M.A. Arts Administration

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

The University of Akron (UA) offers a variety of scholarships to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to help alleviate the cost of tuition and support academic excellence. 

Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships at UA are automatically considered for all incoming first-year students. These awards are based on a comprehensive review of the applicant’s academic transcripts, curriculum, and cumulative GPA. 

Williams Honors College Scholarships|: First-year, transfer, and continuing students who meet specific academic qualifications can apply for the Williams Honors College Scholarships. These scholarships range from $1,500 to $2,000 and require an application to the Williams Honors College, including an interview. 

Provost’s Scholarships for Transfer Students: These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, are available to students transferring from another regionally accredited college or university. Transfer students are automatically considered for these awards upon applying for admission​.

International Student Scholarship Opportunities: International students can also benefit from various specific scholarships offered by different departments and programs within the university. For instance, the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences offers numerous scholarships for students pursuing majors within their disciplines. These range from awards for academic merit to those supporting specific fields of study​​.

Graduate Assistantships: For graduate international students, UA offers numerous assistantships that provide stipends and tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable work experience while funding their education. 

Graduates of The University of Akron's M.A. in Arts Administration program are well-equipped for a variety of careers in the arts and cultural sector. The program's blend of business management and arts-focused coursework prepares students for leadership roles where they can contribute meaningfully to arts organizations' success and sustainability.

Arts Administrator: As arts administrators, graduates oversee the day-to-day operations of arts organizations such as theaters, museums, galleries, and cultural centers. They manage budgets, coordinate programming, handle marketing and public relations, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Development Director: Development directors focus on fundraising and donor relations for arts organizations. They strategize and implement fundraising campaigns, cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors, and seek grants and funding opportunities to support the organization's initiatives.

Program Manager: Program managers in arts administration coordinate specific programs or events within an organization. They work closely with artists, staff, and community partners to plan and execute exhibitions, performances, educational programs, and outreach initiatives.

Marketing Manager: Marketing managers specialize in promoting arts organizations and their programs to attract audiences and increase engagement. They develop marketing strategies, manage digital and traditional marketing campaigns, and analyze audience data to optimize outreach efforts.

Curator: Curators manage collections of artwork or artifacts within museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They research, acquire, and interpret pieces for exhibitions, ensuring that exhibits align with the organization's mission and resonate with diverse audiences.

Community Outreach Coordinator: Community outreach coordinators build relationships between arts organizations and their communities. They develop and implement outreach programs, engage with diverse audiences, and advocate for arts education and accessibility.

Policy Analyst: Policy analysts in arts administration focus on advocating for arts funding, shaping cultural policies, and promoting the arts' role in community development and economic growth. They may work for government agencies, advocacy groups, or nonprofit organizations.

Educator: Educators in arts administration teach courses related to arts management, cultural policy, or specific arts disciplines at universities, colleges, or community arts programs. They share their expertise and mentor the next generation of arts administrators and cultural leaders.

Consultant: Arts administration consultants provide specialized expertise to arts organizations on strategic planning, organizational development, fundraising strategies, and audience development. They offer tailored solutions to help organizations achieve their goals and enhance their impact.

Entrepreneur: Some graduates may choose to launch their own arts-related ventures, such as art galleries, event management companies, or creative consulting firms. They leverage their skills in arts administration to innovate and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of their communities.