Exploring Colleges with Music Business Programs

I'm interested in pursuing music business in college. Does anyone know which schools offer strong programs in this field? Any tips on how to evaluate these programs would be really helpful!

Several universities are known for their standout music business programs. Here's a few that often come up:

1. University of Southern California (USC): Their Thornton School of Music offers a Music Industry program which combines coursework on the creative process and music business essentials.

2. Berklee College of Music: Located in Boston, has a well-known Bachelor of Music in Music Business/Management program.

3. New York University (NYU): The Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music offers a BFA that emphasizes business, technology, and music.

4. Belmont University: In Nashville, also known for its music industry connections, offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Music Business.

Now, on to evaluating these programs. Although the reputation of the program matters, there are many other factors to consider. Here are a few tips:

Course Content: Look at the course list and descriptions. Does it cover areas you're interested in? Music business can span a range of areas from artist management to music licensing, marketing, and more.

Faculty: Who teaches the courses? Professors with industry experience can provide valuable insights and better prepare you for what the field is really like.

Location: Being in a city with a vibrant music scene means more opportunities for internships and networking, which are essential in this field. In this regard, schools in cities like Los Angeles, Boston, or Nashville can have an advantage.

Alumni: What kind of jobs do the program's graduates get? Do they work for major music labels, startups, or perhaps venture into entrepreneurship? This can give you a very good sense of what kinds of doors the major might open for you.

Externship/Internship Opportunities: Does the school have strong ties with local music companies and offer plentiful opportunities for real-world experience? Practical experience can often be as valuable as classroom learning in this field.

Remember that the "fit" of the program is also crucial—you should feel comfortable with the campus culture, size of the school, class sizes, and so on. Your college experience will be formed by many aspects, not just your major.

Visit the school's official website, contact the admissions office or program director, and connect with current students or alumni to get more comprehensive and personalized information about the program.