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Please note:

To view the Summer 2025 Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar/2025/summer.html.

Dance Honours

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Admission Requirements

Program and course admission is contingent upon University admission. Contact Student Services for admission procedures, requirements and deadlines. Entry to all programs and to many courses is by audition, interview or application. Contact the school’s office for information on procedures and deadlines or visit our .

Although the University operates on a trimester system, most CA courses are planned in a two term (fall and spring) sequence. Consequently, students enter in the fall term (September) and are advised to contact the school in the preceding January for program entry and requirements information.

Entry to CA 122 Contemporary Dance I is by audition/interview usually in early spring. Contact the school to make an appointment.

Transfer Credit and Advanced Standing

Unassigned or general elective (type 2 and 3, respectively) transfer credit awarded for courses completed at other recognized post-secondary institutions will not automatically entitle students to advanced standing in the school’s programs. Advanced standing is generally given on an individual basis as a result of an audition or interview.

About the School’s Course Offerings

Students are encouraged to take advantage of interdisciplinary offerings within the school. As many programs depend on a continuing sequence of courses completed in order, students should plan carefully to gain the maximum benefit and efficiency from their study. Note that not all courses are offered every term and several are offered on a rotational basis, i.e. every third or fourth term. An advisor is available to help plan study programs.

Students are reminded that the school is an interdisciplinary contemporary arts department, and are strongly advised to acquaint themselves with the many disciplinary courses that are available.

Special Topics Courses

The subject matter (and prerequisites) of special or selected topics courses vary by term.

Prior Approval Prerequisite

Where a prerequisite is or includes ‘prior approval,’ approval must be obtained before enrolling in the course. Contact the school for further information.

Program Requirements

Students complete SFU Honours Degree Requirements. See /students/calendar/fees-and-regulations/credentials-offered/definitions.html#honours.

Lower Division Requirements

Students complete a minimum of 47 units including

two core courses below

CA 186 - Art and the Moving Image (3)

Introduces the many ways artists have employed moving images across artistic disciplines. By the completion of the course students should have a good sense of both the historical innovations and traditions in moving-image arts as well as the use of moving images in the contemporary art scene.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Laura Marks
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, 5:30–7:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
E101 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E102 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E103 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, 7:30–8:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E104 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, 8:30–9:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E105 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E106 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E107 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E108 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Vancouver
E109 Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 7:30–8:20 p.m.
Vancouver
CA 285 - Interdisciplinary Studio - Composition/Collaboration (3)

An introduction to the techniques of artistic composition as experienced in a collaborative interdisciplinary studio environment. The emphasis is on the creation, analysis and critique of new compositions created in collaborative groups by students in dance, music, theatre, film/video and visual art. Prerequisite: One of CA 122, 130, 145, 150, 160, 170.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Robert Kitsos
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP

plus one additional CA history/theory course outside their major*

and all of

CA 122 - Dance Training and Movement Systems I (6)

First of two studio courses in contemporary dance, ballet and other movement techniques. This is one of four courses required for entry into the dance major and minor programs. Prerequisite: By audition for admission to the dance program and declared dance major or extended minor status. Corequisite: CA 129 must be taken concurrently.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Daisy Thompson
Sessional
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
GOLDCORP
CA 123 - Dance Training and Movement Systems II (6)

Continues and expands on the work undertaken in CA 122. Emphasizes work in contemporary dance, ballet, and other movement techniques with attention to theoretical approaches to contemporary dance. Prerequisite: CA 122 and declared dance major, extended minor, or permission from instructor. Corequisite: CA 124 must be taken concurrently.

CA 124 - Improvisation Tools and Scores (3)

Movement improvisational skills will be explored in a variety of solo, duet, group forms through structured movement themes and scores. Emphasis will be on sensory awareness, elements of movement, and composition. Prerequisite: CA 122 or permission of instructor. Corequisite: CA 123.

CA 127 - History of Dance: From the 20th Century to the Present (3)

Study of the development of modern dance and the reformation of the ballet from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. Emphasis will be placed on seminal dance artists and the impact their work has had upon the art form in western theatre dance. This course may be of particular interest to a range of students in departments across the university. Students with credit for CA 227 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Daisy Thompson
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 129 - Movement Fundamentals (3)

This studio/theory course is an exploratory movement laboratory designed for first year dance majors/minors. This course incorporates techniques of body awareness, centering, and structural realignment. This course may be of interest to dancers, actors, kinesiologists, and athletes with an extensive movement background. Prerequisite: By audition for admission to the dance program and declared dance major or extended minor status. Corequisite: CA 122 must be taken concurrently.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Sessional
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 220 - Dance Training and Movement Systems III (4)

A continuation of the work in CA 123, this course focusses on a range of movement forms and approaches to dance studio practice. Prerequisite: CA 122, 123, 124, 129 and prior approval by interview.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Sessional
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
GOLDCORP
CA 221 - Dance Training and Movement Systems IV (4)

A continuation of the work in CA 220, this course focusses on a range of movement forms and approaches to dance studio practice. (studio). Prerequisite: CA 220.

CA 228W - Dance Aesthetics (3)

An introduction to aesthetic theory as it applies to dance. Lectures will address, among other things, the nature of aesthetic experience, as well as issues pertaining to critical judgment, communication, taste, and high and low art. Writing.

and six additional units in lower division CA courses outside of dance from below

CA 149 - Sound (3)

Introduction to acoustics, psychoacoustics, sound synthesis, audio sampling and signal processing, and sound production in general as relating to music, film sound, radio, new media, art installations and live performance. Students with credit for CA 184 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Stefan Smulovitz
Online
CA 150 - Introduction to Theatre and Performance Making (3)

An introduction to live theatre and performance making for non-theatre and performance majors. Individuals will be introduced to a variety of theatre and performance making methods that explore time, space, contemporary aesthetics and text.

CA 151 - Live Acts I (3)

The first of four performance studio courses in the Live Acts cluster. A practical introduction to the foundations of live performance making from a variety of perspectives. With a rotating topic each term, students develop the foundational skills for creating original, contemporary live art. Prerequisite: By audition.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Erika Latta
James Long
Ryan Tacata
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 160 - Introductory Studio in Visual Art I (3)

A hands-on studio course modeled on the progressive development of artistic practice from simple mark-making to full scale installation. Through a process of continuous transformation, an original idea is developed in a sequence of methods, materials and scales. Some research is required. A course materials fee is required.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Elspeth Pratt
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
Claude Boisjoly
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 175 - Transforming Objects (3)

Explore how objects transform in relationship to body, space, and story. Techniques may include: mask-making, costume, puppetry, and toy theatre. Students will engage design concepts through iteration, rapid prototyping, and project scaling, as well as individual and collaborative materials based performances. Students with credit for CA 174 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Miwa Matreyek
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
D101 Miwa Matreyek
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
D102 Miwa Matreyek
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Thu, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 185 - Interdisciplinary Studio - Technical Foundations (3)

Introduction to the safe and effective use of studio technical equipment and systems to prepare students for collaborative creation and interdisciplinary studio projects. Basic training on the shared tools and supports available for student use at the SCA. Prerequisite: Declared status in a School for the Contemporary Arts honours, major, extended minor or minor program.

CA 243 - Gamelan I (3)

Practical and theoretical study of music for gamelan ensemble, based on, but not limited to, traditional Javanese music. This course is designed as an introduction to the study of the music of non-Western cultures and as a method of developing ensemble musicianship. May be of particular interest to students in other departments. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: Prior approval.

CA 251 - Live Acts III (3)

The third of four performance studio courses in the Live Acts cluster. A continued exploration of the foundations of live performance making from a variety of perspectives. With rotating topics each term, students develop the foundational skills for creating original, contemporary live art. Prerequisite: One of CA 123, 131, 146, 152, 161, 171.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
James Long
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 252 - Live Acts IV (3)

The fourth of four performance studio courses in the Live Acts cluster. A continued exploration of the foundations of live performance making from a variety of perspectives. With rotating topics, students develop the foundational skills for creating original, contemporary live art. Prerequisite: One of CA 123, 131, 146, 161, 171, 251.

CA 253 - Co-Lab (4)

Emphasizes compositional skills and the rigorous exploration of movement, text, and design. Co-Lab provides directors, performers, writers, sound artists, designers, filmmakers, and choreographers opportunities to devise, rehearse, and perform new public facing performances or events to audiences over the term. May repeat once for credit. Prerequisite: One of CA 123, 131, 146, 152, 161, 171.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Erika Latta
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 254 - Body I (2)

Body I introduces 'the body' as a primary material of performance. With rotating topics, students develop the foundational skills for creating original, contemporary live art. Prerequisite: One of CA 123, 131, 146, 152, 161, 171.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Erika Latta
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 255 - Body II (2)

Further explores 'the body' as a primary material of performance using a variety of perspectives on embodied practice as aesthetic experience. With rotating topics each term, students develop the foundational skills for creating original, contemporary live art. Prerequisite: One of CA 123, 131, 146, 152, 161, 171.

CA 256 - Environments I (3)

The first of two courses focused on the experiential production of space, Environments I introduces students to contemporary practices, concepts and methods specific to creating site specific and responsive performance. Prerequisite: One of CA 123, 131, 146, 152, 161, 171.

CA 278 - Video and Projection I (3)

Introduction to various software and hardware for digital image making and content editing. Creation of multi-media installations and performances using video projection. Cultivation of skill-sets to identify and visualize student ideas, such as visual research and proposal packages. Prerequisite: CA 185; or 30 units; or permission of instructor. Students with credit for CA 276 may not take this course for further credit.

* See advisor for course options.

Upper Division Requirements

Students complete a minimum of 48 units including all of

CA 320 - Dance Training and Movement Systems V (4)

The first of three upper division courses which build upon the movement vocabulary and practice of contemporary dance. Prerequisite: CA 221.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Justine Chambers
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 321 - Dance Training and Movement Systems VI (4)

Continues and expands upon the work undertaken in CA 320. Prerequisite: CA 320.

CA 324 - Approaches to Composition (3)

Focused on learning different movement based compositional methods used to make new work. Students will apply new compositional ideas, expanding and setting material in space and working with different approaches of music, light and sound. Students will work with peers from production and design and other areas to create specific projects. Prerequisite: CA 124, 228W, and 285. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Robert Kitsos
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 420 - Dance Training and Movement Systems VII (4) *

The third upper division courses which build upon the movement vocabulary and practice of contemporary dance. Can be repeated twice for credit. Prerequisite: CA 285 and CA 321.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Justine Chambers
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 424 - Making/Artistic Research (3)

Students are encouraged to focus their efforts on an individual practice and to develop new work mentored by faculty and guest artists. The research from this course will be carried over to the spring term senior projects in CA 425. Part of the class will focus on documentation and approaches to building personal profiles. This course can be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: CA 324.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Justine Chambers
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 425 - Intensive Studies in Performance: Senior Projects (5) *

Senior students continue the movement-based research initiated in CA 424. An extended final project will be developed, mentored by faculty and guests, culminating in a showing. Fourth year students will focus on choreography; other students will participate as collaborators or performers. Prerequisite: CA 220, 324, 424.

and the remaining units to total 48 from the following, including one upper division CA history or theory course outside the major**

CA 322 - Intermediate Ballet I (3) *

Explores the vocabulary and movement range of classical ballet technique at the intermediate level. Further attention will be given to the understanding of body placement, balance, flexibility and strength. Practical studio experience is offered within the context of specific theoretical principles. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: CA 123 and 124.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Marla Eist
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 323 - Intermediate Ballet II (3) *

Continuation of CA 322, with an emphasis on expanding the vocabulary and movement range of classical ballet technique at the intermediate level. Further attention will be given to the understanding of body placement, balance, flexibility and strength. Practical studio experience is offered within the context of specific theoretical principles. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: CA 123 and 124.

CA 326 - Repertory I (5) *

One of two courses which provide advanced level dance students the opportunity to work as an ensemble rehearsing and preparing for a series of public performances. Choreography will be created and/or selected by a faculty director. This course can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance into the dance major or extended minor, and prior approval. Corequisite: Students must be concurrently enrolled in a technique course at an appropriate level. These courses include CA 220, CA 320, CA 322, CA 420, and CA 421.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Marla Eist
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 2:30–6:20 p.m.
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
GOLDCORP
CA 327 - Repertory II (5) *

One of two courses which provide advanced level dance students with the opportunity to work as an ensemble rehearsing and preparing for a series of public performances. Choreography will be created and/or selected by a faculty director. This course can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance into the dance major or extended minor and prior approval. Corequisite: Students must be concurrently enrolled in a technique course at an appropriate level. These courses include 220, 320, 322, 420, and 421.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Marla Eist
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 2:30–6:20 p.m.
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
GOLDCORP
CA 329 - Selected Topics in Dance II (3)

A specific topic in dance which is not otherwise covered in depth in regular courses. The work will be practical, theoretical or a combination of the two, depending on the particular topic in a given term. Prerequisite: CA 221 or prior approval.

CA 354 - Social I (3)

The first of two courses in the Social Studio set. Students will be introduced to contemporary practices, methodologies and ethical considerations at play at the intersection of performance and social practice. Prerequisite: One of CA 221, 231, 246, 252, 261, 271, 285, or permission of instructor.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Ryan Tacata
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 355 - Social II (3)

The second of two courses in the Social Studio stream. Building on CA 354, students will continue research and experiment with contemporary methodologies at the intersection of performance and social practice. Prerequisite: CA 354.

CA 356 - Environments II (3)

The second of two courses focused on the experiential production of space, Environments II introduces students to contemporary practices, concepts and methods specific to creating site specific and responsive performance. Prerequisite: One of CA 221, 231, 246, 252, 256, 261, 271, 285.

CA 372 - Project Management in the Arts (3)

Project management skills support artistic growth and success. Students explore the organization of material and human resources across artistic disciplines through the lens of equity and sustainability. Students formulate budgets, plan project life-cycle schedules, contracts, estimates, and feasibility comparisons. The third of three courses in the Production Skills cluster. Prerequisite: 60 units or permission of instructor.

CA 375 - Space and Materials II (3)

From washcloths to high fashion, textile and fabric technologies re-pattern our lives. Students are introduced to basic sewing skills, construction, and mending techniques. Exploration of textile histories, contemporary artists, and approaches to sustainable textile practices in the arts. Students implement technique and research to create small textile design projects. The second of three courses in the Space and Materials cluster. Prerequisite: 60 units or permission of instructor. Students with credit for CA 375 under the title "Stage Design" may not take this course for further credit.

CA 378 - Video and Projection II (3)

As video technology becomes increasingly prevalent in creative applications, understanding systems design and deployment is becoming essential for contemporary artistic practices. Students are introduced to video and projection technology in artistic contexts, focusing primarily on the hardware and technical planning needed for effective system design and execution. The second of three courses in the Video and Projection cluster. Prerequisite: 60 units or permission of instructor.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Wladimiro Woyno Rodriguez
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 421 - Choreographic Lab (4) +

Continues and expands on strategies undertaken in CA 324. Focused on guest artist or faculty research - this course is a process-oriented laboratory for artistic exploration. Students will engage in artistic research led by the guest or faculty artist and culminate in a showing at the end of the term. Repeatable two times for credit. Prerequisite: CA 124, 285, 324 and (326 or 327).

CA 426 - Dance/Movement Analysis (3) +

An introduction into the theory and practice of movement analysis based on recognized theories of analysis. Experiential work may be included in the course and a dance or similar movement background is necessary. Prerequisite: CA 124 or 150 and 285.

CA 427 - Advanced Ballet I (3)

An extension of classical ballet technique on an upper intermediate level. Understanding of basic principles is assumed and attention will be focused on combinations of movement, musicality and performance. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: One of CA 322 or 323.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Marla Eist
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, Thu, Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 428 - Advanced Ballet II (3)

An advanced course. Students must have a thorough background in the vocabulary and techniques of classical ballet. Attention will be given to movement sequences from the ballet repertoire. May repeat for credit. Prerequisite: One of CA 322 or 323.

CA 440 - Soundbox II (3)

A collaborative creation-performance course in which students design and produce creative projects collectively in varied small/large group configurations. Forces involved can include any mix of instruments/objects/electronics designed toward collective live performance, sound sculpture/installation, or any other type of sound-based experience. May be co-taught across other SCA areas as an interdisciplinary model. Prerequisite: CA 240 or permission of instructor.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Mauricio Pauly
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Wed, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
GOLDCORP
D101 Mauricio Pauly
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Fri, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
GOLDCORP
CA 485 - Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Contemporary Arts (5)

A studio course focusing on creative collaborations between artists of different disciplines. The emphasis is on the creation, analysis and critique of new compositions created in collaboration between senior students in dance, film, music, theatre and visual art. Prerequisite: One CA studio course at the upper level, a CGPA of 3.0 and an overall average of 3.5 in CA courses.

* May be completed more than once for credit.

** Other dance related courses may be substituted with permission of the school.

+ May not be completed more than once for credit.

Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements

Students admitted to ÓÈÎïÊÓÆµ beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.

WQB Graduation Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit

Requirement

Units

Notes
W - Writing

6

Must include at least one upper division course, taken at ÓÈÎïÊÓÆµ within the student's major subject; two courses (minimum three units each)

Q - Quantitative

6

Q courses may be lower or upper division; two courses (total six units or more)
B - Breadth

18

Designated Breadth

Must be outside the student's major subject, and may be lower or upper division:

Two courses (total six units or more) Social Sciences: B-Soc
Two courses (total six units or more) Humanities: B-Hum
Two courses (total six units or more) Sciences: B-Sci

6

Additional Breadth

Two courses (total six units or more) outside the student's major subject (may or may not be B-designated courses, and will likely help fulfil individual degree program requirements).

Students choosing to complete a joint major, joint honours, double major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors may satisfy the breadth requirements (designated or not designated) with courses completed in either one or both program areas.

Residency Requirements and Transfer Credit

  • At least half of the program's total units must be earned through ÓÈÎïÊÓÆµ study.
  • At least two thirds of the program's total upper division units must be earned through ÓÈÎïÊÓÆµ study.

Elective Courses

In addition to the courses listed above, students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.