TALLAHASSEE, FL – – Florida State University (FSU) is expanding its College of Music offerings with the launch of a new Bachelor of Arts in Music Business, responding to evolving industry demands and a growing student interest in the intersection of music and commerce. Applications for the program are currently being accepted, with a deadline of .
The new degree program, housed within a newly established academic area titled Music Industry, is designed to equip students with a multidisciplinary skillset encompassing music, business, law, marketing, technology and management. FSU officials emphasize the program’s focus on experiential learning and industry connections, positioning graduates for a range of careers in the modern music and entertainment landscape.
Bridging Academia and Industry
According to Greg Jones, associate dean of the College of Music, the addition of the Music Business program is part of a broader strategic expansion aimed at aligning the university’s curriculum with current career pathways in the rapidly changing music industry. “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,” Jones stated. “Flexible degree programs combined with professional mentorship across the spectrum offer FSU students exciting opportunities in traditional and emerging job markets.”
The curriculum is specifically tailored to prepare students for roles such as artist management, music publishing, recording and production, touring, licensing, and navigating emerging digital platforms. This reflects a growing recognition within higher education of the need to move beyond traditional music performance degrees to address the broader business and technological aspects of the industry.
A Multidisciplinary Approach
The program’s structure emphasizes a holistic understanding of the music ecosystem. Students will gain proficiency not only in musical principles but also in the legal frameworks governing the industry, the intricacies of marketing and promotion, and the application of technology to music creation, distribution, and consumption. This multidisciplinary approach is intended to provide graduates with a competitive edge in a field that increasingly demands versatility.
Leading the new program is Alan Blanchard, a specialized teaching faculty member in the College of Music. Blanchard brings significant real-world experience to the role, with a background in artist management and a track record of releasing GRAMMY-Award winning albums. His expertise will be instrumental in shaping the curriculum and providing mentorship to students.
“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.”
Alan Blanchard, Specialized Teaching Faculty, FSU College of Music
Investment in Facilities and Infrastructure
FSU’s commitment to the Music Business program extends beyond curriculum development. The College of Music has recently completed the first phase of renovations to its recording studio facilities, providing students with access to modern production, recording, and collaborative spaces. This investment in infrastructure underscores the university’s dedication to providing students with a practical, hands-on learning environment that mirrors the professional standards of the music industry.
The program’s launch builds upon recent growth within the College of Music, including the addition of Welling Gordon as Specialized Teaching Faculty of Music Recording. These strategic hires demonstrate a broader effort to expand instruction and expertise in areas aligned with contemporary music careers.
Strategic Alignment with Broader University Goals
Todd Queen, dean of the College of Music, highlighted the program’s alignment with the university’s overall mission. “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,” Queen stated. The launch of the Music Business program is viewed as a key component of FSU’s ongoing efforts to advance its position as a leading institution for music education and industry innovation.
The new Bachelor of Arts in Music Business at FSU represents a strategic response to the evolving demands of the music industry, offering students a comprehensive and practical education designed to prepare them for successful careers in a dynamic and competitive field. The program’s emphasis on industry partnerships, experiential learning, and modern facilities positions FSU as a key player in shaping the future of music business education.