Entertainment Business Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Getting an Entertainment Business Degree in Jacksonville, Florida

Are you considering pursuing an Entertainment Business Degree in Jacksonville, Florida? This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the education paths available, local opportunities, and the resources you need to start your career in the entertainment industry. Whether your passion lies in music, film, live events, or talent management, Jacksonville offers numerous options to kickstart your journey.

An Entertainment Business Degree equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry. These programs typically include coursework in management, marketing, finance, and legal aspects tailored to the entertainment field. Depending on your career goals, you can pursue an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in areas such as Music Business, Film Business, or Entertainment Management.

About Jacksonville, Florida

Located in Duval County, Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States and a thriving hub for arts and entertainment. Known for its vibrant music scene, film production opportunities, and cultural events, Jacksonville provides a fertile ground for aspiring entertainment professionals. The city is home to landmarks like the historic Florida Theatre and the Jacksonville Symphony, as well as a host of festivals celebrating music, film, and the arts.

For more information about Jacksonville, visit the official city website.

Entertainment Business Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Here are some local and nearby schools offering Entertainment Business programs:

1. Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)

  • Program: Associate in Science (A.S.) in Theatre and Entertainment Technology
  • Location: Downtown Jacksonville
  • Overview: FSCJ offers a hands-on program that prepares students for backstage and production roles in entertainment. The program includes an apprenticeship with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
  • Learn more about FSCJ’s program.

2. Jacksonville University (JU)

  • Program: Film and Media Studies with Entertainment Business Courses
  • Location: Arlington Neighborhood
  • Overview: Jacksonville University provides a multidisciplinary approach, combining film studies with business courses relevant to the entertainment industry. Students gain practical experience through internships and projects.
  • Explore JU’s offerings.

3. University of Central Florida (UCF)

  • Program: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Entertainment Management
  • Location: Orlando, FL (approximately 2 hours from Jacksonville)
  • Overview: UCF’s program focuses on the business side of entertainment, including event management, marketing, and legal aspects. It offers extensive industry partnerships and internship opportunities.
  • Discover UCF’s Entertainment Management program.

4. Full Sail University

  • Program: Master of Science (M.S.) in Entertainment Business
  • Location: Winter Park, FL (approximately 2.5 hours from Jacksonville)
  • Overview: Full Sail’s master’s program is a fast-paced, 12-month program focusing on financial planning, distribution, and contract negotiation in the entertainment industry.
  • Learn more about Full Sail University.

If you’re willing to explore nearby cities, these programs expand your options for specialized education in entertainment business.

Entertainment Industry Opportunities in Jacksonville

Jacksonville’s entertainment industry is growing, with opportunities in film production, live events, and music. Here are some major players in the local industry:

1. Jacksonville Film and Television Office

2. Florida Theatre

  • Purpose: Historic venue hosting concerts, films, and live performances.
  • Opportunities: Provides internships and employment opportunities in event management and production.
  • Learn about the Florida Theatre.

3. Jacksonville Symphony

These organizations highlight Jacksonville’s robust entertainment scene, providing valuable connections for students and graduates.

Prerequisites for Entertainment Business Programs

Admission requirements for Entertainment Business programs in Jacksonville vary by institution and degree level. Here are some typical prerequisites:

Undergraduate Programs:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) may be required.
  • Minimum GPA requirements (varies by school).
  • Application deadlines: May 1 for Fall, November 1 for Spring, March 1 for Summer.

Graduate Programs:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
  • Submission of GRE or GMAT scores (varies by program).
  • International students must provide IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores.
  • Relevant work experience or portfolio (required for some programs).

Career Paths in Entertainment Business

Graduates with an Entertainment Business Degree have access to a wide range of career opportunities. Possible roles include:

  • Film and Television: Producer, Production Coordinator, Film Distribution Manager.
  • Music Industry: Talent Manager, Concert Promoter, Music Label Executive.
  • Live Events: Event Manager, Venue Operations Director, Brand Manager.
  • General Entertainment: Arts and Entertainment Business Manager, Marketing Specialist.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a positive job outlook for producers and directors, with a median annual wage of $79,000 as of 2023. Career paths in entertainment business are diverse, allowing graduates to align their roles with their passions.

Get Started Today

Jacksonville, Florida, provides an excellent backdrop for launching a career in the entertainment industry. With its educational programs, growing industry, and local career opportunities, you have a wealth of resources at your fingertips. Contact a school today to take the first step toward earning your Entertainment Business Degree and building a rewarding career in this dynamic field.