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Arts, Entertainment, & Design · Performing Arts

Dancer or choreographer: training from a young age; choreographers start as dancers; some employers want a degree

Dancers typically need formal training, often starting young in classes after school or summer programs at dance studios or professional companies, and years of practice. Choreographers usually need at least a high school diploma and experience as a dancer. Some employers require or prefer a bachelor's in dance.

For: Athletic, disciplined performers who work well in a group and keep going after auditions.

See the roadmap Dancer & Choreographer guide

Route 1: Dance training from a young age Dancer

Students learn ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop and more; recitals and productions let them refine technique in front of an audience.

  1. Start here

    Dance classes after school or summer programs

    At dance studios or professional dance companies.

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

  2. Years

    Practice, recitals and productions

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

  3. Optional

    Bachelor's in dance or a related performing arts field

    Some employers require or prefer it.

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

  4. Goal

    Dancer

    Experienced dancers may become dance captain.

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — Summary (Quick Facts)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

Route 2: Dancer → choreographer or dance teacher Choreographer

Teaching dance in a college, high school or elementary school may require a degree; some studios accept experience instead.

  1. Start here

    High school diploma

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

  2. Experience

    Work as a dancer

    Learn different types of dance and how routines are built.

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

  3. Training

    Classes in choreography and creative movement

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

  4. Goal

    Choreographer

    BLS
    Dancers and Choreographers — Summary (Quick Facts)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)
    Checked
    21 Oct 2026
    View source

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What the job is, BLS pay and job outlook, and how to become one.

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Every step links to the official page it came from (regulators, licensing boards, the law), checked 21 Oct 2026. State and city licensing rules change: confirm with the board where you will work before you pay any fee. Education Margdarshan does not recommend paid courses. All careers →