The only PhD in Dance Studies in Canada, offered by the oldest and largest university dance program in the country.

The focus of the Dance Studies program is to pursue dance research in preparation for careers in academia or the cultural sector. Employment possibilities for graduates range from teaching in post-secondary education to work in archives and museums, arts administration, publishing, journalism and the media.

York’s graduate programs inspire research and creation in dance grounded in diverse artistic, intellectual and social contexts. Founded in the 1970s, York’s undergraduate and graduate programs were the first in Canada to award dance degrees. Faculty members lead in the field—informed by the past, active in the present and moving toward the future. They value the cultural backgrounds, professional experience and age range of York’s graduate students in dance. Students investigate experiences and theories through studio practice, seminars, field trips, research, productions and academic conferences.

York alumni can be found across Canada and around the world in professions within and beyond dance. They contribute as teachers, choreographers, artistic directors, arts administrators, archivists, librarians, curators, film producers, writers, critics and editors.