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Become a Certified Dance Teacher with Confidence

No Degree Required

If You Can Dance, You May Be Able To Teach It

Turn your passion for dance into a rewarding career or side hustle with the American Dance Institute’s Dance Teacher Certification Program. Whether you’re 16 or older with at least two years of dance experience, our expert-led training equips you to teach children, teens, and adults with total confidence. Imagine walking into any studio, delivering standout classes, building a loyal student base, and boosting your income—all without a formal dance degree. Ready to inspire the next generation of dancers? Let’s get started.

Dance Teacher Certificate Program

Why Choose Our Dance Teacher Certification Program?

Millions are rethinking work-life balance, seeking fulfilling careers that spark joy. If dance is your happy place, why not share it? Our program transforms dancers into skilled teachers—no trial-and-error required. With personalized syllabi, hands-on mentoring, and practical teaching experience, you’ll master the art of instruction in weeks, not years. Teach at private studios, launch your own classes, or even work with us at the American Dance Institute. Your dream job awaits.

Three Essentials Every Dance Teacher Needs (And How We Deliver Them)

Great dance teachers don’t just know steps—they inspire growth. Here’s what you’ll gain:

  1. Proven Teaching Content: Age-specific syllabi to engage toddlers, kids, teens, and adults.
  2. Expert Techniques: Learn how to explain moves clearly, factoring in physical and emotional development.
  3. Ongoing Mentorship: Get real-time feedback from seasoned pros to perfect your craft.
    From classroom management to injury prevention, we cover it all—no guesswork, just results.
dance-teacher-training
Become a dance teacher

Dance Teacher Training: Unlock Your Teaching Potential

“I’ve danced for years—do I really need training?” Yes—because teaching is its own art that also requires skill. Our accelerated course, paired with one-on-one mentoring, cuts the learning curve dramatically. You’ll go from dancer to dynamic instructor, ready to lead fun, impactful classes that students love. No degree? No problem. We teach you what matters most: how to connect, instruct, and succeed.

Toddler dance classes at the American Dance Institute

Toddler dance classes at the American Dance Institute

How Much Can You Earn as a Certified Dance Teacher?

Start strong and grow fast. New teachers earn $25–$28 per hour, with studios often scheduling back-to-back classes for steady income. With experience and skill, expect $45–$50 per hour—especially if you stay with one school or build a following. Love ballet? Hip-hop? Jazz? Your certification opens doors to teach what you love, where you love.

We teach you exactly what you need to know and we teach you how to do it well. Many of the higher education programs teach dance well, but very few colleges teach dancers how to teach dance.

Adult Ballet Teacher Training: Share Your Passion

Cost: $700

Ready to teach Adult Beginning Ballet I & II?
Our $700 certification course is perfect for intermediate or advanced dancers. In just 3 hours of tailored studio instruction, plus observation and student teaching, you’ll master:
Step-by-step breakdowns
Hands-on correction techniques
Anatomy basics for safe, effective classes
Musicality and progression planning
Start mid-session with real classes at ADI, guided by expert critiques. Apply today—spots are limited!

* Class Observations/ TA’ing  will begin with the start of a new session of classes at the American Dance Institute in a Beginning Adult Ballet I .

* Student teaching would start mid session, with critiques following. 

Need more information? Contact me to discuss the program further: elizabeth@americandanceinstitute.com

Young Children’s Dance Teacher Training—3-Pack Mastery

Cost: $2,000


Love little movers? Our 3-Pack Certification ($2,000) trains you to teach Mommy & Me (ages 2.5–4), Creative Dance (ages 3.5–5), and Pre-Ballet (ages 5–7). Over 8–12 weeks, you’ll get:
9 hours of syllabus deep-dives
24+ hours observing/assisting
6+ hours of mentored student teaching
Led by ADI’s Elizabeth Chayer or Dakota Crist, this hands-on program includes a detailed syllabus binder and music recommendations. Graduates are prime candidates for ADI jobs—or any private studio nationwide.

Need more information? Contact me to discuss the program further: elizabeth@americandanceinstitute.com

Upcoming Teacher Training Course for Young Children's classes

3 Pack Training Session to teach
Mommy/Daddy & Me * Creative Dance * Pre-Ballet
Schedule to be arranged. 

  • Training Day #1: Lesson on Teaching Methods and critical elements that need to be present in every class. Go over Mommy & Me Syllabus with variations on warm up exercises, movement activities and Creative Dances for Toddlers.
  • Training Day #2: Opportunities for candidates to teach part of a mock Mommy & Me class, with a discussion/critique afterwards. Go over Creative Dance Syllabus with variations on warm up exercises, movement activities and Creative Dances for ages 3 ½ - 5 years.
  • Training Day #3: Teach part of a mock Creative Dance Class with a discussion/critique after. Go over the Pre-Ballet Syllabus with variations on warm up exercises, movement activities and Creative Dances for 5-7 years olds. 
  • Observe or TA in Mommy & Me,  Creative Dance and Pre-Ballet classes on a weekly basis for 12 weeks, 1 day a week ( at one of our 4 locations.  You will be given opportunities during the session to teach a portion of each class, and eventually a full class, with critique/coaching from Elizabeth and/or Dakota afterwards.
  • Enrollment in the program is limited to 8 Trainees and Applicants must be available to observe/TA in the 3 pack classes throughout the Winter session. We will have no more than wo trainees per class and days/locations will be assigned on a first come, first serve basis. 
  • Interested parties should fill out an application. Elizabeth will follow up to schedule an interview to see if you are a good candidate for the program, and if yes,  have you come take one of our adult classes  to see your technique,

Teacher Training Course to Teach
Children's Ballet 

Cost: $500

This course is ideal for the intermediate or advanced Ballet dancer who would like to share the joy of dance
through teaching. Applicants must audition and show clean technique and great musicality.

 Children's Ballet Teacher Training will include: 

* 3 hours of Classroom/Studio Session to go over Syllabi. 
*  12 weeks of Observing/Assisting in classes from at one of our 4 locations
* Opportunities to student teach all or part of a class, with critique from Elizabeth or Dakota afterwards. 

The Classroom/Studio session will cover:
 

  • Teaching methods
  • Injury prevention
  • How to break down steps
  • Some basic Anatomy & Kinesiology
  • Children's Ballet I & II Syllabi
  • The art of hands on corrections
  • Ballet Progressions
  • Music suggestions
  • Musicality & Phrasing
  • Coaching on how to build ongoing lessons.
  • Tips for choreographing for perfomances

Need more information? Contact me to discuss the program further: elizabeth@americandanceinstitute.com

Bundle Deal: Teach Children’s & Adult Ballet (2-Pack)

Cost: $1,100

Why choose? Our $1,100 2-Pack Certification trains you for both Children’s and Adult Beginning Ballet. Enjoy 6 hours of studio sessions, 12 weeks of assisting, and expert feedback as you master dual syllabi. Perfect for versatile dancers eager to teach all ages. Sign up today—your students are waiting!

Need more information? Contact me to discuss the program further: elizabeth@americandanceinstitute.com

Future Dance Teacher Courses – Stay Tuned!

More styles coming in 2023! From Modern and Jazz to Hip-Hop and Tap, we’re expanding our certifications for adults, teens, and kids. Don’t see your style? Tell us what you’d love to teach—we’re listening.

  • Modern Dance Teacher Training For Adults
  • Modern Dance Teacher Training For Kids
  • Jazz Teacher Training For Adults
  • Hip Hop Dance Teacher Training For Adults & Kids
  • Tap Dance Teacher Training For Adults
  • Tap Dance Teacher Training For Kids
Don't See Your Dance Style Listed? 

Need more information? Contact me to discuss the program further: elizabeth@americandanceinstitute.com

Ready to Start? Apply for Your Dance Teacher Certification Today

FAQ's

What experience is typically required to become a certified dance teacher?

Our certification programs require at least one year of recent dance class experience. However, the exact amount can vary depending on the specific program and style of dance.

What level of higher education is generally needed for obtaining a dance teacher certification?

We do not require a formal degree in Dance or a related field. It is often beneficial but not necessary. Some certification programs may only require high school education along with substantial training and experience in dance.

What types of training are essential for becoming a certified dance teacher?

Training should include intensive classes in dance style that you love.

How does one obtain an ADI dance teacher certification?

Leveraging your own experience, classroom training, assistant teaching, observation and mentorship.

What are the requirements for obtaining a dance teacher certification in the United States?

The requirements differ by organization, but generally include a certain level of dance experience, knowledge of teaching methods and student learning styles, and successful completion of written and practical exams. Some organizations also require first aidCPR training.

How does anatomy knowledge apply to a dance teacher certification in the U.S.?

Understanding human anatomy can help dance teachers create safe and effective classes, avoid injuries, and enhance dancers performance. Many certification programs incorporate basic anatomy education into their curriculum however dancers with sufficient dance experience to qualify of our courses, do tend to know anatomy, be quick studies, and learn the subject manner quickly.

What is the importance of copyright laws in relation to being a certified dance teacher in the U.S.?

Copyright laws protect choreography as intellectual property. Dance teachers must understand these laws to respect others work and protect their own; using someone elses choreography without permission can lead to legal consequences.

Can I use copyrighted music for my dance class if I am a certified dance teacher in the U.S.?

Generally, playing copyrighted music in a class setting falls under fair use. However, creating recordings or public performances with copyrighted music may require permission or licensing from the copyright holder, which American Dance Institute honors.

Do different states have different requirements for obtaining a dance teacher certification?

While there isn't typically state-specific certification for dance teachers, some states may have additional educational or business licensing requirements for operating a studio business or teaching at public schools.

Supplemental Information (non-essential)

American Dance Institute, Dance Teacher Certification, Teaching Confidence, Children's Dance Classes, Teen Dance Classes, Adult Dance Classes, Group Training Schedules, Fall 2024 Session, Syllabi Training, Returning Students, Income Improvement, Elizabeth (Program Contact), Individual Training Arrangements

In the United States, particularly at the American Dance Institute in Seattle, Washington, dance teacher certification can be achieved through a focused journey that recognizes experience, skill, and education combined with or independent of traditional university or college degrees. This path is designed for those passionate about dance, ranging from ballet to hip hop and other dance style music, and includes intensive training in how to teach. The curriculum at the American Dance Institute prioritizes the development of choreography skills, blending creativity with physical fitness. Teachers in training learn the nuances of different styles, such as tap dance and yoga, while also mastering the art of lesson planning and pedagogy. This hands-on approach ensures a practical and comprehensive understanding of dance education. Professional certification at the institute involves specific exams and licensure tailored to meet the standards necessary for teaching dance effectively. Our program is designed to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills required to excel in private studios and public settings, including K–12 environments, with additional certificates and licenses as local government institutions require; furthermore, the program acknowledges the importance of holistic health approaches in education. Dance therapy, which combines the art of dance with the science of therapy to promote holistic wellness, is often part of the curriculum, highlighting the interplay between mind and body wellness. In summary, the American Dance Institute in Seattle offers a comprehensive, hands-on approach to dance teacher certification, focusing on practical skills, legal knowledge, digital marketing, and holistic health, all without the need for traditional college or university degrees.
     In Seattle, WA, the American Dance Institute's dance teacher certificate program offers a unique blend of experiences, leveraging the city's rich diversity of locales and cultural influences. As students traverse the program, they find inspiration in the lush landscapes of Woodland Park and Carkeek Park, observing the natural rhythms and movements of the animals at the Woodland Park Zoo. The vibrant community in Loyal Heights and the bustling Ballard Commons Park provide ample opportunities for observing and engaging with diverse dance styles, from hip hop to more traditional forms. The program often includes field trips to the other ADI studios in Seattle, where students study movement in varied environments, from the whimsical carousel at Woodland Park to the serene settings of Crown Hill Park and Garvan Woodland Gardens. Seattle's iconic landmarks, like the Salmon Bay Bridge, also serve as backdrops for impromptu performances and creative dance projects. Culinary experiences at local favorites such as Red Mill Burgers, The Little Red Hen, Ruski's Tavern, and Taco del Mar, along with global chains like IHOP, Starbucks, and Taco Bell, provide a taste of Seattle's eclectic flavors, fueling creativity. Discussions over seafood delicacies or a quick coffee break at Starbucks offer moments for students led by esteemed dance educators like Elizabeth Chayer to share insights and inspirations. The influence of Seattle's culture, extending to neighboring cities like Tacoma, Bellevue, Kent, Everett, Renton, Federal Way, Kirkland, Marysville, and Redmond, enriches the curriculum. The program also acknowledges popular cultural influences, such as the animated series 'The Angry Beavers,' recognizing the role of media in shaping modern dance trends. This holistic approach to dance education in the American Dance Institute's program not only hones the technical skills of aspiring dance teachers but also immerses them in the vibrant, multifaceted tapestry of Seattle's cultural landscape. Elizabeth Chayer, a renowned figure at the American Dance Institute in Seattle, Washington, has developed a comprehensive dance teacher certification program. This program integrates knowledge from diverse fields, including tap dance and dance therapy, to ensure a well-rounded education for future dance educators. The curriculum, designed with inputs from educational bodies like the Hartford School of Ballet and over 40 years of teaching experience, aligns with higher education accreditation standards in the United States.
Participants in the program benefit from a blend of theoretical and practical training, covering aspects from educational accreditation to teaching methods and incorporating insights from disciplines like fine art, music, and fitness. The course includes lesson plan development, ensuring that certified teachers emerge with a foundation in pedagogy and an understanding of the discipline. Chayer's program emphasize the importance of a holistic educational approach. The program also focuses on the moral and ethical aspects of teaching, recognizing teachers' responsibility in shaping young minds. Graduates who may pursue further education like a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, or even a Master's degree are prepared to teach in various settings, from K–12 to charter schools and community centers, understanding the different jurisdictional and charter requirements.
Moreover, Chayer's approach includes modern methodologies, such as incorporating aerobic exercise and Zumba into the curriculum, and acknowledges the growing field of dance therapy. Graduates of this program leave not only as skilled dancers and teachers but also as well-rounded individuals who are ready to make extra income.