RESEARCH

All students of the program are required to complete a thesis. Students successfully completing their thesis, in conjunction with an internship, will accomplish two objectives: 1) to acquire meaningful work experience with a professional cultural organization, and 2) to produce a 25-50 page paper that contributes to the body of knowledge in the field. The thesis may take any one of three forms—an original research paper, a case study, or further analysis of a topic of the student’s interest supported by existing literature—but must in all cases reflect a thorough understanding (and bibliography) of relevant sources. Students must complete this requirement within seven years of entering the program.

Our program is involved in many research opportunities funded by area foundations including The Pew Charitable Trusts and William Penn Foundation. We administer three Pew Initiatives which are designed to "foster the artistic and organizational development" of the Philadelphia area’s arts and cultural community. Also funded by the Trusts, and William Penn Foundation, is a new research opportunity that focuses on the collection of financial information resulting in a common data form for Pennsylvania non-profit arts institutions.