Professionals interested in building a career in the performing arts world rightly value their creative skills, allowing them to make their artistic visions a reality. To succeed in theatre arts, artists must also polish skill in organizational leadership, marketing, grant writing and more.
The Southeastern Oklahoma State University online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre – Arts Administration program provides students with a comprehensive education in the historical, artistic and business elements of theatre arts. The degree program is ideal for those who want to make an impact both behind the scenes and on stage in the arts industry.
What Does a Theatre Arts Administrator Do?
A degree in theatre arts administration opens the door to a wide range of career options. Zippia anticipates a 12% growth in demand for performing arts professionals through 2028, and Indeed emphasizes that individuals with a background in theatre arts are well prepared to take on various roles in both the arts and business sectors. This versatility is particularly advantageous for students who may wish to apply their skills across multiple industries or pivot their careers as opportunities arise.
Theatre arts administrators play a crucial role in ensuring artistic organizations function smoothly. As The Princeton Review describes, these professionals handle the operational and financial aspects of theatres, arts organizations and other performing arts entities. They manage everything from scheduling and marketing to budgeting and fundraising is expertly, enabling artists and performers to focus on their creative work.
Artists who want to lead with empathy and social understanding will find a professional home as arts administrators. Theatre exposes individuals to diverse perspectives and stories, fostering a greater appreciation of various human experiences. According to San Diego Family, theatre arts education enhances empathy by allowing participants to “walk in someone else’s shoes,” thereby promoting a greater understanding of others. This heightened empathy is invaluable for those in arts administration, where creating inclusive, accessible and impactful programming is often a top priority.
Theatre arts administrators often engage with artists, audiences and communities, so theatre arts administrators must have a deep understanding of human behavior and societal needs. Through its diverse coursework, Southeastern Oklahoma State’s online program allows students to enhance their communication abilities and explore topics like conflict management and crisis communication. Students also develop critical abilities to evaluate speeches, advertising, songs and art as they develop an eye for what will create successful arts programming.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Theatre Arts Admin Degree?
The job market for professionals with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts administration includes roles such as performing arts administrators, theatre company managers, marketing coordinators and community arts coordinators, according to Indeed.
Performing arts administrators, also known as theatre operations managers, oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization. Their duties range from using accounting skills to managing the budget to meeting with directors and producers interested in partnering on future shows. Administrators make a national average salary of $51,515 each year per Indeed. They are chiefly concerned with the sustainability of their organization and ensuring each employee has the resources they need to succeed.
Marketing coordinators are often responsible for creating and distributing content for a theatre’s lineup. They frequently collaborate with others to manage social media, create ad campaigns and determine a marketing budget for each production. The average base salary for a marketing coordinator is $49,526, according to Indeed, with room to grow depending on the size and scale of the theatre company.
Professionals may also be interested in careers as community arts coordinators, who often plan creative programming for schools and organizations. Their top priority is engaging different groups within the community depending on their organization’s focus, ranging from youth to adults and seniors. The average national salary is $55,008 per year, according to Indeed estimates.
Southeastern’s online B.A. incorporates coursework on community engagement, allowing students to explore how theatre and arts organizations can unite communities, advocate for social justice and provide platforms for underrepresented voices. This training positions students to lead with integrity and purpose in any arts organization, promoting meaningful connections and fostering inclusive artistic spaces.
Find Your Career Path in Theatre Administration With Southeastern Oklahoma State University
The growing demand for arts administrators means those with an arts administration degree can find job security and career longevity. An advanced degree in theatre arts and arts administration prepares individuals with the technical and strategic skills behind artistic expression, art organizations and business. By offering this degree, Southeastern Oklahoma State University is investing in the state’s cultural and economic future, creating a workforce capable of sustaining and growing its arts sector.
In addition to a flexible online learning environment, Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s B.A. in Theatre – Arts Administration offers practical, real-world learning experiences. Students gain hands-on experience with skills like budgeting, event planning, grant writing and marketing — essential tools in any arts administrator’s toolkit. Graduates leave with the skills they need to make a difference in the performing arts world.
Learn more about Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Theatre – Arts Administration program.