students in recording studio

School of Business and EntrepreneurshipMusic Business Bachelor's Degree

  • BA

About the Music Business BA Program

In the Music Business bachelor’s degree program at Columbia College Chicago, students learn about the professional teams behind favorite bands, concerts, festivals, albums, and mixtapes. This program covers how music is monetized, licensed, and distributed, allowing students to sign, release, and market emerging artists through a student-run record label.

Examples of Music Business Careers
  • Artist 
  • Box office or stage manager
  • Concert promoter
  • Event coordinator
  • Merchandising
  • Musician
  • Public relations
  • Publishing, music licensing, and royalties
  • Sponsorship and branding
  • Talent scout
  • Tour Manager

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 with concentration options like Recorded Music and Publishing, Live and Touring, and Artist Management.

  • Apply classroom skills to real-life projectsPracticum courses, working at rock or hip-hop record labels, scouting and developing artists, or focusing on digital distribution and promotion 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 rock or our hip-hop record label, you’ll scout and develop real artists. Or, you can focus on digital distribution and promotion. If you choose the Live and Touring concentration, you’ll have the chance to work at a local club 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 Bloodshot Records, Atlantic Records, and local venues like 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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