Hampton’s rich movement tradition takes center stage with an innovative new academic program
HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University is stepping boldly into a new era of artistic excellence with the launch of its new Bachelor of Arts in Dance program beginning Fall 2026.
Rooted in a legacy of culture, performance, and creative expression, the new degree program formalizes Hampton’s longstanding influence in dance while creating new opportunities for students to pursue professional training grounded in artistry, scholarship, and innovation.
A Legacy of Movement, Culture and Performance
The announcement follows a season of expanded dance visibility across campus, including a recent workshop with the Dance Theatre of Harlem, exposing Hampton students to world-renowned artists, creative directors, and industry leaders, while reinforcing the university’s growing presence in the national performing arts landscape.
For generations, dance has moved through the heartbeat of Hampton University. Legendary ensembles such as the historic Terpsichorean Dance Company, Majestic Dance Team, and Ebony Fire have energized audiences and cultivated generations of performers whose artistry reflects both cultural pride and creative discipline. Now, that tradition takes on a new academic dimension through a comprehensive curriculum designed to shape the next generation of performers, choreographers, educators, and creative leaders.
“Launching Hampton University’s Dance Major marks a bold step forward in cultivating artistry, academic excellence, and community through movement,” said Dr. Iris Middleton, Chair, Department of Visual & Performing Arts. “Here, students don’t just learn to dance—they learn to think, collaborate, and inspire the world with every step.”
Building Artists, Scholars and Creative Leaders
Housed within the School of Liberal Arts and Education in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts, the 87-credit Bachelor of Arts in Dance program offers rigorous training across multiple disciplines, including ballet, contemporary dance, African dance, jazz, hip-hop, and musical theatre.
Students will engage in coursework including Ballet I and II, Modern Contemporary Dance, African Dance, Dance Practicum, Dance Internship, choreography, and performance studies while strengthening critical-thinking and collaborative skills essential to today’s evolving arts industry.
“This program represents the evolution of a tradition that has long existed at Hampton University,” said Dr. Linda Malone-Colon, Dean, School of Liberal Arts and Education. “Dance is both a language and a legacy within the Black experience, and this major creates space for our students to explore movement as scholarship, storytelling, innovation, and global artistic expression.”
Introducing The Treasure Dance Company
The program also introduces The Treasure Dance Company, a new concert and competitive dance ensemble that will produce mainstage performances and represent Hampton University in collegiate dance competitions nationwide.
The company will further elevate HBCU representation in competitive dance spaces while opening opportunities for student performers to gain professional-level experience and artistic exposure on national stages.
Expanding Hampton’s Creative Legacy
As Virginia’s first HBCUs to offer dance as a major, Hampton continues to expand its academic and creative footprint while honoring the artistic traditions that have long distinguished the university’s campus culture.
Applications for the Bachelor of Arts in Dance will open ahead of the Fall 2026 semester, with opportunities for prospective students to learn about future dance intensives and performances.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution recognized for pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer research, and cybersecurity. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton remains a leading engine of innovation and workforce development.
Founded in 1868, Hampton serves a diverse community of scholars from 44 states and 32 territories. The university is committed to academic excellence, global citizenship, and preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity. Learn more at www.hamptonu.edu
