Degree Requirements

Course Requirements. The program consists of 11 courses of 4-units each, and 4-units of directed thesis/advanced writing work in management and the humanities for a total of 48 units. There are five required courses in management and six required courses in the humanities. Each student also chooses an area of concentration. The program is designed so that students may complete it in two years of full-time study. The student, with the help and approval of an advisor, determines the actual arrangement and sequence of courses taken.

Internship. An important component of the Arts and Cultural Management degree is an internship that places candidates in an arts or cultural organization providing them with practical experience. Depending upon student and sponsor  needs, internships can be structured on a full or parttime basis.

Final Research Paper. The master’s research paper demonstrates the student’s ability to integrate arts and cultural theory with techniques of applied research analysis in the area of arts and cultural management. Students will select a topic of interest that reflects an understanding of key issues and/or challenges in the areas of arts and cultural management, theory, and/or policy. Students will complete a master’s research paper or field study demonstrating effective writing ability and substantial research skills. This degree requirement may be fulfilled by a faculty-directed independent study, or an approved advanced course in writing and research.

Upon completion of the MAACM degree the student should demonstrate:

• familiarity with current arts and cultural theory and policy.
• experience in the theories and practices of arts and cultural management.
• a demonstrated ability to conduct humanities and applied research.
• the skills necessary to research, write, and direct grants and projects.
• knowledge in a specific area of concentration.
• proficiency in integrating arts and cultural principles with effective management techniques.

Additional Requirements and Policies. Subject to faculty approval, a student may transfer up to 8 graduate-level semester units of credit toward the MAACM degree program.

Topics of Interest

There is flexibility in the program for students to pursue their interests. Students can pursue topics of interest in the humanities, which include: art history and theory, museum studies, literature and film, non-fiction writing and composition, cultural studies, ethics, policy & philosophy, music theory and history, intellectual and cultural history, and oral history. Students who already possess a strong humanities background may pursue topics of interest in management, such as leadership, marketing, strategy, etc.