Music Industry
Explore pathways to professional and financial success through Music Industry, an interdisciplinary degree that blends music, business, and music technology. Students develop creative and practical skills while preparing for careers in performance, production, entrepreneurship, and the broader music workforce. Opportunities include participation in Commercial Music Ensembles and applied study aligned with contemporary music practices.
Because the Music Industry track includes applied private lessons, students are asked to schedule a brief entrance interview with faculty. This meeting is not a traditional audition, but a conversation designed to introduce the curriculum and help place students in the best applied studio based on their background and goals. All instruments and voice are welcome, including popular and technology-based instruments such as rock/pop instruments, turntables, and laptop.
To schedule an entrance interview, please contact Dr. Tomm Roland at troland@unomaha.edu or Dr. Zack Bresler at zbresler@unomaha.edu.
Degree Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Music – Music Industry track is an interdisciplinary degree designed for students who want to build sustainable careers in today’s music industry. The program combines coursework in music, business, and music technology, preparing students for professional work in performance, production, entrepreneurship, and related industry fields.
This degree emphasizes practical experience, creative flexibility, and industry awareness, making it well suited for students whose musical interests extend beyond traditional conservatory training.
What You’ll Study
Music Industry students develop a broad skill set that supports a wide range of career pathways, including:
- Music industry and business fundamentals
- Entrepreneurship and creative project management
- Music technology and production
- Contemporary music practices and collaboration
The curriculum is designed to help students understand how music functions as both an art form and a professional industry.
Performance & Creative Practice
While the Music Industry track is not a performance degree in the traditional sense, students remain actively engaged as musicians and creators. Many students participate in Commercial Music Ensembles, such as rock band and hip-hop / EDM groups, gaining hands-on experience with rehearsal processes, live performance, and collaboration in contemporary styles.
Students interested in focused applied study can pursue Popular Music Instruments, which offers applied lessons and ensemble opportunities centered on popular music performance practices.
Applied Study Requirement
The Music Industry track includes applied private lessons as part of the degree requirements. Applied study supports students’ development as musicians while remaining integrated with the broader industry-focused curriculum.
Detailed information about applied study options, instruments, and performance practices can be found on the Popular Music Instruments page.
Entrance Interview
Because applied lessons are part of the Music Industry degree, students must schedule an entrance interview with faculty before beginning the program.
This interview is not a traditional audition. It is a conversational meeting designed to:
- Introduce students to the Music Industry curriculum and expectations
- Discuss academic and career interests
- Learn about musical background and experience
- Ensure appropriate placement within applied study options
Students may be asked to share a brief example of their work, but the interview is primarily about guidance and fit, not acceptance or ranking.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Music Industry track pursue a variety of careers, including:
- Performing and recording artists
- Music producers and technologists
- Arts entrepreneurs and small business owners
- Industry support roles in media, marketing, and management
The degree is designed to be flexible, allowing students to shape their pathway based on individual interests and goals.
Contact Information
Students interested in the Music Industry track are encouraged to contact faculty to schedule an entrance interview or ask questions about the program:
Dr. Tomm Roland
troland@unomaha.edu
zbresler@unomaha.edu