Entertainment Business Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

Getting an Entertainment Business Degree in St. Petersburg, Florida

The entertainment industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, offering a variety of career opportunities in areas such as music, film, live events, and more. An Entertainment Business Degree is an excellent way to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this competitive market. In St. Petersburg, Florida, prospective students will find a range of educational opportunities to prepare them for careers in entertainment management, music business, film business, and other industry sectors.

This guide will explore the available programs, local industry opportunities, and everything you need to know about pursuing an Entertainment Business Degree in St. Petersburg, Florida.

About St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, often referred to as “The Sunshine City,” is located in Pinellas County on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, the city is home to numerous theaters, galleries, and live music venues. Downtown St. Petersburg features landmarks such as the Salvador Dalí Museum and the Mahaffey Theater, which contribute to the city’s reputation as a cultural hub.

The local entertainment industry thrives with opportunities in live event production, music, and film. For more information about the city, visit the City of St. Petersburg’s official website.

Entertainment Business Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg College

  • Location: St. Petersburg, FL
  • Program: Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees in Hospitality Management with an Emphasis on Entertainment Management
  • Description: St. Petersburg College offers practical programs designed to prepare students for careers in the entertainment and hospitality industries. Courses include business management, marketing, and event planning. The program also emphasizes hands-on experience through internships and industry partnerships.
  • Website: St. Petersburg College Business Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Location: Orlando, FL (approximately 106 miles from St. Petersburg)
  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Management
  • Description: The University of Central Florida’s program focuses on the business and creative aspects of the entertainment industry. Students engage in courses such as entertainment law, consumer behavior, and event management, with ample internship opportunities to gain real-world experience.
  • Website: UCF Entertainment Management Program

Florida International University

  • Location: Miami, FL (approximately 260 miles from St. Petersburg)
  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management – Entertainment Management
  • Description: Florida International University offers a fully online program that combines hospitality and entertainment management. Students learn about finance, marketing, and operational strategies, with a focus on the entertainment sector.
  • Website: FIU Hospitality Management Program

If attending a school outside of St. Petersburg is an option, both UCF and FIU offer comprehensive programs with unique features tailored to the entertainment industry.

Entertainment Industry Opportunities in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg boasts a thriving entertainment industry with numerous opportunities for hands-on experience and employment. Below are some notable organizations:

Jannus Live

  • Location: Downtown St. Petersburg
  • Description: A premier outdoor concert venue hosting live music events across various genres. Jannus Live provides opportunities for careers in event production, marketing, and talent management.
  • Website: Jannus Live Employment Opportunities

The Mahaffey Theater

  • Location: Downtown St. Petersburg
  • Description: A state-of-the-art performance hall featuring concerts, theatrical productions, and community events. The Mahaffey Theater offers careers in venue management, technical production, and event coordination.
  • Website: The Mahaffey Theater Careers

St. Petersburg-Clearwater Film Commission

  • Location: Clearwater, FL (approximately 15 miles from St. Petersburg)
  • Description: This commission supports film and television production in the Tampa Bay area, offering resources for location scouting, permitting, and crew services.
  • Website: Film Commission Resources

Prerequisites for Entertainment Business Programs

To enroll in an Entertainment Business program, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • SAT or ACT scores, depending on the institution.
  • A minimum GPA, such as 2.0 for transfer students at the University of Central Florida.
  • Some programs may require additional materials, such as a portfolio or personal statement.

It is important to check the specific admission requirements for each program, as they can vary by institution and degree level.

Career Paths in Entertainment Business

Graduates with an Entertainment Business Degree can pursue a variety of career paths across different sectors of the industry. Some common roles include:

  • Event Manager: Planning and executing live events, concerts, or festivals.
  • Production Coordinator: Overseeing the logistics of film, television, or theater productions.
  • Talent Agent or Manager: Representing artists, musicians, or actors in contract negotiations and career planning.
  • Marketing Specialist: Developing promotional strategies for entertainment products or events.
  • Venue Manager: Managing the daily operations of theaters, concert halls, or event spaces.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment for producers and directors is projected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth highlights the strong demand for skilled professionals in the entertainment industry.

Get Started Today

Earning an Entertainment Business Degree is a significant step toward a rewarding career in this exciting field. St. Petersburg, Florida, and nearby cities offer a range of educational programs and industry opportunities to help you succeed. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward achieving your career goals in the entertainment industry.