Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate

Jan. 13, 2025

Next Start Date

Courses Required

$713

Cost Per Credit Hour

Total Credit Hours

Online Asynchronous

Learning Format

Learn Fundamental Skills For The Music Industry

The Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate, offered by the College of Creative Arts and Media, equips you with a comprehensive understanding of the modern music industry. This program gives you a broad perspective on the industry's core regulations and business models. You'll learn to critically analyze different stages of the music product lifecycle and develop the practical skills to operate and manage within these systems.

Young woman singing into a microphone.

Program Details

To facilitate a holistic, methodical approach, the Graduate Certificate in Music Business and Industry curriculum consist of five (5) 600 level courses, representing a cohesive academic core, covering all the fundamental, interrelated and interdependent segments of the music industry through methodical study of its foundations, commerce, and operations.

The School of Music is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music, the only nationally recognized accrediting agency for professional music instruction. All programs comply with the objectives and guidelines required by this organization.

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Ann is here to help.

Ann Clayton, Your Personal Online Admissions Coach

"I am a graduate of Michigan State University, with a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I have worked in an advising setting for over 15 years and am here to help answer any questions you may have about the enrollment process in our online programs. Our online programs are designed to allow everyone the opportunity to earn a degree, while balancing school, family and life, and I am happy to help you as you go through that journey."

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Contact

Email: Ann.Clayton@mail.wvu.edu
Phone: (304) 293-0915
Virtual Session: Schedule a virtual session with me

Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements

Successful completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

WVU Online Graduate Application
Resume
Personal Statement. Write a short essay outlining professional preferences, goals, and aspirations.
Official transcripts from all institutions attended (other than WVU)
- Email to: GraduateAdmissions@mail.wvu.edu
- Mail to:
  WVU Hub
  P.O. Box 6004
  Morgantown, WV 26506
International Students are required to submit a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score.

Apply Now

Joshua Swiger profile image.

Joshua Swiger

Music Business and Industry M.A.

"Music is part of our DNA and if I can help the next generation of musicians succeed then my calling has been answered."

Joshua Swiger has a passion for music and the success of the arts.

"Music and the arts are what move us forward as a society," he says. "I love to see the passion of the musicians on stage and the experience the audience is having. It transcends our soul."

Seeing musicians being successful, working and living daily in their field is what motivates him to be a teacher.

"My teaching style is real, practical and applicable," he says. "I provide the knowledge and then have students apply that in real-world scenarios. My goal is for the student to have experience working in the profession now, not after they graduate."

"My students teach me as much as I teach them," he says. "We educate each other. The music industry moves at the speed of light, so we have to stay current, day by day."

He says it is important to treat online learning with as much energy as on-campus learning.

"I have course check-ins online that give us time, as a class, to catch up and see how everyone is doing, and to provide some insight on upcoming course material."

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Students enrolled in certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid. Visit Student Financial Support & Services for additional information.

The tuition rate per credit hour listed above is for the 2024-2025 academic year. Tuition and fees increase beginning in the fall term of each academic year.

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies and living expenses. Please see the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage for how to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Your Future in the Music Business and Industry

Covering a complete range of today’s music industry business, this graduate certificate explores the business of music, exploring the entire product lifecycle — from the spark of creation to global consumption. You'll analyze the evolving music landscape, understand key regulations and business models, and gain the skills to navigate these systems.

The Benefits of Choosing Our Program

The music industry is highly competitive, and having a specialized credential such as the WVU Graduate Certificate in Music Business and Industry can give you a competitive edge. The knowledge and skills gained through the program can enhance your career prospects in various music-related fields, such as artist management, talent scouting, event management, marketing and music production.

Career Outlook for the Music Business and Industry

Students who graduate from WVU Online with the Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate may be prepared for the following careers. These are only a few examples of some of the many opportunities that will be open to you with this degree. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for some positions.

Music Producer
Artist Manager
Tour Manager
Booking Agent
Music Publicist
Sound Technician

Information about careers on this list comes from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Our Graduate Certificate in Music Industry features a rigorous curriculum of five 600-level courses. This cohesive program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the music industry. Through methodical study of its foundations, commerce and operations, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of every interconnected aspect of the industry.

Course	Title	Credit Hours
MUSC 611	Music Industry Regulations	3
MUSC 612	Music Product Advancement	3
MUSC 613	Music Performance Organization and Commerce	3
MUSC 614	Advanced Recording Industry	3
MUSC 615	Advanced Music Publishing	3

Total Hours: 15

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get into the music business?

Breaking into the music business can be a challenging and competitive process, but with determination, perseverance, and strategic steps, you can increase your chances of success. Each person’s journey in the music business is unique to them. Here are some things to consider as you get started:

Define your goals
Develop your skills and craft
Build a strong network
Create and promote your brand
Seek performing opportunities
Ask for feedback
Learn as much about the business side as you can

Is a Music Business certificate useful?

While a certificate in music may not hold the same weight as a degree, it can still be a valuable asset in your music career journey. It provides focused training, networking opportunities, and a chance to deepen your skills and knowledge in specific areas of music. Ultimately, the usefulness of a certificate in music depends on your personal goals, interests, and how you leverage the knowledge and experiences gained from the program.

Related Programs

Music Business and Industry M.A. Creative Strategy Graduate Certificate Integrated Marketing Communications Graduate Certificate