Bachelor of Applied Business in Music Industry

 

Traineeship option available
Course Code
: 
BAB93 
CRICOS Code: 061943C 
Centre:
Creative Industries
Location:
Whitehorse Campus,
Study Area: Music 
Study Area Sub Category:  
Jump to:
Subjects

What does this course involve?

If you’re interested in a business career within the music industry, this unique degree gives you the opportunity to specialise for industry employment and/or prepare for post-graduate study, including teaching.

This course gives you situated learning scenarios with industry specialists - not just work experience - including real workplace projects, such as running a record company, artist and event management and other projects within our innovative Music Industry Business Office (MiBO).

You will gain business skills and knowledge that can be applied in other industries, access to leading industry music business software, and opportunities to manage student music projects (under staff supervision).

You can take electives from the Bachelor of Applied Music including composition, audio production and performance. You can also choose to exit with the Associate Degree award after two years full time. Up to 12 months credit may be given for previous study in a nationally accredited Diploma in Music Industry (Business) course.

This course is also available to international students.

What employment opportunities will I have?

There are many employment options within the entertainment and performance industry, including roles such as music agent, artist manager, record company owner and music publisher.


As a student, the Institute’s Employment Service is your first port of call for advice on gaining employment in this field, and can be contacted on 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445).

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the Victorian Office of Higher Education and has national recognition.

What further study options will I have?

Once you graduate you may apply for post-graduate study at other institutions. This includes post-graduate study in teaching and education.

Can I apply?

Current Year 12 students:

You must have successfully completed VCE with a study score of at least 20 in English

Non-Year 12 applicants. You must:

  • have current employment or experience in industry
  • be 21 years or more (at Jan 1 in the commencement year)

How do I apply?

  • To apply for a full time position in this course you must use the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) process. Details of the VTAC application process are at www.vtac.edu.au and in the VTAC Guide, which is available from leading newsagents and libraries from August. If the Institute still has vacancies after the VTAC places have been offered, you will be able to apply directly to the Institute.
  • Supplementary requirements to the application process apply. To apply, contact the Centre for Performing Arts for a supplementary application form by:
      • requesting via email performingarts@boxhill.edu.au or
      • phoning the centre on (03) 9286 9695.

If you have any queries, please contact the Institute on 1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445).

How will I be selected for this course?

  • Individual interview
  • Assessment of application
  • Assessment of application (VTAC)
  • Supplementary requirements to the application process apply:


  • On receipt of your application form, together with your interview fee, you will then be notified of your interview time (held between October and December).
  • Interview - you will be asked a series of questions relating to your suitability for the course and must demonstrate a clear understanding of career goals and aptitude for the course of study including any relevant industry experience. You are welcome to present testimonials and extra-curricular evidence at your interview
  • You will be advised of acceptance into the course by VTAC.

Length of course

Full time - 3 years
Part time - 6 years

Where will I study?

Whitehorse Campus,

What costs and other fees should I expect?

Self Funded $11,520.00 per year. Fee information for Bachelor of Applied Business in Music Industry
If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, the 2010 annual course fee for study on a full-time basis is $11,520. If you are an Australian citizen, you may be eligible for FEE-HELP, which is an Australian Government loan scheme set up to enable you to defer part or all of your tuition fees until you are working and can afford to pay them back. (Fees subject to change in 2011.)

How will I be assessed?

  • Oral presentation
  • Written assessment
  • Practical assessment
  • Project work
  • Examination or testing
  • Online assessment

Will my previous experience or study count?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Recognition of Current Competencies (RCC) takes into account the knowledge and skills you’ve already gained through your previous education and work. This may be through formal or informal training, paid or unpaid work experience, and can earn you credit if relevant to your chosen course.
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Subjects

Year 1
MUZ161
Music industry studies 1A
This subject is the first of a six-subject stream of core study. The stream explores the body of knowledge that constitutes the evolving nature of the music industry and provides a thorough theoretical foundation and understanding of the functions, driving forces and operations that shape this industry. Music Industry Studies 1A provides a comprehensive overview of the music industry and lays the foundation for facets to be explored in subsequent subjects. This overview includes an examination of the roles and responsibilities of key industry personnel such as booking agents, managers, record companies, distributors, music publishers, events managers, producers and the function and significance of the media, events and retail distribution.
MUZ162
Music industry studies 2A
This subject is the second of a six-subject stream of core study. Music Industry Studies 2A continues directly from Music Industry Studies 1A. Students will expand upon and consolidate concepts, knowledge, understanding and skills in the music industry with a particular focus on conceptual and theoretical understanding of the principles, practice, roles and functions of band and artist management and administration.
MUZ163
History of music and popular culture
This core subject will provide a comprehensive history of the music industry and music products from the 1900’s to today including investigations into political climates, world events, shifts in popular culture and how they shaped the music industry. This subject will also consider changes in recording technology, the delivery of recorded products and the impact that those changes have had on the music industry.
MUZ164
Workplace communication
This subject will develop understanding and skills necessary to communicate effectively in the modern business environment. The student will develop their understanding and ability of formal oral and written communication, negotiation, meetings, conflict resolution, problem solving and interpersonal skills within this environment
MUZ165
Copyright and publishing
This subject provides students with a comprehensive understanding of key concepts in copyright and publishing and considers the fundamental role that copyright plays in the exploitation of music, artwork, photography, video clips and merchandising. The principles and functions of the publishing industry as a system within the music industry and role of the publisher in collecting copyright-generated royalties are also considered
MUZ166
Law (music industry)
This subject provides students with an introduction to relevant law in Australia, including its principles and operation commercially with a particular focus on the music and arts industries. The unit covers the Australian legal system, sources of law, the law of contract, and the specific regulatory framework governing the operations of the music industry and relevant aspects of tort law and statutes relating to professional negligence, venue licensing, and the Entertainment Industry Act.
MUZ167
Applied business 1
The subject aims to place the student in a training workplace environment where concepts, knowledge, and skills acquired can be transferred into practical application. Set within a model office scenario, the Music Industry Business Office (MiBO) will enable students to transfer knowledge into a practical application of skills. Students will contribute to running the MiBO and manage their own music industry projects. The aim of this subject is to provide an environment where students can investigate real business scenarios, design solutions and produce outcomes. This will include the use of practical computing skills with a focus on music industry software programs.
MUZ168
Applied business 2
The subject is a direct extension of Applied Business 1 and aims to place the student in a training workplace environment where concepts, knowledge, and skills acquired can be transferred into practical application. Set within a model office scenario, the Music Industry Business Office (MiBO) will enable students to transfer knowledge into a practical application. The subject culminates in a major event that is conceived, designed, organised and produced by students. The aim of this subject is to provide an environment where students can investigate real business scenarios, design solutions and produce outcomes. This will include the creation of web pages, HTML documents, professional social networking pages and complex database management.
Year 2
MUZ261
Music industry studies 3
This subject is the third of a six-subject stream of core study. Music Industry Studies 3 is a direct continuation from Music Industry Studies 2 and is designed to familiarise students with the various systems and key bodies in the music industry. This will include a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of record companies and industry associations. The subject will focus on both major and independent record companies, alternative means of recording distribution and non-traditional record company activities. This subject will also provide a conceptual understanding of royalties and how they are calculated, recording contracts, and the roles and responsibilities of various music industry associations including Australian Independent Records (AIR), The Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA) and The Australian Record Industry Association (ARIA)
MUZ262
Music industry studies 4
This subject is the fourth of a six-subject stream of core study. Music Industry Studies 4 continues directly from Music Industry Studies 3. In this subject, students will expand upon and consolidate concepts, knowledge, understanding and analytical thinking as they consider the future of the music industry. This subject provides a conceptual framework for students to consider the current trends and changes within the music industry, impacts of changes in the operating environment and possible outcomes and future projections. Students will explore how the music of the future will be delivered and accessed by consumers. It is expected that students will develop maturity in undertaking self-initiated and self-directed work, reflective thinking and practice, creativity and innovation, and the critical evaluation of their own work.
MUZ263
Marketing (music industry)
This core subject is one of a suite of four providing key business concepts and skills specific to the music industry. The subject provides students with a thorough conceptual understanding of marketing principles and fundamentals. The key focus will be on the application of these concepts to all aspects of the music industry, including music specific topics such as image making for performing artists and the practice of public relations.
MUZ264
Business creation and development in the arts
This subject considers the design and development of small business in the music industry with consideration of the broader arts sector and its business environment. It aims to equip students with the ability to assess and evaluate an existing business and provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal requirements of setting up a small business. Studies will include: detailed business planning, business development documentation and business design and modelling. Students will prepare detailed feasibility studies, business plans and other business creation documentation. This core subject is one of a suite of four providing key business concepts and skills specific to the music industry
MUZ265
Special event management
This subject is designed to provide detailed knowledge and understanding about the provision and management of special events such as product launches, industry expos and conferences, incentive programs and sponsorship opportunities. Students will learn of the critical role that the music industry plays in the facilitation of special events, providing entertainment and other associated support including travel, accommodation, food, security and registration. Students will gain an understanding of the role that these events play in society and how they contribute to both brand awareness and motivation of internal and external clients.
MUZ266
Accounting for decision making
This subject will examine how information produced by the traditional bookkeeping process is used by various decision makers in allocating scarce resources. The emphasis in this subject is on the ‘users’ of accounting information not the processes for the preparation of the accounting information. The tools used for decision making by external users and management are explored in detail along with accounting information systems and the internal controls necessary to produce useful information. Accounting for short-term management planning and for financial management will also be examined.
MUZ252
Negotiated project 1
This subject involves close discussion and planning sessions in consultation with a supervisor who will approve an independent project or a group project in which participants' individual roles are clearly defined. The project may involve the planning and implementation of a public performance event, the development of a significant music industry initiative, collaboration with an affiliated industry group in producing a significant work or event, scoring for film, recording songs and original compositions, producing recordings for other students or the production of a significant music resource.
MUZ253
Negotiated project 2
This subject involves close discussion and planning sessions in consultation with a supervisor who will approve an independent project or a group project in which participants' individual roles are clearly defined. Project 2 can be an extension of the activity commenced in Negotiated Project 1. The project may involve the planning and implementation of a public performance event, the development of a significant music industry initiative, collaboration with an affiliated industry group in producing a significant work or event, scoring for film, recording songs and original compositions, producing recordings for other students or the production of a significant music resource.
Electives (discuss availability upon enrolment)
MUZ153
Acting principles 1
MUZ154
Acting principles 2
MUZ155
Dance principles 1
MUZ156
Dance principles 2
MUZ141
Instrumental studies 1
Through performing in ensembles students will acquire concepts and knowledge about the practical application of arranging and composing or live recording. Learning a second study instrument will give students the experience of an instrument with which they are unfamiliar, equipping them with fundamental understanding that is integral to their specialised disciplines.
MUZ142
Instrumental studies 2
This subject is a continuation of Instrumental Studies 1. Through performing in ensembles students will acquire concepts and knowledge about the practical application of arranging and composing or live recording. Learning a second study instrument will give students the experience of an instrument with which they are unfamiliar, equipping them with a fundamental understanding that is integral to their specialised disciplines.
MUZ143
Introduction to filmscoring 1
Students will develop philosophical and musical concepts of the aesthetic role and function of music used in films between 1920-1950s. Students will acquire the capacity to evaluate film scores with reference to established conventions, including compositional techniques, and their application in defined social, historical and cultural contexts.
MUZ144
Introduction to filmscoring 2
Students will study post-1950s film music genres to evaluate the role and function of music in various dramatic contexts. Students will also acquire knowledge of the way in which music is synchronised to film, and then consolidate this knowledge with several assignments in composing and synchronising music to short film excerpts.
MUZ121
Principles of songwriting 1
This subject provides an analytical overview of the musical devices and conventions that exist in popular song forms and genres. Analysis of elements such as: melody, structure, rhythm, harmonic progression and style will inform the student in the composition of songs in designated popular song styles.
MUZ122
Principles of songwriting 2
Continuing directly from the previous unit, students will extend their abilities to compose songs within a variety of genres. They will further develop greater understanding of characteristic harmonic, melodic and rhythmic treatment of lyrics within various song genres, and learn to apply these conventions with their own writing.
MUZ145
Production principles 1
In this subject students will acquire the basic concepts of Acoustics as they relate to musical instruments and the environments in which they are played. Students will learn the core principles of recording with analogue and digital systems; theories of audio production and practice, live sound and live recording techniques in performance environments.
MUZ146
Production principles 2
Consolidating and extending the concepts and knowledge acquired previously, students will further apply these principles in practise, using both analogue and digital recording methods as the basis for an introduction to mixing environments. Practical recording assignments make up a significant component of the course.
Year 3
MUZ361
Music industry studies 5
This subject is the fifth of a six-subject stream of core study. Music Industry Studies 5 continues directly from Music Industry Studies 4. Through this subject, students will gain a thorough understanding of sources of funding available to support the music industry including government grants. They will gain a comprehensive conceptual understanding of the Federal and State funding frameworks, the principles of grant writing, evaluation and management, and the responsibilities of individuals and entities funded by the taxpayer. This subject will include developing and understanding of entrepreneurial innovation and export grants as well as traditional arts funding sources.
MUZ362
Music industry studies 6
MUZ362 This subject is the final unit of a six-subject stream of core study. Music Industry Studies 6 continues directly from Music Industry Studies 5. This subject provides students with a comprehensive conceptual understanding of organisational systems within the music industry. It focuses in detail on administrative systems and organisational structures, organisational roles and responsibilities, change management and leadership for business operation in the music and arts industries. Students will expand upon, and consolidate, concepts, knowledge and understanding of the arts environment. They will develop organisational leadership skills through undertaking a higher level of self-initiated and self-directed work, reflective thinking and practice, and the critical evaluation of their own work.
MUZ303
Research and application of industry principles 1A
Using collaborative investigative, planning and management methods students will acquire and apply knowledge and skills that prepare them for entry into the music industry. By developing a three-tiered work plan incorporating team-based event management and planning, the planning of a CD or other published work, and the planning of a negotiated project, students will integrate knowledge and skills that underlie production, artist and event management processes in the music industry. Students will also gain practical experience and understanding of the music industry and skills in drafting a research project relevant to individual goals, preferences and expertise.
MUZ304
Research and application of industry principles 2A
The plans developed during the first unit of this subject will be put into operation. Students will acquire overarching skills in the management and production of a multi-tiered project that demonstrates: team-based event management; a CD or other published work; and a negotiated project seen through to fruition. Students will integrate knowledge and skills that underlie production and artist and event management processes in the music industry. They will gain practical experience in the music industry in a variety of situations. The production of a researched and substantiated body of work reflecting individual goals, preferences and expertise will provide students with an ideal preparation to enter the music industry. Students will present a related business plan
MUZ363
International business
This subject will examine theory and policies relating to international businesses from a management and organisational perspective. Topic areas will include international trade, foreign investment, international finance and consideration of the Australian music industry in an international context. The approach taken will be to demonstrate the similarities in theoretical perspectives between the Australian music industry and international markets in order to allow students to analyse opportunities to develop businesses internationally.
MUZ364
Social research and business statistics
This subject presents an introduction to social science research methodology and business statistics. It seeks to provide students with critical thinking and analytical skills in carrying out empirical research. The subject consists of two sections. The first deals with social and business research methods as well as contemporary research issues. The second covers basic descriptive and inferential statistical techniques.
MUZ365
Entrepreneurship and innovation
This unit provides students with an understanding of entrepreneurship, innovation and new venture management. Students will learn how to leverage business management knowledge and use it successfully in entrepreneurial ventures. A key focus will be the development of enterprising and entrepreneurial attitudes, skills and behaviours to ensure the effective establishment of management or work regardless of organisational context. Topics include: understanding innovative enterprises; entrepreneurial attitudes, abilities and behaviours; developing an entrepreneurial culture; opportunity recognition and viability screening; first-mover advantages and disadvantages; risk recognition and risk reduction strategies; and intellectual property protection.
MUZ366
Management
This subject will explore the body of knowledge surrounding management theory and evaluate the impact on practical management decision making in the Australasian context. The subject further aims to develop skills and knowledge with regard to individual and group behaviour in the context of organisations and their environment. This subject provides fundamental knowledge and skills for students planning a career within organisations. Knowledge of organisational structure, the operations of organisations, the processes of management and the behaviour of people at work are essential to the study.
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