Entertainment Business Programs in Louisiana

Getting an Entertainment Business Degree in Louisiana

Are you considering a career in the entertainment industry? Pursuing an Entertainment Business Degree in Louisiana can open the door to exciting opportunities in film, music, theater, and more. This guide will walk you through the process of earning your degree, exploring local programs, and understanding the opportunities available in Louisiana’s thriving entertainment industry.

What is an Entertainment Business Degree?

An Entertainment Business Degree is designed to prepare individuals for careers in the entertainment industry by combining business fundamentals with specialized knowledge in areas such as film production, music management, and theater operations. Programs range from associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees, with options to specialize in specific facets of the industry.

Why Pursue an Entertainment Business Degree in Louisiana?

Louisiana, often referred to as “Hollywood South,” boasts a vibrant entertainment scene, with a strong emphasis on film and music. The state’s generous tax incentives for the film industry have attracted major productions, making it one of the top destinations for filmmakers in the United States. Additionally, Louisiana is known for its rich cultural heritage, which fuels its music and live entertainment sectors.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Producers and Directors earn an average salary of $79,000 annually, with job opportunities projected to grow by 8% through 2031. Louisiana’s thriving entertainment industry offers unique opportunities for graduates to jumpstart their careers.

For more information about Louisiana, visit the official state website.

Prerequisites for Entertainment Business Programs

To enroll in an Entertainment Business program in Louisiana, applicants generally need to meet the following criteria:

  • Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or GED.
  • Minimum Age: 18 years old (or 17 with parental consent).
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores may be required by some institutions.
  • Portfolio Submission: Some programs, particularly those with a creative focus, may request a portfolio demonstrating relevant skills or experience.

Specific requirements vary by school. For example:

  • Loyola University New Orleans: Minimum GPA of 2.5 and SAT 1050 or ACT 20.
  • Delgado Community College: Open admissions policy; placement tests may be required.

Typical Program Curriculum

Entertainment Business programs combine business management skills with industry-specific knowledge. Coursework typically includes:

  • Business fundamentals: Accounting, marketing, and management principles.
  • Industry specialties: Film production, music business, and talent management.
  • Legal and ethical considerations: Contracts, copyright law, and intellectual property.
  • Hands-on experience: Internships or capstone projects.

Program Duration

  • Associate Degrees: Typically take 2 years to complete (60–65 credit hours).
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: Generally require 4 years (120–130 credit hours).

Specializations may include film, music, or theater, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals.

Entertainment Business Programs in Louisiana

Loyola University New Orleans

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Business.
  • Location: 6363 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118.
  • Overview: This program blends business fundamentals with entertainment-specific courses. Students can specialize in film, music, or theater while gaining hands-on experience through internships with local companies.
  • Cost: Approximately $42,000 per year.
  • Website: Loyola University New Orleans

Delgado Community College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Business and Entertainment Technologies.
  • Location: 615 City Park Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119.
  • Overview: This two-year program focuses on business and entertainment technologies, preparing students for entry-level roles in the entertainment industry.
  • Cost: Approximately $4,000 per year for in-state students.
  • Website: Delgado Community College

Schools Near Louisiana

If you’re willing to travel, consider nearby programs in neighboring states, such as Mississippi or Texas. For instance:

  • University of Southern Mississippi: Located in Hattiesburg, MS (approximately 2 hours from New Orleans).
  • The University of Texas at Austin: Renowned for its Radio-Television-Film program (approximately 6 hours from Louisiana).

Entertainment Industry Opportunities in Louisiana

Louisiana is home to a thriving entertainment industry, with opportunities in film, music, and live performance. Major companies include:

Louisiana Film and Entertainment Industry Development Office

  • Location: Baton Rouge, LA.
  • Overview: Supports the growth of the film industry in Louisiana through tax incentives and resources.
  • Website: Louisiana Entertainment

Local Entertainment Companies

  • Moonbot Studios: An award-winning animation and storytelling studio based in Shreveport, LA.
  • Tipitina’s Foundation: Dedicated to preserving Louisiana’s musical heritage through education and live performances.

Each of these organizations offers employment opportunities and internships for Entertainment Business graduates.

Industry Certifications

Enhance your degree with industry-recognized certifications, such as:

These certifications can set you apart in the competitive entertainment job market.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Entertainment Business programs in Louisiana varies:

  • Associate Degrees: $4,000–$6,000 per year (in-state).
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: $40,000–$45,000 per year.

Financial aid options include:

Career Opportunities

With an Entertainment Business Degree, graduates can pursue various roles, including:

  • Film Producer: Overseeing film productions from start to finish.
  • Music Industry Executive: Managing artists and music labels.
  • Theater Manager: Running operations for live performance venues.

Louisiana’s film tax credits and robust music industry create excellent job prospects for graduates. For industry data, review the BLS job outlook for Producers and Directors.

Get Started Today

Louisiana offers a wealth of opportunities for individuals pursuing an Entertainment Business Degree. Whether you’re drawn to film, music, or live performance, the state provides the education and industry connections necessary for success. Begin your journey by reaching out to a school today and taking the first step toward a rewarding career in entertainment business.