Music Business MA

Work innovatively and ethically in the world of contemporary music

Ready to shape the future of the music industry? Working with academics from the Academy of Music & Theatre Arts and the Cornwall Business School, you'll explore new music business models and future-facing practice. From marketing and publishing to project management, you’ll develop the skills and expertise to work sustainably in the industry.

Based in our purpose-built facilities – which include space for gigs, recording, rehearsals and business – you'll be immersed in a hub of creativity and collaboration. You'll have the opportunity to develop projects with video makers, photographers, fashion designers, graphic designs, dancers and choreographers from across the University.

We’re after Independently-minded innovators that want to shape the future of the music business.

You will:

• Gain skills in marketing, publishing, contracts and project management.
• Be able to undertake industry-accredited short courses.
• Learn from lecturers with a wealth of industry experience covering everything from merchandising, music video. production and managing micro-labels to international touring and major festivals like Glastonbury.
• Develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills and apply this to live music business projects.
• Have the opportunity to interact with relevant music businesses, festivals, distributors and labels.
• Have access to the University's wide range of professional facilities, equipment and creative spaces.

Throughout the year you’ll explore brand, image and marketing and gain an understanding of publishing and income streams for digital and physical releases. You’ll also be challenged to develop disruptive responses to the key issues facing the music business right now. When working on projects, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate across the University – tapping into the wealth of creativity and expertise we have on campus.

Study block one

In the first study block, you’ll explore identity, digital marketing and promotion and delve into the complexities of intellectual property in the digital age.

• Byte Me
• Show Me the Money

Study block two

During study block two, you’ll look at the current issues facing the music industry and develop your project management skills through a collaborative project.

• Music Matters
• Collaboration

Study block three

Your master’s degree will culminate in a final career-launching project that builds on all the skills you’ve developed throughout the course.

• Taking Care of Business

The modules above are those being studied by our students, or proposed new ones. Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Course Leader.

How you'll learn

You'll learn through a blend of lectures, workshops and access to key texts and materials that introduce new theories, ideas, tasks and research.

Workshops will allow you to undertake real projects under the supervision of our expert staff. Tutorials will give you the opportunity for detailed discussion and guidance.

You’ll also take part in student-led seminars, which offer the opportunity to discuss the theory, content, practice and issues emerging from lectures and current business practices.

Assessment methods

You'll be assessed through a range of methods including:

• Written assignments
• Practical work
• Presentations
• Video content

You’ll also receive regular verbal feedback on your progress throughout each module, via workshops and tutorials.

Our graduates could become:

• Self-managed musicians
• Part of the publishing, copyright & synchronisation sector
• Agents or managers
• Music supervisors
• Digital marketers for the music business
• Artist and repertoire representatives