The MFA in Theater Management and the MBA: A Replicative Study of Perspectives of Decision-Makers at Theaters in the United States

Abstract This article presents findings from a follow-up study focused on decision-makers in theater companies in the United States and their perceptions of MBA and MFA theater management programs. An original survey from 2005 and related article focused on the hiring needs and degree perceptions of arts leaders and managers (Rhine, The Journal of Arts Management, Law, and Society 37 (2):113–26, 2007). Here we present how these perceptions changed over the 13-year period of 2005–2018. The follow up reveals that MFA theater management programs have increased in perceived value, while MBA programs have decreased in perceived value. Though perceptions around the MFA in theater management and MBA programs did shift, decision makers still perceive “three years of experience” as more valuable preparation than any academic program.