Overview

The certificate in somatics provides special interest coursework for dance students interested in the mind-body connection, rehabilitation, kinesiology and dance therapies. Our certificate also serves health sciences, nursing and education majors who aim to work in helping professions and facilitate movement awareness and change. Music, acting and dance performance students also benefit from learning how to self-monitor physical performance, invigorate movement imagination, move expressively and connect meaningfully with an audience. 

Through experiential learning, you will develop a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the body, mind and spirit, and explore the potential of embodied practices in enhancing artistic expression, personal growth and well-being. 

Faculty and Staff

Our inspirational faculty and staff make sure students feel welcome and empowered to think outside the box and explore all possibilities of making art at UWM. Visit the Peck School of the Arts directory to meet these artists, explore their biographies and engage with recent work.

Minors and Certificates

Peck School of the Arts minors and certificates are open to all students who have already earned or are currently seeking a bachelor’s degree. Most certificates are also open to those not pursuing a degree (non-degree students). 

To be admitted individuals must meet general University admission requirements. To determine aid eligibility, please review all financial aid requirements.  

Contact us to get started and one of our Peck School of the Arts advisors will connect with you about your interests and opportunities.

Undergraduate Advising

Academic advising is a collaborative process that empowers students to realize their maximum educational potential. Students are encouraged to visit the Peck School of the Arts Advising & Student Services page to meet with your advisor prior to each semester’s registration period. Advisors provide students with individualized appointments to assist with degree requirements, course selection, campus resources, college success strategies, graduation assessment, academic policies and more.

Admission and Retention

Students must have a 2.75+ cumulative GPA and submit a dance minor and certificate application to be accepted into the program. No more than 6-8 credits will be applied toward the degree until after a student has been accepted and a dance faculty advisor has been assigned.

To continue in the program, students are expected to maintain a 2.75+ cumulative GPA and demonstrate a strong commitment to health and conditioning to fulfill the department’s academic requirements. Dance courses with a grade of C- or below will not be counted toward dance degrees.

Credits and Courses

Required Courses
DANCE 103Introduction to Yoga3
DANCE 220Body Sense3
DANCE 251Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analysis (QL-B)3
Electives (6 credits)
Select 3-6 credits from the following:3-6
Dance Anatomy & Kinesiology
Alexander Technique for the Performer
Body Conditioning: Pilates Method
Somatic Pedagogy and Practice
Intermediate Yoga
Optional: May take up to 3 credits in the following: 0-3
Ballet I
Modern Dance Technique I
Jazz Dance I
Tap I
African Dance & Diaspora Technique I
Improvisation for Dancemaking
Hip-Hop II
Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata I
Dance for the Musical Theatre I
Total Credits15