Entertainment Business Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Getting an Entertainment Business Degree in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
If you’re looking to break into the dynamic and fast-paced entertainment industry, pursuing an Entertainment Business degree is a great way to start. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offers a range of educational opportunities for aspiring professionals, from digital content creation to film business and media arts. This guide will provide an overview of the available programs, career paths, and industry opportunities in Milwaukee, helping you take the next step toward an exciting career in entertainment.
What is an Entertainment Business Degree?
An Entertainment Business degree equips students with the skills and knowledge to manage and produce projects in industries like film, music, gaming, and live events. Programs often combine creative coursework with business fundamentals, preparing graduates for a variety of roles in the entertainment sector.
Types of Entertainment Business Degrees
- Associate Degrees: Focused on technical skills and foundational knowledge, these programs are typically two years in length.
- Bachelor’s Degrees: Offering comprehensive education in entertainment management and production, these programs often take four years to complete.
- Certificates: Short-term programs designed to provide specialized knowledge in areas such as media business or film studies.
About Milwaukee
Milwaukee, situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is the largest city in Wisconsin and a hub for the arts, culture, and media industries. Known for its vibrant neighborhoods like the Historic Third Ward and East Side, Milwaukee is home to a growing entertainment scene, including film festivals, music venues, and production studios. For more information about the city, visit the official Milwaukee website.
Entertainment Business Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee provides several educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the entertainment business. Here are some of the top programs in and around the city:
1. Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)
- Program: Associate Degree in Digital Content Creation
- Description: This hands-on program focuses on producing digital media content for various platforms, including television, video production, and online media. Students gain practical experience at the Milwaukee PBS studios.
- Location: Downtown Milwaukee
- Website: MATC Digital Content Creation Program
2. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM)
- Program: Undergraduate Certificate in Business of Media and Film Studies
- Description: This interdisciplinary program combines business fundamentals with film and media studies, preparing students for roles in media production, marketing, and distribution.
- Location: East Side, Milwaukee
- Website: UWM Business of Media and Film Studies
3. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (Nearby)
- Program: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Media Arts and Game Development
- Description: Located approximately 50 miles from Milwaukee, this program emphasizes interactive content creation, game development, and digital media production.
- Location: Whitewater, Wisconsin
- Website: UW-Whitewater Media Arts and Game Development
Entertainment Industry Opportunities in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s entertainment industry offers various opportunities for students and professionals to gain experience and build their careers. Here are some notable organizations:
Milwaukee Film
- Description: Milwaukee Film supports local filmmakers and hosts the annual Milwaukee Film Festival, showcasing diverse films from around the world.
- Location: Historic Third Ward
- Website: Milwaukee Film
Milwaukee PBS
- Description: As part of MATC, Milwaukee PBS provides educational and cultural programming. It also offers internship opportunities for students in media production.
- Location: Downtown Milwaukee
- Website: Milwaukee PBS
The Pabst Theater Group
- Description: The Pabst Theater Group operates several historic venues in Milwaukee, hosting live entertainment events from concerts to comedy shows.
- Location: Downtown Milwaukee
- Website: The Pabst Theater Group
Prerequisites for Entertainment Business Programs
Before enrolling in an Entertainment Business program, students should be aware of the common prerequisites:
- Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or GED is typically required for admission.
- Standardized Tests: Some institutions may require ACT or SAT scores, especially for bachelor’s programs.
- Minimum GPA: Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement, often around 2.0 for transfer students.
- Portfolio Submission: For creative programs, a portfolio showcasing prior work may be required.
- Additional Requirements: Specific programs may have unique prerequisites, which can be found on the program’s website.
Career Paths in Entertainment Business
Graduates with an Entertainment Business degree have access to a wide range of career opportunities. Here are some potential paths:
- Film Production: Roles include producer, director, or production assistant.
- Music Business: Careers in artist management, music marketing, or concert promotion.
- Game Development: Positions such as game designer, developer, or producer.
- Media Management: Jobs in broadcasting, digital media, or content creation.
- Event Management: Coordinating live events, festivals, or conferences.
For additional information on job prospects, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Producers and Directors.
Get Started Today
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offers excellent opportunities for anyone looking to pursue a career in the entertainment business. Whether you’re interested in digital content creation, media arts, or film studies, there are programs nearby to help you achieve your goals. Take the first step by contacting a school today and exploring their application process. Your future in the entertainment industry is waiting!