This course provides a grounded foundation for your graduate-level coursework in the Arts and Administration Program. Readings and classroom activities are designed to introduce you to major functions and issues in the administration of a nonprofit cultural organization. Students are expected to analyze readings and critically engage in the content of each class
session. The pedagogical goals are to: (1) map the theoretical and practical terrain of arts administration, and (2) develop leadership, critical inquiry, graduate-level writing and presentation skills.

Course assignments lead student teams through the creation of imaginary organizations, and a process of critically exploring various problems commonly encountered in arts administration. These problems include navigating: the changing economic, political, and social context of arts organizations; governing board and constituency relations and development; operations, planning, and policy needs; and financial management, fundraising and marketing. Class meetings will include presentations and discussions led by the instructors as well as small student group discussions and activities. Two individual assignment will be conducted throughout the term, in collaboration with an Arts and Administration Program alumnus to whom you will be assigned. This course consists of open-discussion lectures (standard lecture format but with students encouraged to interrupt and ask questions), class discussions of the assigned readings, and other in-class learning activities. Special attention will be focused on developing your critical thinking and analytical capacities. You will be expected to complete all reading assignments prior to each class session and to actively participate in class discussions. Written assignments and class presentations should be prepared with attention to descriptive/factual content as well as to analytical clarity and professional presentation.