Trent University's new Master of Arts Management program, launching in September 2025, will equip graduates to thrive as leaders in the vast and varied arts, culture, and heritage sectors through the development of foundational knowledge as well as career experience in a hands-on 12-week paid co-op placement.
"In Canada and around the world, arts and culture is big business, encompassing museums, art galleries, tourism, performing arts, and music. Trent's new Arts Management master's program is about teaching the varied yet complementary disciplines of the arts and business to support career success for students aspiring to work in and enhance the cultural sector," said Suzanne Bailey, associate dean of Graduate Studies at Trent. "By helping students develop both their creativity and strategic thinking, our graduates will be well-prepared to lead in arts management and shape the future of cultural production and policy."
The new full-time master's program, which is now open for applications, is an ideal fit for graduates from humanities and social science programs, including Canadian or Cultural Studies, English and History, as well as arts-focused majors including film, fine art, or design. The programs' exploration of modern arts management and policy, budgeting, leadership, and marketing challenges, will allow students to develop a stronger business acumen.
Reflecting Trent University's commitment to hands-on career opportunities, the master's program features a 12-week paid co-op placement, where students have the opportunity to work directly with arts organizations like museums, theatres, galleries, government agencies, and NGOs. This applied learning component is designed to deepen students' understanding of arts policy, administrative skills and management thinking, and problem-solving skills, ultimately enhancing their career prospects.
The program also integrates Indigenous content, addressing topics such as repatriation of cultural artifacts and Indigenous data sovereignty, aligning with the University's long-standing commitment to Indigenous education and perspectives. This distinct focus, combined with global perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches featured in the program, ensures that graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the arts sector, both in Canada and internationally.
The M.A. program's tailored curriculum addresses the demand for business management skills, showcasing the value of this expertise for graduates from humanities programs. Focusing on professional competence, ethical leadership, and informed decision-making, Trent's new Master of Arts Management will produce graduates ready to excel professionally and creatively.
Applications are now open for the Master of Arts Management program. Learn more through the School of Graduate Studies at Trent.
