If you’re interested in pursuing or advancing a business career in the entertainment industry, you might consider earning an online masters in entertainment management.
A masters in entertainment business degree program can give you the opportunity to combine your creative and business interests while developing versatile skill sets.
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You can read on to learn more about what a graduate degree in this field entails and the potential career paths it may lead to.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Engineering Management Degree Program
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Berklee College of Music
Berklee College of Music offers a Master of Arts in Music Business. Courses include Music Business Revenue Streams, The Business of Music Marketing, Data Analytics in the Music Business, Music Business Finance for Entrepreneurs, and more.
Applicants can apply at any time and typically receive an admissions decision within 2 weeks.
Berklee College of Music is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Colorado State University
Colorado State University offers a Master of Communications and Media Management. The program includes 6 core courses and 4 electives. All coursework can be completed online, but core courses are taught synchronously, while electives are taught asynchronously.
Students in the program are taught to operate ethically and use data-driven approaches in their work.
Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Concordia University – Ann Arbor
Concordia University—Ann Arbor offers an MBA in Sport and Entertainment Business. It is a faith-based program consisting of 36 credits. The degree can be completed entirely online.
Students are given opportunities to develop a portfolio to show potential employers and gain field experience by working with Concordia’s industry partners.
Concordia University – Ann Arbor is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Drexel University
Drexel University offers an online program for an MS in Television and Media Management. The curriculum combines practical and academic coursework covering management principles and programming strategies. Optional professional internships and study abroad opportunities are available.
This is a part-time program that can typically be completed in about 2 years.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Southern Connecticut State University
Southern Connecticut State University offers an online M.S. in Sport and Entertainment Management. Courses include Sport and Entertainment Finance, Sport and Entertainment Law, Marketing and Sales in Sport and Entertainment, Facility and Event Management, and more.
Students may choose to complete either a capstone project or a thesis.
Southern Connecticut State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online program for an MBA in Music Business that can potentially be finished in one year. Courses include Music Business Leadership and Ethics, Music Business Structures and Strategies, Music Business Finance, and more.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for five terms each year. GRE and GMAT scores are not required.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University offers a Master of Arts in Arts Administration. The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours and is available entirely online. Students are required to take coursework in legal issues, marketing, financial management, leadership, and more and finish the program by completing a final project.
An MFA program that requires the completion of 60 credit hours is also available.
Southern Utah University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The New School
The New School offers an MS in Media Management. The program requires the completion of 36 credits and typically takes 2 years to complete for full-time students. Students may choose to study part-time if they wish. Classes are available both on campus and online.
The curriculum is interdisciplinary, covering topics such as business development, data analytics, and marketing.
The New School is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
University of Miami
The University of Miami offers a Master of Arts in Live Entertainment Management. It takes 30 credits to graduate, and students can potentially finish in just 18 months. The program covers project management, finances, nonprofit and for-profit business models, and more.
This is an online program designed to provide flexibility for working adults.
The University of Miami is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of North Texas
The University of North Texas offers an online program for an MBA in Sport Entertainment Management. It includes twelve classes, for a total of 36 credit hours. Students are required to attend on-site boot camps and given opportunities to receive field experience through UNT’s partnership with the Dallas Cowboys.
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and 3 years of full-time work experience to qualify.
The University of North Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Online Masters in Entertainment Management Programs
An entertainment management master’s degree program can give you the opportunity to pursue advanced studies in media and entertainment. The added flexibility of a business online degree can help professionals balance their studies with life’s other responsibilities.
Working in the field of entertainment management may include:
- Managing the careers of film, TV, theater, or sports personalities
- Producing and directing shows
- Handling media relations
- Brokering deals and contracts for endorsements
- Managing concert tours and events
- Scouting, casting, and coaching new talents
Much like an MBA program for small business owners, a master’s program in this field can help you develop stronger management, communication, public relations, and leadership skills. These are key skillsets for entertainment professionals who handle the business side of show business.
Some of the common topics covered in an entertainment management masters program are:
- Marketing and promotion
- Entertainment business laws and ethics
- Project management
- Digital media writing
- Entertainment business finance
- Artist and sports management
- Event planning
Entertainment business management professionals may work in film, television, music, theater, online media, advertising, or sports. No matter your area of interest, earning a masters in entertainment management online can help you advance your expertise and qualifications in this field.
Entertainment Management Careers & Salaries
Completing a master’s degree in entertainment management can help you qualify for a wide range of career opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some careers related to entertainment management that master’s graduates might pursue.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Marketing Managers | $135,030 |
| Financial Managers | $131,710 |
| Sales Managers | $127,490 |
| Advertising and Promotions Managers | $127,150 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $119,860 |
| Top Executives | $98,980 |
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes | $78,410 |
| Market Research Analysts | $63,920 |
| Public Relations Specialists | $62,800 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | $49,470 |
The entertainment world continues to grow thanks to digital technology and globalization. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, entertainment and sports occupations are expected to grow 22% over the next ten years.
Entertainment Management Master’s Curriculum & Courses
Though coursework varies by university, these are some typical courses offered in an online master’s in entertainment management degree program:
- Marketing and Promotion in Entertainment: This course covers strategies for marketing and promoting talents, events, and projects on various marketing platforms.
- Entertainment Business Laws and Ethics: This course discusses the legal structures governing film, television, music, and sports. It also covers ethical models, intellectual property, and related legal issues.
- Project and Team Management: This course focuses on the various aspects of managing large-scale projects and teams, including planning, budget management, team assessment, progress tracking, and project assessment.
- Digital Media Writing: This class can help you learn how to professionally compose copy for digital media channels and content for online publishing.
- Entertainment Business Finance: This course covers how to fund media events, individual talents, and entertainment start-ups. It also covers finance coaching, funding opportunities, monetizing digital content, and making sound financial decisions.
- Negotiation and Entertainment Contracts: This course covers managing contracts, brokering, and turning a client or project into a bankable and profitable brand.
- Corporate Entertainment Structures: This class discusses corporate organizational frameworks, work structures, and processes in the context of entertainment projects and deals.
- Artist Management: This course covers best practices for managing and representing actors, singers, and musicians, from identifying job opportunities to professionally managing the client as a brand.
- Sports Management: This course covers how to scout, coach, and market professional athletes. It also covers managing schedules, liaising with sports organizations, booking travel and events, and negotiating contracts.
- Event Planning: This course explores strategic planning, budgeting, sourcing of suppliers, biddings, managing and delegating tasks, and scheduling. It also covers how to market a talent or client for events and tours.
Each of these courses aims to help you develop your entertainment business knowledge and your relationship management skills.
How to Become an Entertainment Manager
A bachelors degree is often the minimum educational requirement for entertainment managers. Whether you’re working in the entertainment industry or looking to change careers, earning a masters degree in entertainment management can reinforce your credentials as an expert in the field.
To start building your portfolio and network, you may choose to join internship programs or volunteer to work on entertainment projects while you finish your studies. Some graduates start in mid-level positions in related niches—such as advertising, event management, or media—and work their way up to entertainment manager positions. Others start applying directly to entertainment management jobs.
Joining a professional organization could help you broaden your network and make connections in the industry. For some organizations, membership also grants you access to exclusive job boards.
Entertainment Management Masters Admissions Requirements
Requirements vary by school or program, but these are some of the most common admission requirements for a master’s program:
- GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school
- Letters of recommendation
- Minimum college GPA of 3.0, on average
- Official transcripts
Since prerequisites can vary, it’s helpful to check the specific criteria of the school or program you’re interested in. For instance, some programs prefer candidates to have a business-related bachelors.
Entertainment Management Graduate Programs Accreditation
It is beneficial to check whether the program you are considering is duly accredited by a recognized accrediting body. The accreditation process verifies that an institution or program is credible and meets academic quality standards.
You can check whether or not a university is regionally accredited by visiting the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Enrollment in an accredited program is also required if you plan to apply for federal aid, state aid, or private grants. Many employers also prefer candidates who have degrees from accredited schools.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you are interested in applying for financial aid, you can apply directly online by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA can determine your eligibility for federal loans and grants as well as other need-based aid.
The US Department of Education also provides detailed information about the types of financial aid available, the eligibility requirements, and the aid process. Common financial aid options include federal aid, state aid, scholarships, and employer programs. While many schools offer scholarship opportunities, you can also research scholarships from private organizations and companies.
What Can You Do with a Master’s Degree in Entertainment Management?
Some entertainment management graduates work in artist management, media productions, public relations, advertising, and events management and promotion. This course of study focuses on the business side of entertainment.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for professionals in this field is expected to grow faster than the average for all other occupations.
Depending on their experience and proficiency, entertainment managers also have the opportunity to earn higher than average salaries. While many graduates pursue work within the entertainment sector, others apply their business and management skills to a wide range of industries.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters in Entertainment Management Degree Online?
Online masters degrees in entertainment management can generally be completed in 1 to 2 years, but program lengths can also vary greatly. If a program consists of 36 credit hours, you may be able to complete it with 1 year of full-time, year-round study.
Some schools will even allow you to waive certain course requirements if you have relevant work experience, which could potentially allow you to finish your coursework in less time. While enrolling on a part-time basis can allow you more flexibility, it can also add to your completion time.
Is a Masters in Entertainment Management Worth It?
Yes, a masters in entertainment management is worth it for many students. The entertainment industry continues to flourish with digital platforms steadily growing their global audiences.
In addition, the demand for management professionals is expected to rise. For instance, employment of agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes is expected to grow by 46% over the next years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 9% job growth for management occupations in general, which is about as fast as average. A masters in entertainment management can also help you develop versatile expertise and prepare you for a range of career opportunities.
Careers related to this field include artist manager, media relations specialist, PR manager, advertising executive, event manager, marketing manager, and creative communications manager.
Getting Your Master’s in Entertainment Management Online
The career outlook for the field of entertainment management is quite positive. If you are interested in advancing your career in this area, you may want to consider exploring online entertainment management degree graduate programs.
To choose the right one for you, it’s beneficial to compare various programs’ coursework, terms, tuition rates, requirements, and network connections. It’s advantageous to choose a program that fits your schedule, budget, and learning objectives.
If you’re ready to invest in your professional development, you can take the first step today by researching online entertainment management masters programs from accredited schools.
