Program Overview
Illinois State University's Bachelor of Science in Music Business equips musicians with the business acumen and industry knowledge to thrive in the evolving music landscape. Combining rigorous music training with a solid business foundation, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles in artist management, music publishing, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Through hands-on experiences, guest speakers, and a student-run record label, students gain practical skills and industry connections.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objectives:
- To equip musicians with the business acumen and industry knowledge necessary to thrive in the contemporary music landscape.
- To foster critical thinking and creativity, enabling graduates to become leaders and innovators in the field.
- To provide students with hands-on experience through internships and real-world projects within the music industry.
Program Description:
This program combines rigorous music training with a solid foundation in business principles. Students complete 25 hours of coursework in both the School of Music and the nationally recognized College of Business. This interdisciplinary approach equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the music industry, from artistic creation to financial management.
Key Features:
- Guest speakers from diverse areas of the music industry, ranging from classical music publishers to major label A&R representatives.
- Experiential learning opportunities through a recording studio experience and an internship in the music field.
- Collaboration opportunities with fellow students through the student-run record label, StuCo.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Music Industry Fundamentals: Explores the history, structure, and economics of the music industry.
- Songwriting and Production: Develops skills in songwriting, music production, and understanding copyright law.
- Artist Management and Marketing: Examines the roles and responsibilities of artist managers, including marketing strategies and career development.
- Music Publishing and Licensing: Delves into the world of music publishing, licensing, and royalty collection.
- Music Business Entrepreneurship: Equips students with the knowledge and skills to launch and manage their own music-related businesses.
Program Structure:
- The program is designed to be completed in four years, with eight semesters of coursework.
- Students take a combination of core music courses, business courses, and specialized music business electives.
- The curriculum includes a required internship in the music industry, providing valuable hands-on experience.
Course Schedule:
The program offers a variety of courses, with schedules varying each semester. Students can access the current course schedule and descriptions through the university's online catalog.
Individual Modules:
Specific modules within the program include:
- Music Industry History
- Music Marketing and Promotion
- Music Law and Ethics
- Live Music Production
- Music Publishing and Royalties
- Music Business Entrepreneurship
- Music Industry Technology
Module Descriptions:
Detailed descriptions of individual modules are available in the university's online catalog.
Assessment:
Students in the Music Business program are assessed through a variety of methods:
- Examinations: Tests and quizzes assess students' understanding of key concepts and knowledge.
- Assignments: Written assignments, projects, and presentations evaluate students' ability to apply knowledge and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
- Performance: Practical assessments, such as live performances and studio recordings, evaluate students' musical abilities and technical skills.
Assessment Criteria:
Assessment criteria vary depending on the specific assessment method. However, all assessments are designed to evaluate students' comprehension of the course material, critical thinking skills, and ability to apply knowledge in a practical setting.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- A combination of traditional lectures, interactive discussions, guest speaker presentations, and hands-on workshops.
- An emphasis on active learning and real-world application of knowledge.
- Individualized attention and mentorship from faculty members.
Faculty:
- Faculty members hold advanced degrees and possess significant experience in various sectors of the music industry.
- They are passionate about teaching and committed to helping students achieve their goals.
Unique Approaches:
- The program offers unique opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, internships, and networking events.
- Students gain practical experience through the student-run record label, StuCo, which allows them to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Artist Manager
- Music Publicist
- Music Marketing Specialist
- Music Business Entrepreneur
- Music Licensing Agent
- Music Journalist
- Tour Manager
- Record Label Executive
Career Opportunities:
Graduates can find employment in music labels, artist management companies, publishing houses, marketing agencies, live music venues, and other music-related organizations.
Career Outcomes:
The program boasts a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers in the music industry. Alumni work for renowned organizations such as Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Spotify, and Live Nation.
Other:
- The Music Business program requires students to have a strong musical background and complete a classical music audition for admission.
- The program emphasizes collaboration and networking, providing students with a supportive community to learn and grow.
- Illinois State University is located in Normal, Illinois, a vibrant college town with a thriving music scene.
