Apprentice Program

The next FREE Apprentice Program Begins October 6th! Required Info Session is on 9/26.

Have you ever thought about teaching dance—even if you're not a trained dancer? Whether you're looking to build a flexible side hustle or pursue a full-time career, our Apprenticeship Program at Ballroom Dance Chicago is designed to help you become a confident, capable instructor in ballroom, Latin, and swing styles.

This Program Might Be Right For You If…

✅ You’re curious about teaching dance but don’t have formal training.

✅ You’re self-motivated and take charge of your growth and learning.

✅ You’re comfortable with the discomfort of learning something new.

✅ You’re dependable and work well with a consistent schedule.

This program IS NOT for those looking to learn for their personal hobbies and interests. This is for people who want to learn to teach these styles of dance. Group classes and private lessons are best for those endeavors and we encourage you to look there!

9/26 Info Session Sign Up
Program Overview

Why The Apprentice Program at BDC Is Such a High-Level Opportunity

Ballroom Dance Chicago isn’t your typical ballroom studio. We’ve spent nearly 20 years redefining what dance instruction can be: creative, adaptable, and completely student-focused. We’re known for helping students feel successful from their very first lesson, and that success comes from our distinct teaching philosophy and high standard of customer care.

At BDC, we don’t just teach steps. We train our instructors to understand the “why” behind every movement and how to make learning feel personal and engaging. This requires a level of thoughtfulness, adaptability, and attention to detail that goes far beyond traditional ballroom instruction.

Because of this specificity, we strongly prefer to promote from within. Individuals who are already trained in our robust teaching methodology, professionalism, and level of service are ideal when we are looking to hire. This apprenticeship is the first step towards that hire for someone who needs the dance training.

And there’s more: as our studio continued to expand, in the next 1-2 years, we’re looking to fill roles not just in teaching, but in management, social media and marketing, and events. For the right individuals, this program opens doors far beyond the dance floor.

2026 Program Overview

Program Overview

  • Program Length: Minimum 16 weeks

  • Dance Styles: Ballroom (Tue), Swing (Wed), Ballroom or Swing (Thur) and Latin (Fri).

  • Weekly Schedule:

    • One evening per week (Tue, Wed, Thu, or Fri from 6–9 PM)

    • AND Saturdays from 10:30 AM–1:30 PM (The fourth Sat of every month, the session will move to 5:30pm - 8:30pm for training, and then attending the 4th Saturday Social.)

  • Total Weekly Commitment: a minimum of 6 hours in-studio, plus additional time for self-study

  • Location: Lakeview studio - 4039b N. Ravenswood Ave, 60613

  • Cost: $100 non-refundable start-up fee. No fees after that.

This is a structured, team-based environment—we cannot offer scheduling flexibility. Please make sure you are able to fully commit to the schedule before applying.

Info Session

Saturday, Sept 26th at 5:15 PM in Lakeview

  • 📍 Lakeview Studio - 4039b N. Ravenswood Ave

This is a no-commitment meeting, but it is your one chance to learn about the program before our fall session begins. We’ll start with a short dance training, walk through expectations, structure, and answer your questions. If you're serious about applying, attendance is essential.

We will select program participants by Tue, Sept 29, your one-time fee is due at the start of the program, the week of October 6th.

Please note: Employment is not promised or guaranteed.

Info Session Sign Up