Top 10 Dancer Certifications

Certifications are important for dancers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of mastery and proficiency in the craft. They also show potential employers that the dancer is committed to their art and has taken the initiative to gain more knowledge and skills. Certifications can lead to better employment opportunities, higher pay, and larger roles. They also allow dancers to stand out from other applicants when seeking jobs or auditions. Finally, certifications can open up new doors of opportunity, such as teaching positions or choreography gigs.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Dancers and explain how they can help dancers advance their careers.

What are Dancer Certifications?

Dancer certification is a professional credential earned by dancers who have been recognized for their skill, experience, and knowledge in a particular dance style or genre. It is most commonly issued by dance organizations and schools, but can also be awarded by independent instructors. By obtaining dancer certification, dancers demonstrate that they are qualified to teach and/or perform at a certain level of expertise.

Having dancer certification can help dancers in several ways. First, it provides them with more job opportunities as they will be seen as more competent and reliable than those without certification. It also gives them the opportunity to expand their dancing career by teaching classes and workshops or auditioning for higher-level performances. Furthermore, having this type of credential may open doors to additional educational opportunities, such as attending conferences and conventions related to their field of study. Finally, certification can provide peace of mind to both employers and students that the teacher or performer is capable of providing high-quality instruction or performances.

Pro Tip: When looking for a dancer certification program, make sure to research the program thoroughly. Look for programs that are accredited and provide up-to-date information about dance technique and safety. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on instruction and mentorship opportunities from experienced dancers.

Related: What does a Dancer do?

Top 10 Dancer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Dancers today.

1. National Dance Council of America (NDCA) Professional Dancer Certification

The National Dance Council of America (NDCA) Professional Dancer Certification is a program designed to recognize professional dancers who have achieved the highest level of excellence in their field. The certification process is intended to demonstrate that a dancer has achieved a high level of technical proficiency and artistic expression, as well as knowledge and understanding of the history and culture of dance.

The NDCA Professional Dancer Certification is divided into two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 requires the completion of an online exam, which tests a dancer’s knowledge and understanding of dance technique, theory, history, and culture. Once the exam is successfully completed, the dancer will be awarded the NDCA Professional Dancer Certificate.

Level 2 requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in dance performance or teaching. The dancer must also have completed at least one year at an accredited college or university with a major in dance or related discipline. In addition, they must submit video evidence demonstrating their technical proficiency and artistic expression in various styles of dance.

Once all requirements are met, the dancer will be awarded the NDCA Professional Dancer Certification. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on whether you are taking Level 1 or Level 2 exams. For Level 1 exams, there is an application fee plus an additional fee for each exam taken (up to three). For Level 2 exams, there is an application fee plus an additional fee for each exam taken (up to five). Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting video evidence for review by NDCA judges.

2. Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies is a professional development program designed to equip ballet teachers with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to teach ballet safely and effectively. The program is divided into three levels: Introductory, Intermediate and Advanced.

It takes approximately two years to complete the RAD Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies. Each level consists of a series of modules that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, dance technique, teaching methodology, music appreciation and choreography. Students must also complete practical assessments in order to demonstrate their proficiency in teaching ballet.

To get the RAD Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies, students must first register with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). This can be done online or by post. Once registered, students must then complete all three levels of the program within a two-year period.

The cost for the RAD Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies varies depending on which country you are studying from. In the UK, it costs £1,200 for all three levels combined; however, students may be eligible for discounts or grants depending on their circumstances.

3. National Association of Teachers of Dancing (NATD) Certified Teacher Program

The National Association of Teachers of Dancing (NATD) Certified Teacher Program is a certification program for dance teachers in the United Kingdom. It is designed to ensure that all dance teachers are properly qualified and competent to teach. The program provides recognition for dance teachers who have achieved a high level of competence in their chosen field.

The NATD Certified Teacher Program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities through an assessment process. This includes written tests, practical assessments, and interviews with experienced professionals in the field. Upon successful completion of the assessment process, applicants will be awarded a Certificate of Qualification from the NATD.

The length of time required to complete the program varies depending on individual circumstances and experience levels. Generally speaking, it takes approximately six months to complete the entire process from start to finish.

To become an NATD Certified Teacher, applicants must first register with the association and pay a registration fee. Once registered, they must then complete an application form which includes details about their qualifications, experience, and training history. After submitting the application form and paying the applicable fees, applicants will be invited to take part in an assessment day where they will be tested on their knowledge and skills related to teaching dance.

The cost of becoming an NATD Certified Teacher depends on several factors including whether or not you are already a member of the association as well as your qualifications and experience level. Generally speaking though, it costs around £350-£400 for non-members and £200-£250 for members to become certified by NATD.

4. Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Qualified Teacher Status

The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is a leading international dance examination board in the United Kingdom. It has been providing qualifications and examinations for over 100 years. The ISTD Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is an accreditation that recognizes professional dance teachers who have achieved a high level of skill and knowledge in their field.

To become an ISTD QTS, a teacher must complete a rigorous training program that typically takes three to four years to complete. This program consists of both theoretical and practical components, including theory exams, practical assessments, workshops, seminars, and supervised teaching practice.

In order to be eligible for the ISTD QTS, an individual must be at least 18 years old and have completed the necessary training courses approved by the ISTD. They must also pass all required examinations with a minimum grade of 70%.

The cost of becoming an ISTD QTS varies depending on the individual's chosen course of study. However, it typically costs between £2,000-£4,000 for the full course of study.

5. American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum Certification

The American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum Certification is a program that provides students with the opportunity to become certified in the ABT National Training Curriculum. This certification is designed to help dancers develop as well-rounded, professional performers. The program includes training in technique, artistry, and performance skills.

The certification process takes approximately two years to complete and consists of four levels: Primary, Intermediate, Advanced 1, and Advanced 2. Each level requires passing a written exam as well as an assessment of dancing skills. To get started, dancers must be at least 10 years old and have at least one year of ballet training.

The cost for the ABT National Training Curriculum Certification varies depending on the dancer's age and level of experience. For example, Primary Level tuition is $350 per year while Advanced 2 Level tuition is $1,500 per year. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking exams and assessments which range from $25-$75 per exam or assessment.

Overall, the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum Certification provides dancers with valuable knowledge and experience that can help them become successful professional dancers.

6. Cecchetti Council of America (CCA) Registered Teacher Program

The Cecchetti Council of America (CCA) Registered Teacher Program is a professional development program designed to recognize teachers who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Cecchetti Method of Classical Ballet. The program is open to all teachers who have completed at least two years of study in the Cecchetti Method and are currently teaching it.

In order to become a CCA Registered Teacher, applicants must complete an application process that includes submitting documentation of their Cecchetti training and teaching experience, as well as providing references from other ballet professionals. Applicants must also pass a written exam and successfully demonstrate the ability to teach the Cecchetti Method.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on how quickly applicants can submit all required materials.

The cost for registering with the CCA varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the organization. If you are not yet a member, there is an initial registration fee of $75 plus an annual membership fee of $50. If you are already a member, there is only an additional registration fee of $75.

Once registered, CCA Registered Teachers receive several benefits including access to exclusive educational resources and discounts on products related to the Cecchetti Method. Additionally, they may be eligible for scholarships and awards from the CCA as well as recognition from other organizations that recognize excellence in ballet instruction.

7. International Dance Exercise Association (IDEA) Personal Trainer Certification

The International Dance Exercise Association (IDEA) Personal Trainer Certification is a comprehensive certification program that focuses on the science of exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle management. This certification is designed to provide fitness professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful personal trainers.

The IDEA Personal Trainer Certification requires a minimum of 80 hours of coursework and includes both online and in-person components. The online portion consists of an initial 10-hour course followed by six additional courses that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, nutrition, exercise programming, injury prevention, and more. The in-person component involves an 8-hour hands-on workshop.

To obtain the IDEA Personal Trainer Certification, individuals must successfully complete all required coursework and pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher. Additionally, applicants must have current CPR/AED certification prior to taking the final exam.

The cost for the IDEA Personal Trainer Certification is $499 USD for non-members and $399 USD for members. This fee includes all course materials as well as access to online resources such as webinars and study guides.

8. USA Dance Competition Judge Certification Program

The USA Dance Competition Judge Certification Program is a comprehensive program designed to certify and train dance competition judges. It is designed to ensure that all judges have the same level of knowledge and understanding of the rules, regulations, and scoring criteria for each dance style. The program consists of three levels: Level 1 (Introductory), Level 2 (Intermediate), and Level 3 (Advanced).

Level 1 requires completion of an online course which covers topics such as basic terminology, rules & regulations, judging criteria, and score sheets. Upon successful completion of the course, participants are issued a certificate from USA Dance. This level does not require any additional testing or evaluation.

Level 2 requires completion of an online course in addition to passing a written exam administered by USA Dance. This level also requires participation in a practical evaluation where participants must demonstrate their ability to judge a live competition. Upon successful completion of the Level 2 requirements, participants are issued a certificate from USA Dance.

Level 3 is the highest certification level available through the program and requires completion of an online course in addition to passing both a written exam and practical evaluation administered by USA Dance. Upon successful completion of the Level 3 requirements, participants are issued a certificate from USA Dance along with other recognition materials such as pins or patches.

The cost for each certification level varies depending on the type of course taken but typically ranges from $50-$100 per level. The time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you complete each requirement but typically takes about 6-8 weeks for Levels 1 & 2 and 8-10 weeks for Level 3.

9. American Ballroom Company Pro-Am Dance Instructor Certification

American Ballroom Company Pro-Am Dance Instructor Certification is a certification program designed to recognize and certify dance instructors who have achieved a high level of excellence in teaching American style ballroom dancing. The certification is offered by the American Ballroom Company, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the art and sport of ballroom dancing.

The certification process involves completing an online application and submitting it to the American Ballroom Company for review. Upon approval, applicants must attend an instructor training seminar, which typically lasts two days. During this seminar, applicants learn about teaching techniques, safety considerations, music selection, choreography, and other topics related to ballroom instruction. After completing the seminar, applicants must pass a written exam as well as a practical demonstration of their teaching skills.

The cost of the American Ballroom Company Pro-Am Dance Instructor Certification program varies depending on the number of seminars attended and whether or not additional materials are purchased. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $500-$1000 USD. Once certified, instructors may use their credentials to teach at various studios or events around the world.

10. United States All Star Federation Cheerleading and Dance Instructor Certification

The United States All Star Federation (USASF) Cheerleading and Dance Instructor Certification is a program that provides instructors with the necessary knowledge and skills to teach cheerleading and dance. It is designed to ensure that coaches, instructors, and choreographers have the appropriate training to safely lead their teams.

The USASF certification process consists of an online course, a written exam, and an in-person evaluation. The online course covers topics such as safety considerations for cheerleading and dance, teaching techniques, spotting techniques, risk management strategies, injury prevention strategies, and more. The written exam tests the applicant’s knowledge of the material covered in the online course. The in-person evaluation is conducted by a certified USASF evaluator who will observe the applicant’s ability to teach cheerleading or dance.

It typically takes around 4-6 weeks to complete the entire certification process. To get started on your certification journey you must first register for the USASF Cheerleading & Dance Instructor Certification program on their website. Once registered you will receive access to all of the materials needed for the program including the online course and written exam.

The cost of this certification varies depending on which level you are applying for (Level 1-5). Level 1 costs $100 USD while Levels 2-5 cost $200 USD each.

Do You Really Need a Dancer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what you plan to do with a dancer certificate. If your goal is to become a professional dancer, then a certificate may be beneficial in helping you get work as it demonstrates your knowledge and skill level. However, if your goal is just to have fun dancing for yourself or with friends, then there is no need for a certificate.

A dancer certificate can also be useful if you are looking to teach dance classes or join an amateur dance troupe. Having a certification shows that you have the necessary training and experience to lead classes or perform professionally. Additionally, some organizations require dancers to have certain certifications before they can audition or join the group.

In summary, whether or not you need a dancer certificate depends on your goals and the requirements of any organizations you may want to join. If you are serious about becoming a professional dancer or teaching dance classes, then it would be beneficial for you to obtain a certification. However, if your goal is purely recreational, then it is not necessary for you to pursue one.

Related: Dancer Resume Examples

FAQs About Dancer Certifications

1. What is a dancer certification?

A dancer certification is an official recognition of your dance skills and knowledge, awarded by organizations such as Dance USA or the National Dance Education Organization.

2. How do I get a dancer certification?

To get certified, you must complete an accredited program that meets the standards set by the certifying organization. This usually involves taking classes, attending workshops and/or passing examinations. You may also need to demonstrate a certain level of experience in order to qualify for certification.

3. What are the benefits of getting certified?

Having a dancer certification can help you stand out from other dancers when seeking employment or auditioning for roles. It can also give you access to exclusive resources, such as special workshops and events, discounts on dance gear, and more.

4. Are there any requirements for maintaining my certification?

Yes, most certifying organizations require that you renew your certification every few years in order to maintain its validity. This may involve taking additional classes or exams to keep up with changes in the industry or to stay current with new techniques and trends in dance.

5. Can I use my dancer certification internationally?

Yes, many certifications are recognized worldwide so you can take your skills anywhere! However, it’s important to check with the certifying organization before travelling abroad to make sure your credentials will be accepted in other countries.