Northeastern Partners With Boston Ballet
Preparing for the Second Act of Your Career
For Boston Ballet dancers, careers don’t end when the final curtain closes—it’s just the start of their second act.
Northeastern partnered with the Boston Ballet in 2013 to provide the company’s professional dancers with an opportunity to earn their college degree while continuing to perform. Courses are available online and on campus, in addition to onsite advising support at the Ballet’s Clarendon Street location, offering the flexibility required for a dancer’s already demanding schedule.
“I was so excited when I learned of the partnership between Boston Ballet and Northeastern. It offered a range of degree choices and online flexibility that made it the perfect way to balance my education and a very strenuous career.”
— Andres Garcia, Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies
Generous financial support helps make the program even more accessible and affordable, and Northeastern’s range of experiential learning opportunities provides dancers with the hands-on experience they need to start their new career.
Professional ballet dancers typically retire by their mid-30s—many without the next stage of their career planned. Through this unique partnership, however, Boston Ballet dancers can step into the spotlight once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Boston Ballet & Northeastern pathway?
This pathway provides dancers the opportunity to pursue a degree from Northeastern’s College of Professional Studies while remaining full-time company dancers at Boston Ballet. Eligible dancers will also receive tuition assistance after enrolling.
Who is eligible?
Dancers who have been in the Boston Ballet Company for a minimum of one year are eligible to participate in this educational initiative. Boston Ballet II dancers are not eligible.
How do I apply?
To get started, please contact one of our dedicated staff to learn more:
- Ari Schaaff, Boston Ballet Liason, [email protected], 617.981.0470
- Nicolette Aduama, Associate Director, [email protected], 617-378-1099
Information regarding the admissions process can also be reviewed online at https://cps.northeastern.edu/admissions-aid/.
If English is not my primary language, is there anything else I need to do?
English Language Proficiency Proof – Applicants for whom English is not their primary language must submit one of the following,:
- Official associate degree transcript from an accredited college or university in the U.S., stating degree conferral and date
- TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC scores
- Michigan test scores
- Northeastern University English Referral Exam
If I have transfer college credit, will these credits count toward my Northeastern degree?
Northeastern will assess each student’s transfer credits individually. You should be prepared to provide official transcripts and relevant syllabi from other colleges or universities.
Will I receive credit for my dance experience?
It is possible for dancers to receive credit for their experience.
How long will it take to complete an undergraduate degree?
An undergraduate degree will take approximately 5-7 years to complete, depending on a student’s desired pace, transfer credits, and specific degree program. Each dancer will meet individually with an academic advisor to outline a path for their major.
When are classes offered?
Students have the option to begin coursework in the fall, spring, or summer. Classes are offered in full- or half-semester format.
Where will classes take place?
Students have the option of online, on-ground, and hybrid courses.
How much is tuition?
Tuition rates can be found here. Dancers who receive funding through the generous tuition assistance, provided only for Boston Ballet dancers, will be responsible for paying 20% of the total cost of tuition each semester.
Does my tuition assistance end if I leave Boston Ballet?
Yes, tuition assistance is only available to eligible Boston Ballet dancers.
Is additional funding available for books, supplies, and/or remaining tuition?
Dancers may be eligible for additional financial support through scholarships or other financial assistance. Please contact your academic advisor for additional information after admission.
Do I have to maintain a certain GPA to continue to receive tuition assistance?
Yes, dancers must maintain a 2.5 minimum GPA requirement to receive tuition assistance.
In the News
- Boston Ballet, Northeastern prepare dances for future | Boston Globe
- College Education ahead of a dancer’s final curtain call | Northeastern University College of Professional Studies
- Northeastern partnership provides Boston Ballet dancers a ‘once-in-a-lifetime chance’ | News @ Northeastern
- Q&A: Boston Ballet’s Andres Garcia on Taking the Next Move in His Career | Northeastern University Bachelor’s Completion Blog
- From Paraguay to the Boston Ballet and back: A soloist prepares for life after dancing | News @ Northeastern
- A dancer’s dream | News @ Northeastern
- Speakers at Women who Empower Summit encourage forging bold paths | News @ Northeastern