Barton’s Dance Instruction & Management Program equips current and aspiring dance educators with the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic and rewarding field. Designed for teachers of all dance styles, the program emphasizes strong technique, foundational dance pedagogy, and essential arts management knowledge.
Whether you're looking to start a career or enhance your current teaching practice, you'll gain the tools to lead classes, manage studios or programs, and make a meaningful impact in the dance community—all in a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our areas of study are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
Why Barton?
Why Choose Barton’s Dance Instruction & Management Program?
- One of the only community colleges in the region—and the nation—offering a specialized Dance Instruction and Management (DIM) program.
- Designed to train the next generation of dance educators in a high-quality, affordable format right in the heart of the Midwest.
- Developed in response to industry demand for qualified, well-trained dance teachers.
- Courses are taught by experienced professionals from the dance industry.
- Curriculum is current, relevant, and based on national standards and best practices.
- Supports diverse dance styles and teaching environments, from studios to recreational facilities to K–12 classrooms.
Flexible Learning Options to Fit Your Path
-
60-Credit AA Degree in Dance Instruction & Management prepares traditional students in a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
-
Professional Development Workshops serve:
- Current instructors looking to strengthen credentials or explore new styles.
- Fitness professionals, gymnastics coaches, color guard trainers, and educators adding dance to their teaching toolkit.
- Studio owners seeking to stay current and expand their instructional capabilities.
Barton’s DIM program empowers educators with the knowledge, confidence, and flexibility to thrive in the evolving world of dance instruction.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Dance Instruction and Management (DIAM) program are prepared for a variety of careers in the dance industry, including:
- Dance Studio Instructor – Teach classes in a private studio setting. (Credential and AA)
- Choreographer – Create original routines for competitions, musicals, cruise ships, and special events. (Credential and AA)
- Recreation Center Dance Instructor – Lead dance programs for all ages in community settings. (Credential and AA)
- High School Dance Team Coach – Train and lead school dance teams, integrating choreography and performance skills. (AA)
Hiring qualified dance instructors is essential in today’s competitive recreation industry. Families of dance students expect teachers to be able to provide instruction that is:
- Safe and developmentally appropriate.
- Current with dance training innovations.
- Part of a well-rounded business plan.
- More than teaching dance steps. Instead, they empower their students with life-changing personal growth.
Become a Cougar
Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.
Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.
You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!
What Will I Learn?
Barton’s Dance Instruction & Management program offers a well-rounded curriculum that covers all essential areas of the dance education industry. Students will build a strong foundation in core dance techniques and explore specialized styles such as en pointe.
Coursework includes injury prevention and dance kinesiology, providing valuable knowledge to keep dancers healthy and safe. You'll also study dance history and its cultural impact, learn how to design effective lesson plans for all ages and skill levels, and gain real-world experience through a Dance Internship course—earning college credit while developing hands-on teaching skills.
Degree Maps
Degree Maps
Associate in Art
Dance Instruction and Management
View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Check out the Course Search for a full listing of courses available.
Partnerships
Partnerships
Barton’s Dance Program proudly partners with studios and organizations across Kansas to support student learning, professional development, and community engagement. These partnerships provide opportunities for internships, workshops, performance experiences, and career networking.
Our current partners include:
- Aly’s Dance Studio (Great Bend)
- ArtisTree at the Forum (Hutchinson)
- Ballet Salina (Salina)
- Be.Studios (Great Bend)
- Bethel College Academy of Performing Arts (Newton)
- Danceography (De Soto)
- Euphoria Dance Centre (Great Bend)
- Jill Landrith’s School of Dance (Wichita)
- Metropolitan Ballet (Wichita)
- Styles Dance Centre (Hays)
- Tamara Howe’s School of Dance (Salina)
These collaborations help bridge classroom learning with real-world dance industry experience.
Memberships
Memberships
Barton’s Dance Program maintains active memberships with leading arts organizations to support excellence in dance education and performance. These include:
- American College Dance Association (ACDA) – Promoting high standards in collegiate dance performance and education.
- Kansas Creative Arts & Industries Commission (KCAIC) – Supporting and advancing the creative arts across Kansas.
- National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) – Providing professional development, advocacy, and resources for dance educators nationwide.
These affiliations enhance student opportunities, faculty development, and community engagement through access to workshops, conferences, and creative collaborations.
Discover Career Paths
Discover Career Paths
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!
Admissions
You are only a few quick steps away from becoming a Barton Cougar! The Admissions process is quick, easy and free - we're here to help you through every step of the way. Start your future today!
Student Life
Barton is dedicated to creating a vibrant and engaging student experience! From clubs to student activities, we offer countless opportunities to make the most of your time as a Cougar.