Music

  • Production still from SERSE
  • french horns
  • choir and orchestra
  • pianist, clarinetist, and violinist
  • violin section of orchestra
  • wind orchestra
  • Jazz Band on stage

Music Industry Studies Option



Bachelor of Arts in Music – Music Industry Studies Option

The Music Industry Studies (MIS) Option prepares students for executive and administrative careers in the music industry. Founded in 1994, this option offers a unique blend of the art of music and the discipline of business. Students not only participate in traditional music courses such as individual applied music lessons and performing ensembles, but are also immersed in an interdisciplinary curriculum that provides a foundational understanding of business and how it operates in the music industry. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, students have ample opportunities to put their classroom education into practice through internships, student-produced events, and a student-run, faculty-advised record label (VOVE Music Entertainment). Located in Los Angeles, this 4-year degree culminates in a music industry internship experience that often leads students into full-time employment following graduation.

Unlike music business degrees at many other universities, entrance to the MIS Option is by audition. Applicants are required to pass a three-part audition that includes a performance audition (on a musical instrument or voice), answering a set of interview questions, and an essay submissionThis last item must be an unedited analytical research paper from the high school or community college class of your choice, and should demonstrate your writing proficiency (including organization, depth of analysis, and proper use of grammar and spelling) as well as the ability to properly cite research sources.  It should be sent via email to the Chair of Music Industry Studies along with your interview answers.  As the most populous degree option within the Music Department, entrance to the MIS Option is competitive. The MIS Option historically accepts approximately 35% of all applicants.

Graduates of the MIS Option move into all facets of the music and entertainment industries. Many MIS graduates are experiencing successful careers at major and independent record labels, motion picture studios, music production companies, music publishing companies, music libraries, artist management companies, music promotion companies, or as performing artists. Some students even use their MIS education as a springboard to enter law school with the intention of practicing Entertainment Law.

California State University, Northridge is a proud institutional member of the Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association (MEIEA).