A picture of a student making adjustments at a sound console at Staples Family Concert Hall A picture of a student making adjustments at a sound console at Staples Family Concert Hall Commercial Music Student

Commercial Music
Major

Program Overview

The Commercial Music major combines the three primary areas required to be successful in the music industry: knowledge of a broad spectrum of music, a facility with audio recording and music production, and business acumen to make smart financial decisions. As a Commercial Music major, you will gain a strong foundation in these areas and then specialize by choosing a minor that matches your passions and interests.

Program Snapshot

Program Type: Full-Time
Location: On Campus
Program Length: 4 years
Credit Hours: 47

Why This Program & What You'll Learn

The B.A.A. in Commercial Music has been designed to help anyone make the music they want to make in a supportive and hands-on environment. This program allows you to learn about music theory, audio recording, studio production, and essential business skills. Whether you want to be a songwriter, write music for film or video games, be an audio engineer with a recording studio, or successfully work on the business side of the music industry, the Commercial Music program will give you a rounded foundation upon which you can specialize. Choose a minor in Music, Songwriting, Multimedia Design, Media Arts, Business Administration, Finance, Entrepreneurship, or Game Design Thinking to tailor your skillset toward your dream gig.

Program Highlights

  • Hands-on experience with recording technology and producing recordings with our in-house record label Moore Media Records.
  • Work with the latest music production hardware and software to make the music you want.
  • Get broadcasting experience with our two radio stations: Mountain FM 91.5 and The Beat FM 101.1.
  • Work with nationally renowned music composition faculty with experience in popular song genres, traditional classical music styles, film and media composition, video game production, and experimental media.
  • Collaborate with video game developers, filmmakers, dancers, and animators.
  • Participate in the New Venture Challenge to build your business or personal brand.

Careers & Outcomes

Graduates of the B.A.A. in Commercial Music will be able to work in careers such as professional songwriters, film/media/game composers, audio recording engineers, music producers, record label executives, A&R coordinators, and music publishers.

Career Projected Salary
Composer $62,940
Producer $79,000
Musician/Singer $81,411
Production Supervisor $65,597
Acoustic Consultant $86,850
Theatre Manager $44,333
Music Manager $46,852

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