Why Leeds?
With great music venues, culture, shopping, and parks - we've got it all. Leeds city centre has been named one of the Best Places to Live in the UK*.
*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026
Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BA (Hons)
Music Business
Ignite your passion for music, live events, and festivals into an exhilarating career in a thriving part of the UK and global creative economy.
Course overview
-
W333 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
21 Sep 2026
Are you a musician looking to complement your creativity with business skills? An entrepreneur aspiring to start up in the music and entertainment world? Or maybe you just love music?
From promoting new releases to running events or managing the people or legal sides of music; BA (Hons) Music Business will help you find your place in the industry.
As part of this course, you'll:
- Delve into the different areas of the modern music business, from marketing and developing online content, to managing artists, live events, copyright, and HR
- Become competent in music industries planning, development, and delivery, gaining skills needed for a range of live event and media roles
- Consider the development and defining characteristics of the music industry from a variety of international and cultural perspectives
- Explore current issues in the ever-evolving global music industry, with a particular focus on technological advancements
- Develop hands-on skills with practical sessions and work experience opportunities
Industry links
At Leeds Beckett, you'll benefit from our extensive links with the music industry. Throughout your course, you'll have countless networking opportunities at guest lectures and music events around the city and beyond.
Music Academic Partnership
We're part of the Music Academic Partnership, a collaboration between education institutions and UK Music, aiming to prepare students for successful careers in the music business. You'll gain access to careers advice and work experience opportunities with organisations like Live Nation, the Association of Independent Music (AIM), and PRS for Music.
Collaborative working
By studying at Leeds School of Arts, you'll have opportunities to collaborate with other students who share your passion for music. You might work with musicians from our BA (Hons) Music Performance & Production course, helping them find creative ways to get their music out there and hone their brand. Equally, you could run your own live events with students from other courses in the wider university community.
Industry expertise
Throughout your studies, you'll be taught by staff with considerable industry experience. They'll combine their experience with your learning to provide essential insight. Members of the team are also involved in Music:Leeds. Working with artists, musicians, local organisations, and businesses, they aim to support, develop, grow, and promote music in the city.
Artist in Residence Programme
Our Artist in Residence programme offers you the chance to work with professional artists, giving you a taste of what it's like to work on professional music projects. In previous years, we've welcomed artists including Cherry Seraph, Chris T-T, Ian Prowse, I Monster, Tom Williams, and Utah Saints.
Why study the BA Music Business course at Leeds Beckett University?
- Optional placement year - take a year of paid employment to immerse yourself in an area of the music industry you're interested in
- The Music Academic Partnership provides careers advice and work experience opportunities with organisations like Live Nation, AIM, and PRS for Music
- Be part of one of the largest university arts communities in the north
- Access to dedicated, professional-standard facilities in the Leeds School of Arts building
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
112
points required
If you’re unsure how to work out your UCAS points we have a UCAS Tariff Calculator which will do it for you. All you need to do is enter your qualifications and let the UCAS Tariff Calculator do the maths.
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
112
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 112 points required.
(Minimum 72 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies).
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
GCSEs
GCSE English Language at Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma
Pass overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points.T Levels
Pass overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core.Scottish Awards
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or above.Irish Leaving Certificate
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above.International baccalaureate
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
How we assess your application
At Leeds Beckett we look for students who demonstrate a good knowledge, curiosity and passion for your chosen course and would benefit from the University’s learning environment.We aim to give every student a fair chance to progress and succeed on their chosen course and we recognise that your grades may not always reflect your true potential. Therefore, when assessing your application, we will consider the following:
- Your completed qualifications (such as GCSEs, A Levels, and their equivalents).
- Your predicted grades in future examinations.
- Your personal statement.
Our offers
All our offers are made by trained professionals who are committed to making offers that are appropriate to each applicant, regardless of their background.* They have the discretion to vary the level of offer to ensure every student with the potential to succeed at Leeds Beckett receives an offer that is achievable for them. This could mean that you may receive an offer to study on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.  Your offer will be based on our belief that you are capable of benefiting from, and successfully completing, your course. We believe that it is people who think differently, independently, people with ‘unlike-minds' that make big things happen.*We operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we consider a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.
Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.
- Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).
Our place as an Anchor Institution
To further strengthen our position as a key provider of education and training for West Yorkshire we apply an Anchor Institution Policy in our admissions process. Students who apply to us from any of the five Local Authority areas in West Yorkshire (BD, HD, HX, LS, WF) may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points.Our commitment to your creativity
We ask all successful applicants to attend an on campus session with Leeds School of Arts. Why? Because we want to invest in YOU! This is an opportunity to use our fantastic facilities, meet the academic staff who will teach you, and meet students you will study with. You will also take part in taster sessions, specific to your area of study, all of which will help strengthen your professional skills.
Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade 4 in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
International baccalaureate
112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
What you'll learn
Get to grips with how the music industry really works. This module explores the structure and operation of the recording, publishing, and live sectors, placing creative works and intellectual property at the heart of industry value. You'll examine key challenges such as piracy, streaming, new consumption models, and digital distribution, gaining insight into how the industry adapts to commercial and technological change. Along the way, you'll build an understanding of the skills, roles, and career pathways available across the global music industries.
Step into the fast-paced world of artist and band management. This module explores the roles, responsibilities, and realities of managing creative talent in today's music and entertainment industries. You'll examine contract negotiation, artist promotion, career development, and the impact of rapid technological and economic change. With insights from guest speakers working in entertainment management, you'll explore how digital platforms, data, and audiences are reshaping the role of the modern artist manager, and what it takes to succeed.
Discover how audiences think, feel, and connect with music brands. This module introduces the core principles of marketing and consumer behaviour, applying key models, frameworks, and strategies directly to the music and entertainment industries. You'll explore market research, branding, promotion, and public relations, learning how to build awareness, grow audiences, and position artists and organisations in competitive markets. By developing practical, industry-relevant marketing skills, you'll gain a strong foundation for future roles in marketing, management, or administration across the arts and entertainment sector.
Learn how digital content drives discovery, engagement, and value in today's music landscape. This module focuses on the creation, development, and distribution of online content that supports artists, releases, and brands. Through a series of lectures and tutorials, you'll analyse contemporary industry practice while building your own creative and technical skills, producing content tailored to specific audiences and platforms. From strategy to execution, you'll gain hands-on experience creating digital content that connects with music fans in meaningful ways.
Explore the cultural, political, and technological forces that have shaped the music industries, and continue to influence them today. Drawing on historical and contemporary examples, this module strengthens your ability to analyse industry practices, debate key issues, and construct informed arguments. You'll investigate subcultures, technologies, and media, examining how economic, ethical, legal, and social factors shape the creation, circulation, and value of music. Interactive discussions, directed reading, listening, and viewing activities will challenge you to think critically about music's role in society.
Begin building your professional profile right from the start. This module develops essential workplace skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving, while giving you real-world industry experience. You'll complete a minimum of 80 hours of work placement within a music or entertainment organisation, gaining insight into organisational structures, professional roles, and day-to-day operations. This hands-on experience helps you translate academic learning into practical, career-ready skills.
What you'll learn
Learn how people shape successful music and entertainment organisations. This module introduces key theories of organisational behaviour, motivation, and communication, applying them to real-world industry settings. You'll explore contemporary people management practices, employment law, and issues of equality, diversity, and inclusion across both commercial and non-profit sectors. Through discussion and applied learning, you'll gain the skills needed to manage teams effectively and ethically in dynamic creative environments.
Unpack the legal foundations that support the music business. This module explores how copyright, intellectual property, and creative works generate value for artists, labels, and industry stakeholders. You'll examine legal frameworks, licensing practices, and rights management across songwriting, recording, and publishing. By understanding how value is assigned, protected, and exploited, you'll develop the ability to critically evaluate industry practices in a global and digital marketplace.
Does music influence society, or reflect it? This module explores the powerful relationship between popular music, politics, and social change over the past century. You'll examine how artists, genres, and youth cultures have responded to issues of identity, power, and protest, from the post-war period to the present day. With a strong sociological and cultural focus, the module encourages you to question how and why music matters, offering historical insight into contemporary debates and future possibilities.
Bring live events to life, from concept to curtain call. This hands-on module explores the planning, promotion, and production of live events. You'll develop an event around a clear theme or concept, evaluating venues, sourcing acts, managing budgets, conducting risk assessments, and creating production schedules. You'll also design and implement promotional strategies to reach your audience. These skills come together as you plan and deliver a live event as part of your assessment, building practical experience valued by employers.
Take your professional development further through a second work-based learning placement of at least 80 hours. Working in an operational role, you'll deepen your understanding of organisational structures, leadership, and responsibility within the music industry. Alongside your placement, you'll design and propose a research project, developing skills in research methods, critical reflection, and theoretical analysis to explore real-world management issues.
Option modules may include
Explore how media and culture shape, and are shaped by, the places we live in. This module examines the interconnected relationships between media, culture, identity, and space in contemporary society. You'll engage critically with theories and practices surrounding mass media, cultural policy, and competing claims over place and space. Through analysis and discussion, you'll develop a deeper understanding of how these forces influence cultural expression, representation, and the social landscapes around us.
Build a strong foundation in audio storytelling and broadcast production. This module introduces core radio and podcasting techniques, from recording and editing to programme planning and content creation. You'll develop practical skills in managing and producing audio, refining your own ideas into engaging radio or podcast content. Working in a dedicated radio studio environment, you'll gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment while also exploring how the radio and podcasting industries operate, preparing you to create compelling audio for contemporary audiences.
What you'll learn
Explore how innovation is reshaping the global music industries. Building on your understanding of traditional industry structures, this module examines emerging business models, evolving revenue streams, and the impact of digital transformation. You'll analyse trends such as streaming, user-generated content, digital marketing, and audience engagement, drawing on industry reports, academic research, and collaboration with trade bodies like UK Music. This forward-looking module equips you to understand, and influence, the future of the music business.
Make your mark with a major piece of independent work focused on an area you’re passionate about. This module gives you the freedom to explore a topic in depth through primary research, culminating in a written dissertation, film documentary, or curated live event supported by a detailed event plan. Working autonomously, you'll develop advanced research, critical thinking, and project management skills, showcasing your expertise as you prepare for graduate-level careers or further study.
Learn to think strategically and act professionally. This module develops your ability to apply advanced theory to real-world industry challenges. You'll explore key tools and frameworks used by managers and consultants, then work directly with an external client to address a live problem or opportunity. Ideal for aspiring managers, consultants, or entrepreneurs, this module builds confidence, strategic thinking, and professional expertise within the music and entertainment industries.
Option modules may include
Explore the wider creative economy and the forces that shape it. This module examines the political, social, and economic context of the creative and cultural industries, from government policy to cultural value. You'll analyse contemporary issues, funding models, and policy frameworks, developing an understanding of how creative industries operate within complex national and global systems.
Dive into the worlds of music festivals and contemporary art. The first half of this module explores the history, cultural significance, and management of music festivals. The second half focuses on the contemporary art sector, from public galleries to auction houses. You'll examine funding structures, global trends, and policy contexts, developing the strategic insight needed to make informed management decisions across arts and festival environments.
Take your audio production skills to the next level. Through practical workshops and supervised studio sessions, you'll develop confidence working with sound, live broadcasting, and audience engagement. You'll explore storytelling, sonic branding, and listener retention, culminating in the production of a live radio broadcast or full-length podcast using ideas, concepts, and pre-recorded and edited audio.
Examine the forces shaping contemporary music today. This module explores the technical, social, and cultural factors that influence how music is created, distributed, and consumed. You'll engage with key theoretical frameworks and case studies, developing the ability to construct clear, evidence-based arguments about genres, scenes, and musical practices in a diverse and ever-evolving music landscape.
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘placement’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree and will extend the length of your course by an additional year.
Students who choose the placement route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.
Fees and funding
£9,790
UK
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee, which is yet to be confirmed.
£16,840
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2526.Fees and funding
£9,790
For students entering in 2026
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee, which is yet to be confirmed.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,840
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £16840.
Placement Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2526.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
The music business is a dynamic and diverse section of the ever-evolving international entertainment sector. Despite fluctuating over time, the prevalence of new technology and access to global markets is still creating numerous new career opportunities today.
Combining a practical focus with real industry experience, this course enables you to gain a modern, transferrable skill set to thrive in the contemporary music industry. Roles you can expect to go into include:
- A&R manager
- Artist/band manager
- Brand or product manager
- Live event promoter
- Festival programmer
- PR account executive
- Streaming manager
- Copyright specialist
Our music department is full of staff with great contacts and experience, who support our students as they explore their music and audio interests. The amount of activity we're involved in across the city running gigs, working in studios, and more allows lots of opportunities for our students to get involved and practise their skills."
Sam Nicholls
Senior Lecturer
Tom Bowers
Head of Subject / Leeds School of Arts
Tom Bowers is the Head of Subject for Music, Sound and Performing Arts in the Leeds School of Arts at Leeds Beckett University.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
We’re ranked in the Top 10 universities in the UK for job prospects
(Student Crowd, 2025 - the only awards based entirely on student reviews).
Find out why...
Student life
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
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