Frequently Asked Questions

Don't see your question? Contact the Arts Administration department at artsadmi@uc.edu.

About Arts Administration

Will this program prepare me to manage any arts discipline? right arrow down arrow

Yes. Each year we accept students interested in managing orchestras, theatres, operas, dance companies and museums. Our program is specifically designed for those who want to work in the management of the not-for-profit arts.

Can I take classes that count towards the degree before I begin the program? right arrow down arrow

Generally, no. The Arts Administration program course sequence is designed to allow the students to gain information that builds from one class to the next. There is little flexibility in the course sequencing and students cannot take classes out of sequence.

Do I need to complete the video essay for my application? right arrow down arrow

No. The video portion is used primarily for performance degree programs, and will not help or hinder your consideration for admission. The only essay we require is the written personal statement.

What should I include in my personal statement? right arrow down arrow

The personal statement is our first opportunity to get to know you. Tell us why you became interested in the arts, how your career experience relates to this interest, what your career goals are, and how this program will help you achieve those goals. Most importantly, let your personality come through.

Are there any prerequisites required for the MA/MBA program? right arrow down arrow

The program is best suited for students who have had some degree of work in an administrative capacity within an arts organization, whether an internship, part-time employment, or full-time employment. For MA/MBA applicants, the Carl H. Lindner College of Business requires that students have a working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, as many courses involve thorough use of the software.

I'm an international student, how do the admissions requirements differ? right arrow down arrow

International students should complete all required application materials by the program deadline. They must also comply with University application guidelines for international students, including the TOEFL score standard. Refer to CCM's application instructions for international applicants.

Can I start the program at a time other than August? right arrow down arrow

No. The Arts Administration program course sequence is designed to allow the students to gain information that builds from one class to the next. There is little flexibility in the course sequencing and students may usually not take classes out of sequence. That sequencing begins in August.

What financial aid and scholarships are available? right arrow down arrow

A high percentage of Arts Administration students are granted University Graduate Scholarships, which cover a portion of tuition costs. Some students selected to the Arts Administration program also receive Graduate Assistantships which pay students for working 10-20 hours per week within various offices at CCM. Visit CCM's Financial Aid and Scholarships website for more information.

How does the MA track differ from the MA/MBA track? right arrow down arrow

Both curriculum tracks require two years of full time study. The MA/MBA students take additional business classes throughout those two years. Curriculum for both tracks back be found here.

Should I apply to both the MA and MBA programs? right arrow down arrow

You should apply to Lindner College of Business' MBA program after you are accepted to CCM's MA program. We recommended that you pursue degrees in both programs, as a majority of the curriculum overlaps. 

I currently have a job. Can I be in the program part-time? right arrow down arrow

Not if your job is full time. The Arts Administration Program accepts 8-10 students per year who must study full-time. The nature of the coursework and class times requires full-time status. Many of our students are able to work part-time within the College or at arts organizations in Cincinnati. Due to the rigorous academics of the program, it is not recommended that students work more than 20 hour per week.

Do I need to take the GMAT? GRE? right arrow down arrow

The GMAT is no longer required to apply to the MBA portion of the dual degree program. The Carl H. Lindner College of Business accepts GRE and GMAT scores as part of their MBA application, so you may apply to both the MA and the MBA programs with either GMAT or GRE scores. When applying for the dual degree, scores and application materials should be sent to the CCM Admissions Office first. The Lindner College of Business Admissions Office will have access to your scores and application materials from your CCM application.

How do I apply to the MA/MBA Program? right arrow down arrow

Dual degree candidates must complete an application with CCM and must also apply to the Carl H. Lindner College of Business. These applications are completely separate, so each application's requirements must be met independently. Begin the application process.

When applying for the dual MA/MBA program, you should apply for the part-time MBA program and then choose the Arts Administration joint degree from the drop-down box.