M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
The MSE in Mechanical Engineering at UM-Flint is a comprehensive program focused on dev...
M.A. in Arts Administration- Thesis
Flint, Michigan
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Arts Administration at the University of Michigan-Flint is a non-thesis program designed for flexibility, catering to both full-time and part-time students. It is offered as an on-campus and online (hyperflex) program, providing adaptability for various schedules. Full-time completion typically takes two years, while part-time study extends to approximately three years. The program's core objective is to provide students with essential business management skills, including fiscal management, marketing, fundraising, and organizational leadership, all specifically tailored to the arts and cultural landscape. It aims to prepare graduates for leadership roles in diverse arts organizations such as galleries, theaters, museums, arts centers, opera companies, and symphony orchestras.
Curriculum: The 36-credit Master of Arts in Arts Administration curriculum takes a unique, experience-based approach to impart knowledge in management and organizational leadership through the lens of arts and culture. The program is generally structured with a core of 18 credits focused on developing fiscal, marketing, and general management skills crucial for leading arts organizations effectively. In addition to the core, the curriculum includes 12 credits of concentration courses, allowing students to refine their expertise in specific areas. There are typically two main tracks: the Museum and Visual Arts track and the Performance track. Students also complete 6 credit hours of electives. The interdisciplinary nature of the program draws on expertise from various departments, including Visual Arts, Music, Theatre and Dance, and Public Administration, providing a wide range of courses and avoiding duplication of effort.
Research Focus: While the M.A. in Arts Administration at the University of Michigan-Flint is a non-thesis program, it strongly emphasizes applied learning and critical analysis of real-world challenges in arts administration. The curriculum encourages students to engage in "directed research courses" and project-based learning, applying theoretical perspectives to practical problems within arts organizations. Faculty members are actively involved in academic scholarship and professional practice within their respective arts and administration fields, ensuring that the curriculum remains current and informed by contemporary issues and best practices in the arts sector. The program's focus on connecting "art production and organizational management" inherently involves analyzing trends and developing data-informed strategies, even if it doesn't culminate in a formal research thesis.
Industry Engagement: The University of Michigan-Flint places a significant emphasis on practical experience and strong ties with the arts community. The M.A. in Arts Administration program benefits from the university's long-standing relationships with leading arts institutions in the area, such as the Flint Institute of Arts, Flint Institute of Music, and Sloan Museum. These partnerships provide students with diverse learning experiences, including opportunities to engage with local and international artists and arts institution leaders. The program incorporates internships, offering invaluable hands-on experience in various arts organizations. This strong industry engagement ensures that graduates acquire sought-after business management skills and are well-prepared to contribute immediately to the thriving arts and cultural landscape.
Global Perspective: The University of Michigan-Flint's M.A. in Arts Administration program acknowledges the increasingly global nature of the arts and cultural sector. While specific international study trips might not be a mandatory component, the program's design and partnerships offer opportunities to engage with local and international artists and arts institution leaders, providing exposure to diverse global perspectives on arts administration. The curriculum may also implicitly cover topics related to international cultural exchange, global arts markets, and the challenges and opportunities of managing arts organizations in a globalized world. The program aims to develop leaders with vision, capable of navigating the ever-changing arts and cultural landscape that is often influenced by global trends and collaborations.
Location
Flint, Michigan
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 18332
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $55
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 84 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 56 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of Michigan-Flint offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, making quality education more accessible to students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UM-Flint provides several merit-based scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic performance, standardized test scores, and other achievements. Notable scholarships include the International Student Scholarship, which helps offset tuition costs for high-achieving students.
Graduate Scholarships: Graduate international students may be eligible for scholarships such as the Global Graduate Merit Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding academic credentials and supports research and advanced study.
Graduates of the University of Michigan-Flint's M.A. in Arts Administration program are uniquely positioned to take on leadership and management roles in a wide array of cultural institutions. Their blend of artistic understanding and administrative skills makes them highly versatile and valuable in the non-profit and for-profit arts sectors.
Arts Organization Executive Director/CEO: This top leadership role involves overseeing all aspects of an arts organization, including strategic planning, financial management, fundraising, programming, and staff supervision. Graduates are prepared to lead cultural institutions such as museums, theaters, symphonies, and dance companies. This is a critical role in ensuring the long-term viability and artistic success of the organization.
Development Director/Fundraising Manager: Essential for non-profit arts organizations, these professionals are responsible for securing financial support through grants, individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events. Their skills in grant writing, donor cultivation, and strategic financial planning are paramount for an organization's sustainability and growth.
Marketing & Communications Director: Graduates will be adept at developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies to promote arts programs, exhibitions, and performances. This includes audience development, digital marketing campaigns, public relations, and branding to increase visibility and engagement for cultural institutions in a competitive landscape.
Program Director/Manager (Arts & Culture): These roles involve designing, implementing, and evaluating artistic and educational programs within arts organizations. They manage logistics, budgets, and partnerships to deliver high-quality cultural experiences to the community, often specializing in areas like youth arts education, community outreach, or specific curatorial programming.
Museum Curator/Collections Manager: For those with an interest in visual arts and heritage, this career focuses on overseeing a museum's collection, assessing its direction, and managing its preservation and exhibition. They might also develop new acquisitions and guide the museum's interpretive strategy.
Performing Arts Production Manager: In theater, music, or dance companies, a production manager oversees the logistical and technical aspects of bringing artistic works to life. This includes budgeting, scheduling, coordinating technical teams, and managing rehearsals and performances to ensure smooth and successful productions.
Gallery Manager/Director: In commercial or non-profit galleries, this role involves overseeing daily operations, managing art inventory, coordinating exhibitions, marketing artists' works, and engaging with collectors and the public. They play a crucial role in the business side of the visual arts market.
Event Planner (Arts & Culture): Graduates can specialize in planning and executing diverse arts and cultural events, ranging from large-scale festivals and concerts to intimate gallery openings and fundraising galas. This requires strong organizational, logistical, and communication skills to ensure successful and memorable experiences for attendees.
Arts Policy Analyst/Advocate: Some graduates may work for government agencies, arts councils, or advocacy groups, analyzing and influencing public policy related to the arts. They might work on issues like funding for cultural institutions, arts education, or intellectual property rights, shaping the broader environment in which the arts thrive.
Community Arts Coordinator/Director: These professionals focus on bringing art directly to communities, often working with local governments, community centers, or non-profit organizations. They develop public art projects, community workshops, and accessible arts programs to foster cultural engagement, social cohesion, and positive impact at the grassroots level.
