Music Business and Industry M.A.

"The Music Industry program gave me the flexibility to complete my coursework and march in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with the WVU Marching Band!"

"The added flexibility allowed me to work full-time jobs that require the standard work business hours. In my previous job, it was not a typical 9-5 position. In this role, I traveled for work and had to complete my assignments on my own schedule. Professors in both of my programs were understanding if I had something come up in my day-to-day life."

Both of Chris’s programs utilized the discussion board feature, which really helped him connect with his peers in his courses.

"I felt that it was an actual conversation and not solely an assignment. I’ve connected with my peers on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter too."

He recommends that online students use a planner or Microsoft Outlook to keep organized.

"I always made a calendar and schedule to make sure that my assignments were completed on time. Online programs require a level of independence and self-motivation to keep on track in the courses. Starting off the semester with a system for organization will help you significantly."

Proficiency in communication, marketing, and PR fundamentals, adept scheduling abilities, understanding of copyright principles, familiarity with contemporary musical trends, strong computer skills, and basic financial management knowledge are all valuable competencies for individuals pursuing a degree in the Music Business and Industry program. Just ask Cassandra Muhr.

"I am currently in the process of leaving a Marketing & Communications Manager position for a brass band to pursue a General Manager position with a symphony orchestra. Neither of these jobs would have been attainable without my Music Business & Industry degree."

Cassandra always had a passion for music but wasn't sure which aspect she wanted to pursue. Initially interested in music production during her undergrad studies, she later discovered it wasn't the right fit and began exploring other possibilities.

After conducting interviews with artists for her college radio show, she discovered her interest in music management. As she explored options, she found the online program at WVU, which provided her with the opportunity to expand her knowledge of the industry.

"I planned to work and wanted to pursue my graduate degree to deepen my understanding of the music industry. The online program enabled me to study various aspects of the industry while simultaneously gaining practical experience in my field."

The most rewarding parts of the program included the connections she made and the program's flexible completion options.

Throughout most of her two-year commitment, Cassandra juggled full-time employment while pursuing her studies. Despite occasional stress, she found the workload manageable, thanks to the support of her professors. Their extensive industry connections not only offered insights into various facets of the field but also provided invaluable networking opportunities. Additionally, Cassandra seized the chance to collaborate with Mon Hills Music Group through the program, further enriching her experience and skill set while establishing valuable connections.

For those thinking about pursuing this degree, Cassandra has the following advice.

"Network, network, network! It is so important in the music industry to establish connections. Don't be afraid to reach out to someone who is in a position you would be interested in learning more about. Those connections will be important in helping you find a job that you enjoy and that fits your goals. Enjoy the journey."

"I always received a timely and thoughtful response to every email and question that I had."

Laverne Perry chose WVU Online because of its excellent reputation and taking classes online was convenient for her.

"I was able to take classes at my own pace," she says.

"Online learning allowed me the time to study around my work schedule and have the opportunity to communicate with my professors and fellow students on a regular basis."

Laverne was happy that online learning allowed her to continue her education and her career at the same time.

"The education I received was excellent," she says. "WVU is a respected institution that provides its students with hands-on learning experiences that they may not receive at other colleges and universities."

Laverne attended her undergraduate program in-person but was never able to connect with any of her professors because of their conflicting schedules.

"My work schedule and their office hours were never the same," she says.

"My time at WVU Online was different. I was able to send messages to my professors when my schedule allowed, and I always received a timely and thoughtful response to every email and question that I had."

"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."