Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree)
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) at Fort Hays State University equips students with a strong foundation in business, marketing, and leadership tailored to the creative industries. This certificate is ideal for individuals interested in starting or managing ventures related to art and design.
Through 12 credit hours of coursework, students gain essential entrepreneurial skills relevant to careers such as gallery management, studio operations, freelance artistry, design services, and small business ownership. The curriculum includes required courses in leadership, marketing, and entrepreneurship, along with one elective chosen from fields like management, economics, finance, accounting, or other related business disciplines.
All certificate courses are available both online and on campus, providing flexible options to accommodate a variety of student needs.
Why pursue a Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing the Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) allows students to blend their creative talents with essential business skills. Designed to bridge the gap between artistic practice and commercial success, the curriculum offers courses in leadership, marketing, and entrepreneurship that address both the creative and business aspects of the art world.
Students benefit from a flexible learning environment, with all courses available online or on campus to suit various schedules and learning preferences. A variety of elective options enables students to tailor the certificate to their individual career goals.
Whether interested in gallery management, freelance artistry, or launching a creative business, students acquire practical, career-ready skills that support success in the arts and creative industries.
Who is this program for?
The certificate is designed for individuals who are passionate about combining their artistic talents with strong business acumen. It is ideal for those looking to advance their careers in the art and design industries by developing key skills in leadership, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
- Aspiring gallery managers
- Freelance artists and designers
- Art and design students seeking business skills
- Individuals aiming to start their art-related business
- Professionals looking to enhance their business acumen in the arts
Real-World Applications
This certificate provides students with practical skills and real-world experiences that are directly applicable to careers in the arts. Through focused coursework in marketing, leadership, and entrepreneurship, students learn to craft strategic marketing plans, lead creative teams, and launch or sustain their own businesses. These competencies are essential in fields such as gallery management, studio operations, and freelance artistry, where business acumen is as important as artistic talent.
Beyond foundational coursework, students engage in collaborative projects and capstone experiences that mirror real-world business scenarios. These hands-on opportunities, such as developing business plans or launching arts-based ventures, allow students to apply classroom knowledge in meaningful, industry-relevant ways. In doing so, they strengthen their professional portfolios and complete the certificate with the confidence and comprehensive insight needed to succeed in the art and design industries.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University continuously updates the curriculum to reflect the latest trends and advancements in the field. Students explore cutting-edge topics such as digital marketing, strategic electronic marketing, and integrated marketing strategies.
Innovative teaching methods, such as participatory budgeting and community-based leadership projects, are embedded within the coursework to keep students aligned with current industry practices. These experiential approaches help students build essential skills in leadership and innovation.
By staying at the forefront of emerging trends and technologies, students are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to drive change and foster innovation within the art and design industries.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on activities and applied coursework. Students participate in collaborative projects, community-based leadership experiences, and assignments that mirror real-world business scenarios within the arts.
For instance, the leadership studies fieldwork involves active engagement in community projects, allowing students to apply and strengthen their leadership skills in real-world settings. Similarly, courses like Integrated Marketing Strategies include practical exercises in designing and implementing marketing plans tailored specifically to the creative industries.
These experiences provide students with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of the art and design sectors, enabling them to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, career-oriented skills.
What You’ll Learn:
- Business principles
- Marketing strategies
- Leadership skills
- Entrepreneurship
- Legal and ethical considerations
How You’ll Learn:
- Core and elective courses in business and arts
- Practical application through projects and assignments
- Flexible online and on-campus learning options
- Real-world business scenarios
- Collaboration with peers
The curriculum provides a strong foundation in both business and the arts, preparing students for a range of careers in the creative industries. Core courses in leadership, marketing, and entrepreneurship develop essential skills for navigating the professional art and design world.
Students can tailor their education through electives in areas such as opportunity development, strategic marketing, and professional growth, blending business strategies with artistic practice.
With its flexible and well-rounded approach, students are equipped with the creative and professional tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive art and design sectors.
LDRS 306: Leadership and Team Dynamics
The focus of this course is on understanding structural characteristics of team design, setting the stage for team effectiveness, and developing intrapersonal and interpersonal dynamics. The course provides students with a hands-on application of the leadership process in a team environment.
MKT 301: Marketing Principles
A study of the principles and practices of the marketing function. Includes a study of both consumer and industrial products, the channels through which they are distributed, and the promotion and pricing procedures followed by modern business.
LDRS 302: Introduction to Leadership Behavior
An interdisciplinary course designed to introduce the student to the tasks, strategies, and skills of effective leadership. Course activities will move the student from theory to the practical processes of leadership. Basic concepts essential to personal skills development and organizational leadership behavior are included.
Discover the full Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete the Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) are well-prepared for diverse careers in the creative industries. By combining artistic training with essential business skills, the certificate equips students to navigate both the creative and commercial aspects of their profession.
Gallery Manager
Gallery managers oversee the operations of art galleries, including curating exhibitions, managing staff, and promoting events. They will use their business skills to ensure the gallery's financial success while fostering a vibrant artistic community.
Freelance Artist/Designer
Freelance artists or designers offer their creative services to clients on a project basis. Their knowledge of marketing and business principles will help them attract and retain clients, manage their finances, and grow their freelance businesses.
Studio Manager
Studio managers oversee the daily operations of art studios, including scheduling, budgeting, and coordinating with artists. Their leadership and organizational skills will be crucial in creating a productive and inspiring environment for artistic creation.
Arts Entrepreneur
Many students who complete this certificate will start art-related businesses, leveraging their entrepreneurship skills to launch and grow successful ventures. Whether opening a gallery, a design firm, or another creative enterprise, they will be well-equipped to navigate the challenges of business ownership.
Marketing Specialist
Marketing specialists in the art and design sector develop and implement strategic marketing plans for galleries, art organizations, or individual artists. Their expertise in digital marketing, branding, and promotion helps drive audience engagement, increase visibility, and boost sales in the creative industry.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers academic programs that complement the Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree), allowing students to broaden their skills and deepen their understanding of both creative and business practices. Related fields of study include:
- B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art)
- B.A. in Art (Art History)
- Certificate in Marketing
- Certificate in Leadership Studies
- Master of Business Administration (Digital Marketing)
- BFA in Graphic Design
- BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation)
Graduates can pursue careers in gallery management, freelance artistry, studio management, and arts entrepreneurship.
Depending on the course load and the student’s schedule, the certificate can be completed in as little as one year.
Some courses may have prerequisites; checking the course descriptions for specific details is advisable.
Yes, all Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree) courses are available online, providing flexibility for students.
Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts
The School of Visual and Performing Arts at FHSU inspires creativity within a supportive and passionate community. Each program in Art and Design, along with Music and Theatre, offers students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether students aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, expert faculty provide hands-on learning experiences that both inspire and challenge.
With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, students gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen fields. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, these programs equip students with the tools to make a lasting impact in the world of visual and performing arts.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
- Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
- Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
- FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
- Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
- Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
- Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
- Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a partnership between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, FHSU students, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). Schmierbach and the students lead workshops for DSNWK individuals, offering structured art experiences focused on weaving, drawing, and photography. The project aims to expand access to the arts within the Hays community, creating more opportunities for individuals to engage with and benefit from artistic expression.
- Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all students regardless of experience, the club offers opportunities to explore art movements, artists, and various forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for the arts, the club also connects members with influential figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills such as curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, the club cultivates a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
- Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
- Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
- Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
- Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, training, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
- Music Theatre: Participate in a fully realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
