Marshall University United States

Commercial Music, B.A.

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Commercial Music, B.A. at Marshall University is designed for students eager to build a dynamic career in the multifaceted music industry. You will explore the essential blend of musical artistry and business acumen required to thrive in today's professional music landscape, from recording studios and live performance to music publishing and artist management. This undergraduate degree provides a comprehensive foundation, equipping you with the practical skills and industry knowledge necessary to navigate and succeed in diverse commercial music roles.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts program is structured over four years, integrating core music theory and performance with specialized commercial music subjects. You will engage in hands-on learning through applied lessons, ensemble participation, and courses in music technology, jazz improvisation, and music business law. In your final year, you will complete a capstone project, allowing you to synthesize your learning and prepare for professional pathways in areas such as music production, artist development, or music entrepreneurship.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Commercial Music program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the music industry. Students will engage in applied music laboratories, develop foundational and advanced music theory and aural skills, and participate in applied lessons and major ensembles. The program also incorporates specialized courses in jazz improvisation, composition, music technology, and music business, culminating in a capstone project. Additionally, students will fulfill general education requirements across various disciplines.

1 FIRST SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Elementary Music Theory I
Elem Aural Skills I
Applied Lessons, 100 Level
Major Ensemble
Class Piano
Freshman First Class
First Yr Sem Critical Thinking
Core II Fine Arts
Concepts and Applications (CT)

2 SECOND SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
The Professional Musician
Elementary Music Theory II
Elem Aural Skills II
Applied Lessons, 100 level
Major Ensemble
Class Piano
Fund Speech-Communication
Beginning Composition

3 FIRST SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Advanced Music Theory I
Adv Aural Skills I
Intro to Music Technology
Jazz Improvisation I
Jazz Piano Class
Applied Lessons, 100 level
Major Ensemble
Advanced Composition

4 SECOND SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Jazz Theory
Digital Recording Techniques
History of Popular Music
Jazz Improvisation II
Jazz Piano Class
Applied Lessons, 100 level
Major Ensemble
Elective

5 FIRST SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Basic Conducting
Jazz Arranging/Composing
Music Industry Law
Intro to Music Business (corequisite with MUS 326)
Applied Lessons, 300 level
Major Ensemble
Elective

6 SECOND SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Survey of Jazz
Perf Arts Entrepreneurship
Commerical Music Business
Applied Lessons, 300 level
Major Ensemble
Introduction to World Music (Restricted Elective)
Music History 1730 - 1900
Elective

7 FIRST SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Jazz Pedagogy and Conducting
Electronic Music Comp
Applied Lessons, 300 level
Major Ensemble
Core II Natural/Physical Science
Elective

8 SECOND SEMESTER

Applied Music Laboratory
Capstone Project in Music
Applied Lessons, 300 level
Major Ensemble
Music History Since 1900
Core II Social Science (MC/I, WI)
Core II Humanities (CT, WI)
Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,390.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,390.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,390.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,390.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 81,560.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Huntington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAmusement & Recreation ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsMuseums & Cultural HeritageNuclear EnergyOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionRefining & PetrochemicalsSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Marshall University

SAG-AFTRA

Thermo Fisher Scientific

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Why Study Commercial Music, B.A. at Marshall University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Marshall University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Marshall University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Commercial Music, B.A. at Marshall University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing separate work permits. After the first year, off-campus work may be possible with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE with specific score thresholds. For instance, a Duolingo overall score of 90 is needed.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include music producer, artist manager, music publisher, audio engineer, and music entrepreneur.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Commercial Music, B.A. at Marshall University focuses on blending musical artistry with business skills. Key subjects include music technology and music business law, providing a strong foundation for a career in the music industry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Commercial Music, B.A. program has intakes in January and August. Be sure to apply before the deadlines for your preferred start date.
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