Arts Management (MA)
Program Summary
100% Online
Credits: 34 total
Degree: MA
College/School: College of Visual and Performing Arts
Start Date: 8/25/2025
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Program Description
Arts Management is a developing field established to meet the ever-growing demand for leadership and organizational expertise within arts and cultural organizations, both private and public. Arts managers bridge the worlds of performing and visual arts with applied managerial, financial, and programmatic skills.
The Arts Management program at George Mason University is excited to offer an online Master’s Degree in Arts Management. Providing a high-quality education is key to our mission at Mason.
All online courses are designed and taught by experienced faculty who also work in the field as managing directors, chief financial officers, arts lawyers, event planners, fundraisers, marketing professionals, cultural heritage facilitators, among others. They work at leading theaters, performing arts centers, museums, cultural heritage sites and as arts consultants.
Careers
Career Opportunities
Our graduates have impressive careers in the arts management field and beyond. You will, too. Alumni work as arts managers and leaders with the many arts organizations.
Click here to see a selection of alumni placements around different subject areas.
Courses
Program requirements are subject to change; please refer to the George Mason Course Catalog for the most up-to-date requirements.
New to online learning? Visit our Online Learning Tips and Strategies page to learn more about what to expect and how to succeed in an online course at George Mason.
Details
Who should apply?
Students in the synchronous online Master’s in Arts Management program come from many backgrounds, but all share a passion for the arts and a desire to work in an artistic setting. Diversity among applicants is anticipated and sought, and candidates are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Work experience is strongly preferred. Many students come from the arts, with experience and training in music, film, dance, theater, visual and technical arts.
Professionals and non-traditional students looking to transition into the arts industry also make up a key component our program’s student body. In George Mason University’s Arts Management program, no matter your background, students will add practical skills of marketing, finance, strategy, fundraising, entrepreneurship, and management needed in today’s arts and non-profit sector.
Ready to Apply?
Accepting applications for Fall admission and enrollment only.
Submit Supporting Materials
Upload all supporting materials with your online application; the Graduate Admissions website provides information about this process and FAQs.
Applicants must provide:
- Undergraduate transcripts: Potential students must have completed an undergraduate degree and have held a GPA of 3.00 or higher.
- Letters of recommendation: Provide two letters of recommendation from faculty members or individuals who have first-hand knowledge of your academic or professional capabilities.
- Statement of purpose or goals statements: The Goals Statement should be 2-3 pages, single spaced, 12 size font, pdf format, and will be uploaded as part of your online application. Additional attention should be given to ensure the document is free of spelling errors when submitted. The Applicant’s Goals Statement should include and respond to each of the following points below:
- Why are you interested in George Mason’s Arts Management Graduate Program?
- Whether specific to visual arts, performing arts, or both, identify a current arts management challenge and assess its impact on the field. (For assistance, refer to Arts Management course listings or contact admissions)
- What are your past arts and culture experiences and how has that influenced your current career goals?
- Personal interview: Applicants will be asked to interview with at least one member of the program faculty or admissions committee. The Arts Management office will arrange for an interview, if applicable.
- Résumé: 2 years of work experience is strongly preferred.
- Additional criteria: This program does not require a GRE score for admission.
International Students
International students have additional requirements for admission. It is important that prospective applicants visit the Office of Graduate Admissions website to review those requirements. For questions about the application process, email CVPA Graduate Admissions.
Non-Degree Seeking
Mason does offer the option to pursue coursework as a non-degree seeking graduate student. A limited amount of non-degree coursework (12 credits) can be applied to your MA, if you’re accepted as a degree-seeking candidate later. For general questions about the program, contact Arts Management.
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Contact
Program contact:
Dr. Karalee Dawn MacKay
Program Director Program
Website
Home | Arts Management (gmu.edu)
Email: [email protected]
