- Code: PE
- Certification:BTEC Higher National Certificate in Performing Arts – (Dance) Level 6+ equivalence on the NFQ achieved after year 1
- Duration: One or Two Years (option of a second year to achieve a higher national diploma subject to numbers)
Description
Step into your future in dance with a course designed to do more than teach routines — it develops well-rounded, technically strong dancers ready for the next stage of their training.
Our dance course combines high-quality technical training with focused preparation for further professional study. Students work on correct technique, musicality, strength, flexibility, and performance skills, building a solid foundation that supports progression into higher-level dance training and education.
As part of the programme, students study the ISTD syllabus to enhance technical understanding, discipline, and exam-level standards, alongside working towards HNC qualifications, giving valuable academic and vocational grounding for future pathways in the Performing Arts.
All classes are delivered by highly qualified teachers of both the ISTD and the RAD, who are experienced professionals within the dance industry. Their expertise ensures training is current, informed, and aligned with the expectations of professional and vocational dance environments.
Whether you are aiming for further training, higher education, or a long-term future in dance, this course provides the knowledge, technical development, and professional preparation needed to move forward with confidence and clarity.
Train smart. Build strong foundations. Prepare for what comes next.
- Programme of Study
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- Ballet
- Jazz
- Contemporary
- Devising Theatre and Performance
- Singing
- Choreography
- The Performing Arts Industry
- Professional Development
- Creative Research Project
- Working in the Performing Arts Industry
- Fitness Training for the Performing Arts
Components subject to change
- Entry Requirements
-
Year 1*
One of the following:- Leaving Certificate or its equivalent. Extenuating circumstances may be considered
- QQI Level 5 award or equivalent in dance
- Mature applicants – experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications
Year 2*
One of the following:- DANCE TECHNIQUE, PERFORMANCE &
CHOREOGRAPHY - HNC - Mature applicants – experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications
* Places are offered following successful interview and audition. - Higher Education Progression*
-
University of Sunderland:
- BA Hons. in Dance (W501 Top-up yr)
University of Bath Spa:
- BA Hons. In Dance (W500 Top-up yr)
University of Middlesex:
- BA Hons. in Dance Performance (W500 Top-up yr)
De Montfort University:
- BA Hons. in Dance Performance (W500 Top-up yr);
- BA Hons. in Dance Studies (W501 Top-up year)
University of Chester:
- BA Hons. in Dance (Top-up year)
University of Chichester:
- BA Hons. in Dance ( W501 Top-up year)
University of Doncaster:
- BA Hons. in Dance (W500 Top-up Year)
University of Winchester:
- BA Hons. in Dance
Edinburgh College:
- BA Hons. in Dance
Stella Mann College of Performing Arts
- Course Co-Ordinators
-
Eimear Byrne
- Where are they now?
-
Meet BIFE students who have graduated from this course...
“I studied at BIFE from 2012 until May of 2015. I completed Foundation Level Dance and Advanced Dance years 1 and 2 with a distinction profile and then went on to complete my final Top-up year in Dance at the University of Chichester. I just graduated in October 2016 receiving a 1st class BA (hons) degree in Dance Studies and can reflect on the four years of training and confidently say they will be four of the best years of my life.
I graduated from BIFE in 2014 gaining a distinction level Higher National Diploma. After graduating from BIFE I was accepted into Middlesex University, London where I studied BA Dance Studies for two years. During this time I developed both my theoretical and practical knowledge of the contemporary dance sector. Studying in the vicinity of London allowed for a unique student experience as I had access to London’s many renowned theatre and dance venues.