Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

This programme blends management theory with industry-specific subjects to prepare students for roles across music, film, digital media and live events. Core business topics such as organisational behaviour, marketing, finance and strategic management are taught alongside entertainment-focused modules.

• Foundations of Management and Marketing – principles of management, consumer behaviour and marketing strategy adapted to creative sectors.
• Entertainment Industry Economics – revenue models, rights and monetisation in music, film and digital distribution.
• Media Law and Ethics – contracts, intellectual property, licensing and regulatory issues relevant to media professionals.
• Event and Venue Management – planning, production, logistics, health & safety and operations for live events and festivals.
• Artist and Talent Management – career development, contract negotiation, branding and relationship management for performers and creative talent.
• Digital Media and Content Strategy – social media, analytics, online marketing and audience development for entertainers and media organisations.
• Production and Project Management – budgeting, scheduling and team leadership for media and live-production projects.
• Capstone or Internship – an applied project or industry placement that gives substantive, supervised experience in a professional setting.

Courses combine lectures, case studies, guest lectures from industry professionals and practical workshops. Students often work on real-world projects with local companies and venues, building a professional portfolio alongside academic credits.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised secondary-school qualification or equivalent and fulfil the university’s general admissions criteria. Typical considerations include academic transcript, personal statement and, where applicable, evidence of relevant experience or interest in the creative industries.

• General university admission standards: completion of secondary education with a record demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study.
• Recommended background: coursework in English, business, media studies or arts subjects; previous practical experience in events, performance or media is advantageous.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency as required by the university.
• Selection may also take into account a personal statement and any relevant work or volunteer experience; specific portfolio requirements are unlikely but may be requested for certain modules or scholarship opportunities.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles across the creative and media industries. The degree is designed to develop transferable business skills alongside sector-specific knowledge.

• Artist, talent or band management
• Event, festival and venue management
• Marketing and promotions for record labels, film distributors and media companies
• Business development, licensing and rights management
• Production coordination and project management for live events and media projects
• Sales, distribution and digital content strategy roles in streaming, broadcast or publishing
• Entrepreneurial opportunities: launching agencies, production companies or independent labels

Internships and industry placements commonly lead to entry-level roles and professional networks that support career progression into mid-level management, agency leadership or specialised business roles within entertainment firms.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU is located in a region with strong ties to the music and entertainment industries, offering students ready access to professional networks and internship opportunities. The university emphasises hands-on learning and maintains collaborations with local venues, studios and media companies, allowing students to gain practical experience alongside academic study.

• Industry connections: proximity to a major music and entertainment hub supports guest teaching, placements and freelance opportunities.
• Practical focus: curriculum designed to combine business fundamentals with applied projects and supervised internships.
• Experienced faculty and visiting professionals: instructors with industry backgrounds bring current practice into the classroom.
• Facilities and student engagement: opportunities to work with campus media outlets, event series and community partners to build a professional portfolio.

The programme is suitable for students who want a business-oriented pathway into creative industries and value experiential learning and regional industry connections in developing their careers.