Music—Business

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 Bachelor of Music—Business at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to navigate the dynamic intersection of music and commerce. This interdisciplinary undergraduate degree is designed for students passionate about the music industry who also seek a strong foundation in business principles, management, finance, and economics. You will explore core concepts in music theory, history, and performance, alongside practical applications in marketing, accounting, and the legal aspects of the music industry, preparing you for a multifaceted career.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, engaging in a curriculum that balances rigorous academic coursework with hands-on experience. Your journey will include developing keyboard skills, private instrumental or vocal lessons, and participating in ensembles, alongside core business subjects like financial accounting and marketing. In your final year, you have the opportunity to undertake a MUS 395 Internship in Music Business or MUS 397 Concert Promotion and Venue Management, allowing you to apply your learning in a professional setting and graduate prepared for roles in record labels, publishing, or artist management.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program explores the intersection of music and business, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of the music industry. The curriculum covers foundational music theory, ear training, and performance skills alongside essential business principles such as microeconomics, financial accounting, and marketing. Students will also delve into specialized music business topics like music publishing, record company operations, and concert promotion, culminating in practical experience through internships and electives.

1 Fall Semester

Music Theory I
Ear Training I
Convocation/Recital
Keyboard Skills I
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Vocal Lessons
Elementary Linear Algebra
Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts

2 Spring Semester

Music Theory II
Ear Training II
Convocation/Recital
Ensemble
Keyboard Skills II
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Vocal Lessons
Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
Principles of Microeconomics

3 Fall Semester

Convocation/Recital
Master Class in Performance
American Popular Music since 1850
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Vocal Lessons
Theory of Music III
Ear Training III
Commercial and Legal Foundations of the Music Industry
Introduction to Financial Accounting
General Education course

4 Spring Semester

Convocation/Recital
Master Class in Performance
Private Instrumental Lessons or Private Vocal Lessons
Theory of Music IV
Ear Training IV
History of Western Music I: Music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance
Introduction to Finance or Introduction to Managerial Finance
General Education course
Ensemble

5 Fall Semester

Music Technology
History of Western Music II: Music of the Baroque and Classical Periods
Record Company Marketing and Operations
Introduction to Marketing
Ensemble
General Education course

6 Spring Semester

History of Western Music III: Music from Romanticism through the Present
Music Publishing
Ensemble
General Education course
Business Elective

7 Fall Semester

Music Cultures of the World
Electives in business or music-related fields

8 Spring Semester

Internship in Music Business
Concert Promotion and Venue Management
Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Beverage Production & DistributionCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEvent Promotion & ManagementInvestment Management & Asset ManagementStreaming & Digital ContentUrban Mobility & Smart TransportVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

JPMorganChase

NBCUniversal

Northern Trust

PepsiCo

School of Rock

Why Study Music—Business at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at University of Illinois Chicago 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 Music—Business at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit. On-campus work does not require additional approvals.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet the English test requirements: TOEFL overall score of 80, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE overall score of 54. Specific listening, reading, speaking, and writing scores are also required depending on the test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Music Manager, Artist Coordinator, Music Marketing Specialist, Record Label Executive, and Concert Promoter.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BA in Music Business teaches students essential knowledge and skills in the fields of music and business that are necessary for pursuing a career in related fields. To do that, this interdisciplinary major

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Music—Business program has three intake months: January, May, and August. You can choose the month that best fits your schedule to start your studies.
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