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 have a university degree but it's not essential.
Most subjects are useful but you may have an advantage with a degree in:
- arts management or arts administration
- events and entertainment management
- business studies
Work experience at university
Employers value experience, knowledge and commitment to art as well as your degree.
You should try to get work experience through volunteering, placements, internships or year in industry schemes. Your university careers service can help you find work experience 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 to get some of the skills you need 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 level 3 business administration and 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 also become an arts administrator by doing an intermediate apprenticeship in business 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
You could develop a network of contacts, volunteer or find temporary work to show employers you're committed to the arts.
You could:
- help with student or community drama productions or concerts
- work as a customer assistant at arts centres, cinemas or theatres
- get involved in community arts festivals and projects
You can search for opportunities near you with:
Direct Application
You could apply for jobs if you've got experience or qualifications in office administration, fundraising or marketing.
It would also be helpful if you can show you're interested or passionate about art.
More 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.