Critical Dance Studies

Learn About the Program and its Research Profile

Are you passionate about contemporary dance and wish to further explore its theoretical discourses? Does the history of dance pique your interest? Do you understand your own dance practice as a way of thinking and experimenting? Would you like to develop your research skills to work as a dramaturg and curator in the field of dance? Then the Master of Critical Dance Studies is the right program for you.

Description of the Course of Study and Career Prospects

Based in the division of Critical Dance Studies of the Institute of Theater Studies at Freie Universität Berlin, the Master's program opens up present transdisciplinary perspectives on dance and choreography to students. The course focuses on concert dance, and critically rethinks, historicizes, and theorizes its formulation as an art form in the so-called West.

Why Study in Berlin? The benefits of an international dance city

Teaching takes place in cooperation with national and international dance institutions. Berlin's diverse and varied dance scene offers an unparalleled cultural environment. Reflecting the extraordinarily international dance community of Berlin itself, the focus of the program is broad.

Practical Info for MA Critical Dance Studies students and prospective students

Faculty & Staff

(Photo, above: Final bow, "Das Frühlingsopfer" choreographed by Pina Bausch, performed by Tanztheater Wuppertal. Creative Commons.)

Valeska Gert Visiting Professorship

The Valeska Gert Visiting Professorship at the Institute of Theatre Studies has been in existence since the 2006/2007 winter semester. The program is supported by the Freie Universität Berlin, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Akademie der Künste Berlin.

Information for Applicants

The MA in Critical Dance Studies is transitioning into a primarily English-language program, and aims to draw students from all over the world.

Department of Philosophy and Humanities

Institute for Theater Studies