arts/theater management degree??

I am a senior in high school and looking to go to college near the pittsburgh area. I've heard about arts management and theater management and think that this is what i would be interested in. does anyone know what these classes offer and what kind of jobs you could get with a degree from these majors? also what kind of training do you need to either be a broadway agent or producer? and how would you go about getting a job? thanks so much for your help!

Agents and producers learn by doing. There are seminars on producing, but internships are the first place to go. You've heard the phrase "started in the mailroom at William Morris/ICM/any agency"? That's where observation comes in. Its the lowest rung on the ladder, but where some (but not all) of the best and brightest go first to watch, listen and take notes how the biggies do business and cut deals.

Anyone can be an agent. Being a good agent is a stressful, time-consuming job. It doesn't matter which coast you're on, the other one is three hours away.

Go to college. Anywhere. That's where one learns to be sort-of an adult. Its the socialization process.

Theatre Communications Group which publishes American Theatre magazine would be a good resource as to which school offers which program. (I think its TCG.org) There's producing as in "David Merrick presents..." and there's producing for regional and resident companies as in "Managing Director". Big diff.

Good luck. Have fun.

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In PA I know of a couple schools that have that program Waynesburg College and Point Park College. I am also extremely interested in this degree anyone know of the best UNDERgrad programs? I am already involved in a few interships in this area.

Peace love and hairgrease,

QP

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H i There!
I don't respond often to messages, but I just had to respond to you. I recently graduated from Indiana University's Individualized Major Program in Arts Administration - Theatre Management. My goal upon switching my major (I was originally a voice performance major) was to become a producer. I considered the coursework to be 1/3 music, 1/3 theatre and 1/3 business. I also had three internships (one in touring, one in marketing and the last one for a producer -which is where I am now). The contacts I have made through my internships and the education that I received from such a program has been absolutely invaluable in finding a job in an already tight job market. I also attended the Commercial Theatre Institute's 3 day workshop in April which gives you incredible information on producing.
Jobs that you can get out of such a degree include: marketing, PR, advertising, touring, producing, development for non-profits, creative development, general management, company management, etc. Just about any field you can think of in the theatre industry. A good resource is the Artsearch magazine which is distributed every two weeks with job openings around the country.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me!
Good luck!