Arts Management FAQ
Does the Arts Management program in the Department of Performing Arts (DPA) support study in visual arts?
The arts management program focuses across all arts disciplines, including the visual arts. Typically an incoming class consists of 20-30 percent visual arts students. The Katzen Arts Center and its 30,000 square-foot gallery space offers vast opportunities for those interested in visual arts. With this individually-designed curriculum, visual arts students may take electives and rotating topic courses in museum management, art history, etc.
Are GRE or GMAT scores required for admittance into the MA Arts Management program?
No GRE or GMAT is required for admission to our program.
Does the DPA offer financial aid to graduate students?
The DPA offers a limited number of competitive fellowships for areas, including graduate recruitment, dance facilities manager, and teaching. Students interested in being considered for fellowships must submit a complete application no later than February 1 and include his or her request for consideration in the personal statement. Students are encouraged to pursue other areas of financial aid, including outside scholarships, federal loans, etc. Please visit the College of Arts and Sciences admissions for more financial aid information.
What types of performance opportunities are available on campus?
Arts management students may participate in any of the DPA or university ensembles and performances. One credit per semester for a maximum of 3 credits may be applied to his/her academic program.
How much weight is placed on previous and/or current professional experience in the arts?
Each student application is reviewed individually, so no specific weight is placed on professional experience. Applications are evaluated in a holistic manner.
Is there a typical course sequence?
Yes, full-time students will complete the degree in two full academic years with an online summer course between years.
The curriculum design allows students to complete their final semester either remotely or in person. Part-time study is also available but would follow a different sequence.
Fall (Year 1)
- AMGT-670 Survey of Arts Management (3)
- AMGT-673 Fundamentals of Fundraising (3)
- AMGT-674 Financial Management in the Arts (3)
Spring (Year 1)
- AMGT-631 Governance and Leadership (3)
- AMGT-671 Marketing the Arts (3)
- AMGT-680 Cultural Policy and the Arts (2)
- AMGT-685 Nonprofit Legal Issues (1)
Summer
AMGT-794 Lit Review and Proposal Writing (1)
Fall (Year 2)
- AMGT-701 Discovery and Decision Making in the Arts (3)
- AMGT-798 Seminar in Arts Management (3)
- First Elective (3) – any approved graduate-level course offered by Arts Management, AmericanUniversity, or the Washington Consortium of Universities
Spring (Year 2)
- AMGT-702 Portfolio (3) or AMGT-793 Directed Research (3)
- Second Elective (3) – any approved graduate-level course offered by Arts Management, American University, or the Washington Consortium of Universities
What are comprehensive exams?
Comprehensive exams are a required component of the graduate programs in the DPA. The four-hour exam consists of three questions - 1 two-hour question and 2 one-hour questions. Each student selects two topic areas in addition to the general question.
What is the difference between thesis, directed research, and master's portfolio?
As a capstone project, students must register for 6 credits of Master's Thesis PERF-797, Directed Research PERF-793, or Master's Portfolio PERF-792. The Master's Thesis is a traditional research-based academic exercise designed for those interested in pursuing a PhD or work in a research field. The Directed Research project involves research with practical analysis or application, for example a case study or marketing plan. The Master's Portfolio involves an additional 200 hours of internship and the development of a creative professional portfolio.
What is a Graduate Certificate in Arts Management?
The graduate certificate in arts management is a recognized form of continuing education. Students gain knowledge and experience in non-profit arts management, including fundraising, marketing and public relations, and Board of Director interactions through 15 credit hours of coursework. View the Certificate page for more information.
What is the average number of applications that you receive for the Arts Management program and what number are you looking to admit each year?
80+ applications are received each year. A maximum of 18 MA students and 4 certificate students are admitted each year.
I am an organization seeking interns. Where can I send information?
To have your organization's internship posted to our student listserv, please send an internship description to artsmgtinternships@american.edu.
Still have questions? Send us an email: artsmanagement@american.edu