The University of Tulsa’s Kendall College of Arts & Sciences has added a new facet for its arts, culture & entertainment (ACE) management major: the music industry specialization. This exciting specialization provides students with the opportunity to tap into the thriving local music scene through hands-on coursework and industry-led experiential learning.
“The music industry specialization is an exciting and valuable addition to the ACE management major,” said Corey Taylor, UTulsa’s music industry professional in residence. “By gaining both foundational knowledge and industry-specific insight, students will graduate better equipped to make meaningful contributions to the creative ecosystem and confidently pursue the many career paths the music industry has to offer.”
The music industry specialization offers a broad range of skills tailored to the unique demands of working in this dynamic field and acts as a launching pad for students pursuing careers in areas such as publishing, performance rights, artists and repertoire (A&R), artist management, distribution, and venue operations. In addition to the ACE management core courses, students will complete 15 hours of course credit in the music industry specialization. In some cases, students may fulfill their specialization requirements by completing a second major or dual degree.
Additionally, the specialization takes advantage of the flourishing music scene in Tulsa, including two internships, offering students a unique chance to combine classroom study with real-world experience and teaching from industry professionals.
“When I first moved to Tulsa in 2018, I was struck by the quality, breadth and accessibility of music industry offerings in this city,” said Applied Associate Professor Samuel Krall, director of the ACE management program. “Every facet of the industry has a function here: venue management, artist management, sound engineering, A&R, syncing, festival management, and more.
“As I began teaching, I was equally struck by how the music industry professionals here were eager to support students, offer expertise and connect students to opportunity. Studying music industry in Tulsa will offer students from around the country a rare opportunity. We are excited for all that is ahead.”
Area professionals shared Krall’s enthusiasm:
“It’s exciting to see The University of Tulsa step up with a music industry specialization program,” said Teresa Knox, chief executive officer of The Church Studio. “Professor Krall and his team have developed a strategic, relevant curriculum – exactly what Tulsa needs to continue its trajectory as a power player in the music and entertainment industries.”
“I am a proud graduate of The University of Tulsa ACE management program, which was instrumental in helping prepare me for my career,” said Natalie Bowling (B.A. ’22, B.S.B.A. ’22), manager of the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture. “Tulsa is a music town, and we need more people with the business skills, training and desire to connect our talent with the industry as a whole. The new music industry focus will allow TU grads to get the education they need to do just that and will help propel Tulsa to the next level of music cities around the world.”