In our Music Business and Industry Program, we provide a solid foundation in analytical, regulatory and creative knowledge and skills essential for thriving in the commercial music industry.
Coursework covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Music fundamentals
- Business principles
- Intellectual property in the music industry
- Music publishing
- Live music events
- Recording industry practices
- Music product development and placement
These courses are designed to equip you with the practical expertise needed to excel in various facets of the music business.
Our program aligns with the College of Creative Arts and Media's mission of fostering experiential, student-centered learning, ensuring that you receive a comprehensive education that prepares you for real-world success in the music industry.
Tailor this major to your interests by taking one of these courses as you pursue your degree:
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MUSC 410:
Introduction to Music Industry
Introductory overview of the music industry's history, business, technology, and law. Students will gain essential understanding and skills necessary for professional involvement and progress in the music industry.
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MUSC 412:
Music Product Development and Placement
Key music product development and placement principles structures, and practices using today's music commerce mechanisms, techniques and technologies for publicity, product advancement, consumer research, and distribution. Design, implementation, control, and evaluation of effective music product market advancement and positioning.
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MUSC 413:
Live Music Industry
Regulations, standards, strategies, and methods of live music event planning, advancement, and implementation. Topics include: talent and venue buying and deal structuring, budgeting, sponsorships, live sound production, music event contracts, licensing, publicity and placement, ticketing, and insurance.
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MUSC 414:
Recording Industry
Recording industry system development, markets, structures, commercial methods and strategies. Topics include: historical development of the recording industry; industry specific copyright regulations and commercial agreements; record company structures and models; recording production processes and technology; global music markets.
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MUSC 415:
Music Publishing
Development, commercial methods, scopes, and practices of the music publishing industry; copyrights acquisition, advancement, and protection. Topics include: history of the music publishing and related copyright regulations; royalties and licensing; performing rights; music publishing and television, film, commercials, musicals, video games, and other media; music publishing agreements; international music publishing.
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MUSC 491:
Professional Field Experience
(May be repeated up to a maximum of 18 hours.) Prearranged experiential learning program, to be planned, supervised, and evaluated for credit by faculty and field supervisors. Involves temporary placement with public or private enterprise for professional competence development.
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MUSC 336:
Introduction to Digital Audio Workstation
Principles of Digital Audio Workstations. Students will be introduced to the key audio and MIDI concepts required to complete a DAW project from set-up to final mix-down.
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MUSC 459:
Film and Video Game Composition
Media composers are storytellers. Whether in film, television, podcasts, or video games, music and sound bring our digital worlds to life. This class explores approaches to producing work digitally for linear and non-linear mediums, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration with game designers, programmers, film directors, and other creative partners.
Tailor this major to your interests by focusing your coursework in one of these areas:
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Applied Music
Acceptance to the Applied Music Emphasis requires admission to WVU and a successful audition with the School of Music.
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Multi-Instrumental
Acceptance to the Multi-Instrumental Emphasis requires admission to WVU and a successful interview with the School of Music (no audition).
Take advantage of special options related to this major:
