MA in Choreography

Refine Your Artistic Vision and Shape the Future of Dance

The Master of Arts (MA) in Choreography is a practice-led postgraduate programme designed for emerging and professional choreographers, dance artists, and movement practitioners seeking to deepen their creative practice, develop advanced performance techniques, and contribute meaningfully to contemporary dance and interdisciplinary performance.

This innovative course blends practical research, theoretical exploration, and industry engagement , offering students the space to experiment with movement, composition, and new technologies while refining their artistic identity. Whether you’re aiming to create for stage, screen, or digital platforms, this MA equips you with both the creative tools and professional insight needed to succeed in today’s evolving dance landscape.

Why Choose This MA?

• Creative & Practice-Led Curriculum: Focus on hands-on choreographic development, supported by critical theory and cultural context.
• Interdisciplinary Exploration: Collaborate with artists across music, theatre, visual arts, and digital media to expand your creative reach.
• Digital & Site-Specific Innovation: Explore choreography beyond traditional stages through virtual performance, interactive installations, and site-specific works.
• Expert Faculty & Industry Connections: Learn from leading choreographers, directors, and researchers actively working in the UK and international dance scene.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access modern studios, performance spaces, and digital labs for choreographic experimentation.
• Flexible Learning Options: Designed for independent research and creative inquiry, with structured mentorship and feedback.

Course Structure: From Creative Inquiry to Final Project

This MA nurtures original thinking, technical skill, and reflective practice—ensuring you graduate with a strong portfolio and a clear artistic voice.

Core Modules:

• Choreographic Practice and Research – Investigate contemporary methods of composition, improvisation, and interdisciplinary approaches to movement.
• Performance and Embodiment – Examine how identity, culture, and physicality shape performance and artistic expression.
• Theoretical Perspectives in Dance – Engage with critical frameworks, cultural influences, and current trends in global choreography.
• Collaborative Practices – Work alongside musicians, designers, filmmakers, and theatre practitioners to co-create experimental performances.
• Site-Specific and Digital Choreography – Develop work for non-traditional spaces, including digital environments, public settings, and immersive installations.
• Professional Practice and Career Development – Build essential skills in arts management, funding applications, teaching, and self-promotion.
• Final Major Project / Dissertation – Create a fully realised choreographic piece or produce a written thesis exploring a key theme in contemporary dance.

Please note: Module availability may vary depending on university and delivery mode.

Skills You Will Develop

By studying this MA, you will gain:

• Advanced Choreographic Techniques – Refine your ability to create meaningful movement-based works across genres and formats.
• Critical Thinking & Analysis – Apply theoretical and historical knowledge to contemporary dance practice.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration – Work effectively with professionals in theatre, film, and digital arts.
• Digital Performance Expertise – Use technology, projection, and virtual reality to enhance your choreographic vision.
• Teaching and Facilitation Skills – Learn how to lead workshops, teach choreography, and engage diverse audiences.
• Arts Management and Enterprise Skills – Understand how to pitch ideas, manage projects, and promote your creative work professionally.

Teaching & Assessment Methods

You will learn through a combination of:

• Studio-based choreographic labs
• Seminar discussions and theoretical study
• Collaborative performance projects
• Independent research and reflective practice
• Masterclasses led by visiting artists and choreographers

Assessment includes:

• Practical choreographic presentations
• Written research essays and reflective journals
• Portfolio reviews and process documentation
• Final major project (performance or written dissertation)

Regular feedback and academic support ensure you build confidence and competence throughout the programme.

Who Should Apply?

This course is ideal for:

• Graduates with a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in Dance, Performing Arts, or related disciplines .
• Practicing dance artists and choreographers with significant professional experience (applications considered on a case-by-case basis).
• International applicants who meet English language requirements (typically IELTS 6.5 or equivalent ).
• Applicants must submit a portfolio or showreel demonstrating prior choreographic or performance experience.

All applications are subject to interview and academic assessment.

Career Prospects: Unlock Opportunities in Contemporary Dance

An MA in Choreography opens doors to meaningful careers in a variety of creative and educational settings, including:

• Professional Choreographer – Create original works for dance companies, theatre, or independent productions.
• Movement Director – Work in theatre, film, or television to design expressive body movement sequences.
• Dance Educator & Workshop Leader – Teach choreography in schools, colleges, and community organisations.
• Digital and Experimental Dance Artist – Explore choreography through new media, virtual reality, and interactive performance.
• Artistic Director or Creative Producer – Lead arts initiatives, festivals, or performance-based projects.
• Academic Researcher or PhD Candidate – Contribute to scholarly studies in dance, choreography, and performance theory.

Graduates have gone on to successful roles in dance companies, performing arts institutions, independent theatre projects, and international performance collaborations .

With its strong emphasis on innovation, reflection, and professional development, this qualification significantly enhances your credibility and employability in today’s competitive arts and performance sector.

Start Your Journey Toward a Career in Choreography Today

Whether you’re looking to formalise your creative practice, transition into leadership roles within the dance industry, or prepare for further academic research, the MA in Choreography gives you the strategic insight and practical tools you need to succeed.

Apply now and take the next step toward becoming a leader in contemporary choreography and shaping the future of dance.