Music Industry Studies

MajorMinorBachelor of Arts

Rock the industry.

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of the music industry with Butler’s Music Industry Studies major. This program offers a holistic approach, blending practical experience, creative preparation, and in-depth study to equip you with the comprehensive knowledge and hands-on expertise sought after by diverse sectors within the music industry. From concert promoters and venues to music publishers, product manufacturers, radio, performing rights organizations, and talent agencies, our curriculum is designed to prepare you for a multifaceted and evolving industry landscape.

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Program Information

Curriculum

Sample courses in this program include:

MI 107 – Music Skills for Industry Professionals
MI 201 – Audio Production
MI 452 – Entertainment Media and the Law
MI 222 – History of the Music industry
MI 252 – Theories and Techniques of Sound Recording
MH 308 – Music in Global Contexts
MH 408 – History and Literature of Jazz

See all Music Industry Studies major curriculum information

See all Music Industry Studies minor curriculum information

Learning Outcomes

The Music Industry Studies program is designed to prepare students for managing a wide spectrum of creative enterprises. As a student, you can expect the following learning outcomes:

Discuss the music industry and its historical, cultural and economic aspects.

Gather information through appropriate methods.

Communicate information to audiences and use communication technology effectively.

Demonstrate team building, collaboration and leadership.

Apply professional, ethical and legal standards in the field.

Music Industry Studies major Katerina Anderson and a friend started The B-Side, a local nonprofit radio station.

“We use our platform to introduce Indy to new artists and songs they may not have discovered otherwise. I would not be on my current academic track without the help of faculty in the Music Industry Studies major.”

Learn more about Katerina

Music Industry Studies FAQs

There are several degree options for students planning to work in the music industry, the most common being a bachelor of science (BS), bachelor of arts (BA), or bachelor of fine arts (BFA). For example, a BS may be most appropriate for students looking to go into audio production, while a BFA may be best suited for aspiring composers or performers. Butler University offers a Music Industry Studies BA degree, which is available as a three-year program and designed to prepare graduates with the versatile skills they’ll need to work in the business and communications side of the industry.

While the music industry is incredibly competitive, there are several steps you can take to start your career on the right foot.

First, consider your end goal: are you looking to create and perform music and tour full-time? Do you want to promote artists, manage bands, or create immersive experiences for concertgoers? Are you interested in the technical crafts such as honing your instrument or producing?

Second, if you’re interested in pursuing a formal education in that area, research programs that offer a path to your end goal (for example, Butler offers degrees in Music Industry Studies, Music Performance, etc.)

Lastly, select internships, learning experiences, and mentors based on the end goal you have in mind for your career: whether you want to be in the spotlight or in the business side of the music industry. Pursuing a career in the music industry requires more than talent; your opportunities will expand the more you perform live, network with others in the music industry, and “market” your skills via social media, streaming platforms, and other avenues.

Studying music isn’t just about learning music theory, history, and composition, it’s about your development as a well-rounded musician or music industry professional. Majoring in music provides opportunities to collaborate with other creatives, receive mentorship, and build confidence as a performer, producer, or promoter. Majoring in music means you are committing years to honing your craft so you can step into the music industry with the skills you need to stand out.