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Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Bringing Artistic Vision to Life

The arts and cultural industry is a vibrant sector that is growing exponentially in this decade, and a diploma in Arts Management will equip you with the critical business, technical and communication skills to be an accomplished arts manager.

Equipped with the Diploma in Arts Management, you will go on to play a significant role in arts and cultural organisations, projects, festivals and events. You will analyse arts issues from all aspects to make important decisions; develop and execute innovative marketing and fundraising campaigns; have a keen understanding of the legal terms and government policies pertaining to the arts; and utilise a variety of digital platforms and software to contribute to the continued success and sustainability of arts organisations and institutions.

Your work as a young professional in arts management will ultimately shape the next generation of artists, building their artistic vision by availing resources and marshalling support for their work to flourish.

Click here to view the Diploma in Arts Management Yearbook 2020.
Click here to view the Diploma in Arts Management Yearbook 2021.
Click here to view the Diploma in Arts Management Yearbook 2022.
Click here to view the Diploma in Arts Management Yearbook 2023.


Become Well-Versed in Critical Management Skills

Call the shots in the arts scene with a complete set of key management skills and knowledge. You will learn to develop and implement effective marketing, fundraising, entrepreneurial and budgeting plans; and gain knowledge in human resource practices, legalities and government policies that will underscore your decisions.

Gain the Confidence to Speak About the Arts Industry

As a professional arts manager, effective communication and a sound knowledge of the vocabulary of your industry goes a long way in getting your job done well. Make a lasting impression as you adeptly and accurately discuss the cultural and technical aspects of the performing, literary and visual arts from both a local and global perspective, communicating your views clearly so that you can be an effective and respected arts manager.

Pick Up Basic Technical and Stage Management Competencies

Our unique industry-led and practice-led diploma is an opportunity to learn basic technical competencies of lighting and sound systems, and fundamental stage management skills through actual performances and projects, so that you will know the business of arts management inside-out.



Read The Straits Times feature on our transformative programme.
Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction

Students' Work

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2021 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2020/2021 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the StudentNet for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

Code Title Semester Credits
DAM1110

Introduction to Arts Management.

This module introduces students to the key terms and concepts of arts management. Students will gain an understanding of the essential business management skills required to run arts and cultural organisations.
1 4
DAM1130

Understanding Visual Arts

This module offers a survey of the major ideas and art movements that have shaped the development of the visual arts. It will equip students with an introductory knowledge of the concerns of modern and contemporary visual arts.
1 4
DAM1160

Understanding Performing Arts

This module introduces students to the various forms of performing arts. Students will gain an understanding of music, dance and theatre as well as performing art forms which are interdisciplinary in nature. They will also examine issues which are important for the arts manager.
1 4
DAM1141

Digital Skills 1

This module is designed to develop students’ competencies in using digital tools and computer applications essential for their role as arts managers. The module will train students in the use of tools such as word processors, spreadsheets, presentations (static and video) and using online collaborative platforms for teamwork and project management.
1 4
DAM1101

Academic Writing

This module aims to develop students’ skills in writing academic papers to enable their studies at a tertiary level. Students will learn research skills including sourcing and evaluation of references, collecting data and applying the research data to an academic essay. The knowledge and skills learnt in this module will be applied across all modules in the programme where academic essays are required.
1 2
DAM1121

Business Writing

This module will equip students with skills to communicate effectively in a range of business settings. The module will cover the writing of business letters, emails, proposals and reports.
1 2
DAM1211

Arts Venues Management

This module introduces students to the wide range of arts venues available for all art forms and their role in the arts and cultural development of a community. They will learn about the key arts venues in Singapore, their history and how they are managed. Students will also be introduced to Front of House management.
2 4
DAM1241

Graphic Design

This module aims to equip students with graphic design skills and knowledge that is necessary for arts managers. Students will be guided to achieve technical competency in the design of effective publicity collateral for arts and cultural organisations, both print and digital collateral, based on a given brief and communications plan.
2 4
DAM1251

Introduction to Stagecraft

This introductory module covers the theory and practice in relation to working backstage in the arts, events and entertainment industry. Students will cover the basic technical functions that are critical to a stage technician. This module provides a foundation for higher year modules in lighting, sound and stage management.
2 4
DAM1206

Understanding Literary Arts

This module introduces students to the various aspects of literary arts. The main focus of this module will be on the literary works of Singaporean authors, specifically in the genres of poetry, short stories and novels. The module includes a study of the literary arts ecosystem, and it also explores how literary works have inspired the performing and visual arts.
2 4
DAM1207

Community Arts

This module introduces students to the concept of community arts. Students will explore the definition of community arts, its function and purpose, and the different ways in which community arts objectives can be expressed and achieved. Students will also examine issues of diversity and community-building through the arts and the importance of community arts to the more disadvantaged sectors of society.
1 and 2 2
DAM1001

Professional Development 1

This module introduces students to the wide range of career options in the arts and cultural industries. It aims to guide students in realising their career aspirations. Students will be given the opportunity to explore their interests through a range of activities and be taught how to write and develop their curriculum vitae and start on compiling their professional portfolio.
2 2
DAM2161

Performing Arts Management

This module offers students both theoretical and practical training in managing performing arts events and productions. Students will go through each step of the production process, from pre-production to post-production. Students will also learn about unique aspects of managing the performing arts such as programming, budgeting, managing rehearsals and performers.
1 4
DAM2121

Arts Marketing and Audience Development

This module introduces students to the key concepts of marketing and how these concepts are applied to arts and cultural organisations and events. Students will investigate the unique requirements of marketing the arts which is centred around the marketing of an experience.

A key component of this module is understanding the critical role that audience development plays in the sustainability of an arts organisation.
1 4
DAM2131

Visual Arts Management

This module offers students both theoretical and practical training in the specialised domain area of managing the visual arts. Students will investigate various aspects of visual arts management from museum and gallery management to the business of art fairs and auction houses. They will learn key areas of work within visual arts organisations. The business aspects of visual arts will also be explored.
1 4
DAM2152

Stage Management

This module offers students both theoretical and practical training in the specialised skills required for stage management. They will learn essential skills for stage managing theatre, dance, and music productions as well as safety in the theatre, communication and other management skills.
1 4
DAM2153

Live Sound and Sound Design

This module is designed to introduce students to basic sound concepts and practices for live productions and other media. Students will learn how to install, operate, and maintain sound systems for a live production. Students will also explore the technical factors that should be considered in approaching and achieving sound for performances and rehearsals.
1 4
DAM2232

Exhibition Design and Curating

In this module, students will learn the process of designing and producing exhibitions as well as understand how this is aligned with the curatorial process. Students will be introduced to the roles and responsibilities of the personnel involved and be taught how to design and install graphics in an exhibition space. Students will also explore the creative and practical aspects of curating exhibitions.
2 4
DAM2254

Lighting Fundamentals

This module is designed to introduce students to basic lighting concepts and practices for a range of productions and arts events. The module will also explore how lighting techniques can be applied in the visual arts, exhibitions and events.
2 4
DAM2242

Digital Skills 2

This module will equip students with the knowledge and skills to use latest digital spaces and platforms for the development and sustainability of the arts. The module focuses on using digital platforms to communicate, present, reach out to and connect with audiences on a large scale.
2 2
DAM2002

Professional Development 2

This module builds upon what students have learnt and experienced in Year 1 and brings the students closer towards their career aspirations in the arts and cultural industries. Its main focus is to prepare students for their internship and future career. This training will prepare them for their first job application and interview for their internship placement in Year 3.
2 2
DAM2210

Human Resource Management

This modules provides students with a working knowledge of human resource management. Students will learn key concepts in recruitment and development of employees to meet organisation demands and goals.
2 4
DAM2220

Law and the Arts

This module offers an introduction to legal concepts and practices pertaining to the arts. Topics include copyright, contract, and licencing.
2 4
DAM3004

Overseas Immersion Programme

Students will visit either Australia or a Southeast Asian country to learn about the arts, culture and heritage of that country and how it is managed. They will then present what they have learnt when they return.
1/2 4
DAM3005

Heritage Project

This module aims to equip students with knowledge and skills in managing heritage-related activities. Students will put into practice what they have learnt in the classroom by designing and executing a heritage project targeted at a specific community audience based on a brief provided by an industry partner.
1/2 4
DAM3006

Arts Criticism and Research

This module will develop students’ critical thinking, writing and research skills in the arts. In addition to learning about various research methodologies, data collection techniques, analysis of data, and writing an academic research paper, students will also learn how to critique an artwork and explore the issues involved in arts criticism.
1/2 4
DAM3007

Global Arts Perspectives

This module aims to develop students’ awareness of trends and issues in the arts from a global perspective. Students will examine how the arts is managed in SE Asia and beyond. As part of the learning journey, students will attend performing and visual arts events, visit arts companies and take practical workshops to learn more about SE Asian art forms.
1/2 4
DAM3022

Creative Entrepreneurship

This module aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to be a creative entrepreneur. Students will be introduced to Singapore’s creative industries and key players. They will learn essential skills on how to be a creative entrepreneur and understand what it entails. The module will also train students on how to develop business proposals and conduct a pitch to stakeholders.
1/2 4
DAM3040

Arts and Cultural Policy

In this module, students will investigate how governments develop and regulate the arts and cultural industries. In addition to studying the arts and cultural policies in Singapore, students will also examine government initiatives in other countries.
1/2 4
DAM3011

Internship

Students will be attached to an arts or cultural organisation and work on projects that would enhance their management competencies.
1/2 20
DAM3012

Industry Project

Working in groups and led by a lecturer, students will plan and execute an arts or cultural project.
1/2 20
DTD2010

Gemmology*

This module explores the science of gems: formation, history, physical properties, practical applications, and the methods and instruments used in the basic identification of the stones, colours and values.
1 and 2 2
DTD1001

Metalsmithing*

Students are introduced to the basic principles of handling raw materials. They will also learn various methods and materials employed in the fundamental techniques of object making.
1 and 2 2
DTD2020

Introduction to Furniture Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the design principles, ergonomic studies and material application in furniture design with the help of workshop practice, concept ideation and presentation.
1 and 2 2
DTD2043

Introduction to Interior Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the basic principles in interior design, with an emphasis on programming, space planning, colour scheme and furniture arrangement for residential design.
1 and 2 2
DDM2900

Design and Brand Strategy*

This module allows students to discover the framework and strategies of developing a successful brand expression through case studies and analysis. Students will develop a critical understanding of the social (cultures of consumption) and psychological (emotions in marketing) aspects integrated within the context, which will allow students to develop the ability to make good design decisions.
1/2 4
DDM2901

Digital Photography and Publication*

In this module, students will learn to use photography as a medium of expression and communication. Students would explore the different perspectives of story-telling through images, and be equipped with the skills to compile them into a publication.
1/2 4
DDM2902

Packaging Design*

This module allows students to explore the different forms and functions of packaging design to provide packaging solutions that are appealing, functional and sustainable.
1/2 4
DFS2006

History of Asian Costume*

This module will expose students to Asian elements relating to fashion. Countries and topics covered include Malaysia/Indonesia (Kebaya), India (Sari), China (Cheong Sam and Qi Pao), Thailand (Traditional Court Uniform), Japan (Kimono) and Korea (Hanbok).
2 2
DFS2209

Costume Design*

This module allows students to gain knowledge in designing the styles and costumes in theatre, film or television productions. They will be exposed to topics such as reading and analysis of scripts, creation of the mood and style for a production, communication with the Director, distinguishing of characters, and planning of costume plot.
1/2 4
DFS1205

Textile Design and Innovation 1*

Students will be introduced to various techniques of textile decoration, such as screen-printing and laser cutting to develop their own decorative textiles and prints.
2 2
DFS2105

Textile Design and Innovation 2*

This module explores the manipulation of fabrics through dyeing, shibori, bonding, embossing and weaving to create distinctive textiles.
1 2
DFA1001

Introduction to Painting*

Students are introduced to the basic tools, materials and techniques in watercolour and acrylic painting. Topics covered include still life and landscapes.
1 and 2 2
DFA1003

Introduction to Printmaking*

Students are introduced to the basic tools, materials and techniques in printmaking. Topics covered include mono-print, woodcut and simple stencil printing technique.
1 and 2 2
DFA1008

Introduction to Gong Bi*

This module covers fundamental principles involved in bird and flower compositions, and the line drawing and painting techniques specific to Gong Bi.
2 2
DFA1011

Figure Drawing*

This module helps students develop the visual and technical skills necessary for portrait and figure drawing. Students work in a variety of media, with an emphasis on charcoal.
1 and 2 2
DMU1041

Instrumental Studies: Guitar*

This module provides a foundation on classical guitar technique, with emphasis on effective hand positioning and a strong grasp of the rudiments of music.
2 1/2
DMU1042

Instrumental Studies: Gamelan*

This module provides students with the practical skills of playing Javanese Gamelan, from simple to slightly complex pieces, up to the level of Irama II.
1/2 2
ACE1001

Speech Presentations*

Speech Presentations is a programme in writing and presenting speeches. It will impart skills that students need to present their ideas effectively in public. In a supportive classroom environment, students will learn to communicate their ideas effectively using verbal and written techniques.
1 and 2 2
ACE1101

Business Communication*

This module will cover the full spectrum of communications in the workplace; this ranges from effective online correspondences, to report writing, and verbal communication skills.
1 and 2 2
ACE1102

Entrepreneurship in the Arts*

This module will cover the different models of entrepreneurship in the arts industry, and strategies to succeed independently. Students are guided to create personal value and build a productive start-up in the arts with available resources (e.g., intelligence, insight, ethics, initiative and influence).
1 and 2 2
ACE1103

Starting Your Own Business*

This module informs students with essential knowledge in setting up a business. Students develop business literacy through learning basic business principles and processes such as licensing, financial management, start-up operations, and consumer behaviour.
1 and 2 2
ACR2000

Singapore Arts Scene*

This module creates awareness in students of issues and trends in the arts scene, and develops critical thinking skills through problem-based learning.
1 and 2 2
IDP2001

Interdisciplinary Project 2A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2
2
IDP2002

Interdisciplinary Project 2B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2 4
IDP3001

Interdisciplinary Project 3A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2
2
IDP3002

Interdisciplinary Project 3B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2 4

*Electives

Although students can choose to take Cross-disciplinary Modules, these modules are not part of the graduation requirements of the Diploma in Arts Management.

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entry requirements

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:

  • Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity
  • Educational Qualification
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.

Personal Statement and Testimonial

You are required to submit a 500-word personal statement and a testimonial here.

Personal Statement
Your personal statement should articulate your interest for the arts and future career goals. Through your personal statement, you will be evaluated based on your:

  • Past experiences in artistic practice, arts management and/or attending arts events
  • Aspiration to work in the arts and cultural industries
  • Written communication skills

Testimonial
The testimonial should be written by an official (e.g. teacher, principal, advisor, etc.) of an educational institution you have attended. Through the testimonial, you will be evaluated based on your:

  • Personality traits
  • Participation in co-curricular activities
  • Leadership ability or potential
(Allowed document file type: .pdf. Maximum document file size: 10 MB)

Minimum Educational Qualifications Required

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: Aggregate score of 25 points or better in 4 GCE ‘O’ Level subjects, excluding English.

    Applicants who are active in their Secondary Schools’ Co-curricular Activities (CCA) may gain up to 2 CCA points. The CCA points can be used to improve their EQ aggregate score for admission consideration.

    Types of bonus points No. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A2 2 points
    Grades of B3–C6 1 point
  • Singapore Integrated Programme: Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • School of The Arts (SOTA): Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • Institute of Technical Education (ITE): Full-time Higher Nitec or Nitec.
Successful completion of at least 10 years of education.

Eligible international students will be able to use their mid-year examination results to apply for diploma programmes at NAFA. Applicants will be given conditional offer if they are successful in their portfolio interview/audition selection. Applicants are still required to submit their year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programmes. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.

The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:

  • Grade C6 at GCE O-Levels
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • TOEFL 500
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above

Recognition is accorded for prior achievements in areas relevant to intended studies.

The Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) allows applicants to apply for and receive conditional admission to NAFA prior to receiving their final grades.

The Diploma EAE application window for the AY2025 intake is from 17 June to 28 June 2024. Please check your application eligibility and apply online here.

The EAE is open to graduating GCE O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education, and graduating Integrated Programme (IP)/International Baccaularette or (IB) Year 4 students.

Applicants applying via Diploma EAE will go through the following process and timeline:


Process


Applicants to:
  1. Apply online here from 17 June to 28 June 2024. Submit the required documents for verification within 5 working days from the application date or by 5 July 2024, whichever is earlier.

  2. Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students.

  3. Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design from 17 June to 12 July 2024 online here (3D Design/Design & Media/ Fashion Studies/Fine Art). There is no Admission Test for EAE

  4. Submit Personal Statement and Testimonial for Diploma in Arts Management from 17 June to 12 July 2024 online here

  5. Attend Audition for programmes under the Faculty of Performing Arts (Dance/Music/Theatre). Audition dates are from 22 July to 2 August 2024. More information on the audition will be sent to you via email a week before the audition date

Please refer to the section ‘Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity’ under each programme for more information about the above.


Offer and Acceptance
  • Applicants will receive notification of the application outcome via email from 15 August to 29 August 2024. Successful applicants should confirm acceptance of their offers by the deadline stipulated
  • Applicants who accept their offers at this stage will be guaranteed a place, as long as they meet the criteria stated under Entry Requirement for each programme

Withdrawal
  • Should applicants wish to withdraw their acceptance, they must submit their withdrawal notice to [email protected]
  • Applicants who had accepted their EAE offer but fail to make the required payment by the stipulated deadline will have their offers withdrawn
  • Applicants who fail to meet the admission criteria will have their offers withdrawn

Entry Requirements for EAE


For O-Level Students
Students who have registered to sit for the GCE O-Level examinations in the year of Early Admission Exercise (EAE)

For ITE Students
ITE students from full-time Higher Nitec/Nitec courses may apply for early admission. They can use their preliminary examination results (cumulative GPA of up to the 3rd term for a 2-year Higher Nitec/Nitec course or 5th term for a 3-year Nitec course) for application. The minimum cumulative GPA for early admission is 3.0.

For Integrated Programme (IP)/ International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 4 Students
IP and IB Year 4 students may use their mid-year examination results to apply for EAE.


Confirmation of Conditional Offers for Diploma Admission

Successful applicants for the EAE will be given conditional offers and are still required to submit the following document, as applicable:
  • GCE O-Level results with an aggregate of not more than 25 points for 4 subjects excluding English
  • Certificate and Academic Transcript for Nitec or Higher Nitec
  • Completion of IP Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
  • Completion of IB Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
Any applicant who fails to provide documentary evidence of having met the admission requirements by the deadline stipulated by NAFA will have his/her conditional offer withdrawn.

Applicants may receive module exemption of up to 60 credits, if they have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution. The granting of exemption and advanced standing may be subject to applicants passing a Portfolio Interview, Audition or Admission Test. Application for module exemption may be subject to a Portfolio Interview or Audition.

Applicants with GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)

Applicants who have completed GCE A-Level or IB Diploma will be eligible to be considered for module exemption (up to 40 credits) in the relevant programmes. Applicants from SOTA who have completed Year 4 and above are eligible to receive advanced standing (Year 1, Semester 2 or Year 2, Semester 1) in relevant Diploma programmes subject to their final or preliminary examination results.

Applicants with Higher Nitec/ Nitec:

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses are eligible to apply for module exemption:

  • Higher Nitec in Event Management
  • Higher Nitec in Performance Production

How to Apply

Apply online
Apply online here 2 October 2023 to 31 March 2024. The application is extended to 15 May 2024.
For all above-mentioned programmes except Diploma in Arts Management ^, select either Portfolio Submission or Admission Test in the application portal.

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents for verification within five working days from the application date at:

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Campus 1 (Admissions counter at level 1)
80 Bencoolen Street
Singapore 189655

Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays

Alternatively, you can email a copy of the required documents to [email protected].

Required documents for verification:
  • NRIC for Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents. Passport and valid Student's Pass (if applicable) for international students.
  • Academic certificates and transcripts (GCE O-Level or NITEC/Higher NITEC and GCE N-Level or other equivalent qualifications). Certificates in a foreign language must be translated to English.
  • CCA record (if any).
  • English proficiency document (if applicable), e.g. TOEFL, TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, SAT, Duolingo or equivalent qualification.

Make payment of the Application Fee

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students. Applicants who are paying online will be required to upload the above documents during application.

Submit your portfolio/personal statement

^ For Diploma in Arts Management: Submit personal statement and testimonial here. Selected applicants may be asked to attend an interview in person or online.

Application outcome

Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.