Dance and theatre in the social sphere. Dance pedagogy / theatre pedagogy, Bachelor of Arts

Who is the degree programme Dance and Theatre in Social Contexts suitable for?

The Bachelor’s degree programme "Dance and Theatre in Social Contexts. Dance Pedagogy / Theatre Pedagogy" at the University of Arts in Social Contexts is aimed at everyone who wants to use dance, theatre and performance as creative tools in social settings. The programme appeals to those who want to develop artistically while engaging socially – for example in education, youth work, inclusive projects or health promotion. If you enjoy working with groups, want to help shape social change processes and are interested in social issues, you will find a suitable offer here.

Admission requirements: What is needed for enrolment?

• University entrance qualification: You need the general university entrance qualification (Abitur) or an equivalent qualification (e.g. Fachhochschulreife). If applicable, check the possibilities for admission without Abitur, for example through a relevant professional qualification.
• Application for the winter semester: The regular application deadline is 20 May for the start of studies in autumn. Late applications may still be considered after consultation.
• Admission day: After reviewing the application documents, you will take part in an admission day. This usually includes practical and artistic tasks as well as a personal interview (e.g. 5 September).
• Observation (optional, recommended): Interested parties can attend a class of the specialised programme in advance. Registration is done directly with the university.

All application and admission procedures are communicated annually by the university.

Personal requirements

• Initiative and willingness for self-reflection
• Interest in artistic practice – particularly in dance, theatre and performance
• Openness to social and societal topics
• Ability to work in a team, as many projects during the degree are collaborative
• Motivation to develop your own artistic personality and work pedagogically
• Critical ability to reflect on your own artistic and social actions

Previous experience in dance, theatre or performance is an advantage but not mandatory – what is important is a high motivation to contribute creatively and socially.

What Awaits You in the Bachelor's Degree in Dance and Theatre in Social Contexts?

The degree programme Dance and Theatre in Social Contexts. Dance Pedagogy / Theatre Pedagogy (B.A.) at the University of Arts in Social Contexts Ottersberg combines artistic practice with social commitment. You will learn to respond to social issues and processes of change using performative, dance and acting methods. The focus is on developing working methods and performance formats through which people can come into contact and overcome social barriers.

• Specialisations: Dance Pedagogy or Theatre Pedagogy (one of the two qualifications possible upon graduation, special arrangements available if interested in both specialisations)
• Artistic training in acting, dance, performance, directing, choreography and dramaturgy
• Daily training in improvisation and action competence
• Close integration of practice and theory
• Encouragement to develop your own artistic personality
• Collaboration with external partners from schools, theatre, social work and health promotion
• Close supervision in small groups (approx. ten to 20 students per academic year)
• Training also in voice coaching and mask work

How Does the Course Proceed?

The full-time degree lasts 7 semesters (standard period of study) and comprises a total of 180 ECTS. The training is divided into artistic-practical, theoretical-scientific and professional elements. Relevant modules include, among others:

• Elements of Dance and Theatre
• Musical basics
• Interdisciplinary projects
• Studium Fundamentale (reflection, discourse)
• Styles and techniques in dance and acting
• Artistic forms and mediation
• Directing and choreography concepts as social design
• Specialisation in dance or theatre pedagogy
• Work placements and projects in various institutions
• Initiative study and independent projects
• Independent development, implementation and reflection of a final project (bachelor’s thesis)

From the very beginning, theory and practice are closely interlinked. The practical phases take place in cooperation with regional and supra-regional partners, including forensic psychiatry, schools, independent theatre stages, health promotion and inclusion projects.

What Perspectives Open Up for You?

• Teaching activities in schools and educational institutions
• Dance and theatre projects in socio-cultural centres and institutions
• Work at public theatres and in the independent scene
• Work in addiction and offender support
• Child, youth and elderly care, including inclusive projects
• Theatre projects for companies or with refugees
• Independent development of your own projects and formats in the field of dance and theatre in social contexts

The training also qualifies you for advanced consecutive master’s degree programmes – including at HKS Ottersberg. Through involvement in real working environments, you gain deep insights into possible career fields and make important contacts already during your studies.

Where Do You Study?

The study location is Ottersberg in the district of Verden, Lower Saxony. The University of Arts in Social Contexts offers a specialised and creative environment. In addition, students benefit from the Cultural Semester Ticket, which provides free entry to theatres, museums and independent stages in Bremen.

What Costs Will You Face – and How Can You Manage Them?

• Tuition fee: €442 per month (a total of €18,564 for 7 semesters)
• Other options: support through BAföG, scholarships such as the Deutschlandstipendium or project-based assistance
• Cultural Semester Ticket: free access to art and cultural offerings in Bremen for students

The university also offers advice on funding options and cooperations with regional and national partners for practical projects.