student listening to a lecture
What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Music students must pass a qualifying examination specific to their concentration during their fourth semester of study. The rising junior jury determines whether the student has made adequate progress to qualify for entry to the 3000-level of applied music study. (4 years)

Where can I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Am I required to take classes at a specific location?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

  • Spring – November 15 (All concentrations except Conducting)
  • Summer – March 1 (Music Education concentration and non-degree programs only)
  • Fall – June 1 (All concentrations)

Music Industry/Management, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science in Music Management program at Georgia State University offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in the dynamic and ever-evolving music industry. With a focus on business, entrepreneurship and artist management, the program equips students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the competitive music business landscape. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, practical experiences and industry internships, students gain a deep understanding of music marketing, promotion, copyright law, finance and contract negotiation.

The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership abilities, enabling students to navigate the challenges and seize opportunities in the rapidly changing music industry. With a faculty composed of industry professionals and experienced educators, students receive valuable insights and guidance from experts who are actively engaged in the field.

Program Highlights

Vibrant Location

The downtown location fosters connections with local music artists, venues and labels, including MTM Standard, the student-led music distribution company and sync house operating out of the School of Music at Georgia State University. Alumni, faculty and students actively participate in the thriving music scene, performing in various professional groups within the city.

Guest Artists & Industry Professionals

The music Industry area regularly hosts leading industry professionals for guest lectures and immersive seminars, offering invaluable insights and intensive learning experiences.

Studios & Resources

There are six recording studio labs, designed by Walters-Storyk, fully equipped with state-of-the-art digital audio workstations running Pro Tools and numerous other software programs. High-level monitoring by Genelec, SSL consoles, Universal Audio hardware and software and an extensive microphone collection are complemented by significant analog and digital sound production tools.

College to Career

Our alumni from the program have secured positions with leading independent and major music, management,and media companies such as Streamcut, Blueprint Group, Adella Thomas, Entercom, ASCAP and Warner Music. They are not only successful professionals but also thriving artists, musicians, producers and entrepreneurs across a wide range of genres, including rock, rap and EDM.

MTM Standard

Students oversee all aspects of MTM Standard, from recording to marketing to pitching and licensing. We serve as an incubator for aspiring artists, producers, visual creators, managers and music executives, providing career opportunities alongside higher education. Collaboration is central to our mission and we invite talented GSU students from all campuses to join us as we establish the music standard.

MTM Standard In the News

‘We’re Here to Compete’: Georgia State Launches Student-Run Record Label

Georgia State University’s School of Music Brings Top Music Supervisors to Atlanta for a Weekend of Sync

Open Mic: A Conversation with the Minds Behind Georgia State’s Music Distribution Label

Career Outlook

A music management degree from Georgia State University can open up various exciting career opportunities within the music industry. Graduates with this degree are equipped with the knowledge and skills to take on roles in artist management, event management, music marketing and other areas of the music business. Some specific career paths can include:

  • Artist Representation and Development: Artist Management, A&R (Artists and Repertoire).
  • Event Organization and Promotion: Event Management/Concert Promotion.
  • Marketing, PR and Legal: Music Marketing and Public Relations, Music Licensing and Copyright, Entertainment Law.
  • Music Venue and Tour Management: Music Venue Operations, Tour Coordination.
  • Music Business Consultancy.
  • Music Publishing and Distribution.

students working on sound board

Program Details

To be considered for admission, students applying to the School of Music at Georgia State University are required to complete a separate application through the Acceptd platform.

Prospective students applying for the Bachelor of Science degree in either concentration (Music Management or Music Production & Audio Recording,) must either perform a live audition or submit a digital portfolio before beginning first-year coursework in music. Students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree and have a background in music making are highly encouraged to audition as their method of entrance. Audition requirements, important deadlines and audition dates can be found on the Application and Audition Information page.

The Music Management concentration at GSU offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for successful careers in the music industry. Students in this program engage in a range of courses that cover areas such as artist management, concert production, marketing, copyright law and music business strategies. The curriculum provides a solid foundation in business principles while addressing the unique challenges and opportunities specific to the music field. Through hands-on projects, internships and networking opportunities, students develop practical skills and industry knowledge. The program emphasizes critical thinking, entrepreneurial spirit and effective communication to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music business. Graduates of our Music Management program emerge as knowledgeable and resourceful professionals, equipped to pursue diverse roles such as artist management, record label operations, event production or music entrepreneurship.

For complete degree requirements, visit the catalog.

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education, and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees

There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from a graduate degree include:

  • Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
  • Honoring the continuing traditions of music making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
  • Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
  • Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.

Contacts

Admissions
[email protected]

Undergraduate Admissions
404-413-2500

[email protected]

Sparks Hall
Suite 200
33 Gilmer St. SE
Atlanta, GA 30303

School of Music
75 Poplar St, 5th floor
Atlanta, GA 30303

College of the Arts Logo35 Broad St., 4th Floor
Atlanta, GA 30303