Arts Administration

Certificate

Explore the arts administration certificate at UW-Eau Claire

Learn how to manage and direct arts organizations with a certificate in arts administration from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The growing program provides students with the core body of knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage both community or institutionally based arts organizations and provides a foundation for continued study in arts administration.

Most courses taken to fulfill the certificate requirements are chosen by you, allowing you to focus on the areas of arts administration that most interest you. Explore courses in art history, dance, music, theatre, accounting, business administration, business communication, communication and journalism, history, management and marketing. Curriculum strongly emphasizes management and communication skills useful to administrators of arts enterprises and includes both a capstone seminar and a semester-long internship. 

Organizations across the country are looking for trained and innovative people to help ensure the ongoing vitality of the arts and need someone with the skills to keep the curtains rising. With a certificate in arts administration, that someone could be you.

An application is required. 

Why arts administration at UW-Eau Claire?

An arts-focused community. The greater Eau Claire community is known as a hub for arts and culture. Many students in the arts administration certificate program take advantage of opportunities in the region, including internships, volunteer experiences and chances to network with local artists and organizations. 

Internship experience. Students pursuing the arts administration certificate are required to complete a semester-long internship, giving you real-world experience in the arts administration field. Many times, this internship not only counts for credit, but students receive a salary as well. Previous Blugolds have interned at places like Pablo Center at the Confluence, Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra, Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra, Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild, Eau Claire Sculpture Tour and Eau Claire Jazz.

Experiential curriculum. As part of your studies, you'll apply arts management theory to a real-life project with a partnering nonprofit arts organization in the region. You'll also have the opportunity to create your own theoretical nonprofit arts organization, giving you an inside look at what it takes from start (developing a mission) to finish (pitching your idea to a committee of your peers for funding).

What can I do with an arts administration certificate from UWEC?

The skills you'll gain earning an arts administration certificate makes you a valuable employee in a variety of industries. From marketing and public relations to community outreach and event management, you'll have a wealth of knowledge to draw from enabling you to tackle whatever comes your way. Arts administrators are often involved in grant writing, curating, front of house management and company operations. 

Arts administrators work in places like:

My internship was one of my favorite experiences at UW-Eau Claire. And in the Fine Arts Administration Seminar class, I learned how to “get going” in the world of the arts. I was able to apply my knowledge to real-life experiences. The amount of involvement and opportunities UWEC brings is incredible.

Sarah Jo Arts Administration Certificate

Arts administration certificate curriculum

While pursuing a certificate in arts administration from UW-Eau Claire, you will grow your knowledge of the arts and its relevance in society via real-world coursework and an internship relevant to your interests. Curriculum will help you to gain an understanding of common managerial issues and techniques within the arts as well as learn the critical-thinking and communication skills necessary to analyze and address issues facing arts organizations today.

What classes do arts administration students take?

Your classes may cover topics like:

Learn more about the arts administration certificate in the UWEC catalog.

Learn more about UWEC

We'll send you additional information about our campus and programs after you submit this form. You'll also have the chance to tell us more about yourself and your interests.

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Related programs at UW-Eau Claire

Thinking about earning a certificate in arts administration? Here are other programs you may be interested in exploring.

Department information

Photo of a camera in front of theatre seats

Music and Theatre Arts

Haas Fine Arts Center 156
121 Water Street
 Eau Claire, WI 54703
Visit the Music and Theatre Arts department website