Dance/Pre-PT to DPT | Springfield College

Dance/Pre-PT to DPT

Dual Degree
Dance and Pre-PT to Doctorate of Physical Therapy
About This Program
Program Contacts
Delivery
  • Courses offered on campus in Springfield, Mass.
  • Focus academic studies in two related disciplines: dance and physical therapy
  • Growing demand for Physical Therapy for dancers and other performing artists 
  • Receive a BA in Dance with direct entry into Doctor of Physical Therapy program
  • Gain experience as a dancer working with PT students as well as as later on as a DPT student working with dancers
  • Schedule a visit to campus
  • Program curriculum
Admissions Requirements
Paying for Your Education
Upcoming Events

Dance Auditions
Spring Audition dates will take place on Tuesday, February 18 at 2:40 pm

Dance and PT Major students working together

The Dance/Health Sciences: Pre-PT to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) at Springfield College taps into two of our already existing programs to provide a unique experience for students who want to focus their academic studies in two related disciplines: dance and physical therapy. 

The program will admit students to an undergraduate dual-degree program in both dance and health science on the pre-physical therapy track (HSPT) with direct entry to the DPT program for graduate studies (contingent on meeting the HSPT to DPT academic standards).

The combination of Dance and Physical Therapy studies, both of which revolve around human movement, is natural. There is a growing demand for Physical Therapy for dancers and other performing artists and a lack of PTs who have the dance major background that many dance companies and performing arts organizations look for in their hires. This program was created to meet the need for trained PTs who understand dance/dancer’s body/baseline is different from an average person. 

Dance Audition

Auditions are required. Auditions take place in the dance studio on the Springfield College campus, they may also coincide with an undergraduate open house.

Dance/Pre-PT to DPT students required to audition by the credential deadline in person or via video submission

Dance Auditions
Spring Audition dates will take place on Tuesday, February 18 at 2:40 pm

Please email admissions@springfieldcollege.edu to register for an audition.

*Contact Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@springfield.edu to arrange an alternative in-person audition. For anyone unable to attend an in-person audition, video auditions also may be submitted.


Instructions for video submissions:

  1. 30-second introduction (tell us a little bit about yourself)
  2. 2-3 minute solo in any style that best showcases you as a dancer (all styles welcomed and encouraged)
  3. Create an unlisted or private Vimeo or YouTube link (if private, please include password) and send to Undergraduate Admissions, at admissions@springfield.edu by the deadline listed above. 
Dance at Springfield College

Take a look inside the Dance Program at Springfield and what makes it unique. 

What job can I get with Dance/DPT?

A degree in Dance and Health Science: Pre-Physical Therapy from Springfield College prepares you for a unique career that combines your passion for dance with the science of physical therapy. Graduates can pursue roles such as dance physical therapists, specializing in treating dancers and other performing artists. This program also provides a direct path to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, allowing you to further your education and expertise in physical therapy.

Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics


Physical Therapists
$99,710
Median Salary
14%
Job Projected Growth
36,800+
Job Projected Openings

Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain. They are often an important part of preventive care, rehabilitation, and treatment for patients with chronic conditions, illnesses, or injuries. Physical therapists use a variety of techniques to care for their patients. These techniques include exercises; training in functional movement, which may include the use of equipment such as canes, crutches, wheelchairs, and walkers; and special movements of joints, muscles, and other soft tissue to improve mobility and decrease pain.



Dancers and Choreographers
$51,896
Median Salary
6%
Job Projected Growth
1,300+
Job Projected Openings

Dancers and choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. There are many types of dance, such as ballet, tango, modern dance, tap, and jazz. Dancers spend years learning dances and perfecting their skills. They usually perform as part of a group and know a variety of dance styles, including ballet, tap, and modern dance. In addition to traditional performances in front of a live audience, many perform on TV, in videos on the Internet, and in music videos, in which they also may sing or act. Many dancers perform in shows at casinos, in theme parks, and on cruise ships.


Alumni Stories

Alexandra MacPherson '21, DPT '23

The dance program here at Springfield College is unlike any other dance or performing arts major at another school. Most performing arts programs are focused solely on advancing technique with the goal of producing professionals in his/her chosen discipline. Through the collaboration of dance and physical therapy I have learned more about the field of PT, how my body functions, and how I can help keep my body safe from injury and pain.    

Alexandra MacPherson dancing
Incoming first year Springfield College students participate in June Orientation on Alden Street
Core Curriculum

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Student at the Learning Commons
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Academic Success Center

The Academic Success Center offers readily and easily accessible services including support in writing, mathematics, science, subject area tutoring, learning strategies and time management counseling, and assistance for students with documented disabilities.