Music Industry (MS)

Overview

The Master of Science in Music Industry program aims to produce the next generation of music industry leaders via a comprehensive yet student-tailored education. Class topics include copyright, concerts, artist management, marketing data and analysis, and a one-semester internship. Additionally, students have four emphasis track options including music performance, supervision, the business of touring/live event promotion, and entrepreneurship.

Admission

Admission to Thornton programs is granted through the USC admission process. Applicants are screened by appropriate faculty selection committees.  Specific entrance requirements are reviewed on an annual basis and published online at music.usc.edu.

Unit and Grade Requirements

Students must complete at least 32 semester units at USC, including the portfolio. A grade point average of not less than 3.0 (A = 4.0) is required for all USC courses.  Students who transfer credits must achieve this average on all combined transferred and resident units.

Transferred Credits

All credits transferred must be the equivalent of corresponding current work at USC. Course work completed at another institution that has been approved by the Thornton School for transfer credit must have been completed within seven years from the date of admission to a master’s degree program to be applied toward that degree. Transfer credit petitions must be filed with the appropriate Thornton adviser during the first semester in residence.

Time Limit

The time limit for completing the Master of Science degree is five years. Progress is measured from the beginning of the first course at USC applied toward the degree. Extensions will be granted by petition to the Thornton School for only the most compelling reasons.

Portfolio Requirement

A portfolio, as capstone to a two-semester immersion into a student-led music campaign, is required for graduation.  The Music Industry faculty will provide students with additional details for this requirement.