Entertainment Business Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Getting an Entertainment Business Degree in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Pursuing a degree in Entertainment Business can open doors to exciting careers in the film, music, and live event industries. Whether you’re passionate about managing productions, overseeing budgets, or creating content, an Entertainment Business degree equips you with the skills to succeed in this competitive field. Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers a range of opportunities for aspiring entertainment professionals, from specialized degree programs to local industry connections.

Entertainment Business education spans various disciplines, including Film Business, Music Business, and Entertainment Management. Degrees are available at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, often with options to specialize in areas such as screenwriting, television production, or live event management.

About Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a thriving coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and growing cultural scene. As part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, it is a hub for tourism, live events, and media production. With venues like the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts and the Virginia Beach Amphitheater, the city offers a dynamic environment for those interested in the entertainment industry. Learn more about Virginia Beach by visiting the official city website.

Entertainment Business Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach houses several institutions offering programs in entertainment-related fields. Below are some options for local and nearby programs:

1. Regent University – School of Communication & the Arts

  • Location: Virginia Beach, VA
  • Programs Offered:
    • Bachelor of Arts in Film-Television
    • Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting
    • Master of Fine Arts in Television & Video Production
  • Unique Features: Regent University features state-of-the-art production facilities and award-winning faculty. Students benefit from hands-on learning and access to professional networks.
  • Website: Regent University

2. Old Dominion University (ODU)

  • Location: Norfolk, VA (approximately 20 miles from Virginia Beach)
  • Programs Offered:
    • Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a focus on Media Studies
    • Master of Arts in Lifespan and Digital Communication
  • Unique Features: ODU emphasizes media production and offers opportunities for students to gain experience in digital storytelling and broadcasting.
  • Website: Old Dominion University

3. Christopher Newport University (CNU)

  • Location: Newport News, VA (approximately 40 miles from Virginia Beach)
  • Programs Offered:
    • Bachelor of Arts in Theater with a focus on Arts Administration
  • Unique Features: CNU integrates business principles with the performing arts, preparing students for leadership roles in the entertainment industry.
  • Website: Christopher Newport University

If you’re willing to commute, these nearby schools provide excellent alternatives for Entertainment Business education.

Entertainment Industry Opportunities in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach boasts several entertainment venues and organizations that offer career and internship opportunities for students and graduates.

1. Virginia Beach Film Office

  • Location: Virginia Beach, VA
  • Description: This city-run organization supports film production in Virginia Beach, offering location scouting, permitting assistance, and local resources.
  • Website: Virginia Beach Film Office

2. Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

  • Location: Town Center, Virginia Beach, VA
  • Description: A premier venue for live performances, the Sandler Center frequently hosts concerts, theater productions, and community events. It offers opportunities for event management and production roles.
  • Website: Sandler Center

3. Virginia Film Office

  • Location: Statewide resource based in Richmond, VA
  • Description: While not specific to Virginia Beach, the Virginia Film Office promotes film production throughout the state and provides resources for aspiring filmmakers.
  • Website: Virginia Film Office

Prerequisites for Entertainment Business Programs

To enroll in an Entertainment Business program, applicants typically need to meet the following requirements:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • SAT or ACT scores (varies by program)
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5
  • For advanced degrees, submission of a portfolio, writing sample, or professional experience may be required

Specific prerequisites vary by institution, so it’s essential to review the admissions criteria for your desired program.

Career Paths in Entertainment Business

Graduates with an Entertainment Business degree can pursue a wide range of careers across various sectors of the entertainment industry. Common job titles include:

  • Film Producer: Oversees the production process, from budgeting to final editing.
  • Music Manager: Represents artists and manages their careers.
  • Event Coordinator: Plans and executes live events, such as concerts and festivals.
  • Television Production Manager: Handles logistics for TV shows, including scheduling and budgeting.
  • Screenwriter: Crafts stories and scripts for films, TV, or digital media.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Producers and Directors earn a median annual salary of $79,000, with job opportunities expected to grow by 8% through 2032. For more information, visit the BLS job outlook page for Producers and Directors.

Entertainment Business Degree Requirements and Resources for Virginia Beach

Key Educational Regulatory Bodies

  • Virginia Beach City Public Schools: vbschools.com | (757) 263-1000
  • Virginia Department of Education: doe.virginia.gov | (804) 225-2830
  • State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV): schev.edu | (804) 225-2600

Accreditation

Ensure your chosen program is accredited by organizations like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) or the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).

Professional Organizations

Consider joining the Producers Guild of America (PGA) to access networking and professional development opportunities.

Get Started Today

An Entertainment Business degree can be your gateway to a rewarding career in film, music, or live events. Virginia Beach provides a supportive environment with access to excellent educational programs and industry opportunities. Take the next step by contacting a school today and exploring how you can turn your passion for entertainment into a fulfilling career.