University of Kentucky®
Doctoral Degree (PhD) in
Arts Administration
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PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 43
CREDENTIALS PhD Degree
COST PER CREDIT
$790.00
- UK Online
- All Programs
- Doctoral Degrees
- Arts Administration (PhD)
About this Program
Lead with impact in the arts and culture field. This online doctoral program focuses on mastering research methodologies to lead arts organizations and future generations of arts administrators through higher education.
This program is designed for visionary leaders who are eager to shape the future of cultural institutions and creative enterprises. By integrating advanced theory with practical application, you'll develop the expertise to drive innovation, enhance organizational effectiveness, and lead with a strategic edge in the vibrant arts sector. Engage with renowned faculty, collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, and gain the skills to tackle the most pressing challenges in arts administration—all from the convenience of your own home. Embark on this exciting journey to elevate your career and make a lasting impact on the arts and culture landscape.
Designed For
This program is appropriate for experienced arts managers and leaders looking to advance their careers with advanced research and scholarly contributions to the field. It also appeals to individuals with significant professional experience in arts organizations who aspire to influence policy, strategy, and innovation in cultural management and leadership.
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Learn more about the Arts Administration online program.
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Fill out this form to be sent information on the Doctoral (PhD) in Arts Administration program, including deadlines, tuition, application requirements and more!
What You’ll Learn
Designed for the working professional who wants to gain expertise for a research-intensive career, this rigorous, online program can be completed in as little as four years.
As a student in this program you will:
- Apply theoretical concepts and frameworks to arts administration problems.
- Solve problems through quantitative and qualitative research and conceptual analysis.
- Develop a conceptual framework based on theories that will prepare you to advance knowledge in the field.
- Conduct original research on issues in arts administration.
- Transcend traditional modes and mechanisms in order to innovatively collaborate with peer colleagues, industry professionals, and faculty.
Course Examples
- AAD 629 Organization Theories in Arts Administration
- AAD 655 Cultural Policy
- AAD 665 Creative Cities, Creative Placemaking, & Community Vibrancy
- AAD 720 Sustaining Leadership in the Arts
- AAD 790 Arts & Culture Research Studies
- AAD 767 Dissertation Residency Credit (2 credits)
- AAD 790 Arts & Culture Research Studies
- EPE/EDP 557 Gathering, Using and Analyzing Educational Data
- EPE 619 Survey Research
- EPE/EDP 620 Introduction to Evaluation
- EPE 663 Field Studies in Educational Settings
- EPE 797 Historical Research on Education
- AAD 795 Arts Administration Research Planning and Proposal Writing
GOT QUESTIONS?
Schedule time to meet with a representative from the Arts Administration program to talk about your unique situation.
How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
- Students must have an earned graduate degree in Arts Administration or a related discipline (or have completed foundational coursework), from a fully accredited U.S. institution of higher learning or from a recognized foreign institution. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
- An overall grade point average of 2.75 on undergraduate work and 3.00 on all graduate work.
- International applicants whose native language is not English must submit either a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
Application Requirements
- Resume
- Statement of purpose: Your desire to pursue a PhD in Arts Administration at UK as well as preliminary research interests and career goals.
- Writing Sample: One or more academic or professional writing samples, at least 20 pages in length not to exceed 50 pages.
- Three letters of recommendation (emails addresses only).
- If requested, participation in a video interview.
- Official transcripts
Program Contact
Deadlines
Summer 2026
Why UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
No test scores required.
Pay the same online tuition rate, no matter where you live.
Degrees are conferred by the University of Kentucky, an accredited university.
Fit learning into your busy schedule with no prescribed class times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
What is the admission criteria?
Please view the Admission Criteria section, located under "How to Apply" on this page.
Tuition
What tuition assistance is available for graduate students?
Graduate students should review the Student Funding information available through the Graduate School. Specific programs may offer additional funding that is unique to that program. Contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) in the department in which you wish to enroll with questions about the availability of assistantships and the application process.
I'm not in Kentucky. What's my tuition rate?
For our fully online programs, state of residence does not affect tuition rate. Tuition is the same no matter where you live.
How much does the online program cost?
The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.
Online Learning
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Will my degree say “online”?
No, you are awarded the same diploma from UK as students who take classes in-person. There is no denotation of “online” on your diploma or your transcripts.
Can I meet with faculty even though the program is online?
Yes. Our faculty are happy to meet with our students by phone call, email, or an online meeting. You are also welcome to set up an in-person appointment if you ever find yourself in Lexington.
Are there any on-campus requirements?
No, there is no on-campus requirement.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
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