Music Industry Studies

The business of popular music is an important, specialized component of the larger entertainment and communication industries.  It is an exciting time to be involved in this ever-changing field in which new opportunities regularly arise.  By studying the music industry, you will gain the professional edge while preparing for an exciting and rewarding career.

Why Study the Music Industry at Butler?

Butler’s Music Industry Studies (MI) program is designed to prepare students for managing a wide spectrum of creative enterprises. MI majors will learn to transform their talents and dedication into marketable skills required by music publishers, radio, performing rights organizations, talent agencies, record labels, concert promoters, and venues. Butler’s MI program, available as a three-year degree, provides creative preparation to nurture industry-specific competencies while simultaneously providing multiple experiential opportunities. MI majors learn about the many facets of the business that drive popular music today, including varied career paths, multiple revenue streams, media law and production.  Students engage in internships, volunteer opportunities, and community partnerships in which they put into practice the knowledge and skills gained from start to finish in their studies.  Throughout their time in the program, students interact with industry professionals and have access to professional equipment and work spaces.  Students can complete their MI degree with an impressive resume, work examples of which they can be proud, and a valuable network of industry contacts.  It is our goal to graduate students who are prepared to be tomorrow’s leaders in an ever-evolving music business.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Discuss the music industry and its historical, cultural and economic aspects
  • Gather information through appropriate methods
  • Communicate information to audiences
  • Use communication technology effectively
  • Demonstrate team building, collaboration and leadership
  • Apply professional, ethical and legal standards in the fieldThe information found on this website with respect to major/minor/program requirements is primarily directed at providing prospective students a general roadmap of the curriculum. Current Butler students are expected to review their degree audit report at my.butler.edu and speak with their advisor regularly for detailed information regarding their specific degree requirements and their progress toward degree completion.
Student Work