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Music Business Online MBA Concentration Within the Master's in Business Administration Program
You're viewing a Program Concentration
Total courses 3 (of 10)
Term length 10 weeks
Concentration Overview Why focus your MBA in music business?
The music industry is rapidly changing, requiring creative leaders who have a business mindset. As part of your MBA program, this concentration adds a music business focus to your degree.
Southern New Hampshire University, in partnership with Berklee College of Music, offers the Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Music Business online. This program is a great choice for music executives, artists, managers and entrepreneurs who want to develop the skills needed to get their music out into the world.
Skills you'll learn:
- Application of business practices
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Adaptable strategy development
- Process improvement
- Music business leadership
- Finance and marketing strategies
Courses & Curriculum Career-focused online music business courses
The innovative, online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Music Business features a prestigious partnership with Boston-based Berklee College of Music — the first of its kind in the United States. In this program, you'll get the the interdisciplinary experience of a comprehensive MBA while each concentration course helps you build the music-specific knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this fast-paced industry.
Your 3-course music business concentration explained
Your entire MBA degree consists of 10 courses (30 credits). If you choose this concentration, you’ll take 7 graduate-level MBA classes (21 credits), including 1 course that's specific to leadership and ethics in the music industry. The remaining 3 courses (9 credits) that make up your music business concentration are focused on marketing, finance and business structure in the music industry and are taught by instructors from the Berklee College of Music.
Courses may include:
Music Business Structure and Strategies
Course ID:
BMB 515
This course provides an in depth look at the structure of the evolving music business and strategies for creating successful business models. It will guide students through the critical areas of the music industry, including publishing and licensing; marketing, promotion, and retail; proper utilization of free music; fan funding and other forms of creative revenue for musicians; and new business opportunities. By the end of this course, students will have a deep understanding of the pressing issues that all musicians, music industry entrepreneurs, managers, and other music business professionals face in the main segments of the music industry, and how to leverage opportunities that the new business provides. This course is offered through Berklee Online.
The Business of Music Marketing
Course ID:
BMB 630
In the Business of Music Marketing, you will gain a professional-level knowledge of cutting edge marketing techniques essential for any music-centric business. Starting with evergreen marketing best practices, you will learn specific approaches for building an engaged community, applying different forms of media for visibility, and utilizing professional marketing tools to plan, execute, and report back on results. Learn how to plan and support a product release, create and execute an integrated marketing campaign, and explore ways to create and run a successful music business. You will master marketing philosophy and gain critical knowledge and skills for both music product and marketing.
Music Business Finance
Course ID:
BMB 655
In this course, students learn to apply critical tools of financial analysis to leverage talent, assess the potential of music enterprises, and drive new music businesses. The course explores nontraditional forms of music funding, such as venture capital and crowdfunding opportunities like Kickstarter. The course includes three components, roughly equally weighted in time spent per week: 1- financial calculations - music and business examples, 2- money, markets, and the music business, and 3- funding music. This course in offered through Berklee Online.
Music Business Leadership and Ethics
Course ID:
BMB 670
Leadership, decision-making, and ethics represent vital foundations for business professionals in the music industry. The course examines the characteristics of notable leaders, leadership approaches, and music industry leadership scenarios. It explores ethics from a wide variety of industries to gain an understanding about why ethical choices are important, and analyzes current issues affecting the music industry, such as the treatment of artists, intellectual property rights, revenue sharing, and digital media and distribution. Students will apply specific decision-making approaches and ethical frameworks toward projects that mirror the real world. They will create a blueprint for sound decision-making, effective leadership, organizational planning, and ethical awareness that they can immediately apply toward advancing their careers. This course is offered through Berklee Online.
Visit the online course catalog to view the full Master of Business (MBA) with a concentration in Music Business curriculum.
The best of both worlds
The prestigious, Boston-based Berklee College of Music is the largest independent college of contemporary music in the world. In your Berklee courses, you'll learn from the leaders in the field of music. The award-winning faculty are experts and innovators who are highly active in their areas of specialization.
Your diploma will come from both SNHU and Berklee — giving you the name recognition of two major players in higher education.
Learn more about Berklee College of Music.
MBA Technical Requirements
Video Communication Platform:
- Mac or PC desktop or laptop (not a mobile device or tablet)
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Required: At least 1Mbps upload/download speed
- Learn more about our detailed technical requirements
Internet Connectivity for Virtual Labs:
- Recommended: 5Mbps upload/download speed with less than 40ms latency
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: July 6, 2026 | September 21, 2026
Next term starts:
April 20, 2026
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.4% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2025 survey with 8,718 respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 30-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$659
$1,977
$19,770
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$14,100
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,318 $2,636 $3,954If 2 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $18,452
If 4 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,134
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,816
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for an MBA degree. Most master's degrees require 30 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 6 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer credits toward your master's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with my concentration in music business?
The past few decades have seen tremendous changes in the way music is produced, distributed and promoted. Musicians and entrepreneurs must develop the skills and tech-savvy to not only create a polished product, but put it out into the world. As the music business has shifted, it has also ushered in exciting new career opportunities.
Occupations
The skills you learn in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Music Business program — especially those around leadership, innovation, strategy and measuring success — are applicable to the music industry in a variety of job settings, like:
Music Publishing
Oversee rights, restrictions, exclusivities and payments related to commercial contracts with songwriters.
Talent
Manage various aspects of artist contracts, including copyrights, sales, marketing and event planning and promotion.
Record Labels
Build and sustain a label's brand through talent sourcing, content production, sales and marketing.
Public Relations
Work with media outlets, marketers and venues to help raise an artist’s profile and shape their image.
Tour Management
Manage all aspects of concert tours, from transportation and accommodations to merchandise and finances.
Concert Promotion
Conceive events, hire staff, choose venues, promote the event and plan logistics.
90%
Number of recruiters nationally that planned to hire MBA graduates in 2023, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey.1
$125,000
Median annual starting salary offered nationally to new employees with an MBA in 2023, according to the GMAC 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
It was nice to be able to find a program that had that balance, where I could balance my professional life, my academic life, but also my personal life outside of school and work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an MBA with a concentration in Music Business?
From the advent of peer-to-peer file sharing, to the rise of popular streaming services and a growing interest in licensing for film, television and video games, music professionals must nimbly seek new avenues to put their music out into the world.
Students of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Music Business program from Southern New Hampshire University and Berklee College of Music online are artists, producers, managers, promoters and more. Some are just getting their foot in the door, and others are music vets accessing the tools they need to remain relevant in a fast-changing industry.
Some of the most common career paths you can pursue with an MBA with a concentration in Music Business are:
- Artist & repertoire (A&R) manager: Represent musical artists by planning, organizing, directing and negotiating on their behalf.
- Booking agent: Manage the many different aspects of event booking for musicians, including contract negotiation, marketing, event planning and more.
- Publicist: Manage media relations and spin stories that help shape an artist's public image.
- Tour manager: Nail down the logistics of putting an artist on tour, from transportation and accommodations to scheduling, merchandise and finances.
- Music publisher: Review contractual agreements to help ensure artists are paid and their work is protected.
- Promoter: Work with artists and venues to organize tours and special events.
While a concentration in music business can help you set yourself apart in this competitive industry, it's important to note that MBA graduates are also some of the most sought after and employable in today's market. According to one survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council, about 90% of recruiters planned to hire MBAs in 2023.1
MBA's are valuable in a wide range of industries. Read more about what you can do with an MBA.
How can an MBA help me in the music business?
The music industry attracts people with passion, creativity and drive. Those who succeed in the music industry understand business.
Whether it’s managing finances, negotiating contracts, booking events or reviewing publishing agreements, it's not enough to have talent. You need the acumen to handle yourself on the business side of a music-related career.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Music Business gives you the opportunity to develop knowledge, skills and abilities that will be useful to you, whether you're working for someone else or are self-employed.
"I had one student who was really interested in the algorithm of a popular streaming service," said Mike King, former vice president of enrollment management and marketing and CMO of Berklee Online. "He was a composer who created these ambient playlists that people would listen to as they'd fall asleep. Rain and waves and sounds like that."
The plan struck King, as it not only displayed exceptional understanding of the intersection between technology and music, but it also became a way for his student to make money.
"It was a really clever idea — and ended up becoming really profitable, too," King said.
In the end, the message is clear: Knowing how to market, manage and monetize a business is a crucial skill set for any music industry professional.
Learn more: Is an MBA Worth It?
How long does it take to get an MBA with a concentration in Music Business?
How long it takes to get an MBA completely depends on your timeline of personal goals and a schedule in which you can be successful.
If you're motivated to earn your degree quickly, you can enroll full-time (2 courses per 10-week term) and finish in just over a year.
But that's not a schedule that works for everyone — and that's OK. If you have obligations with work, family or in your personal life, you can opt to enroll part time — 1 class per 10-week term.
Our online courses are designed to work for you. So if you need to take terms off in between courses, just let your academic advisor know. With multiple term starts per year, you have the flexibility to create a schedule that fits your needs.
What is a concentration?
At colleges and universities, a concentration is a focused area of study within a larger degree program. A concentration generally replaces elective coursework in the major or discipline, allowing students to focus their studies on an area of interest.
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Sources and Citations
1 Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey, on the internet, at https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/2023_gmac_corporaterecruiters_report.pdf [PDF] (viewed March 15, 2024)