Dance Theory (N0215A310030)

Programme objectives

The continuing Master’s programme in Dance Theory develops the contents of the curriculum at the Bachelor’s level, supplements previously acquired knowledge and skills, and familiarises the student with other dance-theoretical disciplines. This concerns additional, more detailed historical findings, including the issue of contemporary dance history, expanding the student’s knowledge especially in the systematic disciplines (aesthetics of dance, dance anthropology, sociology of dance) and the applied disciplines (dance criticism, dance management). As part of the seminars, students will develop the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in their work with specific material and methodological tools. Through the study of Czech and foreign-language specialist texts, they will expand their knowledge of current choreological research, its questions, topics, theoretical points of departure and methodological approaches. Emphasis is placed on developing the ability to think critically, and on orienting oneself in the issues of the field and its current trends, both domestically and internationally. Students will become involved in the research activities of the Institute for Dance Theory, engage in collaborations with other research and documentation organisations (Institute of Ethnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Kylián Library and Archive, etc.), and participate in popularisation and organisational activities (activities of the Department of Dance, collaboration with NIPOS-Artama, etc.). Students will profile themselves, focusing on a specific topic in the field, particularly in the Master’s thesis project.

Profile of a programme graduate

The graduate of the continuing Master’s programme in Dance Theory possesses extensive knowledge, especially in the systematic disciplines (dance anthropology, sociology of dance, dance aesthetics). He or she has comprehensive knowledge of the history of dance, in particular its subtopics with a detailed understanding of the individual issues, as well as the contemporary history of dance, which builds on the contents of the history subjects completed at the Bachelor’s level. The graduate has mastered a range of methodological tools, and has experience in their application for specific research tasks.

The graduate understands the connections between dance theory and other humanities and social science disciplines, which are a source of inspiration for his or her own original research. The graduate is well oriented in the applied disciplines (dance criticism, dance management) and is able to work in the practice of these fields and participate in popularisation activities. When working independently, the graduate is able to apply the principles of critical thinking, to search for relevant sources and literature, and to formulate new interpretations of phenomena and problems associated with the study of dance in its various forms, even in the case of more expansive, complex topics.

The graduate of the continuing Master’s programme in Dance Theory is able to participate in interdisciplinary research activities or pursue doctoral studies with an interdisciplinary focus, e.g. in the fields of cultural anthropology, ethnology, culturology, aesthetics, general history, theory of music and theatre, multimedia studies, etc.

Rules and requirements for creating study plans

General information about admission process

The entrance examination will consist of an interview on specialist issues, on the applicant’s intended focus in the Master’s programme, and on his or her proposal for the Master’s thesis project.

The applicant shall submit to the committee for review an outline of the Master’s thesis project together with his or her professional CV and Bachelor’s thesis. The interview on specialist issues will include an overview of historical and systematic dance theory in the extent of the Bachelor’s programme curriculum in this field, as well as an overview of current issues in dance theory.

The admissions committee will assess the applicant with a comprehensive score, reflecting the applicant’s aptitudes in the following areas: ability to think logically and systematically; expressive and stylistic skills; overview of current developments in dance both domestically and internationally; basic knowledge of the history of dance and ballet; knowledge of the fundamentals of music theory, and of the history of music and theatre; general cultural knowledge; knowledge of at least one major world language at an advanced level; experience with dance and basic knowledge of dance techniques; all at least at the level of a Bachelor’s programme graduate.

After the completion of the entrance examination, the admissions committee shall rank individual applicants according to their average scores and shall recommend for admission those applicants who ranked within the admissions target and who earned the minimum score for the Dance Theory programme of study. The requirements of the admissions proceeding, including a designation of the method by which points are awarded, their range and the admissions target, are defined for each academic year by a relevant Decree of the Dean, which is subject to approval by the academic senate of the faculty.

If not enough applicants receive the required number of points, the admissions target will not be met.

Applicability to other types of academic programmes

Parts of the state final examination and their contents

Other academic duties

Characterisation of professional practice

Anticipated job placement for graduates (typical employment)