TOTAL CERTIFICATE HOURS: 20
This certificate is designed for students who are degree seeking (any major) and who possess a strong interest in exploring the field of dance medicine and science. This certificate program provides students with a basic understanding of issues pertaining to the health and wellness of dancers such as: typical injury and misalignment patterns, injury prevention and management , injury risk factors, effective conditioning, muscular analysis of dance movement, mental health concerns, nutrition recommendations and fitness parameters. The curriculum addresses current topics in dance medicine and science research, and students learn research methods for conducting dance-science research. Undergirding this specialized study are support courses which address the structure and function of body systems, the mechanical principles related to motor performance, the physiological effects of exercise, nutrition, and principles of motor development and skill acquisition. Also included in the dance medicine and science domain of study and within the certificate curriculum are “dance for health” aspects, which embrace the evidence-based use of dance as a healing and wellness modality applied with a variety of populations. The capstone experience is undertaken in the Research in Dance I and II courses where students review research literature in the field and design an individualized research project exploring a relevant topic. Students are mentored throughout the forthcoming completion of the research project, and completion of the project is required to earn the certificate. Opportunities for students to present their research in external regional, national and international forums are encouraged and facilitated through mentorship. Students may also participate in synergistic learning experiences, including performing arts medicine conferences, dance science and somatics lab sessions, guest speaker presentations, and other performing arts medicine related activities at USF and beyond. DM&S students are encouraged to join the USF Performing Arts Medicine Collaborative Student Chapter as a way to engage other students with similar interests and collaborate towards common goals. The project should be fully completed within two (2) semesters after the Research in Dance II course. Students who are dance majors, health science majors, exercise science majors, or physical education majors interested in dance medicine and science, are encouraged to apply. Other majors are also welcome. Students are required to take 20 credit hours composed of the courses below. Intent to pursue the certificate should be discussed with the academic advisor for dance and the Certificate Coordinator.