University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework in management and economics with specialised study of the cultural, legal and organisational contexts of arts and media. Students follow a curriculum that emphasises critical analysis, quantitative reasoning and practical skills relevant to careers in the creative industries.

• Core management and economics: introductory accounting, principles of management, organisational behaviour, and microeconomics for markets and media.
• Industry foundations: media economics, cultural policy, arts administration, and the structure of music, film, theatre and visual‑arts industries.
• Law and ethics: intellectual property and copyright, contract basics, and ethical issues in content production and distribution.
• Practical skills: project and event management, marketing and audience development, digital distribution and analytics, fundraising and grant writing.
• Creative practice and context: elective modules in theatre, studio art, film studies, music performance or creative writing to ground managerial skills in artistic practice.
• Capstone and experiential learning: practicum, internship placements with cultural organisations or media companies, and a capstone project or consultancy that addresses a real‑world challenge in the creative sector.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Chicago is selective and evaluates applicants holistically. Prospective students for the Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management programme should demonstrate strong academic achievement across a broad liberal‑arts curriculum and show evidence of sustained interest in the arts or media.

• High school completion with a record of strong grades in academic subjects; evidence of quantitative readiness is important because of the programme's management and economics components.
• Academic references and application essays that communicate intellectual curiosity and commitment to creative work or cultural management.
• Supplementary materials are beneficial: portfolios, recordings, or project descriptions that document relevant artistic or organisational experience.
• Standardised testing policies are determined by the university; applicants should check current guidance on tests and any optional submission processes.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles across arts, entertainment and media organisations, as well as for entrepreneurial ventures and further study.

• Arts administration and management roles in theatres, museums, galleries and community arts organisations.
• Production and operations positions in film, television, live events and music production, including production coordinator, stage manager or music business roles.
• Marketing, audience development, and communications roles for cultural institutions and media companies.
• Talent and artist management, booking and festival programming.
• Business development, distribution and analytics roles in digital media firms and streaming platforms.
• Graduate study routes including MBA, arts management, law or specialised masters in media and cultural policy.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago pairs rigorous intellectual training with practical engagement in one of the world’s most vibrant cultural cities. The College’s interdisciplinary approach allows students to combine management coursework with deep art‑making or media studies, while links across campus provide access to business, law and public policy expertise.

• Location in Chicago offers extensive internship and employment opportunities with leading museums, theatres, production companies, festivals and independent arts organisations.
• Cross‑school connections enable collaboration with professional schools and research centres, enriching the programme with policy, finance and entrepreneurial perspectives.
• Hands‑on learning through practicum courses, curated internships and capstone projects helps students build a professional portfolio and industry network before graduation.