Start date
February
July

Duration
1 year(s) full-time

Program Code
DGAC

Fees
AUD$ 37,700 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2023
AUD$ 39,600 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.5]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
024151J

Degree overview

  • UniSA Business is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide1 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2020.
  • UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
  • Study the only degree of its kind in South Australia with a 40-year history.
  • Gain industry experience through internships offered at major arts organisations in Adelaide - the UNESCO City of Music.
  • Benefit from a curriculum developed in consultation with industry partners such as the Adelaide Festival Centre.
  • Develop an international perspective with opportunities to undertake a study tour or international exchange with one of our global partners.
  • Develop the skill, experience and knowledge for a professional role in the field of arts and cultural management.
  • Connect with a senior business leader through our Executive Partners Program.
  • Apply for the annual Ruth Rentschler Arts and Cultural Management Grant to help with your study costs.
  • Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses within this program.
  • Study this qualification face-to-face or completely online.
  • Study a curriculum informed by above world-class research in Management2.
  • Ranked No. 1 in South Australia and top 10 in Australia for Business and Management3.
  • UniSA is No.1 in South Australia for postgraduate teaching quality4.
  • • UniSA’s campus facilities are ranked No. 1 in South Australia for Business and Management5.

1UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 32022 QS Subject Rankings. 4ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2018-2019. Public SA-founded universities only. 5ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – Learning Resources Indicator (Postgraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.

Snapshot

SNoonan_UniSA BusHub_231017_004.jpgDevelop the skills, experience and knowledge for a professional role in the vibrant arts sector with the only qualification of its kind in South Australia.

This exciting graduate diploma will provide you with a strong understanding of contemporary management theory and how it applies to the various elements of the creative arts and cultural industries. You will develop leadership and problem-solving abilities while studying the arts environment.

Our summer and winter schools offer exciting study opportunities with options such as intensives, internships and global study tours. You can also spread your study load across the year, increase your exchange opportunities and fast track your degree. If you wish to go onto further studies, you can use this qualification as a pathway into the Master of Management (Arts and Cultural Management). 

What you'll learn

Postgraduate Business studentsThe Graduate Diploma in Management (Arts and Cultural Management) is made up of 8 courses. You will complete two courses in your specialisation: Arts Environment, and Arts and Cultural Leadership and Governance. You will also complete four Business core courses and two electives. Through these you will develop skills and expertise in areas that include:

  • Festivals and Events
  • Marketing Management
  • Arts and Cultural Audiences

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
Arts and Cultural Leadership and Governance BUSS 5436 4.5
Accounting for Management M ACCT 5011 4.5
Marketing Management MARK 5025 4.5
Arts and Cultural Audiences BUSS 5435 4.5
Arts Environment BUSS 5218 4.5
Festival and Event Management TOUR 5002 4.5
Elective 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Elective 4.5 Rule(s): 1

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

ICC_021115_003.jpgYour studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professional and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • examinations
  • individual projects and essays
  • research plans and reports
  • essays and assignments 
  • group projects and discussion papers

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Research

Working closely with industry, UniSA generates high-quality enterprising research that informs our curriculum and tackles real-world problems. We are renowned for our concentration of global thought-leaders and academic experts in the areas of marketing, human resource management, applied economics, tourism and international business.

UniSA’s joint venture initiative – the Asia-Pacific Centre for Arts and Cultural Leadership - has established a number of partnerships around the Asia-Pacific with universities, arts centres and arts and cultural institutes. The Centre develops collaborative research projects that grow leadership and management expertise in the arts and culture in our region. Some examples of previous and current research projects include:

  • China-Australia arts and cultural exchange
  • audience study of the Hong Kong Arts Festival
  • audience studies of the Adelaide Festival Centre’s Cabaret, OzAsia and Guitar Festivals
  • arts and cultural workers in the informal economy in the Asia-Pacific region
  • the role of artists and creative practice in organisational innovation
  • music and cities: how place and space influence music creation and performance
  • governance and the arts in Australia and Asia

Why Graduate Diploma in Management (Arts and Cultural Management)

Why this Degree

Developed in consultation with industry partners, this degree equips students with the diverse business skills and knowledge required to manage successful arts and cultural organisations, programs, festivals, events and venues.

You will study the arts environment, and arts and cultural leadership and governance. As a graduate, you can rest assured that yours is a globally competitive degree that is respected internationally for its quality and relevance to industry. You will be equipped with the knowledge and experience to succeed as a leader within the arts and cultural sectors, enabling you to address the challenges of sustainability that build relationships with audiences and industry stakeholders to enhance cultural vitality.

Study in the capital of the Festival State of South Australia, home to some of the largest arts and cultural festivals and named a City of Music by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).

UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.

An enriching student experience

Our program delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and leadership skill development. You can also explore accelerated learning pathways and seek program support from our Business Student Hub.

Real-world connections

While you study you can get valuable industry experience through industry placements in Australia, or an international study experience through more than 60 exchange partners across Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Our links to UniSA’s research facilities ensure your learning is connected to the latest technologies, theories and applications of finance knowledge.

Placements and internships bridge the gap between study and work. Our connections to industry create opportunities for you to grow. These experiences build confidence in the business world and give you a competitive edge.

This will further enhance your career prospects locally and abroad. We also host regular University-wide employee master classes, employment expos and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Executive Partners Program

Have you ever wanted to have career guidance from an experienced business mentor? As part of your studies, you can apply for our Executive Partners Program.

This is a unique opportunity for our postgraduate students to engage with highly successful industry executives to enhance your study and career. Our Executive Partners are either active, semi-retired or recently retired business professionals who have a wealth of knowledge and want to help you achieve your goals.

Career outcomes

Your career

Upon graduation, you will be well-equipped for a role in all areas of the arts and cultural sector. 

You could consider roles such as gallery manager, festival director, theatre manager, artistic director, policy advisor, executive producer or corporate partnerships manager in settings such as:

  • museums, galleries, zoos and aquaria 
  • performing arts and theatrical companies
  • arts centres and venues
  • festivals and events
  • arts funding agencies (such as government arts departments and councils)
  • small artist cooperatives
  • entrepreneurial companies that stage events, touring performances and exhibitions  
  • government organisations
  • entertainment businesses
  • new media organisations

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

The Business Student Hub is a dedicated and convenient support service for business students, from first year right through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties, and can help with referrals to support services across the University. The Business Student Hub is there to facilitate your life at university, so you get the most out of your UniSA experience.

You can also access a range of other international student services including

    • careers advice
    • help with student visas and health cover
    • personal counselling
    • academic counselling
    • fees and finance help
    • common rooms
    • prayer rooms
    • security officers
    • accommodation services
    • UniSA’s Student Association, USASA, also provides a range of other services.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers which you can work with face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can also offer help with the English language.

When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your ID cards, fees and any other questions you might have.

24/7 digital environment

With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:

  • study online, including accessing videos and course resources
  • participate in virtual classrooms
  • submit your assignments and get feedback online
  • use forums and discussion boards for team work and communication

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Please note, all student visa holders are required to meet their visa condition to study no more than one-third of their program in an online mode and maintain enrolment in at least one internal (face-to-face) course per compulsory study period, unless it is their final course and not available internally. If you are currently residing in Adelaide, on-campus attendance (such as seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements would apply, as outlined on individual course pages. If you are currently overseas, online study may be available following your individual study plan.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your program director

As a lecturer at UniSA, my main commitment is to excellence in quality teaching and as a researcher, my main objective is to have an impact and generate greater awareness about critical issues in management and society. My research and teaching interests lie in leadership, both the good and toxic sides of leadership, gender, physical appearance, diversity, and organisational behaviour.

Dr Sunny Son

Program Director

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Portrait image for Dr Sunny Son
Portrait image for Dr Sunny Son

Dr Sunny Son

Program Director

Enquire

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What others are saying

My graduate diploma in arts management was invaluable for consolidating knowledge and experience I'd gained on-the-job, and exposing me to wider arts management practice from around Australia and internationally. Since graduating I've worked in a range of programming, producing and operational roles for arts festivals and events including Melbourne Festival, Adelaide Fringe, Melbourne International Film Festival, Brisbane Festival, Christchurch Arts Festival, WOMADelaide, Ten Days on the Island and MONA FOMA.

Melanie Burge

Graduate Diploma in Management (Arts and Cultural Management)

Melanie Burge

Melanie Burge

Graduate Diploma in Management (Arts and Cultural Management)