Arts administrator : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, certain subjects may prove to be an advantage for some jobs. The following are particularly relevant, either at degree or HND level:

• arts management;
• business-related studies, e.g. finance, logistics, marketing, human resources;
• visual arts and design;
• art history;
• performing arts;
• English and literary studies;
• events and entertainment management;
• arts administration options in other arts related courses.

Entry without a degree or HND is possible via a secretarial or support/assistant role, or after gaining administrative experience at a similar level in another field.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification, such as arts or cultural administration/management, is not essential but might be useful. It may be difficult, however, to gain financial support for one of these courses and some students opt to undertake their studies on a part-time basis over two years, so that they may work at the same time.

Occasionally, graduates are able to secure funds from Research Councils UK . Some courses integrate placements in arts organisations and enable students to build their contacts and relevant experience, while the more competitive courses usually require candidates to have experience already.

Jobs in the arts are highly competitive. Gaining substantial experience in administration, management and the arts is much more likely to be of benefit than a specific academic subject of study.

Administrative skills alone are not usually enough and should be enhanced with some more specific experience in arts projects and events, perhaps while at university (e.g. promoting a drama society; writing productions reviews; staging an art exhibition; gaining sponsorship for or organising events).

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• good communication, teamworking, interpersonal and organisational skills;
• knowledge of and an interest in the arts;
• the ability to work independently, meet deadlines and manage a number of projects at the same time, and with accuracy;
• awareness of the specific arts activities and events in the area in which you are applying;
• awareness of political and economic issues affecting the arts sector;
• administrative skills and experience of working to budgets are also beneficial.

For a career in arts administration there is no substitute for relevant experience. Therefore try to become involved in as many areas as possible; anything from volunteering on a student drama production to carrying out temporary work in an arts festival will be relevant. In whatever role you secure, find out who the key arts workers are in that area as any contacts you build up may be useful later on.

Weekly or monthly arts magazines and websites such as a-n: The Artists Information Company  and British Arts Festivals Association  are a valuable source of information for upcoming events that you may wish to become involved with.

Consider taking a temporary job as your first step into an arts administration career. Typical temporary roles may be on a lottery-funded project or at an arts festival. This may provide a platform from which you can demonstrate your creative and administrative ability and allow you to network with other arts administrators.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.