MA/MS in Executive MPA in Cultural Policy and Strategic Management

Objective(s) of a study programme: The aim of the programme is to prepare highly qualified leaders and managers in the cultural sector who are capable of acting strategically, creatively, and responsibly within a complex cultural ecosystem, integrating principles of public and business management while strengthening the role of culture as a foundation of sustainability and democracy. The programme develops agents of cultural change and strategic thinkers who can combine creative and analytical thinking, shape cultural policy, generate social, cultural, and economic value in cultural institutions and services, and contribute to building sustainable, inclusive, and resilient societies. Learning outcomes: 1. Knowledge and its Application 1.1. Demonstrates a systematic and critical understanding of the principles of cultural policy, strategic management, and the functioning of the cultural ecosystem, as well as their interaction at national and international levels. 1.2. Is able to integrate knowledge of culture, public governance, and business management in making strategic decisions and addressing complex challenges in the cultural sector. 1.3. Applies theoretical and conceptual knowledge in shaping and implementing cultural policy, developing organizational strategies, and enhancing the social, cultural, and economic value created by organizations. 2. Research Skills 2.1. Applies applied social science research and analytical methods to identify problems and evaluate processes in the cultural sector and the implementation of policies. 2.2. Collects, analyses, and interprets data to support decision-making, formulates evidence-based conclusions and recommendations in the fields of cultural policy and management, taking into account the latest trends in public administration. 2.3. Critically evaluates cultural phenomena and their contexts, identifies alternative solutions, and applies analytical thinking in strategic decision-making. 3. Special Abilities 3.1. Initiates, plans, implements, and evaluates national and international cultural projects using advanced project management and creative methods. 3.2. Develops and applies innovative solutions in cultural management, policy, and organizational practice in response to contemporary social, technological, and cultural challenges. 3.3. Integrates sustainability principles into cultural policy, organizational strategic management, and operations, assessing their social, cultural, and economic impact. 4. Social Abilities 4.1. Operates effectively in intercultural and cross-sectoral environments, applying principles of inclusion, equality, and cultural diversity, and adhering to professional ethics. 4.2. Collaborates with diverse stakeholders, engages communities in cultural processes, and strengthens their social and cultural participation. 4.3. Applies principles of responsible leadership, balances different interests, and initiates cultural policy and management solutions in complex environments. 5. Personal Abilities 5.1. Independently plans and organises professional activities, makes responsible decisions, and assumes accountability for their quality and impact. 5.2. Reflects on professional experience and the role of culture in societal development, recognizing culture as a factor of resilience and the common good. 5.3. Justifies cultural policy and management decisions with well-founded arguments, guided by the principles of democracy, inclusion, sustainability, and cultural justice. Methods of assessment of learning achievements: The study process employs student-centred, active, and experiential teaching and learning methods, combining the acquisition of theoretical knowledge with the development of practical competencies. These include lectures (both in-person and online), guest expert presentations, problem-based learning, case studies, discussions and debates, research activities, and independent preparation of analytical assignments. Practice-based methods are also applied, such as project-based learning, scenario modelling, simulations, role-playing, preparation of strategic documents, collaborative learning, co-creation practices, brainstorming, as well as reflection and feedback. Framework: Study subjects (modules), practical training: The study programme covers the following areas: culture and well-being; international and national cultural heritage policy; cultural policy and analysis; memory politics and the formation of cultural institutions’ identities; strategic management of cultural organisations; public service and human resource management; management of international and national cultural projects; and cultural communication and marketing. The studies are completed with an applied final project. Specialisations: - Optional courses: The student adapts the study content according to his/her needs and the chosen topic of the final project. Distinctive features of a study programme: This is the only MPA - type programme in Lithuania in the field of culture, integrating perspectives of cultural policy, strategic management, and creative practice, and aimed at educating high-level leaders and managers in the cultural sector. The programme stands out for its interdisciplinary model, combining knowledge from culture, heritage, history, public governance, and business management, as well as for its strong emphasis on applied learning through real projects and solution development. A key feature of the programme is its value-based orientation towards the role of culture in strengthening democracy, sustainability, and societal resilience, while fostering the ability to operate in complex, cross-sectoral, and international environments. Access to professional activity: Graduates of the programme are highly qualified leaders in the cultural sector, capable of strategically, creatively, and responsibly managing organizations and operating within a complex cultural ecosystem. They are able to shape and implement cultural policy, initiate change, and create social, cultural, and economic value within cultural institutions. Graduates can pursue careers as managers or heads of departments in cultural institutions and organizations, work in public sector institutions as policy-makers or experts, as well as implement projects, provide consultancy, or develop initiatives in the cultural and creative industries, contributing to the development of sustainable, inclusive, and resilient societies. Access to further study: As the programme is designed to develop students’ ability to apply research rather than conduct it independently, graduates may pursue further Bachelor’s and/or Master’s studies at national and/or international institutions. Graduates may also continue their studies at the third cycle (doctoral level), provided they meet the additional requirements set by higher education institutions for admission to doctoral studies (e.g., scientific publications, etc.).