​​Best Online Entertainment Business Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online entertainment business degree?

An online entertainment business degree combines the creativity of the arts with the technicality of commerce. These programs are designed to help students navigate the complex world behind the scenes, from negotiating contracts to developing revenue strategies.

Here’s a look at what you can expect these programs:

• Business Fundamentals: Courses in marketing, finance, and management tailored to the unique demands of entertainment.
• Industry Internships or Capstone Projects: Hands-on experience with real clients, productions, or agencies to build your portfolio and network.
• Flexible Scheduling: Attend live virtual classes or watch recordings around your production schedule, auditions, or travel.
• Remote Collaboration Tools: Work with classmates on marketing plans, pitch decks, or media strategies using platforms common in the entertainment industry.
• Access to Industry Professionals: Join guest lectures and Q&As via livestream with producers, managers, and executives working in film, music, and media.

Where can I work with an online entertainment business degree?

An online entertainment business degree opens doors across multiple sectors. Graduates are equipped to step into roles that shape the industry from behind the scenes, leveraging both strategic thinking and industry insight.

Here are some common workplaces for degree holders:

• Record Labels: Manage artist development, contracts, and promotional campaigns.
• Film and Television Studios: Oversee production budgets, distribution deals, and marketing strategies.
• Talent Agencies: Represent artists, negotiate deals, and build career roadmaps.
• Streaming Platforms: Curate content, analyze audience data, and develop acquisition strategies.
• Live Event Companies: Plan concerts, festivals, and tours from logistics to ticketing.
• Gaming Studios: Handle licensing, partnerships, and in-game monetization strategies.
• Media and Marketing Firms: Build cross-platform campaigns and brand collaborations for entertainment clients.

How much can I make with an online entertainment business degree?

Salaries in the entertainment business field can vary based on experience, location, and industry focus, but there's strong potential for growth. Many graduates start in entry-level roles and move into higher-paying positions as they build their network and expertise.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to earn:

• Top Earners - $122,000 per year: Senior executives, high-level producers, and seasoned managers at major studios or agencies often reach this range.
• 75th Percentile - $97,000 per year: Experienced professionals in mid-to-senior roles, such as marketing directors or production managers, typically earn this amount.
• Average Salary - $77,274 per year: Most degree holders with a few years of experience earn a solid mid-career income across various entertainment sectors.
• 25th Percentile - $53,000 per year: Entry-level roles like coordinator, assistant, or junior analyst usually fall within this starting salary range.

List of the Best Universities for Online Entertainment Business Degree Programs for 2025

For aspiring professionals who want to master the business side of music, film, gaming, and live events, a best esports business programs online option can be a smart first step. These degrees combine creative industry knowledge with business acumen, preparing graduates to lead in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.

1. The Los Angeles Film School

The Los Angeles Film School offers a fully online BS in Entertainment Business designed for those who want to lead in creative industries. The program blends business administration and management principles with real-world applications in film, music, gaming, and media. Through a project-based, professional environment, students gain practical insight into how the entertainment industry truly operates.

• Program Length: 29 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Entertainment Business
• Estimated Cost: $64,300 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

2. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida’s fully online BS in Entertainment Management combines business fundamentals with real-world training in live events, media, and performance. With experienced faculty and a 97% placement rate, students gain practical skills and industry insight to thrive in a fast-paced entertainment landscape.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Entertainment Management
• Cost per Credit: $179.19 (In-State); $715.80 (Out-of-State)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Full Sail University

Full Sail University’s online BS in Entertainment Business uncovers the business and management side of the film, music, and sports industry with hands-on, project-based learning. The program prepares students for real-world industry scenarios, focusing on marketing, global media management, event planning, and professional sales. 

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Entertainment Business
• Estimated Annual Cost: $12,000–$30,000
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

4. Berklee College of Music 

Berklee College of Music offers an online BS in Music Business which equips students with a deep understanding of the evolving music industry, from streaming and publishing to touring and artist management. Taught by award-winning Berklee faculty and industry professionals, the program covers music law, licensing, marketing, and entrepreneurship through hands-on instruction. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Music Business
• Estimated Total Cost: $62,150
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

5. University of California - Los Angeles Extension 

University of California - Los Angeles Extension’s online certificate program in Business and Management of Entertainment is designed for future Hollywood executives and independent filmmakers alike. Students gain a full understanding of industry operations through courses in pre-production, production, post-production, business affairs, finance, and marketing. 

• Program Length: 9 months (full-time); 3 years (part-time)
• Tracks/concentrations: Business and Management of Entertainment
• Estimated Total Cost: $6,705
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

6. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers an online BS in Sports and Entertainment Management through the Colangelo College of Business. The program focuses on industry-specific skills like marketing, talent management, event operations, and revenue generation. Grounded in GCU’s Christian mission, the curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership and prepares students for a wide range of careers in the dynamic world of sports and entertainment.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Sports and Entertainment Management
• Cost per Credit: $485
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Johnson & Wales University

Johnson & Wales University’s online BS Sports, Entertainment, and Event Management program provides students with hands-on skills in operations, logistics, and guest experience for sporting events, concerts, and large-scale gatherings. The program prepares graduates to plan, manage, and execute unforgettable events across the sports and entertainment industries.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Sports, Entertainment, and Event Management 
• Estimated Cost: $43,872
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

8. Florida International University

Florida International University offers a fully online BS in Event and Entertainment Management through its top-ranked Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. The program provides a strong foundation in business, logistics, and operations, preparing students for leadership roles in hospitality, tourism, and entertainment. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Event and Entertainment Management
• Cost per Credit: $435 (In-State); $648 (Out-of-State)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

9. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina’s fully online Master of Sport and Entertainment Management is designed for working professionals seeking flexibility and career advancement. The program covers key areas like marketing, sponsorship, revenue generation, and global leadership in entertainment. Students also gain access to the SEVT conference, connecting with industry leaders and exploring trends in sports and entertainment.

• Program Length: 1–2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Sport and Entertainment Management 
• Cost per Credit: $572.25
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

10. University of Miami 

The University of Miami’s online MA in Live Entertainment Management equips students with the business skills needed to thrive in the worlds of commercial music and performing arts. Through a focused curriculum in marketing, operations, finance, and entertainment law, students learn how to navigate the complexities of live events. Hands-on projects and real-world case studies help students master all things entertainment business.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Music Business
• Estimated Total Cost: $47,592
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

How long does it take to complete an online entertainment business degree program?

Most online bachelor’s degrees in entertainment business take about 4 years to complete. Programs at schools like the University of Central Florida and Grand Canyon University follow a traditional timeline, balancing core business courses with industry-specific training. These programs are ideal for students who want a comprehensive, paced approach to building their expertise.

Graduate options typically take closer to 2 years, offering a deeper dive into advanced business and entertainment strategy. Meanwhile, accelerated programs are ideal for those eager to enter the industry faster. Some of the fastest online entertainment business degree programs can be completed in as little as 18 months. 

The length of your program ultimately depends on your goals and availability. Traditional timelines offer more breathing room for in-depth learning, while fast-track formats are built for focused, full-speed progression. Either way, online formats give you the flexibility to learn without pausing your life.

How does an online entertainment business degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Choosing between an online and on-campus entertainment business degree depends on your lifestyle, learning style, and career goals. Both formats cover similar core content, but the experience and flexibility can differ dramatically. Here's how they differ:

Online Degree Programs

• Online programs offer flexible scheduling, ideal for students balancing internships, gigs, or part-time work in the entertainment world.
• You can attend live-streamed lectures and Q&As with industry professionals from anywhere in the world.
• Courses often include collaborative projects using digital tools, mirroring how remote teams operate in real entertainment businesses.
• Studying online gives you access to top programs without needing to relocate to a major entertainment hub or commercial district.

On-Campus Programs

• On-campus students benefit from face-to-face networking with classmates, professors, and guest speakers.
• You can gain hands-on experience through campus events, studio projects, and production labs.
• Structured schedules provide routine, which can help students stay on track academically.

• In-person instruction equips you with hands-on experience through live productions, set visits, or entertainment events.

With a projected annual growth rate of 8.53%, the entertainment industry is expected to reach a market value of $61.74 billion by 2029. Now more than ever, the industry needs creative minds with strong business skills to navigate new platforms, audiences, and revenue streams. Choosing the right program lets you shape the future of entertainment.

What is the average cost of an online entertainment business degree program?

Online entertainment business degree costs can vary widely depending on the program’s focus, industry connections, and overall prestige. Some offer specialized training with access to top professionals and networking opportunities, while others prioritize flexibility and affordability, still preparing students with practical skills for success behind the scenes.

Here's a breakdown of the costs:

• Top-Tier Bachelor’s Programs: These average just over $63,000, with schools like the Los Angeles Film School ($64,300) and Berklee College of Music ($62,150) offering specialized training and strong industry ties.
• Affordable Bachelor’s Programs: Full Sail University offers accessible degrees ranging from $12,000 to $30,000, ideal for students seeking real-world preparation without a high price tag.
• Online Master’s Programs: These typically range from $33,000 to $46,000, depending on credit requirements, and are designed for professionals advancing into leadership or strategy roles.

In 2023 alone, 4,722 students graduated with degrees in arts, entertainment, and media management. This surge reflects not only growing interest but also the widening range of affordable and specialized programs now available.

As demand rises, so does the opportunity to enter the industry with a credential that fits your financial and professional goals—similar to cost considerations in fast track online biochemistry degree programs.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online entertainment business degree program?

While online entertainment business degrees can be costly, there are numerous financial aid options tailored to students pursuing careers in media, communications, and the arts. These scholarships not only ease the financial burden but often provide professional opportunities and access to exclusive networks. 

Here are some standout options worth exploring:

• New York Women in Communications (NYWICI) Scholarship Program: Supports students pursuing communications careers with $1,000 in aid, access to NYWICI events, and a ticket to the Matrix Awards. Recipients may also contribute to NYWICI media and serve as ambassadors at their schools.
• Islamic Scholarship Fund (ISF) Media Scholarship: Offers $3,000–$5,000 to juniors, seniors, and graduate students in media-related fields. Designed to boost Muslim representation in media and policymaking while funding impactful storytelling.
• East Rock Films Scholarship: Provides $500 to students studying arts, humanities, or social sciences. Applicants must write about a historical figure who inspires them and commit to using the award for educational expenses.
• Chronicle Diversity in Media Scholarship: Grants $10,000 to students with newsroom experience who are dedicated to covering how race and identity shape U.S. institutions. Includes a summer internship and requires verification of financial aid eligibility.

• DigitalWise Media College Scholarship: Offers a $1,000 scholarship awarded twice a year (Fall and Spring semesters) to students passionate about marketing, public relations, or communications. Open to residents of the USA or Canada.

With the right scholarships and strategic school choices, students can access a low cost entertainment business degree online while still gaining industry-relevant experience and professional connections.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online entertainment business degree program?

Getting into an online entertainment business degree program requires more than just interest in pop culture. You’ll need to show academic readiness, a grasp of digital tools, and a clear interest in the business side of entertainment.

Here’s what most programs look for:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most schools require a completed high school education or GED with official transcripts.
• Minimum GPA: Some programs set a GPA threshold of 2.5 or higher for admission consideration.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Many schools ask for a short essay detailing your goals in the entertainment industry.
• Technical Readiness: A stable internet connection and comfort with digital platforms are essential for online coursework.
• Creative or Professional Portfolio (optional): Some programs may request evidence of related work like event planning, music production, or social media campaigns.
• Industry Awareness: You should be familiar with current trends in entertainment, such as digital streaming, licensing, or talent management.
• Intro to Business Knowledge: Some programs recommend or require basic business courses in marketing, management, or accounting.
• Passion for Storytelling and Media: A demonstrated interest in content creation, brand building, or audience engagement can strengthen your application.

If you're looking for a faster path into a niche field, you can also take a look at accelerated eSports business management degree online programs, which blend entertainment, tech, and strategy for careers in the rapidly growing esports industry.

What courses are typically in an online entertainment business degree program?

Students in online entertainment business programs gain practical insight into the inner workings of the industry. From managing talent to monetizing content, courses are designed to reflect real-world demands in music, film, gaming, and digital media. 

Here’s a look at the subjects you’ll likely encounter:

• Entertainment Law: Covers the legal framework of intellectual property and entertainment licensing. I recommend exploring fast-track master's in legal studies online programs if you wish to pursue advanced studies in entertainment law in no time.
• Marketing and Promotion: Teaches strategies for branding, digital marketing, and audience engagement in entertainment sectors. Coursework emphasizes how to build buzz and sustain long-term fan loyalty.
• Media Distribution: Explores the business of getting content in front of audiences through streaming, theaters, and broadcast. The course covers deal structures, revenue models, and platform dynamics.
• Business Fundamentals: Introduces accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship tailored to the entertainment industry. Students build foundational skills for budgeting, forecasting, and launching ventures.
• Social Media Strategy: Teaches how to build fanbases, drive engagement, and manage brand presence across platforms. Students create campaigns using real-world tools and metrics.
• Production Management: Breaks down how to manage the moving parts of a film, TV, or digital media production. Topics include scheduling, budgeting, crew coordination, and problem-solving on set.

The best courses intersect creative insight and business strategy to prepare students for leadership roles in the entertainment world. From music and media to gaming and live events, the curriculum is designed to reflect real industry demands. It's a practical path for turning passion into a career.

What types of specializations are available in online entertainment business degree programs?

Online entertainment business degrees aren't one-size-fits-all. Many programs let students tailor their education to match specific industry goals, from talent management to digital distribution. 

These specializations add focus and flexibility to an already dynamic field:

• Music Industry Management: Focuses on artist development, record label operations, and music marketing. You can take a look at the shortest audio and music programs online if you wish to explore this specialization further.
• Film and TV Production Business: Covers the logistics of producing, financing, and distributing visual content. Students learn how to budget, pitch, and manage large-scale productions.
• Live Event and Festival Management: Specializes in the planning, promotion, and execution of concerts, tours, and major events. Perfect for careers in venue operations or event coordination.
• eSports Management: Trains students in the business side of competitive gaming, including team branding, sponsorship, and tournament production. A fast-growing niche with global reach.
• Digital Media and Streaming: Focuses on the economics and strategy behind platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and TikTok. Prepares students for roles in content monetization and platform analytics.
• Talent Representation: Teaches contract negotiation, client management, and legal issues tied to representing artists and influencers. Suited for those looking to become agents or talent managers.
• Entertainment Marketing and PR: Combines branding, media strategy, and audience analytics for entertainment campaigns. Great for students interested in publicity, brand partnerships, or social media strategy.

Choosing a specialization isn’t just about narrowing your focus; it’s about deciding which skill you want to master. Each track sharpens a different set of tools, from negotiation to analytics to event logistics.

In the chart below, I've outlined some of the most common skills entertainment managers build along the way based on the latest data from Zippia (2025):

How to choose the best online entertainment business degree program?

Choosing the right online entertainment business degree program comes down to alignment: between your goals, your learning style, and the opportunities each school offers. Some programs offer prestige and industry connections, while others stand out for affordability or specialization. Knowing what matters most to you will make the decision clearer.

Here’s our recommended criteria:

• Accreditation Status: Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized body, which ensures academic standards and quality. It also impacts your eligibility for financial aid and graduate studies.
• Curriculum Focus: Look for the business element of entertainment and not just creative production. A strong program should cover courses like marketing, finance, talent management, and legal aspects of the industry.
• Faculty Experience: Find instructors with industry credentials or real-world entertainment experience. Their insights and connections can shape your understanding and career prospects.
• Alumni Outcomes: Research where graduates end up working. Strong job placement or entrepreneurial success is a good sign of a program’s value.
• Internship or Networking Opportunities: Online doesn’t mean isolated. Many programs offer virtual events, career coaching, or access to industry mentors.
• Flexibility and Pace: Some programs offer part-time, full-time, or accelerated options. Pick one that fits your lifestyle and goals without burning you out.
• Career Support in Entertainment: General career services are helpful, but entertainment-specific support is better. Look for programs with mentorship, resume reviews, or job boards focused on music, film, or digital media.
• Live Event or Production Labs: Even online, some programs offer virtual simulations of live event planning or media production. These hands-on components can make your learning more immersive and marketable.

The entertainment business program you take shapes how you break into the industry. Focus on what gives you the most real-world experience, industry access, and long-term value. The right fit should make your next step feel obvious—just like targeted degrees such as fast track online sports analytics masters degree make the path forward clear.

What career paths are available for graduates of online entertainment business degree programs?

An entertainment business degree opens doors across film, music, gaming, and live events. With a foundation in both creative strategy and business operations, grads are equipped to lead in fast-moving, high-stakes environments. The key is aligning your strengths with the part of the industry you want to shape.

Here are some of the top career paths for entertainment business graduates.

• Talent Agent: Represents artists, musicians, or performers by negotiating contracts, booking gigs, and building strategic partnerships. Success hinges on industry connections, negotiation skills, and a strong eye for talent.
• Music Licensing Manager: Works with publishers, labels, and platforms to secure rights for music use in TV, film, games, and ads. This role blends legal know-how with market instincts to protect intellectual property and maximize royalties.
• Production Coordinator: Keeps film, TV, or live event productions running on time and on budget. Tasks range from scheduling and logistics to handling permits, payroll, and vendor contracts.
• Entertainment Marketing Manager: Builds campaigns to promote new content, artist launches, or brand partnerships. Creativity meets business strategy in this role, with a focus on digital reach and audience engagement.
• Gaming Community Manager: Acts as the bridge between game studios and player communities by managing feedback, hosting events, and shaping online culture. Strong communication and brand alignment are essential here.
• Tour Manager: Oversees every aspect of an artist’s tour—from travel and accommodations to venue logistics and day-to-day schedules. A sharp memory, quick thinking, and endurance are must-haves.
• Rights and Clearances Specialist: Ensures all content used in a production—music, images, video clips—has proper legal clearance. It's a meticulous role requiring attention to detail and strong legal coordination.
• Venue Operations Manager: Manages scheduling, staff, vendors, and safety protocols for concerts, sports, and live shows. The job demands leadership, budgeting skills, and calm under pressure.
• Content Development Executive: Evaluates pitches, scripts, and concepts to greenlight projects for studios and call the shots. You may want to explore the shortest online organizational leadership master's programs to hone your executive skills fast.

Each role taps into different corners of the entertainment ecosystem—from strategy and storytelling to operations and outreach. Where you land often depends on the industry you choose to grow in.

Below, I've prepared a chart which illustrates where entertainment business grads are most in demand, based on the latest information from BLS (2024). 

What is the job outlook for graduates with an online entertainment business degree program?

The entertainment industry continues to evolve strongly driven by new technologies, consumer behavior, and emerging formats. As demand grows for experiences that blend creativity and commerce, so does the need for skilled business professionals. For graduates, this means a job market full of opportunity across management, strategy, and innovation.

Here’s what you can expect from this career:

• Strong Growth Forecast: Employment for entertainment and recreation managers is expected to grow 11% over the next decade—well above the national average.
• Steady Annual Openings: Around 4,800 job openings are projected each year, driven by turnover, career changes, and retirements.
• Diverse Work Environments: Managers are needed in country clubs, sports facilities, parks, and entertainment venues, reflecting a wide range of placement opportunities.
• Wellness and Lifestyle Trends: A rising focus on lifelong well-being is fueling demand for leaders who can design engaging, health-focused programming.
• Flexible, Transferable Skills: From event management to content licensing, these roles reward professionals who can adapt across formats and platforms.

With an online entertainment business degree, you are instantly positioned at the lucrative intersection of growth and creativity. With strong job prospects and demand across industries, it’s a solid launchpad for long-term success—similar to how fast track online urban planning degrees open doors in multiple sectors.

Could an Advanced Business Degree Elevate My Career in Entertainment?

Graduates looking to deepen their strategic and financial skill set may benefit from complementing their online entertainment business degree with an industry-focused advanced business qualification. An advanced degree sharpens leadership, broadens operational insights, and can facilitate transitions into executive roles. Professionals often explore options such as an MBA—find out more with the cheapest online MBA—to enhance negotiation skills and optimize revenue strategies in a competitive entertainment landscape. This additional credential can serve as a catalyst for long-term career growth and industry innovation without duplicating the foundational training of an undergraduate entertainment business program.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Entertainment Business Degrees

Other Things You Need to Know About Online Entertainment Business Degree Programs

What’s the difference between an entertainment business degree and a general business degree?

An entertainment business degree focuses specifically on the unique dynamics of the entertainment industry, including media production, talent management, and entertainment law. In contrast, a general business degree covers broad topics like finance, marketing, and operations without tailoring them to any particular field. 

For students aiming to work in film, music, sports, or live events, the specialized curriculum of an entertainment business program offers more targeted preparation.

Can this degree help me transition from a different industry into entertainment?

Yes, an online entertainment business degree is a strong entry point for career changers. It teaches transferable skills like budgeting, marketing, and project management within the context of entertainment, making it easier to pivot industries. Plus, the flexibility of online learning lets you build relevant experience while staying in your current job.

What kind of capstone or final project is expected in most online entertainment business programs?

Most programs culminate in a capstone that mirrors real-world entertainment business challenges. You might develop a business plan for a production company, pitch a new streaming concept, or simulate an event launch strategy. These projects are designed to showcase your ability to lead creatively and think commercially.

What’s the typical weekly time commitment for online entertainment business degree students?

Online students usually dedicate 10 to 15 hours per week, depending on course load and pacing. This includes lectures, readings, discussions, and project work. Many programs are designed with working professionals in mind, allowing for flexible scheduling and weekend catch-up.