Best College Programs for Ballet?

I'm passionate about ballet and starting to think about college options. What are some of the top college programs for ballet? Ideally, I'd like one that offers strong training and performance opportunities.

For a ballet dancer like yourself, the following universities offer top-notch programs with a combination of strong training, challenging repertoires, and high-level performance opportunities.

1. Juilliard School: No list of performing arts schools would be complete without mentioning Juilliard, which offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. Its program is highly competitive and is renowned for its intense technical training.

2. University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA): UNCSA offers a comprehensive ballet program through its School of Dance, where students can take part in numerous performance opportunities throughout the year.

3. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music: Although it's housed within a school of music, the ballet program here is strong and very well-respected. Their focus is on ballet technique alongside musical and historical courses about dance.

4. University of Utah: They offer multiple degree levels (BFA, BS, BA) and have an affiliated professional ballet company—Ballet West, which provides ample performance opportunities.

5. Purchase College, SUNY: The Conservatory of Dance at Purchase is known for its strong ballet program and broad curriculum, which also covers modern dance and composition.

When deciding which program is right for you, consider factors such as curriculum, faculty, facilities, location, and potential opportunities for networking in the professional world. If possible, visiting campuses and talking to current students or faculty from these programs can be an invaluable tool. Best of luck in your college search!