Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Contemporary Dance)

Lead the Way in Contemporary Dance with Unitec.

Unitec’s Contemporary Dance major is the most established, full-time undergraduate programme in Aotearoa, fostering a vibrant community of dance artists who shape the industry with innovative choreography and performance excellence. 

With a comprehensive curriculum that includes Contemporary Dance, Street Dance, Ballet, Choreography, Improvisation, Haka Toi Aotearoa, and Professional Practice, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to embrace the diverse opportunities available as a Contemporary Dance artist. Take your place in Aotearoa’s thriving dance landscape with Unitec.

Highlights

• Learn from Aotearoa’s Finest: Our teachers are not just educators—they are practicing professional dancers and choreographers who are leaders in their fields.
• Build Industry Connections: Forge meaningful relationships with industry professionals, opening doors to future job opportunities.
• Benefit from Esteemed Partnerships: Learn Street Dance from The Projekt Team, New Zealand’s premier Street Dance collective, and Haka Toi Aotearoa from the renowned Atamira Dance Company.
• Develop Your Artistic Voice: Create and choreograph your own work while refining your unique perspective.
• Receive Creative Mentorship: Enjoy three years of scaffolded support to help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
• Gain Industry Experience: Participate in a comprehensive third-year secondment programme, working with prestigious companies like The New Zealand Dance Company, Footnote NZ Dance, and Atamira Dance Company.
• Collaborate in Film Projects: Engage in significant dance film projects alongside Screen Arts students and faculty, blending creativity across disciplines.
• Perform Live: Take the stage in professional theatres, collaborating with accomplished choreographers to bring stunning performances to life.
• Collaborate Across Arts Disciplines: Share classes and experiences with actors, directors, writers, editors, and screen arts students, fostering a dynamic, interdisciplinary learning environment.

This comprehensive experience sets Unitec Dance apart, ensuring you’re prepared for a thriving career in the ever-evolving world of dance.

Technique

At Unitec Dance, practicality takes centre stage. Spend up to three hours a day in technique class honing your skills and expanding your repertoire. Explore a diverse range of dance techniques, including Contemporary, Street Dance, Ballet, Muscle and Bone, Somatics, Contact Improvisation, and Haka Toi Aotearoa. This hands-on approach ensures you develop a deep connection to your craft, preparing you for the diverse demands of the dance industry.

Choreography

Unitec Dance is renowned for its exceptional choreographic curriculum, where creativity meets practice. Choreography integrates seamlessly with the technique curriculum, offering a well-rounded learning experience. You’ll develop hands-on expertise in choreographic processes, improvisation, collaboration, solo, duet, and group projects, as well as experimental performance practices. These skills culminate in in-house showings and captivating public performances, ensuring you’re ready to excel in your own choreographic pursuit.

Contextual studies and professional practice

At Unitec Dance, your studies extend beyond the studio, immersing you in a rich culture of critical studies. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of dance histories and associated theories, delving into in-depth theoretical and critical thought alongside your future industry peers. This unique cross-discipline environment allows you to seamlessly integrate theory into your practice, broadening your perspective as an artist.

To set you up for a successful career, Professional Practice classes provide essential skills in portfolio careers, self-employment, contracting, CV writing, grant applications, and effective communication. These tools ensure you graduate not only as a skilled dancer but as a well-rounded, industry-ready professional.

Auditions

We offer flexible audition options to make the process accessible for everyone. Upon applying, you’ll receive detailed instructions to help you prepare.

Group Auditions: Held in Auckland and Christchurch, these are a great way to showcase your talents in a relaxed and friendly collaborative setting.

Individual Auditions: Can’t travel? We can come to you! Auditions can take place at your high school or dance studio.

Online Auditions: Available year-round, providing convenience and flexibility for prospective national and international students.

With approximately 20 places available in Year One, each audition is your opportunity to demonstrate your curiosity, potential, and creativity. Are you ready to take the first step towards joining Aotearoa’s premier dance programme?

Career Options

• Company dancer
• Freelance dancer
• Choreographer for live performance and film
• High school dance teacher
• Studio dance teacher
• Artistic Director
• Dance and performance artist
• Arts administrator
• Facilitator
• Dance academic

Annual Tuition Fees

Domestic/NZ students

$11,500

(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)

International students

$26,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save up to $2,000 (NZD) with the Unitec International Study Grant 2026. Terms and conditions apply.

Semester Dates

Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun

Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov

For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.

For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.

Dance Graduate: Unlocking the world of opportunities

Downloads and resources

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