About the Dance Programs
The Santa Monica College Dance Department offers a comprehensive AA degree in dance
rooted in theory and practice that prepares students for BFA and BA transfer and dance
related careers, while serving the general student population through a breadth of
dance experiences. The Dance Department is dedicated to nurturing versatile dance
artists through a combination of rigorous technical training in contemporary modern,
ballet, commercial, and world dance forms with performance opportunities, theoretical
study and creative exploration. Our aesthetically and culturally diverse curriculum
inspires students to cultivate personal artistry, think critically, value difference,
and become responsible global citizens.
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Program Paths
Dance
Associate in Arts Degree
The Dance program prepares the serious dance student for university transfer and provides dance training and enrichment for both the beginner and the advanced dancer. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with a broad range of dance courses to nurture versatile dance artists. The dance department encourages students to think independently, to value creative thought and diversity, and to be responsible global citizens.
The goal of the Dance Program is to prepare students for future careers in performance, choreography, teaching and related careers in dance. The program offers a wide array of dance classes designed to cultivate technique, creativity and performance skills while enhancing self-confidence, creative thought/expression, and critical thinking.
Commercial Dance
Certificate of Achievement
The Commercial Dance Certificate of Achievement is specifically designed for the student seeking employment in the commercial dance world and related industries. The curriculum is designed to be completed in two semesters of study through coursework in the Santa Monica College Dance Department. Upon completion of this certificate, the student is prepared for the evolving demands of dance-related industries and demonstrates proficiency in diverse commercial dance techniques, performance and audition skills, and the presentation of artist materials. Coursework includes hip hop, jazz, tap, and world dance techniques, performance, choreography, and career preparation.
Dance Major Advising
Every Dance major is assigned a Dance Department adviser who is available to assist students in choosing the appropriate course(s) to enroll in based on student study plan and goals. Students are assigned an adviser based on their last name. Dance Majors should plan to meet with their assigned dance department advisor each semester before enrolling.
Dance Adviser Assignments:
Last name begins with A-E = Jae Lee
Last name begins with F-J = Mark Tomasic
Last name begins with K-O = Marissa Osato Moreno (for Spring 2025 these students should contact either Jae Lee or Mark Tomasic)
Last name begins with P-T = Sri Susilowati
Last name begins with U-Z = Vanessa Van Wormer (for Spring 2025 these students should contact Sri Susilowati)
Resources and Transfer
Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should meet with a counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken at SMC before applying to your colleges/universities.
Student Resources
We know college isn't always easy. We are here to help as you navigate through your SMC journey. This resource connects to information about Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing and much more!
Core Performance Center
Dance classes take place in professional dance studios in the Core Performance Center.
Transfer Preparation
Many colleges and universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university need to know which courses completed at Santa Monica College will be accepted at the specific college/university.