Entertainment Business Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Getting an Entertainment Business Degree in Nashville, Tennessee

Are you considering a career in the entertainment industry? Earning an Entertainment Business Degree in Nashville, Tennessee, can open doors to exciting opportunities in music, film, live events, and beyond. Known as “Music City,” Nashville offers a unique blend of cultural vibrancy and professional resources, making it a prime location for pursuing a degree in this dynamic field.

An Entertainment Business Degree equips students with the skills needed to manage and promote creative ventures in music, film, television, and other entertainment sectors. With programs ranging from associate to doctoral levels, students can choose specializations such as Music Business, Film Business, or Sports Entertainment. This guide will walk you through the options available in Nashville, the prerequisites for enrolling, and the career paths you can explore upon graduation.

About Nashville, Tennessee

Nestled in Davidson County, Nashville is renowned as a hub for music, particularly country music, and is home to iconic landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. The city also boasts a thriving film and live entertainment scene, supported by numerous production companies, studios, and venues. Nashville’s official website (nashville.gov) offers further insights into the city’s resources and attractions.

Thanks to its vibrant entertainment industry, Nashville is an ideal setting for aspiring professionals to gain hands-on experience while studying. The city’s unique blend of creative energy and business opportunities ensures that students are well-prepared to succeed in their chosen fields.

Entertainment Business Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

If you’re looking to study Entertainment Business in Nashville, here are some top programs to consider:

  1. Belmont University – Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business

    • Location: Belmont-Hillsboro neighborhood
    • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Music Business, Media & Entertainment Industries
    • Highlights: This program offers a comprehensive curriculum, including courses on Media, Entertainment & Society, and Emerging Media Trends. Students benefit from Nashville’s rich music and entertainment culture, along with internship opportunities.
    • Learn more here

  2. SAE Institute Nashville

    • Location: The Gulch neighborhood
    • Programs Offered: Associate of Applied Science in Audio and Entertainment Business
    • Highlights: Known for its hands-on approach, SAE provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and direct industry connections in Music City.
    • Explore this program

  3. Lipscomb University – College of Entertainment & the Arts

    • Location: Green Hills neighborhood
    • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Film Production and Entertainment Management
    • Highlights: Lipscomb combines creative coursework with business acumen, offering concentrations in areas like Film Business. Students can also participate in local internships, leveraging Nashville’s entertainment scene.
    • Visit the program page

If you’re willing to explore programs outside Nashville, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in Murfreesboro (approximately 35 miles from Nashville) offers degrees in Music Business and Recording Industry Management. Learn more here.

Entertainment Industry Opportunities in Nashville

Nashville offers a wealth of opportunities for networking and real-world experience in the entertainment industry. Here are some prominent organizations:

  1. Big Machine Label Group

    • Location: Music Row
    • Description: This leading record label specializes in country and pop music and offers internships and career opportunities in marketing, management, and production.
    • Careers at Big Machine

  2. Ryman Auditorium

    • Location: Downtown Nashville
    • Description: Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” this historic venue hosts concerts and live events, offering roles in event coordination and venue management.
    • Work at Ryman Auditorium

  3. CMT (Country Music Television)

    • Location: Downtown Nashville
    • Description: This television network produces music videos, live shows, and documentaries, creating opportunities in production and content management.
    • Explore careers at CMT

Prerequisites for Entertainment Business Programs

Before enrolling in an Entertainment Business program, prospective students should meet the following requirements:

  • Education Level: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Standardized Tests: Some programs may require SAT or ACT scores.
  • Application Materials: Essays, letters of recommendation, and transcripts are commonly requested.
  • Portfolio: For creative specializations, a portfolio of previous work may be needed.
  • English Proficiency: International students may need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.

Specific admission requirements vary by institution, so it’s important to check with the school directly.

Career Paths in Entertainment Business

Graduating with an Entertainment Business Degree opens doors to various career opportunities. Here are some potential career paths:

  1. Music Business Manager

    • Oversee the careers of artists, managing contracts, promotions, and finances.
    • Common employers: Record labels, talent agencies.

  2. Film Producer

    • Coordinate all aspects of film production, from budgeting to post-production.
    • Common employers: Production studios, independent film companies.

  3. Event Coordinator

    • Plan and execute live events such as concerts, festivals, and corporate gatherings.
    • Employers include event planning agencies and venues.

  4. Content Creator/Manager

    • Develop and manage media content for digital platforms, including YouTube and social media.
    • Employers include streaming services and marketing firms.

For detailed job outlook information, visit the Producers and Directors career page on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

Nashville, Tennessee, provides a vibrant environment for studying Entertainment Business, with access to top-tier programs and a thriving industry. Whether you’re drawn to Music Row or the city’s bustling film scene, opportunities abound for aspiring professionals.

Take the first step toward your dream career by contacting a school today. Explore their course offerings, schedule a campus tour, and start building your future in the entertainment industry.