Create movement, teach it to performers, and shape how dance supports a production or performance.
You may also see this posted as: Dance Director, Dance Maker, Opera Choreographer, Ballet Director, Musical Choreographer.
Studios, theaters, sets, schools, and touring productions.
Project-based and irregular; rehearsals may run evenings and weekends.
Artistic
creating, designing, performing, or working without a rigid script
Social
helping, teaching, caring for, or supporting other people
Enterprising
leading, persuading, selling, or turning an idea into action
O*NET job zone 3 of 5
Medium preparation—often vocational training, an associate degree, or substantial experience—is usually needed.
Examples employers report—not a checklist you must already know.
May 2025 BLS wage & employment data · 2024–34 BLS employment projections.
Openings a year counts new jobs plus the ones that open when people retire or move on — a truer picture of your odds than growth alone.
“Median” means half earn more and half earn less. Your city, employer, and years on the job move it a lot — that is what the 10th-to-90th range shows.
BLS estimates 24.3% of workers in this occupation are self-employed.
Statewide medians are a better starting point than the national number. Your city and experience still matter.
High school / no degree
Training path: Long-term dance experience; no single required degree.
Related work experience: 5 years or more.
On-the-job training: Long-term on-the-job training.
No license required to start in most places.
Licensing rules and available programs change by state. These federal tools take you to the current official listings.
Creates and rehearses movement for stage, screen, concerts, and other performances, usually after years as a dancer.
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Standard Occupational Classification 27-2032. Pay and employment from the BLS May 2025 OEWS survey; outlook and openings from the 2024–34 employment projections; job context from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; tasks, interests, work styles, software examples, and job zone from O*NET 30.3. See something off? Tell us.