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World Dance, Associate in Arts Degree

This degree provides students with a foundation in the theory, technique, and the aesthetics of the art of World Dance. This is fulfilled through a comprehensive program of study in a variety of techniques with an emphasis on Mid-Eastern, Flamenco, Latin, Polynesian, Mexican Folkloric, or African (Nigeria/Ghana) dance.  Students will also study choreography, music, and contemporary dance forms. Students will demonstrate proficiency through accurate technical execution, performance skills, research papers, essays, and choreographic works. Program assessment is measured by public performances, program completion, transferability, and periodic program review. Students qualify to pursue a variety of dance-related careers and advanced degree options. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Program Outcomes

  1. Develop an understanding and appreciation of World Dance forms and their relevance to the multicultural world we live in.
  2. Acquire the dance technical, composition, and performance skills necessary to transfer to a university program or similar advanced dance study program. 
  3. Implement critical thinking skills and kinesthetic awareness in their observation, analysis, and interpretation of World Dance performances on stage or in media.

Checklist of Required Courses (2024-25)

View the Course Catalog

Associate in Arts Degree in World Dance Core Courses (required)                                                
  • Dance Improvisation I (Spring only)
  • Dance improvisation II (Spring only)
  • Dance Composition/Choreography I (Fall only)
  • Music for Dancers
Select Three Units of the Following 
  • Rehearsal and Performance I and Repertoire I 
  • Performing Dance Ensemble I
  • Repertoire I
Select Eight Units of the Following
  • Mid-Eastern Dance 1
  • Mid-Eastern Dance 2
  • Mid-Eastern Dance 3 
  • Mid-Eastern Dance 4
  • Latin Dance Styles I
  • Latin Dance Styles II
  • Latin Dance Styles III
  • African Dance and Drumming I
  • African Dance and Drumming II
  • African Dance and Drumming III
  • Flamenco Dance 1
  • Flamenco Dance 2
  • Flamenco Dance 3
  • Flamenco Dance 4
  • Polynesian Dance
  • Polynesian Dance 2
  • Mexican Folklórico Dance 1
  • Mexican Folklórico Dance 2
Select Four Units of the Following
  • Kinesiology for Dance (Fall only)
  • Dance Wellness and Injury Prevention (Spring only)
  • World Dance and Culture
  • Dance as a Profession Seminar (Fall only)
  • Appreciation of Dance
  • Dance Methodology
  • Ballet 1
  • Ballet 2
  • Ballet III
  • Tap 1 
  • Tap 2
  • Modern Dance 1
  •  Modern 2
  • Modern Dance III
  • Jazz Dance 1
  • Jazz Dance 2
  • Jazz Dance III
  • Contemporary Commercial Dance
  • Contemporary Commercial Dance 2

View the Course Catalog