How to become an arts administrator
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
University
Many arts administrators are graduates but it's not essential. Most subjects are accepted though you may have an advantage with a degree in:
- arts management or arts administration
- events and entertainment management
- business studies
Employers value arts experience, knowledge and commitment as well as your degree. You should try to get relevant work experience through societies, volunteering, placements, internships or year in industry schemes.
Your university careers service can advise on suitable opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a course at college that would give you some of the skills and knowledge to apply for trainee arts administrator roles. As well as courses in creative or performing arts you could also consider subjects like:
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Business Administration
- Level 3 Certificate in Event Management
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through a general administration or events route, like an intermediate apprenticeship in administration or an events assistant intermediate apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Develop a network of contacts and show employers your commitment to the arts through volunteering or temporary work. You could:
- help with student or community drama productions or concerts
- work front of house or at box offices at arts centres, cinemas or theatres
- get involved in community arts festivals and projects
You can search for opportunities near you on sites like:
Direct Application
You could apply for jobs if you've got experience or qualifications in office administration, fundraising or marketing. An interest in the arts would also be helpful.
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Further information
You can find more advice about working in the arts through Arts Council England, and Creative Lives.
You can also find out more about working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.