MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
MA Arts Management
Newton Park
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Arts Management program at Bath Spa University is typically a one-year full-time or two-year part-time course. It is structured to provide a robust understanding of the cultural and creative industries, equipping graduates with the ability to analyze historical and contemporary debates within the arts, apply this analysis to current practices, and understand the complexities of funding and cultural policy. A core element of the program is the emphasis on practical experience, with a significant placement module allowing students to gain hands-on experience within arts and cultural organizations. The program culminates in a substantial final project, offering students the choice between a traditional dissertation or an extended placement project, allowing for personalized learning and career focus.
Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skill development. Core modules delve into Arts Management in the 21st Century, Managing Arts and Cultural Events, and Marketing Communications, providing a foundational understanding of the key areas within the sector. Students also engage with broader business and management principles through modules such as Marketing Management, Entrepreneurship, and Managing People, equipping them with versatile skills applicable across various roles. A distinctive feature is the mandatory Placement module, offering invaluable work-based experience within arts organizations. Furthermore, students develop advanced academic and business skills, alongside an understanding of the international business environment and practice. The option to undertake an Extended Placement Project or a Dissertation in the final stage allows for in-depth exploration of specific areas of interest and the development of advanced research and analytical skills.
Research Focus: While primarily a taught master's program, the MA Arts Management at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed environment within the broader School of Creative Industries. The academic staff are often active researchers and practitioners, bringing their current insights and industry knowledge into their teaching. This ensures that students are exposed to the latest thinking and trends in arts management. The university's Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries also provides a hub for research and engagement, potentially offering opportunities for MA students to connect with ongoing research projects and discussions within the field. This connection to research enriches the learning experience and provides a strong foundation for those who may wish to pursue further academic study.
Industry Engagement: A cornerstone of the MA Arts Management program at Bath Spa University is its strong and active engagement with the arts and cultural industries. The university has established partnerships with a diverse range of regional, national, and international arts organizations, spanning theatre, dance, music, digital creativity, fine art, fashion, and heritage. This extensive network provides students with significant opportunities for work-based learning and placements, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and develop crucial professional networks. The program also benefits from the input of sector practitioners and academic experts who contribute to teaching and mentorship, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to industry needs and best practices. This deep integration with the professional world significantly enhances the employability of graduates.
Global Perspective: The MA Arts Management program at Bath Spa University fosters a global perspective in several ways. While the core teaching is UK-based, the curriculum incorporates discussions of international cultural policy and the global creative economy. The opportunity to undertake placements with international organizations, where available, further broadens students' understanding of arts management in diverse cultural contexts. The university itself welcomes a diverse international student body, contributing to a rich and multicultural learning environment. Furthermore, the program's exploration of the international business environment equips graduates with the skills to operate effectively in a globalized arts sector, understanding the nuances of different cultural markets and international collaborations.
Location
Newton Park
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 17835
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 75.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students are also eligible for a range of scholarships, which may vary based on the course of study. These scholarships help to support students at the beginning of their master’s degree programs and can be highly competitive. Scholarships are awarded based on previous academic achievements, research proposals, and the applicant's personal statement.
Alumni Scholarships: Bath Spa University values its alumni community, and in recognition of this, it offers scholarships for international students who are former students of the university or have attended a Bath Spa University partner institution. The Alumni Scholarship is designed to reward those who have previously been part of the university and are returning to continue their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
The MA Arts Management program at Bath Spa University equips graduates with a diverse skillset applicable to a wide array of roles within the cultural and creative industries. The program’s emphasis on practical experience, industry connections, and a blend of management and arts-specific knowledge opens doors to numerous career paths.
Arts Administrator: Overseeing the daily operations of an arts organization, managing budgets, human resources, and facilities to ensure smooth functioning. This role exists in various institutions such as theaters, galleries, museums, and community arts centers.
Marketing and Communications Manager: Developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote arts events, exhibitions, and the organization's brand. This involves digital marketing, social media engagement, public relations, and audience development.
Development/Fundraising Manager: Leading fundraising efforts through grant writing, donor cultivation, corporate sponsorships, and membership programs to secure financial sustainability for arts organizations.
Event and Venue Manager: Planning, organizing, and managing arts and cultural events, festivals, and performances, including logistics, artist liaison, and audience experience. This can involve working in dedicated venues or managing events for various organizations.
Programme Manager/Curator: Developing and managing the artistic program or exhibitions for a venue or organization, involving artist selection, scheduling, and ensuring artistic vision aligns with the organization's mission.
Community Arts Officer: Working to engage diverse communities with the arts through outreach programs, workshops, and collaborative projects, often within local government or community-based organizations.
Arts Education Manager: Developing and delivering educational programs related to the arts for various age groups within museums, galleries, theaters, or educational institutions.
Project Manager: Overseeing specific arts projects from conception to completion, managing timelines, budgets, and teams, which could range from exhibitions to festivals or new initiatives.
Policy and Advocacy Officer: Working with arts councils, government bodies, or advocacy organizations to influence cultural policy, funding decisions, and promote the value of the arts.
Cultural Entrepreneur: Establishing and managing their own arts-related ventures, such as independent galleries, production companies, arts consultancies, or creative platforms.
