The dissertation is an in-depth piece of original research that allows you to develop your own intellectual interests and abilities. The research area should be related to some aspect of Global Arts Management and should show evidence of research and originality. You will be supported by a series of lectures on research methodology and structuring a dissertation. These will take place during the first weeks of the term in order to ensure that you have the appropriate level of understanding of research methods in order to undertake your dissertation.

You will receive an allocation of tutorial time with an assigned tutor to support the development of your dissertation. You will be advised by your tutor about your research – reading and relevant organisations and individuals to visit and contact – and the writing of the final dissertation.

The overall aim of this module is to increase a general understanding of working as an arts manager in current, thriving arts organisations by utilising the richness of the local arts community within Leicester. You will explore theoretical frameworks for understanding the organisational workings of the arts alongside gaining practical consulting experience which will involve building relationships between partners, developing strategic creative aims, and providing actionable opportunities to work side by side an arts organisation.

The main module component will include a consultancy-type project involving one of five arts pillars throughout Leicester – engaging organisations with missions and aims geared towards Performing Arts, Dance, Media, Theatre, and Festivals. Its hands on approach is designed to provide students with ‘in-organisation’ and co-creative experience to develop their understanding of arts management issues; with the direct effect of increasing engagement and partnerships with local arts organisations and businesses.

This module will provide you with a conceptual and historical overview of the emergence and development of public policies for arts and cultural provision in Britain, Europe and other international countries. Particular attention will be paid to developments in cultural policy-making in Britain since 1979. Theoretical issues and debates concerning the development of public cultural policies will be discussed. The module will also examine current contradictions and dilemmas in cultural policy and provision from a global perspective.

The module includes a focus on arts and cultural industries management and practice in other European and international countries. The assessment for this includes undertaking research remotely into another international country, with the opportunity to visit a major European city.

You will develop your understanding of the role and impact of cultural policy and planning from a pan-European and global perspective, identify and critique the relationship between different attitudes and approaches to the role of culture in society and how issues concerned with national, regional and local history, demography, socio-economic change and identity also influence how aspects of cultural practice are expressed in different countries.

This module reflects the changing environment within the arts which places increased emphasis on entrepreneurial skills by requiring you to develop your own idea for a creative business in a global context. The module has a dynamic, interactive delivery that takes you through a series of creative workshops designed to help develop your ideas. You will gain an understanding of the qualities and characteristics that entrepreneurs exhibit, enabling you to create a business plan. Case studies drawn from a global context will be examined to aid you in understanding the elements required to launch a successful global creative business. Your business plan will consider international market segments, customer profiles, marketing strategies and financial planning.