Overview

The Arts and Business (BA) program at the University of Waterloo integrates studies in the arts and humanities with foundational business principles, aiming to prepare students for leadership roles in cultural and creative industries. Objectives include developing critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and business acumen to manage arts organizations effectively. Unique features encompass an optional co-operative education (co-op) component, allowing students to gain paid work experience in arts-related businesses, and an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines courses from arts disciplines like media studies, fine arts, and social sciences with business topics such as marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

Career Prospects

Graduates are equipped for dynamic careers at the intersection of arts and commerce, with strong employability supported by Waterloo's renowned co-op program. Opportunities include roles in arts administration, cultural policy, creative marketing, and nonprofit management.

Key Faculty/Staff

• Dr. Michael Zezulka, Associate Professor of Arts and Business, specializing in cultural economics.
• Dr. Heather McLeod, Lecturer in Arts Management and Entrepreneurship.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The program benefits from Waterloo's Centre for Extended Learning and partnerships with local arts organizations like the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery and Stratford Festival, providing hands-on opportunities. Access to the university's extensive co-op network connects students with over 7,000 employers globally.