What are the best colleges for dance education?

I'm really into dance and considering a future in teaching dance. Can someone recommend colleges with good dance education programs? I'm hoping to find a place that offers both strong academics and dance training.

There are quite a few colleges renowned for their dance education programs, offering a robust mix of academics and performance opportunities. Here are some you might want to consider:

1. Juilliard School: Extremely prestigious, Juilliard in New York City is one of the world's leading performing arts schools. It offers a well-rounded dance program with a rich curriculum in ballet, modern, historical, and world dance.

2. University of Southern California (USC): USC's Glorya Kaufman School of Dance blends artistic preeminence with an emphasis on interdisciplinary studies unique to a large university setting. The BFA in Dance offers tracks in Choreography and Performance, Dance and Music, and Dance and Digital Media.

3. Boston Conservatory at Berklee: The comprehensive curriculum at Boston Conservatory instills students with a deep understanding of dance materials and dance culture. Students also gain skills in injury prevention, nutrition, anatomy, and teaching methodology.

4. University of Michigan: Known for its strong programs in many fields, the UMich School of Music, Theatre & Dance offers a BFA in Dance that emphasizes the study of dance within a liberal arts setting of intellectual and creative exploration.

5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: The university's dance program is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country. They have numerous resources, like professional partnerships for student internships, and they offer teaching licensure.

Remember that wherever you choose to apply, you should consider aspects beyond just the program ranking—such as the school's culture, financial affordability, location, and size. These factors will also greatly contribute to your college experience. Reach out to the college's admissions or the heads of these programs to get a better understanding of what each dance program can offer.