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Performing Arts Administration

Founded in 1971, Performing Arts Administration at NYU Steinhardt  provides unparalleled academic and professional training to graduate students within a University acclaimed for preparing global leaders in business, management, and the arts. Employing a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach, join peers from around the world to study with industry-leading faculty and top arts professionals. Utilizing the resources of three NYU schools – Steinhardt, Wagner, and Stern – and several NYU global campuses (London, Berlin, Paris, and Shanghai), graduates will be prepared to pursue a successful career in performing arts and cultural organizations in the private, nonprofit, and public sectors.  

Master of Arts
Performing Arts Administration

Build on your performing arts background and prepare for a leadership role in national and international performing arts organizations.

Application Extended: Still Accepting Applications

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Bachelor of Fine Arts / Master of Arts
Theatre / Performing Arts Administration
Dual Degree

Earn a BFA in Theatre and an MA in Performing Arts Administration in just five years, studying both business and the arts and interning at top organizations.

Application Extended: Still Accepting Applications

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Pre-college Course

Wednesday, July 2 - Wednesday, August 13
This six week course is an introduction to the concepts and techniques used to manage performing arts organizations.

Student Experience

From study abroad and networking events to diversity, equity, and inclusion workshops and seminars, PAA students participate in a wide range of activities throughout the year that enrich their course of study and accelerate professional growth.

Internships

Students in the Performing Arts Administration graduate program are required to complete two internships to acquire “real world” professional experience and build a network of professional contacts.

Academic Highlights

Faculty, alumni, and students in the Performing Arts Administration graduate program have achieved academic accolades around the world.

Learn About PAA

If you missed our 2025 Info Session, tune in now for an up close and personal introduction to the Performing Arts Administration graduate program at NYU Steinhardt. Program Director Richard Maloney leads the discussion along with faculty and current students.

Zoom Recording Presentation Deck

News

PAA Welcomes Simon Woods as Adjunct Faculty Member

Woods, President and CEO of the League of American Orchestras, will teach Governance of Performing Arts, bringing decades of leadership insight to the classroom.

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PAA Designing Sustainable Multihyphenate Careers in the Arts

A moderated conversation and open networking created space for candid questions, career storytelling, and community-building across cohorts and graduating classes.

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Geffen Publishes Research on Theatre Accessibility

Her graduate research, developed with faculty mentorship, advances practical standards for disability access in the performing arts

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Maloney Recognized by the Seoul Metropolitan Council

NYU PAA continued its global leadership at the IAAM 2025 Conference in Seoul, where Dr. Maloney delivered key talks on student support and international cooperation. His work earned recognition from the Seoul Metropolitan Council.

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NYU PAA Program Launches 2025–26 Experts-in-Residence Cohort

The current students participated in an interactive, speed-networking event, giving them the opportunity to connect, exchange insights, and build meaningful professional relationships.

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PAA Faculty Member Donna Walker-Kuhne Publishes Champions for the Arts

Walker-Kuhne offers a practical, visionary roadmap for arts leaders, sharing proven strategies and case studies to build lasting, inclusive community connections.

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Questions

For more information, please contact performingartsadmin@nyu.edu