Master’s Programme in Choreology

Music and Dance Faculty, Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (HAMU)

Overview

The Master’s Programme in Choreology at HAMU is a two-year, full-time course taught in English, designed for graduates who wish to deepen their expertise in dance history, theory, and methodology. The programme provides advanced academic training in choreology, combining theoretical study, methodological practice, and research-driven approaches.

Students develop advanced skills in historical analysis, dance theory, and applied methodology, with opportunities to explore dance anthropology, sociology, aesthetics, documentation, criticism, and management. The programme prepares graduates for academic, research, and professional roles, including teaching, archival work, dance management, and critical practice, positioning them as leaders in the evolving field of dance studies.

Programme Goals

The programme aims to cultivate advanced specialists in choreology who combine theoretical knowledge, methodological competence, and applied research skills. Core objectives include:

• Historical and theoretical mastery: Developing detailed knowledge of dance history, contemporary practice, and theoretical frameworks.

• Methodological competence: Equipping students with research tools, analytical techniques, and documentation skills applicable to dance studies.

• Applied practice: Integrating research and methodology into real-world contexts such as archives, cultural institutions, and performance documentation.

• Critical and reflective capacity: Encouraging independent thought, methodological innovation, and evidence-based interpretation in the field of dance.

• Professional readiness: Preparing graduates for careers in research, education, cultural management, criticism, and further doctoral study.

Graduates are equipped to operate as reflective, skilled, and research-capable professionals able to contribute to academic and cultural discourse in dance.

Curriculum Structure

The programme spans four semesters and integrates practical, theoretical, and research components:

• Core theoretical modules: Advanced study in dance history, theory, aesthetics, sociology, and anthropology.

• Methodological training: Research methodology, dance documentation, critical analysis, and applied management techniques.

• Applied research projects: Collaboration with HAMU’s Institute for Choreology, archives, and external institutions to conduct practical research and analysis.

• Master’s thesis: Completion of an individual research project or thesis demonstrating methodological expertise, critical insight, and original interpretation.

• Seminars and workshops: Opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to case studies, historical material, or performance documentation.

This structure ensures graduates combine rigorous academic study with practical and methodological competence, ready to advance in research or professional practice.

Graduate Profile

Graduates of the Master’s Programme in Choreology are equipped with a comprehensive professional and academic profile:

• Expert knowledge: Advanced understanding of dance history, theory, and methodology.

• Research proficiency: Skilled in analytical techniques, documentation, and applied methodological practice.

• Critical thinking: Able to evaluate, interpret, and develop new perspectives within dance studies.

• Professional versatility: Prepared for careers in education, archival work, cultural management, criticism, and research.

• Leadership in academic and cultural contexts: Capable of guiding research projects, contributing to institutional development, and innovating within the field.

Graduates are qualified to teach, conduct research, manage cultural projects, or continue into doctoral studies in dance, cultural studies, or related disciplines.

Why Choose HAMU?

HAMU provides a distinctive environment for advanced study in choreology:

• Specialised focus: Unique concentration on the academic study of dance history, theory, and methodology.

• Research-driven approach: Collaboration with archives, documentation centres, and research institutes, fostering professional networks and scholarly engagement.

• Interdisciplinary perspective: Integrates anthropology, sociology, aesthetics, and cultural studies to inform holistic understanding of dance.

• Individualised mentorship: Small cohorts ensure personalised guidance, enabling students to develop their research focus and professional identity.

• Cultural and professional environment: Prague offers rich artistic, archival, and research resources, alongside international exposure and networking opportunities.

• Career-oriented preparation: Graduates are ready to enter professional, academic, and cultural roles that require expertise in dance studies.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic preparation, research potential, and familiarity with dance studies:

• Completion of a relevant Bachelor’s degree in dance, dance pedagogy, cultural studies, or related fields.

• Submission of CV, research proposal, and prior academic or professional work.

• Entrance examination, including assessment of theoretical knowledge, research potential, and critical reflection.

• Demonstrated proficiency in English and at least one additional foreign language is recommended.

Admissions are selective, ensuring candidates possess both scholarly readiness and methodological competence.

Career Prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers across academic, cultural, and professional domains:

• Academic researcher or lecturer in choreology, dance studies, or related disciplines.

• Dance historian, critic, or methodological specialist.

• Cultural manager or curator for archives, libraries, museums, or theatres.

• Educational designer, working with institutions or community programmes.

• Doctoral candidate in dance, performance, or interdisciplinary research fields.

Graduates combine theoretical depth, methodological sophistication, and interdisciplinary insight, enabling them to lead, innovate, and shape research and practice in dance studies internationally.

Conclusion

The Master’s Programme in Choreology at HAMU provides a rigorous academic and professional pathway for students seeking expertise in dance history, theory, and methodology. Integrating research, applied practice, and interdisciplinary study, the programme prepares graduates for leadership in research, education, criticism, and cultural management. Situated in Prague’s vibrant artistic environment and guided by expert faculty, students gain the knowledge, methodological tools, and reflective skills to contribute to the evolving field of dance studies worldwide.