SMU & HEC Montreal Joint Master of Management in International Arts Management (MMIAM) Degree Program Applications Open Now

Master of Management in International Arts Management (MMIAM) Cultivates the Next Generation of Leaders in the Global Arts Sector

Application process now open for 2026-27 Cohort

The Master of Management in International Arts Management is a joint degree program offered by Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas and HEC Montréal, offering a uniquely programmed education for future leaders in the global arts sector.

Combining academic rigor with practical experience, the one-year program trains participants for management positions in the performing arts, the heritage sector (museums, historic sites) or in cultural industries (film, publishing, sound recording, radio and television). From the campuses of universities in five international arts capitals – Dallas, Montréal, Bogotá, Beijing and Milan – participants learn through theoretical courses, case studies, field work, lectures by world leaders in international cultural management, and visits to well-known cultural organizations and facilities.

In addition to their studies at the five universities, the MMIAM cohort embarks on satellite trips that offer different experiences every year. Recent satellite trips have included meetings with leaders of the National Endowment for the Arts, the League of American Orchestras, Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, the Museum of Modern Art and the Wallace Foundation, and living in an ancient Etruscan castle in a sacred valley in Tuscany for a week among faculty, archaeologists, and researchers learning traditions of the rural community.

Jonathan Nemtanu, a concert pianist and entrepreneur who currently serves as General Manager of the Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal and the General and Artistic Director of classical concert series Le Baptême in Quebec, Canada, was a member of the MMIAM cohort in 2023-24. He says about his experience:

“When I enrolled in the MMIAM program, I was looking for the tools to become a strong leader in arts management. What I gained from the program went far beyond that: practical skills I apply every day in my work, and an invaluable professional network. I met amazing colleagues and passionate and inspiring professors who opened doors to the cultural sector by connecting us with industry leaders. Most importantly, the relationships we built have lasted well beyond graduation.

By the time I finished the program, I felt ready. Ready to take on the challenges of the cultural world, ready to lead teams, and ready to bring even my most ambitious ideas to life. The MMIAM allowed me to do the most rewarding job in the world: making the arts come alive!”

The program seeks well qualified applicants for its 14^th cohort of aspiring arts leaders. Ideal candidates for the program will have a clear and demonstrated passion for the arts and a drive to learn about international arts management from a global perspective. Prior experience in the arts and cultural sector, such as the performing arts, museums, heritage institutions, film, publishing, arts councils, and related fields is encouraged, but not required. Candidates are reviewed holistically and are encouraged to apply even if they don’t match the ideal profile. The application process is now open with the first deadline approaching on November 15, with additional deadlines in January, and April. U.S. citizens have an additional deadline in June.

The MMIAM program was founded by François Colbert, the Professor and Holder of the Carmelle and Rémi Marcoux Chair in Arts Management at HEC Montréal. Colbert is a worldwide arts marketing expert who lectures in 30 countries. His book on Marketing for Arts and Culture has been published in 16 languages. Colbert believes that immersion in different international cultures is essential for broadening the perspective and experience of arts leaders, and that a one-year program allows graduates to get back into the workforce quickly. The faculty includes 50 full-time and adjunct professors who specialize in arts and cultural management.

“Our program changes the lives of our students,” says Colbert. “That is what I hear from every person who takes part in MMIAM.”

Megan Heber, an arts management and nonprofit leadership professor at SMU and co-director of the program says, “With its unparalleled blend of global exposure, cross-cultural collaboration, and immersive learning in the arts, the MMIAM program redefines what it means to be a leader in the international arts management landscape. It is not just a degree—it’s a transformative global study abroad journey that equips you to navigate the world’s most vibrant cultural sectors with insight, innovation, and impact like no other program can.”

Through a comprehensive curriculum and robust industry connections, students are equipped to lead and innovate in cultural organizations worldwide. The program is structured to address the complexities and dynamism of the global arts industry, combining essential business skills with a deep understanding of cultural disciplines.

MMIAM Curriculum Focus

The program offers a range of courses covering strategic management, arts marketing, cultural policy, project management, financial planning, and digital media. This comprehensive curriculum ensures students are well-equipped to handle various challenges in the arts sector.

Global Perspective and Hands-On Experience

Practical experience is at the core of the program. Students gain insights into international arts practices and trends, preparing them to manage and lead projects across different cultural and geographical contexts. Students engage in real-world projects, and collaborations with leading arts organizations, enhancing their skills and building valuable industry connections.

International Advisory Committee

MMIAM boasts an international advisory committee comprised of 40 cultural and leadership management professionals from renowned organizations around the world who help the academic team develop an ideal Master of Management in International Arts Management program. The Committee includes leaders like Kim Noltemy of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Daniel Lamarre of Cirque du Soleil, Victoria Bailey, formerly Executive Director of the Theater Development Fund, and Piers Handling, former CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival.

Careers After MMIAM

The program, in collaboration with members of the international advisory committee, will support graduates by facilitating access to a vast network of alumni and industry professionals and helping them identify arts management job opportunities in their respective countries. The program prides itself on a 100% placement rate.

Graduates of the program have gone on to hold positions at institutions around the world including: National Gallery of London, Montreal Symphony, Texas Ballet Theater, Teatro Villa Mayor in Bogotá and Palexpo in Geneva.

Alumni may also use the career services at HEC Montréal and SMU for lifetime assistance with job placement.

Application Details

Prospective students interested in advancing their careers in arts management are encouraged to apply for the 2026-27 academic year. The application process is now open, with deadlines of November 15, January 15, April 15 and June 1 (June deadline is available for U.S. Citizens only).

For additional information about the Master of Management in International Arts Management program, including detailed curriculum, program requirements and application instructions, please visit MMIAM’s website.

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Rebecca Davis

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