When most people think of careers in music or cinema, they think of the spotlight singers, actors, dancers, and directors. But behind every chart-topping hit or blockbuster film, there’s an equally powerful force working off-screen: the business minds who manage, strategise, and scale the entire operation.
And that’s where the MBA comes in.
1. Creative Industries Are Also Businesses
The global film and music industries generate hundreds of billions of dollars each year. They aren’t just creative spaces — they’re high-stakes business ecosystems. Every tour, album, concert, or film involves:
- Strategic planning
- Budgeting
- Logistics
- Marketing
- Licensing
- Brand partnerships
- Talent management
These are not artistic tasks — they are management tasks. And increasingly, they require people with specialised postgraduate skills in business, branding, finance, and operations.
2. Why an MBA Makes Sense for These Fields
Many media companies are now being run like tech startups and investment-backed businesses. Global streaming platforms, influencer-led production houses, and independent artist brands all rely on:
- Data-driven marketing
- International distribution strategy
- Rights and royalties management
- Team leadership and HR
- Growth planning and investor relations
An MBA prepares professionals to take on these responsibilities with the same rigour and insight you’d find in corporate environments.
In short: creativity needs structure — and MBAs provide that structure.
3. Real Jobs That Need Business Graduates
Here are just a few roles in the music and film space where MBA graduates are thriving:
- Music Label Manager
- Tour & Events Manager
- Brand & Talent Partnership Lead
- Media Strategy Consultant
- Entertainment Product Manager
- Digital Distribution Manager
- Licensing & Rights Administrator
And the demand is growing — not just in the U.S. or UK, but across emerging entertainment markets like India, Nigeria, South Korea, and the UAE.
4. But I’m Not Creative — Can I Still Be Part of This Industry?
Yes. That’s the point of this article.
If you’re someone who:
- Loves the film or music industry
- Follows entertainment trends
- Enjoys understanding what makes a production succeed
- Wants to work in an environment that blends art and commerce
…but you don’t sing, act, write, or compose —
Then a business role could be your path in.
This industry needs people who understand audience insights, manage teams, develop budgets, drive promotions, and close strategic deals.
Working in entertainment doesn’t have to mean being on stage — you can be the one who builds the stage and fills the seats.
5. Courses That Can Prepare You
If you’re serious about this pathway, here are some postgraduate options worth considering:
- MBA with Leadership (offered by UWS London)
- MBA in Digital Marketing
- MBA in Luxury Branding (ideal for entertainment lifestyle businesses)
- MSc Project Management (crucial for film and music production logistics)
- MSc Media & Communications
These programmes give you the tools to lead teams, manage projects, and navigate the fast-changing dynamics of the global entertainment industry.
6. The Erudmite Perspective
At Erudmite, we believe that your career should be more than a job — it should be aligned with what you love.
We guide students to:
- Discover their passions
- Align those passions with market-relevant skills
- Build sustainable careers in both traditional and emerging fields
So if you’re someone who grew up loving movies, following music charts, admiring showbiz culture — but didn’t know how to be part of it — this might be your answer.
You don’t have to perform to belong.
You just have to lead, manage, and think like a professional.
FAQs
1. Are there specific MBAs for the film or music industry?
Yes, some universities offer MBAs with media specialisations, while others like UWS London offer general MBAs that can be tailored with electives and project work focused on entertainment.
2. What background do I need to apply for an MBA in this field?
Most MBA programmes accept graduates from any discipline with work experience. A passion for the industry helps, but you don’t need a creative background.
3. Will I get a job in the industry after graduation?
Your chances improve if you build your network, take internships, and work on relevant projects during your studies. The entertainment industry values practical experience.
4. Can I shift to this industry later in my career?
Absolutely. Many professionals in entertainment started in unrelated industries and pivoted into media after gaining business expertise.
5. How does Erudmite help?
We offer tailored counselling, course recommendations, and help you plan your transition — especially if you want to combine passion with profession.
