Performing Arts Management
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Students in this graduate certificate program learn key management, marketing, financial and economic principles while gaining the skills necessary to lead and manage arts organizations. Along with practical management skills, they learn how to address the long-term needs and interests of their organization, the communities they serve and their stakeholders.
- Program Type: Certificate
- Academic Unit: Conservatory
- Standard credit hours: 12
- Delivery Mode: In-person, Hybrid
- Typical Program Length: 1-4 years
- Typical Course Load: 1-5 per semester
Why UMKC
Find career success
From academic and career advising to employment services and community partnerships, our award-winning faculty and staff can help you leverage industry connections and deliver the direction and support you need to succeed in your career.
Contribute to world-changing research
UMKC faculty and students break ground in key areas of science, technology, healthcare, education, law, the arts and the humanities — bringing in millions in funding in the process. If you want to work on the cutting edge of these fields and set yourself up for a career in innovation, there aren’t many better places to be.
Kansas City is our classroom
Our university is deeply integrated into the community, providing students with exclusive opportunities to gain hands-on experience, connect with area employers and network with local industry professionals.
After Graduation
The career outlook for professionals with a master's degree in performance arts management aligns closely with roles such as producers and directors in the performing arts, media, and related industries. These positions are expected to see steady demand, driven by the continuous production of content in film, television, live theater and digital media. A master's degree in this field enhances leadership, budgeting and organizational skills, which are essential for managing productions and teams effectively.
Median annual wages for producers and directors vary by industry, with the highest earners working in the motion picture and video industries. Work in this field often involves irregular hours and high-pressure deadlines. Success depends on creative, organizational and leadership abilities, making this degree valuable for advancing careers in managing artistic endeavors.
Potential careers
- Executive director
- Fundraiser
- Marketing manager
$174,218
Median salary/year
* Based on data from Lightcast.io for Chief Executives (11-1011.00)
Potential Courses
Managing Nonprofit Organizations
This course is designed to prepare students for a career in executive management in private or nonprofit/nongovernmental organizations.
Conflict Management and Negotiation Strategies
This course explores the nature of successfully managing conflict in organizational settings, as well as the skills needed to be an effective negotiator.
Nonprofit Fundraising and Development
This course examines the processes and functions by which nonprofit organizations plan, organize, implement and evaluate the work of fundraising and development to secure the financial resources neede…
Visit the Academic Catalog for a full listing of courses and descriptions.
Related Programs and Pathways
How to Apply
- Gather your materials
- Official transcripts.
- Names and locations of previous college(s) and dates you attended.
- Citizenship, residency and visa information (if applicable).
- Transcripts and test scores may be sent in after the Dec. 1 Conservatory application deadline but must be received by UMKC Admissions by Feb. 1.
- Statement of purpose detailing your interest in and fittingness for the program.
- Complete the online application
- $45 for domestic graduate students or $75 for international graduate students.
Have questions? Request information to have an admissions counselor contact you about the requirements for this program.
Application Dates
To Start Classes in Fall
Apply by: rolling admissons
Classes begin in August
Reduce Your Cost. Maximize Your Investment.
An amazing education shouldn’t break the bank, which is why we offer a number of automatic and competitive scholarships, grants and other financial aid opportunities — plus financial guidance from our expert advisors.