Somatic Emphasis

Courses in somatics are offered for those students who have a serious interest in somatics and itsÌýapplication to dance training, performance and dance medicine/injury prevention. Students can focus in the Alexander Technique Intensive StudyÌý(ATIS) program and/or Body Mind Centering®Ìý(BMC), work towards certification, or work toward certification atÌý in Boulder while simultaneously pursuing their MFA degree.

General Information

  • TheÌýDirector of the Somatic Emphasis must pre-approve aÌýSomatic Emphasis with an intensive study in Alexander Technique or Body Mind Centering®Ìý
  • TheÌýDirector of the Somatic Emphasis and training course directors must pre-approve certification in GYROTONIC®/GYROKINESIS®orÌýPilatesÌý
  • The ATIS and BMC intensive studies do not involve a certification but they do provide an in-depth theoretical and practical study, as well as a solid foundation for the possibility of entering an Alexander Teacher Training program (a 3 year program) or a Body Mind Centering® training (a 4 year training program) elsewhere
  • Students mayÌýcombine Alexander TechniqueÌýand Body Mind Centering® for their intensive study
  • The certification program or intensive studies must be successfully completed before the MFA degree will be awarded

Requirements

  • The graduate dance core curriculum is required
  • Students who are working in the Somatic Emphasis concurrently with the MFA degree program will be required to complete 50 credit hours towards their degree instead of 60. The 10 credit reduction typically comes from electives and from technique credits
  • Remaining credits may be taken in dance, kinesiology, psychology, or in other areas which best support the student's goals
  • In order to successfully complete the MFA requirements and the certification or intensive study requirements, careful scheduling is critical during advising sessions
  • All fees, schedules and regulations pertaining toÌýthe Gyrotonics Bodhi Studio, the Pilates Center, and private lessons are completely independent of the dance division and CU Boulder
  • The topic of the MFA Project does not necessarily have to relate to the student’s SomaticÌýEmphasis
  • All requirements for the SomaticÌýEmphasis must be completed no later than two weeks prior to graduation

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