Can you walk us through the curriculum structure of both Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management (MAM) and Entrepreneurship for Creatives (MA) programs? 

 The Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management (MAM) program is our long-running two-year graduate program. These courses are typically traditional 15-week, face-to-face courses, with a few online or hybrid course options. The curriculum consists of a variety of core management courses where students learn essential financial, legal, marketing, and leadership skills, all within the context of creative industries. Students are also provided the opportunity to explore and tailor their degree to focus on their industry of interest. Half of the program is dedicated to elective courses, which may focus on the music business, visual arts, performing arts, and/or media. AEMM students also have the opportunity to take part in practicum courses, where they lead a team of students and help manage a record label, an art gallery, a creative agency, and more. 

The Entrepreneurship for Creatives (MA) program is our one-year hybrid graduate program. These courses run on an accelerated schedule (8 weeks or 7 weeks), and are hybrid courses, in which students complete their courses online, asynchronously, while also meeting face-to-face several times throughout the semester. The Entrepreneurship for Creatives program is designed for students who have entrepreneurial goals, and students flesh out their creative business idea throughout their time in the program. They learn business concepts like marketing, intellectual property and contracts, and accounting and finance, which they apply directly to their creative venture. The program ends with a final pitch where they receive feedback from a panel of entrepreneurs. 

How does the Department foster a collaborative and innovative learning environment for graduate students? 

 Our graduate programs include highly interactive courses in which students frequently collaborate. Students may collaborate on class projects, in-class and online discussions, and real-world projects via many of our practicum courses. The beauty of both of these programs is the interdisciplinary nature of these courses and the cohorts. Our students come from all types of creative disciplines, so a student who perhaps has a music background will find themselves collaborating with students who have backgrounds in fashion, theatre, visual arts, and various other creative disciplines. 

In what ways does the Department integrate practical experiences, such as internships or real-world projects, into the graduate programs? 

 Both programs include plenty of opportunities for real-world experiences. The Entrepreneurship for Creatives program involves students applying the material they’re learning in class directly to their own potential venture. The Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management program includes projects that allow students to examine existing creative businesses, as well as the practicum courses I mentioned previously, internship opportunities, and independent projects. Courses in both programs will also utilize guest speakers, where our students have the opportunity to learn from and network with industry professionals. 

Can you discuss any notable success stories or achievements of past graduates from the MAM and MAE programs? 

We have amazing alums who are truly leaders in the creative industries. Alonso Tapia ’18 is currently serving as the Senior Officer of Donor Events and Engagement at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. Cassie Dickson ‘18 serves as an HR and Project Manager for Lincoln Hall and Schubas here in Chicago. Alissa Klaus ’21 is the Director of the Meadows Museum of Art in Shreveport, LA. I could go on and on, as we have forty years of alums who are doing amazing work here in Chicago and all over the world. 

How do the programs stay updated with industry trends and adapt the curriculum to ensure relevance for students entering dynamic fields like entrepreneurship, arts, entertainment, and media management? 

 All our courses are taught by industry professionals with years of experience, most of whom are still actively involved in their fields. Our professors remain engaged in the creative industries through various avenues, including managing their own businesses, consulting, serving on advisory boards, conducting research projects, and actively participating in their own creative practices. Additionally, we regularly collaborate with other professionals in the creative industries through guest lectures, networking events, and formal partnerships. These partnerships often lead to internship and job opportunities, as well as real-world projects where students gain valuable insights and experiences. 

What advice would you offer prospective applicants regarding the application materials, such as personal statements, to ensure they stand out among other candidates? 

Authenticity is key. It’s so important that the committee gets a real sense of who you are and what you’re passionate about. We’re looking for the next leaders of the creative industries, so make sure you demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for the arts, entertainment, or media industries. Talk to us about the work you’ve done, the work you hope to do, and how you plan to make an impact on your chosen industry.