In addition to completing an internship, and completion of the required course work, AEMM graduate students may select from three (3) options for completing their graduate studies:

(1) The Masters Thesis Option

Write a thesis dealing with a major topic in arts, entertainment or media management. The principle objective of the Master's Thesis is to demonstrate original scholarship and contribute to the general knowledge of the field of arts, entertainment and media management. Thesis Committee: The thesis committee shall consist of three members including the student's graduate thesis advisor, the student's graduate faculty advisor and the Chairperson of the AEMM Department. If the student wishes to select a thesis advisor who is a part-time faculty member or an individual not associated with Columbia College, the AEMM Chairperson shall determine the advisor's suitability.

(2) The Thesis Project Option

Complete a thesis project demonstrating knowledge within the student’s area of concentration. Examples of such projects include video documentaries, musical productions, computer programs, and strategic plans. Regardless of the form, the quality of the Thesis Project will be judged by the degree of preparatory diagnosis, creativity, evidence of actual effectiveness and by critical evaluation by members of the student's project committee and/or other appropriate persons having expertise in the project field.

(3) The Comprehensive Exam Option

Pass a comprehensive exam. Students who choose the Comprehensive Examination Option will write a unified series of three essays (5 - 15 pages each) on related topics of strategic importance to arts, entertainment or media management. The topics for the essay series  will be selected in conference between the student's graduate advisor and the student. Students must complete the essay series before attempting the Comprehensive Exam. The comprehensive written examination will be administered over a three day period.

Click here for a list of previous AEMM Graduate Theses