Program Overview

Entertainment Management at The University of Montana covers most aspects of the entertainment business including music, television and film, sports and performance, literary and visual arts. The purpose of the program is to introduce students to the business of entertainment while giving them the opportunity to speak with and learn from top professionals in the industry in a relaxed, classroom environment.

Throughout the program students learn the processes involved in developing, presenting and sustaining an artist's career while incorporating related business aspects of the entertainment profession. For example, the students enrolled in Entertainment Management will be expected to develop business plans, review contracts and budgets, and address and debate critical issues facing the entertainment industry.

This one of a kind program offers an incredible opportunity to students looking to break into the Entertainment Industry. Entertainment Management at The University of Montana's School of Business Administration is taught exclusively by top members of the Entertainment Industry. The program is also unique in that it was designed and put together by top names in the entertainment industry from Montana. These professionals got their start at The University of Montana, and they are now in a position to give something back while at the same time giving students in the program networking opportunities within the industry.

Already several internships have been filled and many of the graduates from the program are currently working within the Entertainment Industry.

Classes are held during Spring and Fall Semesters, with guest instructors flying into Missoula for hands on teaching and networking with students in the program.

The core group of instructors that started Entertainment Management includes Brian Knaff from Talent Buyers Network, Mike McGinley from SRO Consultants, Maria Brunner from Insight Management, Keith Miller from the William Morris Agency, James Yelich formerly of Paradigm/Monterey Peninsula Artists, Clint Mitchell from the William Morris Agency and Ron Baird from the Creative Artists Agency.

Hard work and long hours are required in the entertainment business. But, if this is the career path of your choice, Entertainment Management at The University of Montana offers insight and opportunities into the world of entertainment.

Certificates in Entertainment Management are awarded to those students complete the required courses in the program.

Students in Entertainment Management will produce several live events, including but not limited to, the Annual Spring Thaw Festival and Concert; and Casino Night.

Students will be expected to aid in the production of various live events to support local and regional events that serve to benefit people and organizations in need.

What You'll Learn

  • Personal Management for Artists
  • Contracting for Artists
  • Show Marketing, Promotion, Production
  • Budgeting Events
  • Funding for Live Events
  • Budgeting for TV and Film
  • Agency and Artist Relations
  • Venue Management

Who You'll Learn From

  • Leaders of the entertainment industry
  • Experts of the entertainment business
  • Previous speakers of Entertainment Management have included Grammy and Academy Award winners and nominees.

How You'll Learn

  • Interact with experts from entertainment business
  • Lecture class
  • Small group settings
  • Mentoring sessions