilates, swimming, and strength training improve endurance, core stability, and recovery. Many professional dancers work with physical therapists to create personalized workout plans.
Listen to Your Body
After high school, dancers often face new physical challenges—college stress, long commutes, or full-time work. Chronic overuse injuries (such as tendonitis or stress fractures) are common. Prioritize rest, hydration, and regular check-ups with dance medicine specialists when needed.
Real-Life Stories: Dancers Who Kept Going
Sometimes, motivation comes from seeing how others succeeded.
From High School Dancer to Broadway Performer
Meet Jasmine Rivera, who danced with her high school dance team in Miami. After enrolling at Florida State University’s dance program, she trained in musical theatre and attended NYC auditions. She landed a role in Hamilton’s national tour. “I never thought I’d make it,” she says. “But staying consistent—even during tough years—made all the difference.”
Teaching While Working a 9-to-5 Job
David Kim, a computer engineer in Austin, teaches hip-hop on weekends at a local youth center. “Dance keeps me sane,” he explains. “I don’t get paid much, but seeing kids light up when they learn a new routine? That’s priceless.”
The Digital Dance Creator
When Sara Liu couldn’t afford college dance programs, she started posting tutorial videos on TikTok. Within a year, she had over 200,000 followers and was hired to choreograph for influencers. “Dance found me another way,” she says. “Social media changed everything.”
Final Thoughts: Your Journey Has Just Begun
High school is just the opening act. The curtain hasn’t closed—it’s rising on a whole new stage where you can shape your dance future with passion, purpose, and perseverance.
Regardless of your path—college, career, community, or casual participation—remember that dancing after high school isn’t about fitting into a mold; it’s about redefining what dance means to you. Whether you dance in a spotlight, a classroom, your living room, or online, the rhythm of movement is a lifelong gift.
Take the next step today: research a studio near you, schedule an audition, enroll in a beginner class, or simply press play on your favorite song and move. The world needs your dance. Keep going.
What opportunities are available for continuing dance after high school?
After high school, aspiring dancers have numerous opportunities to continue their passion, both recreationally and professionally. One popular path is joining a collegiate dance team or enrolling in a university dance program that offers degrees in dance performance, choreography, or education. These programs often provide structured training, performance opportunities, and exposure to diverse dance styles. Community colleges and conservatories also offer dance courses and certificate programs that cater to students seeking a more flexible schedule or affordability.
Beyond formal education, community dance studios, recreational centers, and local workshops provide classes for adults and young adults, making dance accessible regardless of career or academic path. Many cities host dance collectives, social dance events, and open studio sessions where dancers can practice and network. Additionally, professional opportunities exist in commercial dance, theater, fitness instruction, and even dance therapy. The key is to explore local and online resources that align with personal goals and schedules.
How can I stay motivated to dance when I’m not in a school environment?
Staying motivated to dance outside of a structured school setting requires intentional effort and goal-setting. Begin by creating a personal dance routine that includes regular practice times, whether at a studio, gym, or home space. Setting achievable short- and long-term goals, such as mastering a new style or choreographing a routine, can provide direction and a sense of accomplishment. Joining a local dance group or finding a dance buddy can also foster accountability and make practice sessions more enjoyable.
Additionally, use inspiration from performances, online dance videos, and workshops to reignite your passion. Attending live shows, following professional dancers on social media, or participating in dance challenges can help maintain enthusiasm. Reflecting on why you love dancing—whether it’s the physical benefits, artistic expression, or sense of community—can also strengthen your commitment. Ultimately, treating dance as a joyful and integral part of your lifestyle, rather than just an extracurricular, will support long-term motivation.
What are the benefits of continuing dance into adulthood?
Continuing dance into adulthood offers significant physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Physically, dance improves cardiovascular health, flexibility, strength, and coordination. It serves as a fun and dynamic form of exercise that can help maintain a healthy weight and prevent injury when practiced consistently. Unlike repetitive workout routines, dance engages the full body through creative and varied movement, enhancing overall fitness.
Mentally and emotionally, dance promotes stress relief, boosts mental clarity, and enhances emotional expression. Learning choreography stimulates cognitive function and memory, while performing builds confidence and resilience. Dancing also fosters social connections, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a sense of belonging. For many adults, dance becomes a powerful outlet for self-expression and a source of joy that enriches daily life.
How do I choose the right dance style to pursue after high school?
Choosing the right dance style after high school involves self-reflection and exploration. Consider what styles energized you most during your training—whether it was ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, or cultural forms—and evaluate how they align with your long-term goals. If you’re interested in performing professionally, research which styles are in demand in your region or in industries such as theater, film, or music videos. Trying out new styles through workshops or drop-in classes can also help you discover unexpected passions.
Additionally, assess your physical strengths, interests, and lifestyle. Some styles, like ballroom or swing, are highly social and thrive in community settings, while others, such as modern or lyrical, may be more solitary and introspective. Consider scheduling and accessibility; urban areas may offer more varied classes, while rural regions might have limited options. The best choice is one that feels authentic to you, supports your wellness, and fits into your life sustainably.
Can I pursue a career in dance without attending a prestigious conservatory?
Absolutely. While prestigious conservatories offer rigorous training and valuable connections, they are not the only pathway to a successful dance career. Many professional dancers build reputations through consistent training, performance experience, and networking in their local and regional communities. Commercial dance, in particular, often values versatility, performance quality, and audition skills over formal degrees or conservatory backgrounds.
Dancers can also leverage online platforms to showcase their work, build a following, and attract opportunities. Social media, YouTube, and streaming performances have opened doors for self-taught and independently trained artists. Additionally, gaining experience through community theater, dance studios, or fitness instruction can lead to related roles in choreography, teaching, or dance therapy. With dedication, persistence, and smart use of available resources, a fulfilling dance career is attainable from many different starting points.
How can I balance dance with a full-time job or academic commitments?
Balancing dance with a full-time job or academic schedule requires effective time management and prioritization. Start by identifying pockets of time during the week—such as evenings, weekends, or lunch breaks—when you can consistently dedicate time to dance practice or classes. Scheduling dance activities in your calendar as non-negotiable appointments helps reinforce their importance. Even short, 30-minute sessions can maintain skills and fitness if done regularly.
In addition, seek flexible dance programs such as drop-in studios, online tutorials, or self-guided practice routines that accommodate variable schedules. Communicate with employers or professors when possible about your passion and availability, as some may offer flexibility for artistic pursuits. Blending dance into your daily life—such as walking with rhythmic intention or stretching during breaks—can also help maintain physical awareness. Ultimately, integrating dance in manageable ways ensures it remains a sustainable and enriching part of your routine.
What steps should I take to become a dance instructor after high school?
To become a dance instructor after high school, begin by deepening your training in one or more dance styles through consistent classes and workshops. Many studios offer teaching assistant programs or apprenticeships that allow aspiring instructors to gain hands-on experience under mentorship. Pursuing certifications in dance education, CPR, and child safety can also strengthen your credentials, especially if you plan to teach youth or in schools.
Next, look for opportunities to lead classes, whether informally in community centers, gyms, or through private lessons. Building a portfolio of choreography and gaining experience in classroom management are essential for long-term success. Networking with established instructors and studio owners can lead to job openings or collaborative projects. As you gain experience, consider enrolling in a degree program in dance education or kinesiology to expand your knowledge and career prospects.