What Can You Do With an Entertainment Business Degree in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can you do with an entertainment business degree? 

A degree in entertainment business opens doors to a wide range of administrative, management, and technical careers within the creative industries. It provides the essential business and marketing skills needed to manage projects, artists, and companies across film, music, gaming, and live events. Here are just some of the many possible career paths in the entertainment business.

Film and Television

• Casting Director: Selects actors and performers for film, television, theater, or commercials.
• Film Producer: Oversees the business and financial aspects of a film.
• Post-Production Supervisor: Manages editing, visual effects, and sound mixing.
• Production Accountant: Handles payroll and expenses for film and TV productions.
• Production Company Executive: Leads operations and strategy for a production company.
• Streaming Platform Coordinator: Manages content acquisition for platforms like Netflix or YouTube.
• Visual Effects (VFX) Producer: Oversees the visual effects pipeline for film or TV.

Music Industry

• A&R Representative: Discovers and signs new talent for a record label.
• Artist Manager: Guides a musician’s career and handles business affairs.
• Booking Agent: Arranges live performances for artists.
• Concert Promoter: Publicizes live music events.
• Music Label Executive: Oversees operations and artist development at a label.
• Music Publisher: Promotes music, licenses songs, and collects royalties.
• Music Supervisor: Curates and licenses music for media.
• Talent Agent: Represents musicians and negotiates contracts.
• Talent Manager: Manages the careers of artists and performers.
• Tour Manager: Oversees logistics for concert tours.

Live Events and Venues

• Event Coordinator: Plans and manages logistics for events.
• Event Producer: Executes concerts, festivals, and award shows.
• Live Venue Operations Manager: Manages logistics for theaters and arenas.
• Venue Manager: Oversees daily operations of entertainment venues.
• Concert Promoter: Drives interest in live events.

Digital Media and Marketing

• Brand Partnerships Manager: Develops collaborations between entertainment and commercial brands.
• Digital Media Strategist: Creates online content strategies.
• Marketing Manager: Promotes entertainment content and brands.
• Social Media Manager: Manages a brand’s social media presence.
• Streaming Platform Coordinator: Oversees digital content programming.
• Video Game Marketing Manager: Promotes new video game releases.

Video Games

• Video Game Marketing Manager: Develops promotional strategies for games.
• Video Game Producer: Manages the development and release of video games.
• Music Supervisor: Licenses music for games.

Business and Strategy

• Business Analyst: Analyzes market data for strategic decisions.
• Content Licensing Manager: Manages rights for distributing content.
• Entertainment Business Consultant: Advises on branding and monetization.
• Production Accountant: Tracks financials across productions.
• Production Company Executive: Performs and leads strategic planning.

Legal and Representation

• Entertainment Lawyer: Handles contracts, IP rights, and litigation.
• Talent Agent: Negotiates deals for performers.
• Talent Manager: Oversees career development.
• Artist Manager: (Manages business affairs for artists.

Public Relations and Communications

• Public Relations Specialist: Manages public image and media relations.
• Social Media Manager: Engages audiences online.
• Brand Partnerships Manager: Builds brand relationships.

  For a more general role, you can research how to become a public relations manager.  

What is the entertainment business and is it for me?

The entertainment business is a dynamic and expansive field that encompasses the financial, legal, and operational aspects of a wide range of creative industries. From film and television to music, gaming, and live events, this industry is about more than just creative output; it's about the management and marketing that bring art to the masses.

• Art and Commerce: Professionals in this field need a strong grasp of both business fundamentals and a passion for the creative arts.
• Dynamic Work Environment: Success often depends on being able to work in a team and adapt quickly to changing circumstances.
• Global Market: With the rise of streaming and digital distribution, the entertainment industry operates on a worldwide scale, requiring an understanding of international markets and cultural trends.
• Project-Based Work: Many roles involve working on a specific film, album, or tour, which means a diverse and ever-changing workload.
• Perseverance: The entertainment industry can be competitive and unpredictable, so it's essential to be adaptable and persistent.
• Networking: Building and maintaining professional relationships is vital for finding opportunities and advancing a career.
• Emerging Technology: Staying up-to-date on new technologies, such as AI and virtual reality, is essential as they are reshaping content creation and distribution.

This is a great career path for individuals who are passionate about the creative arts but are also drawn to the strategy, logistics, and management side of the business. It is a suitable path for those who thrive in a high-energy environment and enjoy a career that blends creativity with sharp business acumen. 

Based on Deloitte's 2025 survey of 3,595 individuals from different generations, a variety of media consumption habits of different generations have been identified, as shown in the graph below. A clear generational shift from traditional television to streaming services. Gen Z spends a greater amount of time on streaming video services (1.3 hours per day) than on cable or live-streaming TV (0.8 hours). This trend continues with millennials, who spend 1.5 hours on streaming versus 0.9 hours on traditional television.

In contrast, older generations still prefer traditional television. Boomers spend 2.1 hours per day on cable or live-streaming TV compared to 1.4 hours on streaming video services. This preference is even more pronounced for the "matures" demographic, who spend 2.3 hours on cable or live-streaming TV, which is more than double the 0.9 hours spent on streaming services.

These shifting consumption patterns have significant implications for the media industry. Companies must adapt to capture younger audiences on streaming platforms, while traditional TV focuses on retaining its older demographic.

What is the financial investment for an entertainment career?

The financial investment for an entertainment career primarily depends on the educational path an individual chooses, with costs varying significantly based on the type of institution. The tuition and fees can range from a few thousand dollars for a certificate to well over $100,000 for a degree from a top-tier private university and fast online degrees. 

• Associate's Degree: An associate's degree in entertainment business, often a two-year program, can cost anywhere from a few thousand to around $30,000.
• Bachelor's Degree: A four-year bachelor's degree can range from approximately $20,000 to over $200,000, depending on whether an individual attends a public or private institution.
• Master's Degree: A graduate program can be a significant investment, with some master's programs in entertainment management costing between $30,000 and $80,000 or more.
• Certificates: Shorter-term online or in-person certificate programs can cost between a few hundred and several thousand dollars, offering a focused and less expensive way to gain specific skills.
• Books and Supplies: Additional costs for books, software, and other course materials can add a few thousand dollars to the total expense over the course of a degree program.
• Living Expenses: For those who need to relocate to a major industry hub like Los Angeles or New York, the high cost of living can be a substantial part of the total financial commitment.

While the financial investment can be significant, there are many ways to make it more manageable. Some low cost entertainment business degree online programs may be for you. Researching all options will help an individual find a path that is both professionally rewarding and financially feasible.

How do I gain experience in the entertainment industry?

Gaining practical experience is one of the most critical steps to launching a career in entertainment. While a formal education is valuable, real-world experience through internships and entry-level positions often provides the most direct path to a full-time role.

• Internships: A widely recognized entry point, internships allow individuals to gain hands-on experience and build their professional network.
• Paid vs. Unpaid: While some internships are paid, many in creative fields are unpaid, so it is necessary to assess one's financial situation and look for opportunities with strong mentorship and educational value.
• Entry-Level Roles: These positions, such as administrative assistant or production assistant, offer an excellent way to learn the business from the ground up and make connections.
• Volunteering: Volunteering on student films, local productions, or at events can be done to gain resume-building experience and meet industry professionals.
• Building a Portfolio: For creative roles, a strong portfolio or "reel" of one's work, even from low-budget personal projects, is often more important than formal education.
• Networking: Many jobs are found through personal connections, so every opportunity should be used to meet people and build relationships.
• On-Campus Involvement: Participating in clubs, student publications, or campus events related to entertainment can provide valuable leadership skills and practical experience.

By actively seeking out these experiences, a candidate can make themselves more competitive and build the foundation for a successful career. The most important thing is to be proactive and persistent.

Based on data from IBISWorld in 2025, employment in the U.S. arts, entertainment, and recreation sector has shown steady growth over the past two decades. As of January 1, 2025, the number of employees in this industry was 4,106,211, an increase from 4,001,050 in 2024 and 2,908,937 in 2005. The average employment growth for the sector was 3.3% between 2019 and 2024.

The data, shown in the graphic below, also reveals that the average business in this sector employed 2.3 people, indicating that a significant portion of the industry is made up of small businesses or individual professionals. The trends reflect a resilient and expanding industry that has experienced consistent job growth, making it a strong field for employment.

What skills and qualities do I need for an entertainment career?

A career in the entertainment industry requires a unique blend of business savvy and personal attributes. Individuals need to develop a diverse set of skills that prepare them for a fast-paced and demanding environment.

• Business Acumen: Understanding fundamental business principles such as finance, marketing, and management is essential for making sound decisions.
• Communication and Collaboration: The ability to work effectively in a team, negotiate contracts, and communicate clearly with a wide range of people is crucial.
• Project Management: The ability to plan, organize, and execute complex projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget, is needed.
• Networking: Building a robust network of contacts is vital for discovering job opportunities and collaborating with professionals across the industry.
• Creative Problem-Solving: The ability to think creatively to overcome unexpected challenges is a highly valued skill in this dynamic field.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The industry is constantly changing, and professionals must be able to adapt to new technologies and trends while remaining persistent in the face of setbacks.
• Legal and Ethical Understanding: A solid grasp of entertainment law, intellectual property rights, and ethical standards is necessary to protect oneself and one's clients.
• Leadership: The ability to motivate and guide teams to achieve a shared creative vision is important.
• Marketing and Promotion: Understanding how to create and implement effective marketing campaigns is key to making entertainment content a success.

These skills are not only essential for success but also help in navigating the unpredictable nature of the entertainment world with confidence.

How does an entertainment business curriculum prepare me for my career?

An entertainment business curriculum provides a solid foundation in both traditional business practices and the unique aspects of the creative industries. Coursework is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to manage projects, talent, and finances in a dynamic environment. Note that specific degree programs may exclude some of the following or may include subjects not in this list.

Art and Design

Creative courses help develop visual storytelling and design skills essential for branding, content creation, and audience engagement.

• 2D and 3D Animation – Teaches animation techniques used in film, games, and digital media, helping entertainment businesses visualize concepts and enhance storytelling.
• Art Direction for Media – Focuses on leading visual design across productions, crucial for maintaining brand identity and aesthetic consistency.
• Concept Art and Character Design – Develops original visual concepts for characters and worlds, supporting IP development and merchandising.
• Graphic Design for Entertainment – Covers design principles for promotional materials, logos, and packaging, vital for marketing and brand visibility.
• Storyboarding Techniques – Trains students to visually plan scenes and narratives, aiding in pre-production and creative pitching.
• Visual Composition and Color Theory – Explores how visual elements influence perception, useful for crafting compelling media and advertisements.

Additionally, understanding technical design tools is increasingly important across entertainment industries. For instance, integrating skills like 3D modeling and drafting can enhance production design and set planning. For individuals curious about bridging technical expertise with creative projects, learning what can you do with an AutoCAD certification can open opportunities in set design, event staging, and digital visualization within entertainment companies.

Business and Finance

Core business subjects are tailored to the entertainment industry’s unique financial and strategic demands.

• Audience Analysis and Consumer Behavior – Studies consumer preferences to inform marketing and content development strategies.
• Business of Music – Explores revenue models and operations in the music industry, preparing students for roles in labels, touring, and publishing.
• Entertainment Finance – Teaches budgeting and financial planning for productions, essential for managing project costs and investor relations.
• Entrepreneurship in Entertainment – Equips students to launch and manage creative ventures, from startups to independent productions.
• Licensing and Merchandising – Covers monetization of intellectual property through products and brand extensions.
• Marketing and Promotion – Focuses on campaign development and audience targeting, critical for driving engagement and revenue.

 Photography

Technical and creative skills help in producing high-quality imagery used in branding, promotion, and content creation.

• Commercial Photography – Teaches techniques for product and promotional shoots, supporting advertising and merchandising.
• Digital Photo Editing – Covers post-processing tools like Photoshop, enhancing visual assets for campaigns and media.
• Lighting Techniques – Explores studio and location lighting setups, essential for professional-quality visuals.
• Portrait and Fashion Photography – Focuses on capturing talent and style, useful for press kits, branding, and influencer marketing.
• Studio Photography – Trains students in controlled shooting environments, ideal for promotional and editorial content.
• Visual Storytelling Through Photography – Develops narrative-driven imagery, supporting brand identity and media campaigns.

 Digital Media and Technology

These courses explore emerging platforms, interactive media, and tech innovations shaping modern entertainment.

• Digital Content Creation and Distribution – Teaches how to produce and monetize content for platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
• Social Media Strategy for Entertainment – Focuses on audience engagement and brand building through social platforms.
• Streaming Media Operations – Covers backend and business models of streaming services, preparing students for digital distribution roles.
• Technology and Innovation in Entertainment – Examines tools like VR and AI, helping students adapt to evolving business models.
• User Experience and Interactive Design – Teaches interface design for apps and games, enhancing audience interaction and retention.
• Video Game Industry Management – Explores production and monetization in gaming, a major sector in the entertainment business.

Event and Talent Management

The courses prepare students to manage live experiences and creative professionals, key components of entertainment operations.

• Networking and Industry Relations – Builds skills for forging partnerships and navigating industry ecosystems.
• Principles of Event Management – Covers logistics and planning for concerts, premieres, and festivals.
• Talent Management – Trains students to represent and develop artists, actors, and influencers.
• Tour Logistics and Operations – Focuses on managing travel, venues, and schedules for touring productions.
• Venue Operations and Strategy – Teaches how to run entertainment venues, from booking to customer experience.
• VIP and Sponsorship Activation – Explores premium event experiences and brand partnerships, enhancing revenue and exposure.

Global and Strategic Communication

These courses emphasize international strategy, ethical media practices, and brand messaging.

• Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships – Teaches how to secure and manage collaborations that fund and promote entertainment projects.
• Global Media – Explores content distribution and cultural adaptation across international markets.
• Media Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility – Examines ethical decision-making and brand reputation in media.
• Public Relations Strategy – Develops communication plans to manage public image and media relations.
• Strategic Communication in Entertainment – Focuses on aligning messaging with business goals across platforms.
• Transmedia Storytelling – Teaches how to tell stories across multiple formats, enhancing audience engagement and IP value.

Legal and Intellectual Property

Essential legal knowledge is essential in protecting creative assets and navigating contracts in entertainment.

• Contract Negotiation and Management – Trains students to draft and manage agreements with talent, vendors, and partners.
• Entertainment Law and Intellectual Property – Covers copyright, trademark, and legal rights in creative industries.
• Media Rights and Distribution – Explores licensing and syndication of content across platforms and territories.
• Regulatory Compliance in Entertainment – Ensures students understand legal standards for content and operations.
• Rights Clearance and Copyright Strategy – Teaches how to secure permissions and avoid infringement.
• Trademark and Licensing Law – Focuses on brand protection and monetization through licensing deals.

Production and Content Development

The courses that guide students through the creation, management, and delivery of entertainment content.

• Film and Television Production – Covers the full production cycle, from development to post-production.
• Media Management – Teaches how to oversee content across platforms, including scheduling and monetization.
• Post-Production Workflow – Focuses on editing, sound, and finishing processes for media projects.
• Production Budgeting and Scheduling – Trains students to plan and allocate resources efficiently.
• Script Development and Story Editing – Explores writing and refining narratives for screen and digital formats.
• Visual Effects and Animation Management – Covers the business and coordination of VFX teams and pipelines.

Video Production and Editing

Technical courses for creating and refining video content are extensively used in entertainment marketing and storytelling.

• Cinematography Techniques – Teaches camera work and visual framing for compelling video production. Some affordable cinematography degree online programs can help enhance your skills in this area.
• Color Grading and Correction – Focuses on enhancing visual tone and consistency in post-production.
• Editing for Narrative and Documentary – Covers storytelling through video editing, essential for film, TV, and branded content.
• Motion Graphics and Compositing – Teaches visual effects and animated elements for dynamic media.
• Sound Design and Audio Mixing – Explores audio production for immersive and professional-quality content.
• Video Editing with Premiere Pro and Final Cut – Provides hands-on training with industry-standard editing software.

The curricula of various degree programs are a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing the tools to navigate the business side of entertainment. Completing a program like this can give a competitive edge and prepare one for the real-world challenges of the industry.

What specializations are available in the entertainment business?

The entertainment business is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize in a specific area, allowing an individual to tailor their education and career to their personal interests. Whether someone is drawn to the creative or the business side, there is a specialization that will help them thrive.

• Talent Management: This specialization focuses on representing and managing the careers of performers, including actors, musicians, and athletes.
• Sports Management: Entertainment business skills can be applied to the sports industry, managing teams, venues, and athletic talent. Graduates can also leverage specialized analytical skills by pursuing careers with a master’s in sports analytics, including roles in performance analysis, player scouting, team strategy, and sports business operations. This combination of management knowledge and data-driven insight makes professionals highly valuable to professional sports organizations, collegiate athletic programs, and sports marketing firms.
• Event Planning: This focuses on the logistics of organizing and executing live events, from festivals and concerts to corporate events.
• Entertainment Marketing: This specialization is all about developing and implementing strategies to promote films, albums, and other forms of entertainment.
• Music Business: The financial and legal aspects of the music industry are studied, including artist and repertoire (A&R), publishing, and touring.
• Film and Television Production: This area focuses on the business side of creating film and television content, including budgeting, scheduling, and distribution.
• Digital Media and Content Creation: This specialization prepares individuals for a career in the rapidly growing field of online content, including managing social media and digital platforms.
• Gaming and Esports: The business side of the video game industry is learned, from game development and marketing to managing professional esports teams. Graduates focusing on this area can pursue esports business jobs, including team management, event coordination, marketing, sponsorship relations, and operations within competitive gaming organizations.
• Arts Management: This specialization is for those interested in working with non-profit arts organizations like theaters, museums, and symphonies.

Choosing a specialization is a great way to differentiate oneself in the job market and build deep expertise in a field one loves.

As shown in the graphic below, in 2024, the median pay for entertainment and recreation managers was $77,180 per year, or $37.11 per hour (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). The number of jobs in this field was 35,800 as of 2023, with a projected growth of 11% over the decade between 2023 and 2033 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). This growth is expected to result in an additional 3,900 jobs.

The data indicates that this is a growing field with a higher-than-average employment growth rate. The typical entry-level education is a bachelor's degree, with less than five years of related work experience usually required. The statistics reflect a stable job market with strong future prospects for those entering the field.

How do I choose the right career path in the entertainment business?

Selecting the right career path in the entertainment business can feel overwhelming due to the sheer number of options available, but a thoughtful approach can help an individual find their niche. The key is to blend one's passions with their strengths and be open to new experiences.

• Interests: Individuals should consider what aspects of entertainment truly excite them, whether it's music, film, gaming, or live events.
• Skills and Strengths: It is necessary to honestly evaluate one's abilities, whether they are in project management, marketing, finance, or creative direction.
• Informational Interviews: Professionals in different roles can be reached out to for questions about their day-to-day work, challenges, and career trajectories.
• Hands-on Experience: Internships, volunteer work, and part-time jobs are invaluable for testing out different roles and seeing what fits best.
• Job Descriptions: Job postings for various positions can be read to understand the required skills, responsibilities, and career outlook.
• Work-Life Balance: The entertainment industry is notorious for long hours and demanding schedules, so it is important to be realistic about the lifestyle each career path entails.
• Seek Mentorship: Finding a mentor who has experience in the industry can provide invaluable guidance and insights.

By combining self-reflection with practical research and real-world experience, an informed decision can be made about a future in the entertainment business.

What are the top career paths for entertainment business professionals?

Entertainment business professionals play a vital role in shaping the creative industries by managing the business, legal, and strategic aspects behind the scenes. With a degree in the entertainment business, graduates can pursue diverse career paths across film, music, digital media, live events, and talent representation.

Business and Strategy

These roles are focused on strategic planning, market analysis, and monetization within the entertainment industry.

• Business Analyst – Analyzes market trends to guide strategic decisions and identify growth opportunities.
• Content Licensing Manager – Negotiates licensing agreements for distributing entertainment content across platforms.
• Media Rights Analyst – Assesses the value of media deals and negotiates rights for various entertainment properties.
• Sponsorship Coordinator – Aligns brand partnerships with business goals to generate revenue and exposure.

Digital Media and Marketing

These are careers centered on digital content, audience engagement, and brand promotion.

• Content Licensing Manager – Oversees rights and contracts for distributing digital content.
• Digital Media Strategist – Develops online content strategies to build brand presence and drive engagement.
• Marketing Manager – Creates and executes campaigns to promote entertainment products and services.
• Social Media Manager – Manages a brand’s social media presence to engage audiences and grow followers.

There is growing demand for professionals in social media jobs, including positions that focus on content creation, analytics, community management, and influencer partnerships. Entertainment business graduates with expertise in these areas can leverage social media to expand brand reach, drive engagement, and create innovative campaigns across multiple digital platforms.

Film and Television

Behind-the-scenes roles that support the development, production, and distribution of screen content are also important.

• Casting Director – Finds and selects actors for roles in film and television productions.
• Film or Television Producer – Oversees all aspects of production, from budgeting to creative direction.
• Media Rights Analyst – Negotiates and evaluates rights deals for film and television properties.
• Streaming Platform Coordinator – Manages content acquisition and programming for digital streaming services.

Live Events and Venues

These roles manage the planning, execution, and sponsorship of live entertainment experiences.

• Event Coordinator – Plans and executes concerts, festivals, conferences, and award shows.
• Sponsorship Coordinator – Works with brands to sponsor live events and enhance audience experiences.
• Venue Manager – Manages daily operations of theaters, arenas, and concert halls.

Music Industry

These careers are focused on artist development, touring, and music promotion.

• Music Promoter – Publicizes live music events and tours to attract audiences and drive ticket sales.
• Sponsorship Coordinator – Secures brand sponsorships for concerts and music festivals.
• Talent Manager or Agent – Represents and guides the careers of musicians and performers.
• Tour Manager – Handles logistics, travel, and scheduling for artists on tour.

Public Relations and Talent Representation

These roles shape public perception and manage the careers of creative professionals.

• Public Relations Specialist – Manages public image and media relations for individuals or companies.
• Talent Manager or Agent – Negotiates contracts and develops careers for performers and artists.

These are just a few of the many opportunities that await professionals in the entertainment business.

How much can I earn in the entertainment business?

The salary potential in the entertainment business is wide-ranging, depending heavily on one's specific role, experience, and the sector they work in. Entry-level positions can have a moderate starting salary, while more senior and specialized roles can be highly lucrative. Some salary ranges are as follows:

• Event Coordinator: An average annual salary in the range of $50,000 to $70,000 can be expected.
• Publicist: The average salary for a publicist is approximately $65,000 to $90,000, with top professionals earning more.
• Artist Manager: The income for this role can vary dramatically, but established managers can earn well into six figures through a percentage of their client's earnings.
• Film/TV Producer: A producer's salary can be very high, with a wide range from around $70,000 for an independent producer to millions for a major studio project.
• Music Promoter: This role's income can fluctuate based on the success of the events promoted, but a full-time professional can earn an average of $60,000 to $85,000.
• Business Analyst: A business analyst in the entertainment industry can expect an average salary of about $75,000 to $100,000.
• Venue Manager: The average salary for a venue manager ranges from approximately $70,000 to $120,000 or more, depending on the size of the venue.

Earning potential will largely depend on one's experience, network, and success in their chosen field. With hard work and dedication, a career in entertainment can be financially rewarding.

As shown in the graph below, salaries for graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Business show considerable variation, primarily driven by job title, specialization, and level of responsibility. Entry-level roles such as account coordinator, digital marketing coordinator, and customer service coordinator average $31,071, $33,302, and $35,175 per year, respectively, according to PayAcale.com (2025).

The following roles fall into the mid-level category: production manager ($58,084), executive assistant ($57,070), purchasing specialist ($59,234), human resources generalist ($62,244), buyer ($62,621), corporate communications manager ($64,199), project manager ($65,610), and conference manager ($66,197). Human resources degree programs can help you get there.

Specialist roles include pre-sales technical consultant ($59,185), sales trainer ($64,007), trade marketing manager ($71,672), field service engineer ($71,220), digital marketing manager ($73,812), and motion graphic designer ($76,193). Senior-level positions include chief administrative officer ($59,597), senior technical writer ($72,891), business development manager ($73,742), vice president of marketing ($84,470), global marketing manager ($91,938), and senior product manager ($147,515).

Over recent years, salaries have been trending upward, and demand continues to be strong for both business and creative roles in entertainment. A degree in entertainment business prepares graduates for a broad spectrum of opportunities, where career progression and higher earnings are closely associated with increased expertise and responsibility.

Is the entertainment job market right for me?

The entertainment job market is in a constant state of evolution, driven by new technologies and changing consumer behavior. As a career in this field is considered, it is important to understand the current landscape and future outlook to determine if it is the right fit.

• Industry Growth: The entertainment industry is projected to see continued growth in areas like streaming services and digital media.
• Demand for Specialized Skills: The market has a high demand for professionals who can blend business and creative skills, particularly in emerging fields like esports and AI in content creation.
• Geographic Concentration: Many opportunities are concentrated in major hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville, which may require relocation.
• Freelance and Project-Based Work: A significant portion of the job market is composed of freelance, contract, and project-based positions, requiring professionals to be self-motivated and adept at networking.
• Job Competition: The industry is highly competitive, so a strong portfolio, network, and practical experience are essential for standing out.
• Rise of New Sectors: Areas like cloud gaming, virtual reality, and interactive content are creating brand-new career opportunities that didn't exist a decade ago.
• Increased International Opportunities: With a globalized market, there are more opportunities than ever to work on international projects or with companies based overseas.

The entertainment job market is a challenging but exciting place to be. If an individual is adaptable, passionate, and willing to put in the effort to build a strong professional network, they can thrive in this dynamic environment.

Based on the PwC Global Entertainment & Media Outlook 2025–2029, the global entertainment and media (E&M) industry is forecast to grow to $3.5 trillion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% from 2024 to 2029. This growth is expected to generate $577 billion in new revenues by 2029. In 2024, E&M revenues rose 5.5% to $2.9 trillion from $2.8 trillion in 2023 (PwC, 2025). These are shown in the graphic below.

A significant trend driving this growth is the increasing role of advertising. By 2029, advertising revenues are forecast to exceed consumer spending by $300 billion. Advertising is expected to grow at a 6.1% CAGR, which is more than three times as fast as the 2.0% CAGR projected for consumer spending.

The data highlights a shift in the E&M industry's business model, with advertising becoming the primary engine for revenue growth. This transformation is fueled by factors like technology and a slowdown in subscription-based growth.

What are some current and future trends in the entertainment industry?

The entertainment industry is on the cusp of major changes, with technological innovation and shifting audience behaviors driving new opportunities and challenges. Keeping up with these trends is crucial for anyone looking to build a successful career.

• AI in Content Creation: Artificial intelligence is becoming a creative collaborator, assisting with scriptwriting, video editing, and even personalized content creation. You can also consider how to become a business intelligence developer for more practical business applications.
• Interactive and Immersive Content: Audiences are moving from passive viewing to active participation through experiences like virtual reality concerts, AR games, and interactive narratives.
• Streaming Wars and Bundling: The highly fragmented streaming market is leading to new strategies, including bundling services and ad-supported platforms (FAST), to attract and retain subscribers.
• Data-Driven Personalization: Companies are using sophisticated data analytics to create highly personalized content, marketing campaigns, and fan experiences.
• The Rise of Esports and Gaming: Video games are no longer just a hobby; they are a major form of entertainment and a booming business with professional leagues and large media audiences.
• Decentralized Revenue Models: New monetization models are emerging, such as microtransactions, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and tokenized media (tokenized assets), offering creators and companies new ways to earn revenue.
• Social Media as a Discovery Platform: Social platforms are becoming a primary source for content discovery, with many artists and creators building their careers directly on these sites.
• Remote Production: Cloud-based collaboration tools are making it possible for creative teams to work together seamlessly from anywhere in the world.

These trends highlight a shift toward more personalized, interactive, and globally-connected entertainment. Understanding them will be key to future success in the field.

Based on Deloitte's 2025 survey, there are distinct trends in how U.S. consumers use devices for entertainment, as shown in the graph below. A significant majority of respondents, 66%, reported using a Smart TV for streaming TV shows and movies, compared to only 12% who used a mobile device for the same activity (Deloitte, 2025). This pattern reverses dramatically for short-form and long-form video consumption, where mobile phones or tablets are preferred.

For watching short-form videos, 43% of consumers use a mobile device, while only 3% use a Smart TV (Deloitte, 2025). This preference is even more pronounced for scrolling on social media, where 71% of respondents use a mobile device, compared to just 3% on a Smart TV (Deloitte, 2025). Long-form video also sees a preference for mobile devices, with 48% of consumers using them versus 17% using a Smart TV (Deloitte, 2025).

The data clearly shows that larger screens, such as a Smart TV, are favored for traditional viewing experiences, while mobile devices dominate for more personal, on-the-go content like short-form video and social media.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Entertainment Business Degrees

Other Things You Should Know About Entertainment Business Degrees

Is it hard to break into the entertainment industry?

Breaking into the entertainment industry is widely considered a challenging and competitive endeavor. The field is often unpredictable and requires a high degree of perseverance and adaptability. Many jobs are filled through personal connections and referrals, making networking a crucial aspect of the job search.

Success in the industry often depends on being proactive and demonstrating value through practical experience rather than just a degree. The job market is characterized by freelance and project-based work, meaning professionals must be self-motivated and persistent to navigate a constantly changing workload and find new opportunities.

How does AI affect entertainment careers?

Artificial intelligence is not seen as a replacement for entertainment careers, but as a transformative tool that is reshaping the industry. One must stay up-to-date on new technologies, such as AI, because they are increasingly becoming creative collaborators.

AI is already being used to assist with various tasks like scriptwriting, video editing, and creating personalized content. These tools are helping to streamline the creative process, so professionals will need to understand how to leverage these technologies to enhance their work and maintain a competitive edge.

How can I stand out in a competitive entertainment industry job market?

To stand out, it is essential to build a strong foundation of practical experience and connections. The document emphasizes that internships, entry-level jobs, and volunteering on projects are invaluable for gaining hands-on experience and building a portfolio or "reel" of work. A strong portfolio, even one based on low-budget personal projects, is often more important than a formal degree.

Furthermore, a powerful strategy is to specialize in a niche area and build a robust network. Focusing on emerging fields like esports or digital content creation can help differentiate me in the market. Consistent networking and building professional relationships are vital, as many jobs are filled through personal recommendations.