For creative individuals with a business mindset who want to lead teams across the many sectors of the entertainment industry — be it TV production, organizing music festivals, or managing a sports team — pursuing a master’s in entertainment management can provide various opportunities.
These programs are designed to be versatile, providing graduates with the strategic, operational, and leadership skills necessary for high-impact roles in this field. Though salaries can fluctuate based on the specific sector, this investment in your education can lead to many lucrative careers. From marketing managers, who earn a median salary of $140,040, to producers, event coordinators, and talent agents, this degree is ideal for a wide range of ambitions.
Typically, this degree takes 18 months to two years for full-time students to complete, with the average cost of graduate education in the United States at $19,749 for the 2020-2021 academic year.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Entertainment Management degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 3 Accredited Master’s in Entertainment Management Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
The New School
Intelligent Score: 96.16In-state: $49,820
Out-of-state: $49,820
In-state: $47,176
Out-of-state: $47,176
SAT: 1140-1360
ACT: 26-30
$1,838
On-Campus, Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
36
Pace University
Intelligent Score: 95.25In-state: $45,832
Out-of-state: $45,832
In-state: $32,256
Out-of-state: $32,256
SAT: 1060-1240
ACT: 22-28
$1,460
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Drexel university
Intelligent Score: 92.14In-state: $53,868
Out-of-state: $53,868
In-state: $36,234
Out-of-state: $36,234
SAT: 1180-1380
ACT: 25-31
$1,155
On-Campus, Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
49
How to Choose a Master’s in Entertainment Management Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing your area of study within this particular degree is crucial, as a graduate program in entertainment management can provide opportunities for many potential career paths. Specializing allows you to tailor your education to your specific interests and professional goals, improving your employability in niche areas of the entertainment industry.
For example, students fascinated by content creation may enjoy concentrating in digital media production, while those passionate about music may prefer music industry management. Furthermore, individuals interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of film and TV production will likely opt to specialize in production management, and those drawn to live events — like theater or concerts — may excel in live entertainment management.
Research schools and programs
Now that you have a specialization in mind, you can use this knowledge to narrow your focus when it comes time to research schools and programs — potentially producing better results aligned with your career aspirations. Of course, there are other elements to consider at this time, such as:
- What are the faculty’s backgrounds and areas of expertise?
- Are there industry partnerships or internships available?
- How does the program support career development in this specialization?
- What are alum outcomes in my specialization area?
You can find this information on university websites by directly inquiring with admissions offices or attending informational sessions and open houses.
Prepare for tests and applications
Once you’ve identified potential schools for your master’s in entertainment management, early preparation is critical for excelling in your tests and applications.
Gather application materials such as transcripts and letters of recommendation at least two to three months in advance. This allows ample time to complete your personal statement simultaneously, where you can make a positive and lasting impression on the admissions committee. For schools requiring test scores, consider enrolling in a test prep program several months before your application deadlines to boost your scores.
Select your program
While the arrival of acceptance letters is often exciting, it can also mean you have a significant decision to make. Take some time to revisit your initial criteria, focusing on how each program aligns with your priorities, such as curriculum relevance, faculty you’re excited to learn from, and industry connections. Consider the total cost of attendance alongside any financial aid opportunities to ensure you make an affordable choice.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your graduate degree while minimizing debt may seem impossible, but fortunately, many financial aid resources are available to help.
Prioritize scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment, tapping into both university-offered and external sources. Consider assistantships that offer tuition waivers or stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities. If you’re currently employed, ask about employer tuition reimbursement programs, especially if this degree will improve your job performance. Use federal loans as a last resort to cover remaining financial gaps, ensuring you borrow only what’s necessary to keep future debt manageable.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Entertainment Management Program?
A master’s in entertainment management provides students with the strategic, managerial, and logistics skills necessary for leadership roles in the entertainment industry. These degree programs encompass a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in entertainment law, marketing, finance, and digital media strategies alongside specialized electives for the music, film, and live entertainment sectors.
As a student, you’ll learn to navigate content production, distribution, and promotion with a keen focus on emerging technologies and consumer trends. Many programs incorporate practical experiences through internships and industry projects, offering firsthand insights into entertainment business operations. Additionally, some degrees may require a thesis or capstone course — often beneficial for exploring a particular area of interest in depth.
Often designed for full-time students, these programs can be completed in 18 months to two years.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in entertainment management program
- Entertainment Law and Ethics: Frequently a core requirement, this course analyzes the legal frameworks and ethical considerations unique to the entertainment industry. Students learn about copyright laws, contracts, licensing, and the moral dilemmas professionals face in music, film, television, and digital media.
- Digital Media Strategies: In this class, students explore the rapidly evolving digital landscape, including social media, streaming services, and digital marketing tactics. They learn how to create engaging content, use data analytics for decision-making, and develop strategies to maximize online visibility and audience engagement.
- Production and Operations Management: This course covers the operational aspects of entertainment production, including scheduling, logistics, and project management. Students gain insights into the complexities of organizing live events, film productions, and other entertainment projects from conception to execution.
- Entertainment Marketing: An elective in some curriculums, this course focuses on the principles and practices of marketing within the entertainment sector, including brand development, audience research, and cross-platform promotion. Students examine case studies and develop marketing plans for entertainment products or services.
Master’s in Entertainment Management Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in entertainment management degree program?
The admissions process may vary depending on the school you wish to attend, but many schools share similar criteria for application materials. These include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
Some schools may also require a minimum GPA or standardized test scores from the GRE or GMAT. It’s important to reach out to an admissions counselor early in the process, as they can provide guidance on specific requirements and tips for strengthening your application.
How much does a master's in entertainment management degree cost?
The average tuition cost of these degrees for the 2020-2021 academic year was $19,749. However, you’ll also need to budget for additional expenses like course materials, textbooks, commuting, and housing. On-campus students might incur extra fees for facilities and activities. At the same time, online learners will likely save on some costs but may encounter fees for distance learning and access to online resources.
How long does it take to earn a master's in entertainment management degree?
Achieving a master’s in entertainment management takes 18 months to two years for full-time students, while part-time students might take longer, often three to four years, due to reduced course loads each semester. Some students prefer part-time enrollment, which allows for more flexibility when balancing a full-time job or family commitments. Still, those with more time to dedicate to their studies may opt for full-time enrollment, which usually leads to quicker degree completion.
It’s crucial to consider the program’s total required credits, as this varies between institutions and directly influences the duration of the program.