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Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate

Aug. 21, 2024

Next Start Date

5

Courses Required

$686

Cost Per Credit Hour

15

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, covers the complete range of today’s music industry commerce and products. Students will analyze the progressive stages of the industry’s various product life cycles within the current global external environment. This includes creation, transformation, consumption, commercial exploitation, and feedback. The program methodically builds and widens each student’s perspectives of the music industry’s fundamental regulatory and commercial mechanisms. Along the way, students will develop the skills to manage and operate its various systems.

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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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Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements

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

  • WVU Online Graduate Application
  • Resume
  • Writing sample. Write a short essay outlining professional preferences, goals, and aspirations.
  • Official transcripts from all institutions attended (other than WVU)
  • International Students are required to submit a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score.

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Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

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

Music Business and Industry Graduate Certificate total degree cost: $10,290 – Residents and Non-Residents

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 commerce and products, and analyzing progressive stages in its various product life cycles within the current global external environment (from creation and transformation to consumption, commercial exploitation, and feedback), the program methodically builds and widens students’ perspectives of the music industry’s fundamental regulatory and commercial mechanisms, along with the skills to manage and operate its 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 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 Director, Projected Growth: 5-10%
  • Marketing Manager, Projected Growth: 10-15% *Bright Outlook
  • Producer & Director, Projected Growth: 15% or higher *Bright Outlook
  • Talent Director, Projected Growth: 15% or higher *Bright Outlook
  • Agent & Business Manager of Artists, Performers, Projected Growth: 15% or higher *Bright Outlook

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).

To facilitate a holistic, methodical approach, the Graduate Certificate in Music 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:

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

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