Master of Arts in Arts and Nonprofit Leadership

SMU’s Master of Arts in Arts and Nonprofit Leadership bridges artistic disciplines with essential business leadership skills to prepare students to excel in arts and nonprofit management.

This online, 30-credit-hour graduate degree program distinguishes itself through its interdisciplinary curriculum, which combines arts management, nonprofit leadership, and business principles to provide students with a holistic understanding of the nonprofit sector.

Students are empowered with real-world applications of arts management and nonprofit leadership tactics combined with a curriculum tailored for working professionals interested in continuing their careers while acquiring knowledge and leadership skills for both the arts and broader, nonprofit contexts including culture, heritage, humanitarian aid, education, advocacy and social impact.

Who Should Enroll

This program is ideal for art-centric individuals who seek to empower themselves in the arts administration and nonprofit leadership job market. Current arts and nonprofit professionals seeking new development opportunities can also leverage this advanced education to adapt to changes in their associated industry and boost career prospects.

• Individuals with an arts background who are looking to translate their experience to the nonprofit sector
• Creative professionals who desire a deeper understanding of nonprofit leadership
• Nonprofit professionals wanting more relevant skills to help navigate the evolving nonprofit landscape
• International students wanting the opportunity to understand arts and nonprofit management
• Individuals who have a passion for nonprofits and the arts

Why SMU?

Formally established at SMU in 1969, the Meadows School of the Arts is a leader in developing innovative outreach and community engagement programs such as the Master of Arts in Creative Technology. The Meadows School educates its students to become visionary artists, scholars, and communication professionals. The goal of SMU, as a comprehensive educational institution, is to prepare students to meet the rapidly evolving demands of professional careers.

Admission Requirements

Applicants holding a four-year equivalent degree from an appropriately accredited college or university are eligible to apply for admission.

Prospective students must meet the minimum requirements for entry into the program based upon the following criteria:

• Résumé - You should submit a résumé that addresses your professional history as well as your educational and career interests.
• Transcripts - Transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. If your academic transcripts are not in English, you must submit a notarized, official English translation.
• Interview - After submission of your application, you must conduct a short online interview with a program team member.
• References - Two professional references must be provided. At least one of them should be from a current or recent supervisor.

Required Courses

Earn this master's degree in as quick as 20 months by completing two courses per session.

The M.A. in Arts and Nonprofit Leadership curriculum includes 10 required courses, each 15 weeks long, with each course being three credit hours.

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Arts and Nonprofit Leadership program are prepared for a wide range of leadership roles within the arts and nonprofit sectors. Career paths may include executive director positions, leadership roles within program management, fundraising and development, arts administration, community outreach, and more.

The skills and knowledge gained through the M.A. in Arts and Nonprofit Leadership are designed to help fill gaps that are often missing in traditional arts programs, such as developing long-term strategic plans, marketing your brand, managing finances, monitoring legal and tax issues, and more. This expertise can help graduates qualify for positions within the nonprofit and arts management fields, including:

ARTS-SPECIFIC JOB TITLES

• Event Organizer
• Special Events Coordinator
• Gallery Manager
• Cultural Affairs Officer
• Artist Production Manager
• Marketing Officer

NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT JOB TITLES

• Fundraising Director/Manager
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Regulatory Affairs Director/Manager
• Executive Director
• Managing Director
• Operations Officer