Music industry students develop expertise as professionals who will enter the $70 billion music industry. The diverse curriculum emphasizes music business, commercial music, and music technology. The School of Music provides rich opportunities for students to study with renowned industry professionals through events on and off campus. Students may gain additional experience through participation in two music industry organizations on campus: the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and Music Industry Organization (MIO). There are two degree options in music industry: the Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Music Industry and the Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Music Industry-Recording Arts.
Degree Programs
Bachelor of Music with a Concentration in Music Industry Emphasis
Graduates of the Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Music Industry serve as outstanding professionals who advance the art of music within a business context. Through focused courses in career development, copyright, publishing and licensing, arts management, marketing and promotion, accounting and public relations, students gain the knowledge and skills they need to compete in the modern music industry. Successful completion of course requirements culminate in an internship.
Bachelor of Music with a Concentration in Recording Arts Emphasis
The Bachelor of Music in Music Industry with an Emphasis in Recording Arts is an extension of the music industry degree focusing upon the art and science of recording. Through focused courses in recording, microphone placement, mixing, and mastering, students develop skills and experience that are essential for establishing a career in the constantly changing recording industry. Successful completion of course requirements culminate in an internship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a musician if I plan to be a Music Industry or Recording Arts major?
Yes. A successful career in the music industry requires dedication, hard work, and musical excellence, and it is much more difficult to succeed in the music industry with no background in formal music training—even if you have natural talent and a good ear.
What are the differences between the two Music Industry degrees?
All music industry majors will take courses in musicianship, theory, history, performance and other aspects of professional musicianship plus some general education classes.
The Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Music Industry focuses on the business side of the music industry. Students take dedicated courses in career development, copyright, publishing and licensing, arts management, marketing and promotion, accounting, and public relations
The Bachelor of Music with an Emphasis in Music Industry/Recording Arts emphasizes audio production skills, while also providing essential business training. Students take focused courses in recording, microphone placement, mixing, and mastering, in addition to core music business classes.
How do I get into the program?
Students need to apply to Eastern Kentucky University and audition for the School of Music. Requirements for auditions are posted here.
Are scholarships available for Music Industry majors?
Yes, scholarships are available. Get more information about scholarships.
Will I be able to get a job after graduation? Will you help me get a job?
The School of Music will do what we can to help you succeed. The Office of Advising and Career Services can also help to prepare or revise your resume, refine your interview skills, implement a job search strategy, network with employers, and more.
What kinds of jobs are available?
The music industry is re-inventing itself in a very exciting way, and there are more exciting opportunities available than ever. Our students typically find employment in a variety of areas within the industry. Salary ranges depend upon the job market at that time and the region, state, and country where the position is available.