MA Music Business

• Course duration: 1 year, full time
• Course location: Delivered on campus in Brighton and Sheffield and also online
• Suitable for: Music industry professionals
• Course tuition fees: £9950
• Tuition fee loan available: yes
• Maintenance loan available: no
· Bursaries available: All students can apply for innovation cash bursaries
• Course entry requirements: An undergraduate degree or via accreditation of prior learning

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The MA Music Business is a 1-year course. You can study remotely online via distance learning or if you prefer, with a blend of onsite and online activity.

The course is constructed to focus on three fundamental elements:

• Your Past
Reflect upon and document your experience and knowledge.

• Your Present
Define and hone your skills, to sharpen your commercial edge.

• The Bridge to Your Future
Become a recognised expert in your field.

Who’s it for?

This course is for music industry professionals who want to develop the commercial and entrepreneurial side of their careers. You may be looking to upskill in areas like digital marketing, social media and other aspects of the modern music professional's life. Or simply feel the need to gain a high-level qualification and be a recognised expert in your field.

The course will take you on a journey of critical reflection, development of professional practice through mentoring, culminating in the completion of a major commercial project. Areas of focus include in-depth analysis of the music industry, development of personal skills and the realisation of ideas through submission of a major project.

You will develop autonomy whilst learning to apply critical thinking and research skills to your work. You'll gain academic proficiency and professional credibility. You'll also develop your entrepreneurialism to maximise areas of potential revenue and enterprise.

How you will learn

You'll get access to all of your module content via WaterBear's dedicated Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You'll also be able to participate in tutorials, discussions and meetings using video conferencing. In term time, the on-site weekly seminars can be attended in person, or remotely online.

Online and on-site teaching and learning activities can include:
• Lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops
• One-to-one mentoring
• Assignments, assessments and feedback sessions
• Masterclasses
• Conferences and events
• Peer collaboration and networking

Career pathways

This course is designed to further develop careers in music and the wider creative industries. These typically include:

• Music performance and production (e.g. touring, studio, digital, etc.)
• Music business and management
• Music education
• Music research and development
• Music journalism and PR
• Digital marketing
• Digital content creation
• Publishing and record label services
• Live sound
• Tour management
• Event management

Further study

Further academic study routes available include Postgraduate Practice & Research (e.g. PhD, Professional Doctorate) and PGCert HE (teaching programme).

Your Place in the Music Industry

This module launches you into the dynamic music industry. For tangible growth, we identify hidden strengths, carve a unique niche, and develop a strategic action plan with concrete steps, tailored to your specific goals. Gain the confidence to not just survive but shape the industry. Whether you're a recent graduate, an experienced individual, or an established pro, this module empowers you with interactive workshops, industry insights, and personalised feedback.

Brand & Marketing

This is where we look at how you can create a strong and authentic connection with your audience. How do you currently present yourself to the world, and what can you improve?

Your Development

Supercharge your career trajectory with real-world experience. In this module, WaterBear connects you with impactful work placements within the industry, not just hypothetical scenarios. This hands-on immersion bridges the gap between theory and practice, equipping you with valuable skills and insights. We remove any obstacles your way, ensuring you're fully prepared for your final project and a successful career beyond

Creating Income

This module focusses on the commercial realities of making and releasing music. Whether you are the artist or the entrepreneur, you’ll develop a greater understanding and awareness of how to develop and control various income streams relating to your music and business.

Your Enterprise

This is the final double module that concludes the MA. Here we bring all the strands of work, reflection, research and analysis together to deliver a major professional project. This might feature your current real-world work. It is the bridge into your future.

Assessment methods typically include written, audio and video-based submissions, presentations, evidence portfolios and business plans.

*Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. Any changes affecting students’ expected programme delivery are communicated in advance. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Programme Manager.

Initial applications for the MA Music Business 1-yr course can be made via the Apply Now button below.

Apply Now

We consider all applications on their own merit and potential. We'll invite you to a 1-1 session, either in person or by video conference. This is where you'll have the opportunity to find out all about WaterBear and talk about your interests, achievements and career goals.

Falmouth University Terms & Conditions

This course is also available to international students if they are based in the UK with settled status (no restrictions on how long you can stay).

Language requirements

If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to achieve equivalent to the IELTS Academic 6.5 overall score, with at least 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We accept a range of equivalent approved tests too. Visit the English Language Requirements page of the Falmouth University website for more information.

In order to get the most out of the MA Music Business course, it's essential to have regular access to the resources below. Having your own equipment will provide maximum flexibility for both your college and professional work.

Essential basics:

• Computer (desktop, laptop, tablet, etc.) (Purchase cost around £250-£400)
• Note-taking materials (pens, notepad, etc.) (Purchase cost around £20)
• USB memory stick (Purchase cost around £10)
• Reliable Internet connection