Top 8 Master’s in Arts Administration Online Under $45,000

What if the best way to support the arts is to mix artistic knowledge and business acumen? If this sounds interesting, you might consider enrolling in a master’s in arts administration online. All members of the public benefit from art programs, museums, and creative enterprises. But while artists are the ones who express their visions to page, film, or music, it’s art administrators who make the showcases happen. And, importantly, acquire key funding for an artist’s work.

To become the administrator of a non-profit program, artistic showcase, or other art enterprise, you’ll need a graduate degree in this specialty. Let’s take a closer look.

Article Navigation: Master’s in Arts Administration Online Overview | Is an Online Master’s in Arts Administration Worth It? | Accreditation | The 8 Best Master’s in Arts Administration Online | Common Concentrations | Admission Requirements for a Master’s in Arts Administration Online | Programs Related to Online Master’s in Arts Administration | Use GetEducated Today to Find the Best Master’s in Arts Administration Online

Master’s in Arts Administration Online Overview

A master’s in arts administration is generally a Master of the Arts (MA) degree. This type of degree teaches college graduates how to begin, manage, and fund artistic or creative programs like:

• New museum showcases
• Art shows (e.g., a painter showing paintings to the public)
• Non-profit art programs, like educational programs for kids

All of these endeavors sound interesting, but they require funding and management to be successful. A person with a master’s in arts administration online degree will be able to organize that program by:

• Seeking out funding for the program via fundraisers or donations
• Organizing the program’s support staff, major artists, etc.
• Scheduling artist or showpiece appearances
• Securing a place for the art show or program
• And more

An online arts administration master’s program includes classes that cover high-level artistic concepts. For example, art theory, in addition to business-oriented topics. Graduates of these programs become capable leaders and managers, so they often take courses on concepts like how to lead a team, inspiration, and cultivating a positive workplace culture.

See more on Leadership and Management degrees online here.

To join an MAA program, you normally need a bachelor’s degree in business or the arts. Depending on your degree program, you may be required to complete certain prerequisite courses before you can jump into the program’s full course list.

In any case, these degrees are available online and on campus. Online arts administration master’s degrees have various formats and benefits:

• Asynchronous, meaning you work more independently
• Synchronous, meaning you attend virtual lectures, discussions, etc. at scheduled times
• Short enough that you can complete them in two years or less
• Available at many top colleges and institutions

Is an Online Master’s in Arts Administration Worth It?

An online master’s degree in arts administration might very well be worth it. Especially if you like both the business and artistic side of the creative sector. If, for example, you want to work with artists and facilitate their success, an art administrator job could be just what you’re looking for.

Indeed, once you have graduated from an accredited program, you can pursue careers such as:

• Development administrative coordinator
• Art education director
• Adult education and programs manager
• Individual giving coordinator

Furthermore, many of the top online arts management masters programs are flexible. Online degrees also have a reputation of being more affordable. They are perfect for those who have to work or manage a family while completing their schooling.

Accreditation For Master’s in Arts Administration Online Programs

Before you jump into an online arts management masters, research its accreditation status. There are two types of accreditation you should focus on.

Association of Arts Administration Educators

Accreditation by the Association of Arts Administration Educators (AAAE) is the most important. The AAAE is a programmatic accrediting body that makes sure that undergrad and graduate art administration programs are:

• Modern and comprehensive to ensure student success
• Equip students for part leadership, management, entrepreneurship, etc.
• Academically rigorous enough to be worthwhile

A program must be accredited by the AAAE to be worth your time and money. That’s because you can only trust a degree accredited by the AAAE to be sufficiently challenging and extensive enough to teach you the skills you need to succeed in this field.

More importantly, if your arts administration graduate program online is not AAAE-accredited, you might not qualify for employment at art schools, non-profits, etc.

Regional Accreditation

Regional accreditation is also important. Accreditors like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredit entire schools rather than specific programs. They’re the best markers of school excellence. Generally, they indicate that a given institution offers credible programs and degrees, supports its students, and provides adequate resources. Furthermore, regional accreditation is a meaningful indicator of faculty quality.

Don’t attend a school that is not regionally accredited. You can find a list of regional accrediting bodies here.

The 8 Best Master’s in Arts Administration Online Under $45,000

Fortunately, there are plenty of top programs online for you to check out. Depending on your budget, preferences, and ambitions, one or another online master’s in arts administration might be better.

Below, we’ve broken down eight top schools, each of which is a not-for-profit institution. The arts administration masters online programs offered by these schools are listed from most affordable to most expensive. Importantly, each institution also has regional accreditation. They are also all AAAE-accredited, academically rigorous, and suitable for future professionals.

1. Colorado State University

   Degree: Master of Arts Leadership & Cultural Management
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-Of-State): $20,644

   CSU’s MA in Leadership and Cultural Management is an affordable, standout program choice. Students can complete the program in two years or as fast as one year if they join the accelerated master’s track. This enables you to earn your degree in less time and cheaper than ever. However, you must continually enroll in the arts administration masters online, and you must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher to qualify.

   Whether you take the accelerated or standard-pace program, you’ll learn a variety of important topics relating to art department management and leadership. For example, this MA program teaches you how to foster a culture of individuality and inclusiveness among art students, working artists, and other team members.

   Students of this program can further take advantage of special financial aid. In this case, limited access grants, and student employment. Graduate students who wish for employment positions can contact the department graduate coordinator. If they qualify, they may be able to get a job during their program or promptly after graduation.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts Leadership & Cultural Management

    

2. Northeastern University

   Degree: Master of Science in Arts Administration & Cultural Entrepreneurship
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $21,780

   Northeastern University’s MS in Arts Administration and Cultural Entrepreneurship is an interdisciplinary program. It prepares art leaders for creative expression and management. It’s a stellar arts administration degree online for future museum managers, art curators, art department leaders, and more. That’s because the program teaches how to:

   – Inspire audience engagement in art programs
   – Manage creative and financial resources
   – Sustain financial support for art programs and departments

   This 100% online program also teaches students many versatile skills like event planning, grant writing, and strategic planning.

   Virtual sessions are available for students who are on the fence about joining the program. They can attend Monday through Friday to see what the program and coursework will be like before applying, similar to “sitting in” on an in-person program or class. Alternatively, students can also take a graduate certificate with the same concentration. If they appreciate the graduate certificate, they can then transfer the credits from the certificate program to the arts administration degree online.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Arts Administration & Cultural Entrepreneurship

    

3. Rowan University

   Degree: Master of Arts in Theatre Arts Administration
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $23,010

   Rowan University offers an MA in Theater Arts Administration. This program is for working professionals and recent graduates. As a practically driven program, it utilizes applied approaches to teach students valuable art leadership and theory skills. The program is so well-reviewed that it is accredited not just by the AAAE but also by the National Association of Schools of Theater.

   The program is comprised of 10 courses that total 30 semester hours. There are no foundation or thesis course requirements necessary. Instead, students will progress through courses covering topics such as:

   – Audience development
   – Curatorial practice in the arts
   – Education and outreach programs in the arts

   Each course takes place over eight-week modules, so the pacing is consistent and rigorous. A bachelor’s degree and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher are both required to qualify. Additionally, students must have two letters of recommendation, a statement of personal objectives, and a professional resume.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Theatre Arts Administration

    

4. University of Kentucky

   Degree: Master in Arts Administration
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $24,660

   At the University of Kentucky, students can attend a Master of Arts Administration program. It’s available in online or hybrid formats, and it focuses on providing students with flexibility so that they can balance schoolwork, family obligations, and work.

   The program is intended to help graduates:

   – Solve problems with research and conceptual analyses
   – Design art and creative programs and strategies
   – Use industry-standard software programs to create messages for fundraising, audiences, and more

   There’s no residency requirement with the program, and it’s relatively affordable. That’s because all students accepted into this program pay the in-state tuition rate, even if they are out-of-state students. GRE scores are also not required. However, students must submit a writing sample of 10 to 15 pages if they wish to qualify.

   The program’s courses, covering topics like principles of fundraising and arts and equality, are taught by skilled faculty. Classes take place over eight-week modules. Students can also take advantage of limited access to financial aid, like special scholarships, on the school’s website.

   Find Out More:
   Master in Arts Administration

    

5. Rider University

   Degree: Master of Arts in Arts Management & Executive Leadership
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $33,810

   Rider University’s MA in Arts Management and Executive Leadership combines artistic passion and business sensibilities for students. It prepares students for management and leadership positions in the non-profit sector, as well as in for-profit entertainment industries like:

   – Venue management
   – Artistic management and representation
   – Production
   – Fundraising
   – Marketing

   Much of the coursework focuses on practical skills. However, some coursework emphasizes theoretical art management concepts. Students complete classes such as:

   – Intersecting arts & laws
   – Synthesizing arts management
   – Leading and governing arts institutions

   All students must complete a capstone course, which can be a thesis or leadership project. On top of that, students may opt into courses on leadership practices, organizational behavior, and the fundamentals of accounting if they wish to shore up their business acumen and related skills. The program overall is 34.5 credits.

   The program doesn’t require GRE scores. Also, it can be completed in 1.5 to 2 years, depending on how quickly you progress to the material. Regardless, the program is taught by renowned faculty in the art administration sector.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Arts Management & Executive Leadership

    

6. Winthrop University

   Degree: Master of Arts in Arts Administration
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $33,940

   At Winthrop University, students can take a Master of Arts in Arts Administration. It’s a 100% online program that takes two years to complete, and most students already have some administrative experience in arts organizations. Specifically, students need one year of professional or volunteer arts administration experience. Thus, it’s a good choice for working professionals and art managers who want to upgrade their resumes.

   The program includes 12 courses and 36 credit hours in total. Each class is taught by nationally regarded faculty. While the program is online, it does require some applied learning with both fieldwork experience courses and a capstone project.

   Throughout the program, students will learn major concepts like fundraising and financial management. Also, audience development. The program explores topics like diversity and inclusion, ethics, and technology and leadership practices related to non-profit art administration. Overall, its coursework focus makes it a good choice for future volunteer program administrators and non-profit art program managers.

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   Master of Arts in Arts Administration

    

7. University of Denver

   Degree: Master of Arts in Arts & Cultural Management
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $34,416

   The University of Denver’s MA in Arts and Cultural Management is available totally online in an asynchronous format or through a hybrid online and in-person format. The master’s degree can take just 18 months or two years.

   If you aren’t sure whether you want to commit to the full program, you can also take a four-course or six-course certificate. The certificate takes six months or 12 months, respectively. You can transfer the credits from these certificate programs straight into the master’s degree later.

   If you choose to take the master’s program, note that all classes last for ten weeks. You can select from three different concentrations:

   – Arts and culture marketing
   – Arts and culture outreach and advocacy
   – Mission-driven operations and management

   The program teaches students how to apply creative and critical thinking to art administrative topics like organizational development, community outreach, and fundraising.

   All students benefit from the flexible online learning platform. Also, there are ample financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Veterans may receive further discounts. Students can receive employment reimbursement benefits if they work for this school or some of its partnered art programs.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Arts & Cultural Management

    

8. Savannah College of Art and Design

   Degree: Master of Arts in Creative Business Leadership
   Tuition Cost (In-State/Out-of-State): $44,100

   Savannah College of Art and Design’s MA in Creative Business Leadership is the perfect choice for future creative or art executives. It’s a 100% online program that teaches various entrepreneurial skills, which may be applied to art programs and ventures.

   All students will work through SCADpro: Savannah’s in-house design studio. Here, even online students can connect with peers and professors, as well as consult and collaborate with executives from global corporations. These opportunities give students the experience they need to thrive post-graduation.

   Over the program’s duration, students will complete classes like:

   – Calculated risk
   – Influencers and innovators
   – Funding creative businesses

   In addition, students must complete a graduate internship or an advanced elective. The graduate internship is a popular choice because it enables you to build connections for work after graduation. A final project is required to cap off the 45-credit-hour program. You can complete this project primarily or entirely online, depending on what you choose to do.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Creative Business Leadership

    

Common Concentrations

Many of the best master’s in arts administration online degrees allow you to concentrate or specialize your degree in one area or another.

International Arts Management

An international arts management focus pertains to running and maintaining international art programs, movements, and institutions. It often emphasizes cross-practice business knowledge. Also, cultural and art knowledge from multiple cultures and countries.

Leadership and Cultural Management

Leadership and cultural management degrees focus on practical leadership and team building skills. In addition, a leadership and culture management focus may provide you with additional tools for building a positive workplace culture. This concentration is great if you’re pursuing a non-profit career.

Entrepreneurship

Degrees with a specialization in entrepreneurship double down on business skills and know-how. They may include several classes focusing on fundraising, money management, and marketing. That way, you know how to sell or advertise an upcoming artistic program or showcase, for example. This is a good all-around concentration for business professionals.

Performing Arts Administration

Performing arts administration emphasizes business marketing and financing skills. Specifically, of course, for the performing arts sector (e.g., stage theater, music performances, and more). This focus may include in-depth knowledge about the practical requirements of this industry. For example, theater booking strategies, material requirements, and more.

Fundraising Management

Fundraising management prepares you to handle the finances and fundraising needs for future artistic programs. It might qualify you very well for an official art administrative or funding job. Furthermore, fundraising management should qualify you for other finance-related careers in the future. It pairs well if you already have a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a similar major.

Executive Leadership

Executive leadership degrees concentrate primarily on leadership skills. These skills are often transferable between different departments, programs, and even industries. This focus is excellent for work in art administration. It’s also great if you want to keep the door open for administrator positions in other sectors later on.

Arts Administration and Cultural Policy

Arts administration and cultural policy combines administrative and leadership skills with cultural policymaking theory. With these skills, you can develop artistic programs and performances that influence the surrounding culture. This is a good focus if you want to help finance, plan, and run performances that make the news and expand your artistic field of choice.

Master’s in Arts Administration Online Admission Requirements

The majority of master’s in arts administration online programs will have certain admission requirements you must meet to qualify for their opportunities. These common requirements include:

• A GPA minimum, typically 2.5 or above. Higher-quality programs may require a GPA of 3.0 or above from your previous schooling
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Two letters of recommendation from peers or former professors
• A personal letter or statement expanding why you want to join the program and earn a masters in arts administration degree
• A resume (sometimes – not all schools require this)

Notably, masters in arts administration programs don’t usually require GRE or GMAT test scores, though they may not hurt your application if you’ve already taken these exams.

Programs Related to a Master’s in Arts Administration Online

While a master’s in arts administration degree is the best way to qualify for art administrator, education program leader, and similar professions, there are alternative programs and degrees you can pursue as well.

Generally, these positions require someone who has:

• Experience in the art or creative industry
• Business experience

Therefore, if you meet both qualifications, you could still pursue open jobs even without an online MAA degree. For example, you might have a different degree instead, like:

• An MBA degree with some experience managing a non-profit or creative program
• An art degree with some experience running a small business or volunteering for various non-profits
• A finance degree with work experience showing you helped fundraise creative projects or non-profit ventures before

Compared to technical fields, the requirements for art administrative jobs in similar positions are more about skill, not specific certificates. However, if you have a certain job in mind, always read what the job requires to plan out your academic pathway.

Start a Master’s in Arts Administration Online Today!

All in all, the best master’s in arts administration online can help you get a jumpstart in your career. You can master in arts administration in a flexible format and at a cost you can afford with online education. Use GetEducated’s extensive college catalog to find the ideal school and online program for your needs today!