Dance teacher — Laura Flanagan

Laura studied BA Dance (Performing Arts) at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) before taking a job as a dance teacher at The BRIT School in London. She recently completed an MSc Dance Science (Biomechanics) at the University of Chichester

Why did you decide to pursue a Masters?

I decided to pursue a Masters to develop my career opportunities and fuel the desire I have to keep learning and growing. Since graduating from my undergraduate degree in 2010, my career has developed from performing into an extensive teaching career. Due to the level of experience I have as a teacher, I felt that my progression opportunities were limited unless I wanted to move into management.

How did you decide on your course?

I have always had an interest in dance science, right from when I did my A-levels in maths and sciences. I was keen to deepen my knowledge of how to train dancers to be able to perform to their optimum and reduce injury risk.

What did the application process involve?

I applied directly to the university and had to submit a portfolio of materials including:

• a 2500 word critical essay on current research in my chosen of field of dance science: biomechanics
• a personal statement
• a CV.

How did studying for your Masters differ from undergraduate study?

The main difference was juggling it with a full-time job and all the responsibilities that came with as well as a long commute to the university. In my second year of study, I had to temporarily reduce my role to three days a week.

The level of academic and scientific content in my Masters was also a significant jump from my undergraduate study, which was mainly practical and performance based.

Tell us a bit about your course and what it involved.

I studied my course over two years, but I actually completed six of the modules intensively in my second year, as during the first year I was allowed to attend some undergraduate lectures in order to develop my scientific and academic research knowledge further.

The modules I studied included:

• Strength and Conditioning Theory & Practice
• Biomechanical Instrumentation and Measurement
• Research Methods for Health and Performance
• Developing As An Applied Practitioner in Biomechanics
• Applied Dance Science Case Study
• Principles of Motor Learning for Dance
• Research Dissertation.

The first two modules had a project element, plus a written exam. The Research Methods modules consisted of a series of small assignments, while the Applied Dance Science Case Study unit was made up of a practical project with a real-life participant (a dance student), plus written supporting documentation/and or a presentation. Principles of Motor Learning was a written essay plus a presentation, and my final dissertation had to be 12,000 words.

What was the highlight of your Masters degree?

Connecting with experts in the field. So much of the work in this field is freelance, so networking is essential. As a result of the connections I made on my course, I have been invited to present my research at three different conferences within dance medicine and science, and I am currently working with my two academic supervisors to publish my research in an academic peer-reviewed journal.

How did you fund your Masters?

I funded my Masters study through a combination of sources including a postgraduate student loan, a contribution from my employers at The BRIT School and my personal finances.  

What support did you receive from your employers?

They allowed me to temporarily reduce my contract and work part-time for a fixed term throughout my Masters degree. They were also mindful of my workload and supportive of this.

How will you use the Masters qualification in your work?

I am already using it to enhance my day-to-day teaching and build my own professional reputation. I aim to use it to implement and encourage more dance science research in the training of young dancers across all dance styles in the future.

What are your career ambitions?

To develop a portfolio career alongside my teaching. I would like to publish research, lecture at university level and work with those who are teaching/choreographing/working with dancers to ensure the dancers are being trained safely and optimally.

What do you wish you’d known before embarking on postgraduate study?

That you don't always have to know or remember all the information you're given, you just need to know where to find it.

What would you say to others considering a Masters?

If you are interested in expanding your knowledge and professional networks further then go for it.

Find out more

• Search for postgraduate courses.
• Learn more about Masters degrees.
• Read up on funding for postgraduate study.