FSU announces newest College of Music bachelor’s degree

A professional music mixing console with numerous knobs and glowing indicator lights in a recording studio.
Florida State University has introduced a new Bachelor of Arts in Music Business undergraduate major, with applications open through March 1. (College of Music)
A Bachelor of Arts in Music Business is the newest degree to be added to Florida State University’s extensive list of undergraduate majors.  

The College of Music offers the program under a new academic area — the music industry. This educational expansion demonstrates the university’s focus on industry-centered education and experiential learning. 

“The addition of this new program is part of an overall expansion to match career paths in the rapidly changing music industry,” said Greg Jones, associate dean of the college. “Our partnership with the Herbert Wertheim College of Business, the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and industry collaborators is vital for building bridges to career opportunities for our students. Flexible degree programs combined with professional mentorship across the spectrum offer FSU students exciting opportunities in traditional and emerging job markets.” 

A band performs on a dark stage under a vibrant green spotlight, featuring a guitarist in a red shirt playing a metallic blue electric guitar. The scene captures an energetic live show with a bassist and an applauding audience member visible in the background.
The new program offers a multidisciplinary curriculum in music, business, law and technology to prepare graduates for careers in sectors ranging from artist management to digital platforms. (College of Music)

The Music Business degree program offers a curriculum that integrates music, business, law, marketing, technology and management, essential skills for graduates hoping to secure a career in sectors such as artist management, music publishing, recording and production, touring, licensing and emerging digital platforms.  

Leading the program is Alan Blanchard, specialized teaching faculty member in the College of Music. Blanchard has a background in artist management and has released GRAMMY-Award winning albums. His insights will inform curriculum development and student mentorship.  

“I’m excited to launch this new Music Business major,” Blanchard said. “I’ve been fortunate to have many inspiring mentors who have played a key role in shaping my career so far, and I look forward to paying that forward by mentoring students, linking them to real-world experiences, and creating meaningful, hands-on opportunities that fully immerse them in the music industry.” 

 

In support of the new program, the college has completed the first phase of renovation of its recording studio facilities to provide students with enhanced access to modern production and collaborative spaces. The upgraded studio allows students to work with industry-standard tools and technologies, a central component of the curriculum. 

“The College of Music at FSU continues to be a leader in the field, offering innovative degree programs that are student-centered and providing a pathway for all students who want to pursue music as part of their career goals,” said Todd Queen, dean of the College of Music. 

This launch showcases the university’s continued growth in the music industry area and continued work to advance its mission of preparing students for successful careers in music and beyond. 

For more information, visit music.fsu.edu/programs/music-industry.