Hands-on learning is a cornerstone of Arts Management study at American University. That’s why all applicants for full-time master’s study are considered for internal fellowships, and can apply for competitive external fellowships (see “Requirements” below).

Fellowships provide paid project work in the arts during the academic year, where students can apply what they’re learning and build their professional experience throughout their studies.

In addition to arts management fellowships on this page, please see also graduate Tuition and Funding details.

External Fellowships

The Arts Management Program partners with exceptional arts and cultural organizations to host external fellowships. These paid, work/learning opportunities are highly competitive, and require an additional application, usually in February for the coming Fall/Spring academic year.

Current and recent external fellowship organizations have included

• John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
• National PTA
• Strathmore

Internal Fellowships

All qualified applicants are considered for paid, internal fellowship, supporting arts initiatives at American University (see “Requirements” below). These include hands-on project and program management positions in dance, theatre, music, recruiting, events, social media, communications, operations, and other roles in the performing, visual, and media arts.

All admitted applicants will be notified of internal fellowship funding as part of their financial award letter. The Program Director will then work with applicants who accept enrollment to place them in fellowships that both fit and extend their professional skills.

Requirements

The Arts Management Program offers a number of competitive fellowships for qualified graduate applicants who meet certain requirements:

• a complete program application submitted by our priority deadline of February 1
• a minimum average undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (calculated on the last 60 credits)
• full-time master’s degree study

External fellowships require a separate application. Opportunities and application requirements are updated each January for the coming Fall admission cycle.

International Students

Given student visa limitations, external fellowships are primarily for domestic applicants. International students should contact the Program Director if they have an interest in applying, and should consult with AU’s International Student & Scholar Services team about their ability to work while a student.

Additional Work Opportunities

American University also offers several opportunities for work in hourly and staff positions. These can include arts-related positions or more general service and support jobs across the university. For more information on current opportunities, visit AU’s Student Jobs site.