Arts Administration

Program Overview

Western Michigan University's Arts Administration program equips students with the skills and knowledge to lead and manage arts and cultural organizations. Through a combination of foundational arts courses, specialized management training, and practical experiences, students develop expertise in programming, marketing, fundraising, and audience engagement. The program's flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, preparing them for a wide range of careers in the arts industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

Western Michigan University's Arts Administration program prepares students for leadership and administrative roles in theater and other arts and cultural organizations. It aims to connect audiences with the arts.

Objectives:

• Provide a foundation in performing and/or visual arts.
• Develop skills in arts programming, marketing, communication, fundraising, finance, venue management, and audience engagement.
• Allow flexibility for students to tailor their studies to their interests.
• Emphasize practical application through hands-on experiences and internships.

Outline:

Content:

• Foundational courses in performing and/or visual arts.
• Courses specific to the management of theaters and arts and cultural organizations.

Structure:

• Core curriculum with elective courses tailored to individual interests.

Unique Approaches:

• Practical application through hands-on experiences and internships.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Company managers
• Development directors
• Broadway publicists
• Arts marketers
• Audience services associates
• Executive directors

Opportunities:

• Employment at organizations such as:
• Hamilton National Tour
• Brooklyn Academy of Music
• Roundabout Theatre Company
• Milwaukee Ballet
• Lyric Opera of Chicago
• Broadway in Chicago
• Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway
• Williamstown Theatre Festival