Course Details

The course will serve as an introduction to strategic planning for leaders of arts organizations encouraging students to determine the importance of planning and decision making, creation of mission, vision and value statements; and the development of a complete strategic plan. Because of the rapidly changing arts environment, cultural managers are often called upon to anticipate trends and develop contingencies to keep their organizations adaptive. The ability to analyze external situations to evaluate programs in light of economic, social and cultural realities is crucial for success. The course will address the importance of strategic thinking, change management and leadership. It will also cover general management fundamentals including human resource management, operations and budgeting, leadership and group dynamics. Students will be exposed to professionals currently working in the field though guest lectures and site visits. The course’s culminating project will be executed in conjunction with a Houston based arts organization.