The one-year certificate prepares students for careers in arts administration and cultural entrepreneurship. It is built for those who want to work with arts organizations, theaters, museums, galleries, music venues, and nonprofits, as well as students who plan to start their own creative businesses or studios. Arts management professionals focus on how the arts operate behind the scenes, including marketing performances and exhibitions, fundraising, budgeting, event production, and long-term sustainability.
The certificate includes four courses: Foundations of Arts Management, Entrepreneurship in the Arts, Marketing for the Arts, and Fundraising for the Arts. Together, these courses give students practical skills to support artists, manage organizations, promote events, secure funding, and build viable careers in the arts.
The program was designed by Benjamin Tyrrel, director of arts programming at Utah Tech University. Tyrrel brings more than 20 years of experience in arts management, with a background in producing, event management, marketing, fundraising, and presenting. He currently oversees Utah Tech Live, the university’s performing arts concert series, which serves approximately 15,000 patrons each year.
“I am passionate about creating meaningful learning opportunities for students, and Utah Tech’s focus on active learning and career readiness makes this program a strong fit,” Tyrrel said. “Arts management is often an overlooked career path for both arts majors and non-majors. This certificate gives students a clear, practical credential as they prepare for entry-level roles in the field.”
Tyrrel noted that the program reflects the reality of how many artists build careers today.
“Many arts students pursue nontraditional paths,” he said. “It’s important they understand how entrepreneurship supports a sustainable career, whether they work for an established organization or create opportunities on their own.”
Graduates of the program will be prepared for roles with professional arts organizations, nonprofits, and cultural institutions, as well as for launching studios, galleries, production companies, or independent creative ventures.
The certificate is now available, with Entrepreneurship in the Arts offered in spring 2026. Foundations of Arts Management and Marketing for the Arts will be offered in the fall semester, followed by Entrepreneurship in the Arts and Fundraising for the Arts in the spring.
The fully online format allows students to complete coursework alongside other commitments, making the program accessible to current students, working professionals, and those looking to transition into arts management careers.
For more information about the Arts Management Certificate, contact the Utah Tech College of the Arts. Visual arts students may contact Van Mangus at 435-879-4683 or van.mangus@utahtech.edu. Music, theatre, and dance students may contact Danielle Johansen at 435-879-4346 or danielle.johansen@utahtech.edu.