Arts Administration
The Master of Arts in Arts Administration provides an in depth study of management, leadership, and organizational strategies specific to arts and cultural institutions. Students explore arts management, cultural policy, marketing, fundraising, and strategic planning while developing skills to manage projects, analyze organizational performance, and support creative initiatives. The program combines theoretical knowledge with applied practice, helping learners develop analytical expertise in financial planning, audience development, and operational management for arts organizations. Through coursework, case studies, and applied projects, students gain insight into how effective administration supports the sustainability and growth of cultural institutions.
The program also emphasizes leadership skills, practical management techniques, and professional application. Faculty mentorship, project based learning, and applied exercises allow students to build practical competence in budgeting, governance, and strategic decision making. Graduates are prepared to work in arts organizations, museums, galleries, theaters, and nonprofit cultural institutions, applying their skills to lead initiatives, manage operations, and enhance community engagement. The curriculum ensures that students leave with both conceptual understanding and applied skills essential for careers in arts management, administration, and cultural leadership.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Arts Administration
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Business Administration
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 Foundations in Arts Administration
• Introduction to Arts Administration
• Cultural Policy and Arts Governance
• Marketing and Audience Development
• Research Methods in Arts Management
Semester 2 Advanced Management and Projects
• Financial Management for Arts Organizations
• Strategic Planning and Fundraising
• Applied Project in Arts Administration
• Seminar in Cultural Leadership
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in arts organizations, museums, theaters, and nonprofit cultural institutions, where expertise in management and administration is essential. Alumni may work as arts managers, program coordinators, development officers, curators, or cultural policy analysts, applying analytical and applied skills to manage operations, lead projects, and support artistic initiatives. The combination of applied projects, leadership training, and organizational expertise equips graduates to address complex challenges in arts administration and cultural management. Some graduates pursue doctoral studies in arts management or cultural policy. Graduates leave ready to apply management skills in diverse arts and cultural settings.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this degree for its combination of management practice and cultural expertise, offering a curriculum that integrates leadership, administration, and strategic planning. The program emphasizes applied projects, case studies, and seminar discussions, allowing learners to develop skills in managing arts organizations, supporting creative initiatives, and engaging communities. Faculty mentorship, applied exercises, and project work support students in translating theoretical knowledge into professional arts management solutions. For individuals seeking a graduate program that prepares them for impactful careers in arts administration and cultural leadership, this degree provides a focused and highly relevant pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
