The Department of Dance Studies is well known internationally for its exceptionally strong research and teaching profile. A commitment to all dance forms as they exist in western and non-western cultures underpins the undergraduate and postgraduate taught degrees.

The range of dance specialisms taught reflect the research interests of our highly qualified and internationally respected staff. We provide a wide range of performing opportunities including student shows, site specific work, composer and choreographer workshops and projects with visiting professionals. Professional training provides unique vocational opportunities at internationally recognised companies and institutions in Britain and graduates of University of Surrey dance programmes enjoy excellent employment prospects.

Our excellent resources include studio and performance space, the National Resource Centre for Dance and the Labanotation Institute, Campusdance, UniSport and Optimum Fitness provide cheap, good quality sports facilities, supplementary dance training and sports therapy on campus and we are only 35 minutes by train from the international cultural scene in London.

What the external examiners said...

'The students on the programme enjoy an exceptional range of study opportunities, and scope to develop skills, knowledge and experience in a variety of related fields and according to individual choice and preference.' External examiner 2003

'This in-depth practical and theoretical investigation of a range of cultural dance styles gives the course at Surrey its identity. Modules that offer a range of opportunities for professional development also add a vocational edge to the programme. Here students engage in meaningful projects that are clearly a rewarding and fulfilling experience for them, whilst giving them essential and very necessary skills for employment.'
External examiner, 2004


Why study dance?

Britain is home to some of the world's most renowned dance training institutions. In a highly competitive industry it is sensible to give yourself an advantage. The United Kingdom, with its rich culture and diversity in the arts, offers students a huge variety of courses within the performing arts. The Department of Dance Studies at University of Surrey enjoys a reputation for its pioneering spirit. UniS was the first United Kingdom university to offer specialist degrees in dance at all levels. For over ten years the Department of Dance Studies has integrated practical and theoretical studies in a rigorous programme that prepares students for a variety of careers in dance.


International Students

Britain is home to some of the world's most renowned dance training institutions. In a highly competitive industry it is sensible to give yourself an advantage. The United Kingdom, with its rich culture and diversity in the arts, offers international students a huge variety of courses within the performing arts, and mastery of spoken English could open up many parts of the world.


We welcome non-United Kingdom students for the fresh insights which they bring and will do our best to help you. At UniS English language courses are offered to overseas students guiding them through intensive programs of study skills, essay writing techniques, reading and research methods, listening and note-taking, seminar skills and more. After all, graduating from a degree course in a British university is effectively 2 qualifications in one, as fluency in English is an asset in its own right. View the University's Language Centre for English website


Why study dance at Surrey?

Our programmes are well resourced. The campus is home to both the unique archive, the National Resource Centre for Dance, and the Labanotation Institute, which holds the most comprehensive collection of Labanotation scores in the United Kingdom.
Highly qualified academic staff respected professionally, nationally and internationally
Friendly working atmosphere with good studio, rehearsal and teaching facilities
A wide range of high quality performing opportunities including student shows, site specific work, composer and choreographer workshops and projects with visiting professionals.
A Professional training programme provides unique vocational opportunities at internationally recognised companies and institutions in Britain.
Excellent employment prospects in education, the community, theatre and industry
Only 35 minutes by train from the international cultural scene in London providing opportunities to see the latest dance works from Britain and overseas.
Campusdance, UniSport and Optimum Fitness provide cheap sporting, supplementary dance training and sports therapy on campus