Degree Overview: Bachelor’s Degree Program in Music Merchandising
Majors Overview April 21, 2015Get information about bachelor’s degree programs in music merchandising and their education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Music Merchandising
Students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Music Merchandising program are imparted a grasp of musical theory and genres, in addition to basic marketing and business principles. Music merchandising majors often learn about packaging and selling music albums to consumers.
Students gain a strong grasp of the various genres of music, including popular music, opera, and country music. Studio hours and classroom lectures are also required to be spent to learn about basic music composition, whereby students can understand better about the art form they want to sell. The focus of most courses found within a music merchandising major is primarily on business strategies, consumer behavior, and marketing principles.
Education Requirements
Before they declare a major in music merchandising, sophomores and college freshmen may have to complete general education courses in social sciences, communication, and mathematics. Before they are allowed to begin core coursework in a four-year school, students are expected to submit strong high school grade transcripts.
Coursework
Various business and creative topic areas are in the program coursework, whereby students are prepared to seek entry-level jobs in the recording industry. Core coursework may include subject areas such as the following:
•Consumer behavior
•History of music
•Introduction to the recording industry
•Business finance
•Recital attendance
•Composition
•Music theory
•Blues, jazz, rock, or country
•Accounting
•Advertising and marketing
Career Choices
Those who complete a bachelor’s degree program in music merchandising may seek various job options, including:
•Artist manager
•Music producer
•Tour manager
•Music promotions director
•Promoter
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, average job growth rate of 10% have been predicted for business managers and agents of athletes, performers, and artists (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2013, these professionals brought in an average annual wage of $97,220 (BLS). Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, 5% job growth rate are expected to be seen by music directors and composers, including music producers. In May 2012, music producers banked an average annual wage of $47,350.
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates of the bachelor’s degree program may opt for continuing education by earning a master’s degree in either management or music, according to their personal preference. Those who wish to advance their careers in business aspects of the music industry would benefit by enrolling in master’s degree programs in marketing, business administration, finance, management, public relations, or promotions. The interests of those who seek careers on the creative and productive side of the industry would be best served by master’s degree programs in music and sound production.
