What colleges offer strong programs for dance majors?

I'm a dancer and wanting to major in dance in college. Who knows which colleges have the best dance programs that combine excellent technique training with performance opportunities?

A few schools immediately come to mind when considering excellent dance programs that offer strong technical training as well as performance opportunities:

- Juilliard School: Known worldwide for its performing arts programs, Juilliard's Dance Division offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts and boasts an impressive faculty and countless opportunities for performance.

- University of North Carolina School of the Arts: UNCSA offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance and provides a rigorous curriculum with plenty of chances to participate on stage and behind-the-scenes. The school often invites renowned guest artists for master classes.

- University of Southern California (USC) Glorya Kaufman School of Dance: USC offers a BFA in Dance that emphasizes both new movement techniques and classical dance forms. The school also places students in contact with Los Angeles' lively dance scene, resulting in professional opportunities like internships and performances.

- Boston Conservatory at Berklee: Offers contemporary dance-focused programs through which students get numerous opportunities to perform and choreograph.

- Alvin Ailey/Fordham University: Provides not only great dance training but also a comprehensive liberal arts education. The Ailey School's BFA in Dance includes opportunities to perform with Ailey II, the school's junior professional company.

For each of these schools, you'll want to visit their respective websites or contact their admissions offices for the most specific, up-to-date information about program curriculum, faculty, and student opportunities. Remember, the best program is highly subjective and ultimately depends on your unique needs as a dance major, including your preferred style(s) and career goals.