At conservatories, almost all coursework revolves around dance and much of it is focused on dance performance. Liberal arts programs can train strong technicians and performers, too, but they offer more of a balance between arts and academics. If you just want to dance and don’t have other academic interests, then a conservatory is likely your best bet. If you’re after a broader academic/college experience, a liberal arts degree is probably better. Some conservatories, like the Conservatory of Dance at Purchase College, are situated within universities. At these schools, dance studies are intense but students must also complete liberal arts coursework. At Purchase, for example, dance majors earn a BFA after completing 90 credits in dance and 30 liberal arts credits.

There’s also a difference when it comes to admission. Conservatories look for strong technique first and academic achievement second. A liberal arts program looks at dance and academic achievement more equally.

Check out:
“Apply Yourself: Preparing a winning application takes reflection, not perfection” from the Dance Magazine College Guide 09-10
“Conservatory Life” from Dance Spirit Magazine, Sept-09 “
Video of a conservatory rehearsal at the Juilliard School, November 2009