University of Wisconsin–Madison

Overview

The Arts and Creative Enterprise Leadership program at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is designed to cultivate leadership skills at the intersection of arts, business, and social impact. This comprehensive course equips students with the strategic insight and practical experience needed to launch or scale arts and creative enterprises. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning, participants will develop a toolkit that prepares them for impactful careers in the creative sector.

• Award: Master of Arts (Business)
• Focus: Arts administration, nonprofit leadership, and social enterprise
• Delivery: On-campus (University of Wisconsin–Madison)
• Credits/Duration: Typically completed in 12 months
• Language of instruction: English
• Experiential component: Applied Learning Project; opportunities may include seed funding or a paid internship

What you'll study

The program's core curriculum integrates business strategy and management with a focus on arts and community-centered leadership. Students will engage in an applied learning project that connects academic concepts to real-world challenges faced by arts and nonprofit organizations.

• Business Strategy
• Managerial Accounting
• Entrepreneurial Management
• Marketing Communications
• Bargaining, Negotiating, and Dispute Settlement for Managers
• Nonprofit Board Leadership
• Civil Society and Community Leadership
• Community Development
• Community Economic Analysis
• Impact Consulting for Arts-based Organizations and Communities
• Applied Learning Project

The Applied Learning Project serves as a capstone experience, allowing students to apply strategic and leadership skills to address challenges in arts, nonprofit, or community settings.

Entry requirements

• Degree: Undergraduate degree with a business major or minor
• GPA: Minimum 3.0 GPA in relevant college coursework
• Work experience: At least 1 year of full-time work experience in a business discipline
• Selection components: Essays, résumé, degrees/transcripts, letter of recommendation, and an interview

English requirements

• Duolingo English Test: Minimum 125
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 92
• IELTS: Minimum 7.0

Career prospects

Graduates of the Arts and Creative Enterprise Leadership program are well-equipped to pursue various career paths in the arts and nonprofit sectors. The skills and knowledge gained through the program enable graduates to take on leadership roles, drive social change, and innovate within creative enterprises. Additionally, after completing the degree, students may be eligible for work authorization in the United States, allowing them to gain practical experience in their field.