If you are looking for the best affordable arts, entertainment, and media management degree, you have come to the right place. While performers, artists, and actors entertain the public, arts, entertainment, and media managers provide the structures for their work. These professionals are responsible for handling finances, promoting acts, and negotiating contracts. They may hold management positions in digital media companies, television networks, and movie studios. Since these positions are highly sought after, they often result in tremendous competition among candidates. However, those who earn a bachelor’s degree in arts, entertainment, and media management are more likely to stand out from the crowd. Below, we look at the top 30 best affordable undergraduate programs to get you started in this unique and rewarding field.
Methodology
To develop the most comprehensive list of affordable arts, entertainment, and media management degrees, we awarded points based on three key metrics related to affordability, class size, and student success. We searched for arts, entertainment, and media management bachelor’s degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We then narrowed down the search results from 40 colleges and universities into the top 30 institutions based on the methodology.
Average Cost of Attendance
We first awarded points based on each school’s average cost of attendance, providing the highest number to schools with the lowest tuition rates. We used tuition information provided by the NCES for one year of academic study for a full-time, in-state student. Keep in mind, though, that the cheapest program might not necessarily be the best. Although we get the importance of wanting to save money, it is just as critical to select a school and degree that meets your academic needs and career goals. We did not use out-of-state tuition costs in our ranking, but we went ahead and provided these rates below for your reference.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Next, we awarded points based on each school’s student-to-faculty ratio as reported by NCES. We used these numbers to determine the average class size and overall learning environment at the following colleges and universities. When thinking about student-to-faculty ratios, keep in mind your academic background and personal priorities. Are you looking for a smaller environment that allows for greater accountability and the opportunity to develop relationships with your professors? Or are you looking for a larger environment in which you can complete your program’s requirements without too many interactions with others? Although there are pros and cons to both, for this ranking, we awarded the most points to institutions with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, we considered each school’s graduation rate as a measure of student satisfaction and success. In most cases, colleges and universities with low graduation rates might be failing to keep their students happy. As a result, their students leave and finish their degrees elsewhere. On the other hand, schools with high graduation rates are doing something right to keep their students happy and enrolled right through graduation. Some factors that could influence student satisfaction and success include the availability of affordable programs, the type and amount of academic support offered, and the experience and/or helpfulness of faculty members. For the following ranking, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities with the highest graduation rates from NCES and, ultimately, the highest levels of student success.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Degrees
30. Dean College
Franklin, Massachusetts
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1865, Dean College is a private institution of higher education and one of the most affordable colleges for an arts, entertainment, and media management degree. At Dean College, undergraduates can pursue a low-cost bachelor’s in arts and entertainment management that combines a liberal arts education with courses in marketing, finance, economics, and accounting. Specializations are offered in theater, media studies, and dance, or undergraduates can design their own specialization. Beyond the classroom, the school’s Center for Business, Entertainment and Sport Management offers lectures from industry experts, exclusive internships with major organizations, and opportunities for community service projects. Dean College also provides a high-value bachelor’s degree in entertainment industry management.
Degree Options:
Arts & Entertainment Management
Entertainment Industry Management
In-State Tuition: $39,434
Out-of-State Tuition: $39,434
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
29. Full Sail University
Winter Park, Florida
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1979, Full Sail University is a private institution of higher education that was formerly known as Full Sail Productions and Full Sail Center for the Recording Arts. The school offers an affordable Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Business that combines personal development with essential management and business knowledge. Students learn about various business models and investigate topics like professional selling, event management, global media management, and marketing. On-campus undergraduates can complete the best-value degree program in 20 months, while online students can earn their degrees in 29 months.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Business
In-State Tuition: $24,109
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,109
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 31 percent
28. Long Island University
Brookville, New York
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1926, Long Island University is a private university that offers academic programs at two main campuses: LIU Brooklyn and LIU Post. Students seeking an affordable arts, entertainment, and media management degree can pursue LIU’s inexpensive Bachelor of Fine Arts in Arts Management. Through the high-value 120-credit curriculum, students develop their skills in finance, planning, management, leadership, and critical thinking. Areas of study include computer graphics, public speaking, communications, public relations, law, marketing, management, economics, and accounting. Students may opt to add a concentration in an area like dance, theater, music, or the visual arts. The low-priced degree program culminates with an on-campus or off-campus internship in a professional arts organization.
Degree Options:
B.F.A. in Arts Management
In-State Tuition: $37,763
Out-of-State Tuition: $37,763
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
27. Adrian College
Adrian, Michigan
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1859, Adrian College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. All students considering a business degree complete a core business curriculum as well as upper-level coursework in a concentration area. Students looking for a low-cost arts, entertainment, and media management degree can pursue the best-value event planning and facilities management degree program. Coursework includes advertising and promotion management, convention and trade show operations, facilities management and event risk management. Other areas of study include event production and operations management as well as the principles of event planning. Graduates are prepared for careers in different industry market segments like fundraising, entertainment, cultural, sports, social, or corporate management.
Degree Options:
Event and Facilities Management
In-State Tuition: $37,087
Out-of-State Tuition: $37,087
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
26. Schreiner University
Kerrville, Texas
Points: 5
Program Website
Schreiner University is a private university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church that was established in 1923 as Schreiner Institute, a military institute and residential school for young boys. Today, Schreiner’s Visual Arts Department offers an affordable arts, entertainment, and media management degree in the form of a low-cost Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management and Administration. The curriculum combines the tools of business, including negotiation, accounting, marketing, and management, with the tools of community-building, including partnership, fundraising, volunteerism, outreach, education, and development. Undergraduates have the opportunity to select a specialization in a specific arts area like the visual arts, theater, or music.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management and Administration
In-State Tuition: $27,960
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,960
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
25. Columbia College Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Points: 5
Program Website
One of the most affordable colleges for an arts, entertainment, and media management degree, Columbia College Chicago is a private institution of higher education specializing in media and arts disciplines. Established in 1890 as the Columbia School of Oratory, CCC offers an inexpensive Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management that features management courses on topics like talent management, law for the creative industries, and cultural policy. Students can choose from four concentrations: Creative Industries, Film Business, Visual Arts, and Performing Arts. Practicum courses allow undergraduates to work with their peers to manage and plan live projects, including performances, exhibitions, and events. Students also have the opportunity to visit Chicago’s businesses and cultural institutions and meet arts management professionals as part of the curriculum.
Degree Options:
Arts Management (BA)
In-State Tuition: $27,176
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,176
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
24. Bay State College
Boston, Massachusetts
Points: 5
Program Website
Bay State College, founded in 1946, is a private college that specializes in career-focused academic programs, mainly in the areas of business, healthcare, and information technology. Bay State offers an inexpensive bachelor’s degree in entertainment management with a concentration in the music industry. Students pursuing this affordable degree path will learn about venue management, sound engineering, concert promotion, and artist management. Bay State offers a faculty of industry professionals, individualized attention, and small classes as well as non-traditional and traditional internships. Classes are available in the evening, on-campus, or online.
Degree Options:
Bachelor’s Degree in Entertainment Management With a Music Industry Concentration
In-State Tuition: $22,320
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,320
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 38 percent
23. Seattle University
Seattle, Washington
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1891, Seattle University is a private Jesuit university and the largest independent institution of higher education in the Northwest. SU offers a low-cost arts, entertainment, and media management degree in the form of a best-value Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts with a specialization in arts leadership. The inexpensive degree program is designed for undergraduates looking to administer, manage, or create activities within a specific arts discipline. The curriculum combines traditional classroom studies with a hands-on, five-credit internship in a local arts organization like the Seattle Repertory Theatre or the Seattle Art Museum. Students take courses in fundraising, law, entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, business, arts leadership, and the performing and visual arts.
Degree Options:
BA in Interdisciplinary Arts With a Specialization in Arts Leadership
In-State Tuition: $44,610
Out-of-State Tuition: $44,610
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 74 percent
22. Stonehill College
Easton, Massachusetts
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1948 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, Stonehill College is a private liberal arts college that is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Stonehill College provides an affordable bachelor’s degree in arts and visual culture with a concentration in arts administration. The curriculum combines knowledge of cultural organizations and business. Students investigate topics like management strategies, funding venues, the role of arts in society, and both ethical and legal issues in the arts. The low-priced degree program is designed for undergraduates looking to work in a nonprofit organization, performing arts company, museum, or other cultural institution.
Degree Options:
Arts & Visual Culture Major – Arts Administration Concentration
In-State Tuition: $42,746
Out-of-State Tuition: $42,746
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 79 percent
21. Elmhurst College
Elmhurst, Illinois
Points: 6
Program Website
Elmhurst College is a private liberal arts college that is affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Established in 1871, Elmhurst College provides an affordable undergraduate major in art business in which students combine business skills with their passion for art. Students complete a core curriculum comprised of an internship and classes in accounting and financial management, management theory and practice, marketing, and graphic design. Students may also select electives based on their interests in areas like consumer behavior, advertising, retailing management, and sales. Graduates are prepared for careers in arts administration or gallery work as well as for graduate-level study.
Degree Options:
Major in Art Business
In-State Tuition: $37,055
Out-of-State Tuition: $37,055
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
20. Western New England University
Springfield, Massachusetts
Points: 6
Program Website
Students looking for a cost-effective arts, entertainment, and media management degree might consider attending Western New England University. Established in 1919 as Northeastern College, Springfield Division, WNEU is a private institution of higher education that offers an affordable arts and entertainment management major. Students complete a common core of management and business courses as well as specialized classes in the major. Areas of study include economics, business law, and venue operations. Undergraduates may also further focus their studies on one of four areas: visual arts, theater, television/film or music. A low-priced dual major in marketing is also available.
Degree Options:
Arts and Entertainment Management Major
In-State Tuition: $36,804
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,804
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
19. George Fox University
Newberg, Oregon
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1891 as a school for Quakers, George Fox University is a Christian university and one of the most affordable universities for an arts, entertainment, and media management degree. George Fox’s inexpensive arts administration major provides a foundation in the visual arts. Students also develop the business administration, curatorial, and historic skills needed to pursue careers in the management and leadership of arts-related organizations. Beyond the classroom, the school boasts partnerships with regional arts institutions and nonprofits as well as existing art collections and galleries. Undergraduates have the opportunity to peek behind the scenes to understand what it takes to curate an exhibition, plan community arts events, and run an arts organization.
Degree Options:
Arts Administration Major
In-State Tuition: $36,020
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,020
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
18. Belmont University
Nashville, Tennessee
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1890 as the Belmont Women’s College, Belmont University is a private institution of higher education that emphasizes a Christian identity. Belmont’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business offers economical undergraduate programs in media studies, motion pictures, songwriting, entertainment industry studies, audio engineering, and music business. The low-priced music business major combines traditional business courses with specialized topics in marketing, concert promotion, public relations, artist management, copyright law, and publishing. The inexpensive entertainment industry studies major consists of a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree and offers classes in management, law and licensing, economics, distribution and promotion, creative entertainment technology, innovation, and creativity.
Degree Options:
Music Business
Entertainment Industry Studies
In-State Tuition: $34,310
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,310
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
17. Shenandoah University
Winchester, Virginia
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1875 as Shenandoah Seminary, Shenandoah University is a private institution of higher education and one of five United Methodist Church-affiliated universities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Shenandoah University offers an affordable Bachelor of Business Administration in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management (AEM) that consists of 42 credits of business core courses in marketing, finance, accounting, economics, and human resource management. Supporting electives in the AEM field cover topics like facility planning and event management, entertainment management, small business management and entrepreneurship, new venture creation and launch, and innovation and design thinking. A business internship is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Arts, Entertainment and Media Management (B.B.A.)
In-State Tuition: $32,530
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,530
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
16. Concordia University-Nebraska
Seward, Nebraska
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1894, Concordia University-Nebraska is a private university affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. One of nine schools that make up the Concordia University System, Concordia offers an affordable degree in arts, entertainment, and media management in the form of a high-value Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration. The curriculum provides a basic business foundation in finance, marketing, and accounting. Other areas of study include human resources management, arts administration, public relations, accounting, and information systems. Graduates are prepared for careers as office administrators, arts coordinators, assistant professors, and arts administrators.
Degree Options:
B.A. in Arts Administration
In-State Tuition: $32,220
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,220
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
15. Point Park University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Established as Point Park Junior College in 1960, Point Park University is a private liberal arts university and a top choice among undergraduates seeking a high-value arts, entertainment, and media management degree. PPU provides an affordable Bachelor of Science in Sports, Arts, and Entertainment Management (SAEM) that includes business courses and SAEM-focused classes. Specific topics of study include ticketing, talent and booking management, facility and venue management, event management, and digital marketing. Students may also focus their studies in one of four areas: marketing, entertainment, arts, or sports. The school’s location in downtown Pittsburgh provides many opportunities for SAEM majors to land valuable internships and network with professionals.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sports, Arts and Entertainment Management
In-State Tuition: $31,450
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
14. Drury University
Springfield, Missouri
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1873, Drury University is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Drury offers an affordable undergraduate arts administration program that bridges the worlds of business and the arts. Areas of focus include nonprofit organizations, accounting, arts criticism, communication and civic engagement, multimedia writing, and arts administration. All arts administration majors must select one additional major or minor in two additional areas. The high-value curriculum also includes real-world projects with local arts agencies to prepare undergraduates for internships and careers in the field of arts administration. An accelerated 4+1 option allows students to earn a low-cost bachelor’s in arts administration and a master’s in nonprofit and civic leadership in as few as five years.
Degree Options:
Arts Administration Program
In-State Tuition: $28,515
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,515
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
13. Rider University
Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Points: 7
Program Website
Rider University is a private institution of higher education and a top choice among undergraduates seeking a best-value arts, entertainment, and media management degree. Rider’s affordable bachelor’s degree in arts and entertainment industries management integrates both business and artistic components to instill real-world skill sets and insights. The curriculum includes 39 credits of core courses, nine credits of electives, and a 12- to 15-credit emphasis or concentration. Two paths are available: the nonprofit traditional/institutional track and the for-profit commercial entertainment track. A low-cost 4+1 degree program leading to a Bachelor’s in Arts and Entertainment Industries Management and a Master’s in Arts Management and Executive Leadership is also available.
Degree Options:
Arts & Entertainment Industries Management
In-State Tuition: $42,860
Out-of-State Tuition: $42,860
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
12. Westminster College
Salt Lake City, Utah
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded in 1875, Westminster College is the only accredited liberal arts college in Utah. Undergraduates can pursue an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration that combines business and management principles with communication skills and the arts. A whopping 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes allow students to work one-on-one with faculty members. Arts administration majors are required to complete a minor in an area like theater, music, film studies, dance, or art, or they can choose to create their own minor. According to Westminster, approximately 90 percent of students are either attending graduate school or employed within five months of earning their degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration
In-State Tuition: $34,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
11. Wesleyan College
Macon, Georgia
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1836, Wesleyan College was the first college in the world chartered to provide academic degrees to women. Today, Wesleyan College offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management that consists of required core courses in microeconomics, marketing, accounting, management, marketing, graphic design, and business. Three concentrations are available in music, theater, and art. The best-value degree program culminates in a senior capstone course in the form of an integrative experience. In this component, each student completes a self-designed project that focuses on project management. Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to participate in additional internship opportunities, attend conferences in their area of study, and engage in summer work at cultural and arts institutions.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management
In-State Tuition: $23,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
10. University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1801 as South Carolina College, the University of South Carolina is a public research university and one of the most affordable schools for an arts, entertainment, and media management degree. Undergraduates looking to pursue a career in the sports industry can pursue an inexpensive Bachelor of Science in Sport and Entertainment Management. The curriculum provides a grounding in the marketing, finance, accounting, event management, and economic aspects of sports and entertainment. Two mandatory internships in the student’s chosen field allow for real-world, hands-on experience. Undergraduates are also encouraged to take advantage of study-abroad opportunities, participate in industry events, and attend conferences.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Sport and Entertainment Management
In-State Tuition: $12,618
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,298
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 77 percent
9. Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
Established as Michigan State Normal School in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is a public research university that offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Arts and Entertainment Management. Courses include entrepreneurship, fundraising, program development, marketing, public policy and law, public relations, advertising, and accounting. The high-value degree program also includes a series of arts courses in theater, music, film, and art. Through the curriculum, undergraduates develop entrepreneurial and innovative skills in managing performing and visual arts projects, organizations, and businesses. Students are also challenged by hands-on management experiences in the classroom as well as two semester-long professional internships at creative organizations and businesses.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Arts and Entertainment Management
In-State Tuition: $12,508
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,508
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
8. Indiana University
Bloomington, Indiana
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an arts, entertainment, and media management degree, Indiana University is a public university that was established in 1820. IU offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Media with a concentration in media management, industry, and policy. Media students begin with a core curriculum that includes courses in making, thinking, and managing media. Students also take at least one class in law and policy, technology, and the creative industry. Also, undergraduates complete one of three additional specializations in media law and ethics, creative industry management, or media research.
Degree Options:
B.A. in Media – Media Management, Industry and Policy
In-State Tuition: $10,681
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,456
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 78 percent
7. University of North Alabama
Florence, Alabama
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of North Alabama, founded in 1830 as LaGrange College, is the oldest four-year public university in the state. UNA offers two affordable arts, entertainment, and media management degrees: a best-value Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Entertainment Industry with emphasis options in entertainment business and entertainment technology. Students complete 18 hours in core courses, covering topics like entertainment law, the history of popular music, audio in a multimedia environment, and a survey of the music industry. The low-cost entertainment business option includes additional classes in artist management and touring, record company operations, and music publishing. A senior seminar and internship are required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Entertainment Industry
In-State Tuition: $10,142
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,452
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
6. Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Points: 7
Program Website
Oklahoma State University is a public research university and the flagship institution of the Oklahoma State University System. Established as Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College in 1890, OSU offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration degree. Students have the option to pursue an emphasis in theater, dance, studio art, or art history. Undergraduates complete required core classes in accounting, graphic design, management, fundraising, and arts administration. They also gain hands-on, real-world experience by working with the OSU Theatre Department, the OSU Museum of Art, and the Gardiner Art Gallery. Graduates are prepared for careers in programming, fundraising, marketing, and communications in an art-related industry.
Degree Options:
Arts Administration, BA
In-State Tuition: $9,019
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,539
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
5. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1965, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a public university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. UW-Green Bay provides a low-cost bachelor’s degree in arts management that consists of core courses in arts management as well as classes in business, nonprofit management, and the arts. Undergraduates may also participate in a fieldwork experience or a 130-hour internship to gain hands-on, real-world experience. Graduates are prepared to facilitate programs, organize volunteers, advertise events, and raise funds to bring art and audiences together.
Degree Options:
Arts Management Degree
In-State Tuition: $7,878
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,728
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
4. University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, Oklahoma
Points: 8
Program Website
The University of Central Oklahoma is the third-largest university by enrollment in the state. Established in 1890, it is also one of the oldest universities in the Southwest. UCO offers a top-value Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration that prepares undergraduates for careers in archive management, collections management, and exhibit design and preparation. Within the cheap B.A. degree program, students can select a track in music, theater arts, design, dance, or art. Students complete coursework in their chosen track as well as classes in public organization, accounting, marketing, communication, and leadership.
Degree Options:
Arts Administration, (B.A.)
In-State Tuition: $7,489
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,376
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
3. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1963, Kennesaw State University is a public university that operates campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta, Georgia. KSU offers a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Media and Entertainment that focuses on the effects and forms of media, including electronic media, print, television, film, and radio. The top-value curriculum emphasizes technology, management, policy, production, theory and research, media institutions, and media history as well as their effects on contemporary life. Beyond the classroom, students may volunteer in a moMENTum productions course that fulfills the capstone requirement and involves helping community and campus partners with media production projects.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Media & Entertainment
In-State Tuition: $6,347
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,329
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
2. California State University-Northridge
Northridge, California
Points: 9
Program Website
California State University-Northridge is a public university that boasts the largest undergraduate body of the 23-campus California State University System. Established as San Fernando Valley State College in 1958, Cal State Northridge offers a low-priced Bachelor of Arts in Cinema and Television Arts with a focus on entertainment media management. The curriculum investigates the various management and operational aspects of network, studio, and independent media. Students take courses in sales, advertising, budgeting, personnel management, business structures, research, and regulations surrounding the entertainment media industry. Undergraduates must complete 120 units to earn their degrees.
Degree Options:
B.A., Cinema and Television Arts, Entertainment Media Management
In-State Tuition: $6,893
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,773
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
1. University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
Points: 9
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for an arts, entertainment, and media management degree is the University of Central Florida. Founded in 1963 as Florida Technological University, UCF offers a best-value Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Management via a partnership between the UCF College of Arts and Humanities and Rosen College. The 120-credit-hour cheap bachelor’s degree program immerses students in the business side of entertainment, exploring areas like marketing, finance, operations, engineering, and design. Students also learn how to manage, create, and identify successful entertainment products. Rosen College’s industry relationships and location offer students superior job placement and internship opportunities.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Management
In-State Tuition: $6,368
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,467
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Degree?
Due to the broad nature of arts, entertainment, and media management, there are plenty of career options available depending on a graduate’s area of interest. For example, some may find jobs that focus on the entertainment or nonprofit side of media and arts. Others have gone on to work in television stations, movie studios, digital media agencies, entertainment companies, or theater companies as:
- Marketing Coordinators
- Gallery Owners
- Talent Agents
- Social Media Managers
- Public Relations Managers
- Project/Content Managers
- Media Executives
- Events Managers or Coordinators
- Advertising Managers
- Entertainment Business Managers
- Music Managers
- Film Producers
- Business Managers for Performers, Artists, and Athletes
Most jobs in arts, entertainment, and media management exist at the regional and local levels. Historical theater operators and art gallery owners need management skills to thrive in unstable markets. Similarly, a degree in entertainment management can help graduates find work as the head of a visual arts nonprofit or as a recording studio manager. Those with law degrees can represent regional or local clients as they navigate negotiations with their next projects. Since most artistic endeavors are small in nature, a combination of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit is required to get projects going. These traits also help management professionals identify gaps in the world of entertainment, arts, and media that are not currently met by existing companies.
What is the Salary Potential for a Bachelor’s in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Degree?
As we have seen, the career options for a professional with a degree in arts, entertainment, and media management are plentiful. Therefore, it can be difficult to narrow down the salary potential for one specific occupation. Also, several factors can affect earning potential, including the location you work, your level of education, previous experience in the field, and any specialization or concentration you completed as part of your undergraduate education.
To learn more about average earnings for professionals working in the field of arts, entertainment, and media management, we turned to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for data. According to the BLS, agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes earned an average yearly salary of $90,930 as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $187,600, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,440. Top-paying industries for this occupation and their respective annual mean wages include:
- Management of enterprises and companies: $109,010
- Legal services: $106,420
- Public relations, advertising, and related services: $94,960
- Managers and agents for entertainers, athletes, artists, and other public figures: $94,750
- Spectator sports: $93,590
Next, we looked at advertising, promotions, and marketing managers. According to the BLS, these professionals earned an average of $132,620 per year as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent of advertising and promotions managers earned more than $208,000, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $57,150. Similarly, the highest 10 percent of marketing managers earned more than $208,000, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $69,840.
What Will You Learn About in an Undergraduate Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Degree Program?
The elective and required courses an undergraduate will take as an arts, entertainment, and media management major vary considerably among schools. However, for the most part, undergraduates pursuing a degree in arts, entertainment, and media management learn how to bring productions, performances, and artists to the general public. They take classes in advertising, public relations, advocacy, arts and entertainment law, accounting, marketing, finance, and business. These programs teach students how to promote exhibits or performances, raise funds, and ensure the public hears about their clients using marketing and business skills.
Some colleges and universities offer a traditional bachelor’s degree in arts, entertainment, and media management. Others offer a bachelor’s degree in a related field with the option to specialize in theater arts management, music management, or fine and studio arts management. Although not always required, internships are encouraged to allow undergraduates to develop real-world, hands-on experience. Depending on the employer, previous experience may be required for the position. An internship can help undergraduates network and build contacts that may be beneficial down the road.
From developing and running entertainment events to representing talent in the visual arts, performing arts, and entertainment media industries, plenty of thrilling opportunities await. If you have creative energy with a knack for business and your communication skills are out of this world, earning a Bachelor’s in Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management could be the key to a lucrative, exciting, and rewarding career.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable arts, entertainment, and media management degrees.
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