Why Iowa?

Iowa Dance is a close-knit creative community, nestled in the heart of a major university, in a vibrant small city that loves the arts and ideas. Guided by nationally respected artist-professors, you'll dance, study, and perform as part of a well-rounded liberal arts and sciences education.

Prepare for any career

Earn your MFA in choreography or performance

Extraordinary artists, scholars, and teachers

Join the Iowa Dance Family

We're a welcoming and supportive community of creators on a campus full of friendly people doing fascinating things. We invite you to train and perform with professors and fellow students who are as passionate about dance as you–and to develop your artistry, your career, and your knowledge of the world.

Write Your Story

You have lots of interests–and we want you to explore them all as part of our Iowa Dance family. As an undergraduate, we'll encourage you to double-major, to transcend disciplinary boundaries, and to build your unique life and career.

Earn your Masters of Fine Arts in Dance

Your MFA in Dance prepares you to take the next step in your professional journey. If you're an expressive, curious, and passionate dancer seeking an immersive education in a creative community through supportive, comprehensive training, we invite you to experience our graduate program.

undergraduate students practicing ballet at barres in Halsey Hall gym

1 ST

university to award MFA degree in the U.S.
undergraduate student Ellie Daley dressed in black dancing on the steps of Catlett Hall. she is linging forward with her arms stretched over her head in the opposite direction and looking back at the camera

12 +

student-led dance concerts and performances each year

1

The only comprehensive Dance Program in Iowa
dancer in Intermediate Jazz dance class. Primary Instructor, Lovar Kidd

64 %

of BA students are double majors
group of BFA students performing onstage

News and announcements

VIDEO: Trisha Brown Dance Company on campus at the University of Iowa

Wednesday, February 25, 2026
In the Fall 2025 semester, Hancher Auditorium welcomed the Trisha Brown Dance Company to the University of Iowa campus for a transformative residency with our students. A new video documented the remarkable experience.

February 2026 Dance E-Newsletter

Wednesday, February 18, 2026
The latest news ands accomplishments from UI Dance faculty, students, and alumni

Events

Many Keys, One Conversation: Schizophrenia, Neuroscience and Creativity

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 5:30pm to 8:30pm
The James Theater

This event brings together storytelling, dance, science, and dialogue to destigmatize schizophrenia and mental illness. Through personal narratives, artistic expression, cutting-edge research, and expert insight, attendees will discover the power of vulnerability, resilience, and community support in mental health. When we share our stories, we heal together

5:30–6 p.m. | Reception with Hors d'oeuvres & Poster Session
6–6:15 p.m. | Michael Judge: A Brother's Perspective
6:15–6:45 p.m. | Margalea...

Dance Faculty Concert promotional image

Dance Faculty Concert

Thursday, March 12, 2026 8:00pm
Space Place Theater
This performance will feature works choreographed by faculty from the University of Iowa Department of Dance.
Dance Faculty Concert promotional image

Dance Faculty Concert

Friday, March 13, 2026 8:00pm
Space Place Theater
This performance will feature works choreographed by faculty from the University of Iowa Department of Dance.
One Day for Iowa | The University of Iowa's Annual Giving Day promotional image

One Day for Iowa | The University of Iowa's Annual Giving Day

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (all day)
Virtual

One Day for Iowa returns on Wednesday, March 25, marking 10 years of Hawkeyes coming together to support what matters most at the University of Iowa.

Give now: https://1dayforiowa.org/3N96oqb

Our 24-hour online giving day is a chance for alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends to make an impact—supporting scholarships, research, health care, the arts, student experiences, and more. With special matching and unlocking opportunities throughout the day, every gift has the power to go further.

Ce...

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