students in recording studio

School of Business and EntrepreneurshipMusic Business Bachelor's Degree

  • BA

About the Music Business BA Program

The BA in Music Business is designed to equip students to pursue careers in the evolving music industry. Students learn the fundamental management concepts of the recorded music business, copyright, music publishing, artist management, along with live, touring, and music marketing. The program’s industry-focus aims to prepare music business majors to be the next generation of innovative music industry executives. The Music Business program offers students hands-on management experiences through student-run businesses related to record label operations, talent management, music licensing, and live entertainment.

Examples of Music Business Career
  • Record label executive
  • Artist and repertoire (A&R) professional
  • Concert promoter
  • Artist manager
  • Tour and festival manager 
  • Venue manager
  • Merchandising and sales professional
  • Publishing/music licensing
  • Royalty administrator

The Student Experience

At Columbia, we offer practical learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Here, you can focus on a specific area of interest that speaks to you within sectors of the industry including recorded music and publishing, live and touring, and artist management.

 

  • Apply classroom skills to real-life projectsPracticum courses, working at a venue or festival, running a record label, scouting and developing artists, or focusing on digital distribution and promotional marketing will give you the real-world experience you need.
  • Take your talent on the roadPracticum students attend South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, where they plan and execute a day-long music showcase.
  • Get record label experience while still in collegeWorking at Columbia's student-run AEMMP Records label, you’ll scout and develop real artists. AND, you will focus on digital distribution, promotion and have the chance to work with local clubs or run a day-long outdoor festival
  • Learn from faculty who have worked in the fieldFaculty members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, having worked as producers, musicians, label owners, and more, serving as mentors in the industry.

AEMMP Records 40th anniversary Artist Showcase at SXSW

Career Readiness

Columbia College Chicago ensures you are career-ready through a blend of academic training and practical opportunities.
  • Internships that jumpstart your career

    Internships at local labels and major record companies, such as Numero Group, Atlantic Records, and local venues like Metro, House of Blues, Lincoln Hall, and Thalia Hall.

  • Networking opportunities

    Columbia invites industry professionals to campus, including alumni, to meet with students, share their experiences, and often help them launch their careers.

Alumni Spotlight

Music Business Alumni Anjel Lopez

Anjel Lopez ’15

Touring production and VIP coordinator for artists including Kidz Bop, Lana Del Rey, and Guns N' Roses.

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

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