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Music Business and Industry, M.A.

College of Creative Arts and Media

Man standing at music production console

The Master of Arts in Music Business and Industry offered by the WVU College of Creative Arts and Media provides an integrated and methodical approach to understanding the mastery of current music industry systems and commercial practices, combined with acute awareness of new regulations, income streams and business models.

Cost:

$713 / Cost per credit hour *

Courses and Credits:

10 Courses / 30 Credits

Duration:

Four semesters

Dates:

Next Start: August 20, 2025 Admission Terms: Fall, Spring

Learning Format:

Online asynchronous

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Program Overview

Turn Your Passion for Music Into Your Career

Music is more than an art, it’s a global, multi-billion-dollar industry. The online Master of Arts in Music Business and Industry prepares you for a career in the live performance, recording and publishing sectors. You’ll gain a solid understanding of the global music landscape and unique skill set that blends business acumen with artistic management by focusing on the skills, concepts and methods central to music business models.
"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."

Cassandra Muhr

Music Business and Industry M.A.

headshot photograph of graduate Cassandra Muhr

Curriculum

Students who earn the Master of Arts in Music Business and Industry will develop the following:

  • The ability to delineate and analyze current music industry regulations regarding their commercial implications, business opportunities, and appropriate music industry management practices across the industry income streams.
  • The knowledge of the historical progress and development of various music business sectors and relevant regulatory frameworks in demonstrating mastery and understanding of the present music business regulations, systems and methods.
  • The ability to perform and manage standard and management level music business procedures and processes utilized in the music publishing, recording, and live music industries, including conception and management of various music product development and placement strategies and plans.
  • The ability to construct and evaluate budgets and financial projections across the music industry income streams based on the project parameters, and the relevant market level, regulations, indicators and trends.
  • The ability to plan and manage music production processes and activities in recording and live music business sectors including scheduling, budgeting, equipment, personnel, union issues, and regulatory requirements.
  • The ability to utilize the music industry research and analysis knowledge and skills to make a constructive contribution to the scholarship in the field, and/or to create a proper business opportunity, or to productively manage a music product, so to create new value and generate positive returns on investments.

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Meet the Faculty

Video: The Student Experience

Admissions Requirements and Eligibility

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

Admissions Process and How to Apply

  • 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)
  • International Students are required to submit a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score.

Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid

The University provides a comprehensive approach to helping you finance your education. Learn more on the WVU Financial Aid Website.

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. Visit the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Students are encouraged to:
  • File the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the June deadline to determine eligibility for funding and scholarships.
  • Inquire with your employer about potential financial support for continuing your education.
Tuition per credit hour is listed on the page of your program of interest. Please note, tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change at the start of each academic year.

Connect with an Admissions Coach

Ann Clayton Online Admissions Coach

(304) 293-0915 ann.clayton@mail.wvu.edu

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Careers and Employment

The Master of Arts in Music Business and Industry equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in today's dynamic music industry. This engaging, online program offers a systematic and rigorous curriculum, developing your analytical, creative, regulatory and entrepreneurial skills, readying you for a variety of careers.

Career Paths

  • Music Producer
  • Recording Engineer
  • Artist Manager
  • Tour Manager
  • Music Professor
  • Booking Agent
  • Music Publicist
  • Sound Technician
  • Composer/Arranger

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Get in Touch

The WVU Online team is here for you during your online learning journey. We can help you navigate the curriculum of your program of interest, understand the application process, and keep you posted on upcoming events and deadlines.

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