Top 33 Best Music Industry Courses in The Game (2024)

Breaking into the music industry and learning all the essential skills needed to thrive can be tricky… That’s where music industry courses come in. 

But so many courses say they’re the best and offer everything you need, blah blah blah. 

A lot of them are full of crap. 

That’s why I’m bringing you the actual best music industry courses in the game, packed with lessons like:

• Artist management and development ✓
• Copyright law essentials ✓
• Music marketing and branding ✓
• Revenue stream optimization ✓
• Music publishing and licensing ✓
• Audio production techniques ✓
• How to be a successful producer/artist ✓
• Entrepreneurship strategies ✓
• Hands-on production experience ✓
• Comprehensive breakdowns by famous people ✓
• Networking and industry connections ✓
• Much more ✓

Any of the following music industry courses are solid, no doubt about it. 

They can help you build your music career, improve your industry knowledge, and refine your production skills. 

Plus, you’ll be able to navigate the music business like a pro and really understand how to protect and market your music. 

Side note, we’re only covering online music industry courses today, the in-person options we’ll cover in another article.

33 Top/Best Music Industry Courses In The Game

As I said, all of the following music industry courses really know what’s up. They won’t waste your time or cover things that are irrelevant. So, let’s dive right in.

1. Berklee Online – Music Business Bachelor’s Degree

If you’re serious about getting a complete education in the music business, this Berklee College degree program delivers on every level, for real.

Berklee Online is designed for both producers and artists that are passionate, motivated, and ready to really give it their all.

It’s an in-depth course that covers everything, like: 

• Copyright law
• Music publishing
• Music marketing
• Artist management
• Etc.

With Berklee Online, you’ll gain the hands-on experience needed to thrive in today’s competitive music industry 一 especially as an independent artist. 

It’s a seriously good investment, I promise you that much.

2. Coursera – The Business of Music Production (Berklee)

This Coursera course combines the technical aspects of music production with business insights to help you dominate the recording industry. 

You’ll learn how to produce high-quality audio while understanding the essential business courses that come with being a producer in the modern music industry. 

It also touches on sound design and audio engineering, so that’s a plus.

From sound engineering techniques to copyright management, this Coursera program at Berklee Online is perfect for producers looking to create and protect their music.

All while staying up-to-date with industry standards, which can be super beneficial as well because it’ll ensure you stay ahead of the competition.

I personally checked this one out myself, and it’s actually solid.

3. NYU x Billboard – Music Industry Essentials

The NYU x Billboard – Music Industry Essentials course is a collaboration that gives you an inside look at the music industry from the perspective of top industry experts. 

Over eight weeks, you’ll cover essential topics like artist management, music publishing, touring, and music marketing 一 all taught by experienced industry professionals. 

This comprehensive course is perfect for students wanting to grasp a basic overview of music business fundamentals and develop the skills to navigate music careers.

Plus you’ll get a certificate from NYU and Billboard upon completion, which believe me, is super important nowadays if you don’t have a ton of experience.

4. Udemy – Music Business Essentials

Udemy’s Music Business Essentials course is ideal for independent artists and musical artists who are new to the music business and want to excel super fast.

If you’re looking for a foundational understanding of artist management and music law, this one I can vouch is a great choice.

This online music business course covers everything from copyright law and royalties to music publishing and tour management.

It really prepares you to make the right decisions as you grow in the industry, which can be pretty difficult if you don’t have any guidance (take it from me).

With flexible access, you can take this course at your own pace 一 making it a great option for those balancing music careers with other commitments.

Side note, if you want to learn everything about PROs, we got you covered.

5. FutureLearn – Introduction to the Music Business (West Virginia University)

FutureLearn’s Introduction to the Music Business from West Virginia University offers a basic overview of essential music industry topics.

It’s perfect for those of you just starting your music careers.

This course covers the legal issues in music publishing and artist management, along with topics like revenue streams and music marketing. 

With access to industry experts (like Joshua Swiger) and interactive discussions, you’ll get the knowledge to understand music law and generate income like a boss.

Plus make strategic moves as a musician in today’s competitive industry.

6. ICON Collective – Music Business Program

The ICON Collective – Music Business Program is tweaked for producers and artists aiming to thrive as independent artists with a solid grasp on music business principles. 

It dives deep into: 

• Music marketing
• Brand development
• Touring
• Entrepreneurship

It’ll help you take control of your music career like an expert, and I personally know people who have completed this course, and they’re thriving.

Offering hands-on experience, ICON Collective provides the skills you need to launch successful campaigns and establish yourself in the recording industry.

You’ll have confidence and professionalism up the wazoo by the time you’re done.

7. Coursera – Berklee’s Music Entrepreneurship Specialization (4 Courses)

The Berklee’s Music Entrepreneurship Specialization on Coursera is perfect for those who want to learn how to transform their musical talent into a booming business. 

This epic program offers courses on branding, artist management, and building revenue streams through crowdfunding campaigns and strategic partnerships. 

Designed with entrepreneurs in mind, this program helps you prepare to navigate music law and copyright management.

It also teaches you to professionally market and monetize your music 一 a critical skill in today’s digital industry (obviously).

9. LinkedIn Learning – Music Industry Courses

LinkedIn Learning offers a variety of music industry courses that includes music production and audio production/music production techniques.

Plus, music business fundamentals like artist management, music publishing, and everything in between.

These courses (taught by industry experts like Scott Jacoby) cover essential topics such as post-production, marketing, and copyright law. 

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills in music supervision, expand your knowledge of music marketing, or explore film scoring, this platform is ideal.

It really gives you a wide variety of courses that fit any area you’re looking to master.

10. Coursera – The DIY Musician (Berklee)

For those who aim to be an independent artist in today’s music industry, The DIY Musician from Berklee Online on Coursera provides is dope, hands down.

It divulges industry secret/practical strategies to manage your music career from top to bottom in 4 courses.

You’ll gain insights into music publishing, copyright management, and how to create and market your own songs without traditional label support. 

This is super important because, if you’re like me and didn’t come up with a label, you’ll be able to be just as successful as those who did have that kind of backing.

NOTE: This course teaches you to develop entrepreneurship skills, such as building a loyal fanbase and identifying revenue streams that align with your career goals.

It gives you the tools to succeed independently and keep every single dime you make.

11. MIT OpenCourseWare – Music and Digital Media

MIT’s Music and Digital Media course, available on OpenCourseWare, provides an impressive look into how technology is reshaping the music industry. 

This 100% free course explores music production techniques and how to use digital tools to enhance your audio production and sound design process.

It’s ideal for those who want to understand the interaction between digital media and the music industry (which is only blowing up every day).

This includes aspects of music supervision, post-production, and even film scoring as they relate to modern music industry courses.

12. FaderPro – Digital Music Masterclass Series

FaderPro’s Digital Music Masterclass Series is one of the most impressive choice on our list if you ask me.

It delivers hands-on music industry courses with an impressive lineup of industry experts like Nicky Romero, Mark Knight and Roger Sanchez. 

These courses focus on specialized techniques in: 

• Audio production
• Songwriting
• Sound design
• Music business essentials
• Etc.

It teaches skills like building revenue streams and creating polished, professional soundscapes that are easy and straightforward.

Each masterclass includes real-world examples and interactive projects.

It gives producers like yourself a chance to create their own music while learning from industry leaders in electronic and dance music.

13. Skillshare – Music Marketing and Management

Skillshare’s Music Marketing and Management course was created for musical artists and producers looking to establish a strong brand presence in the music industry. 

You’ll learn strategies to master artist management, promote songs, and optimize your digital presence with hidden music marketing techniques. 

With this music industry course, you can build your entrepreneurship skills 一 focusing on topics like a crowdfunding campaign and network building.

These are, of course, essential for any independent artist or emerging musician aiming to succeed in such a saturated field.

14. Coursera – Music Business Foundations (University of Colorado)

The Music Business Foundations course from the University of Colorado on Coursera is designed to offer a basic overview of the music industry. 

It’s not necessarily the most intricate and mind-blowing in my opinion, but it certainly breaks down the fundamentals quite nicely.

This music business course covers key areas such as copyright law, artist management, and music publishing.

Even though it’s not the longest course in the world, it has been voted one of the top online music business courses for those first starting out in the field. 

With its structured approach, this course helps students and musicians alike prepare for careers in the recording industry.

It will give you all the foundational knowledge and skills needed to understand music law and navigate legal issues like a pro. 

When it comes to music industry courses, this one is a super solid choice regardless of length, particularly if you’re a straight newbie.

15. The Los Angeles Film School – Online Music Production Bachelor’s Degree

For those looking to build a solid foundation in music production and the business side of things online, look no further.

The Los Angeles Film School’s Online Music Production Bachelor’s Degree is a top-tier option and really cares about their students, which is pretty rare.

This degree program combines audio production techniques with business courses, covering key topics such as post-production and sound design.

Plus, music supervision for film scoring, which I found awesome myself.

By the end of the program, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to create professional-quality recordings while understanding how the music industry operates.

It’s perfect for both aspiring producers and established musical artists alike.

16. Udemy – Modern Music Business Strategies

The Modern Music Business Strategies course on Udemy is perfect for musicians and artists looking to stay ahead in the fast-evolving music industry. 

It breaks down critical topics like: 

• Music marketing
• Copyright law
• Entrepreneurship
• Not getting lost in the mix
• Etc.

It’s all about showing you how to strategically promote your music and build a loyal, life-long fanbase (proven) that will ride with you until the end. 

With flexible online access, this course allows you to learn at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for both independent artists and seasoned industry professionals wanting to expand their business skills. 

If we’re talking music industry courses, this one is top notch.

17. Berklee Online – Music Publishing and Licensing

Yes, Berklee Online again, don’t hate, they’re the best in the business, no doubt.

The Music Publishing and Licensing course from Berklee Online is a must for anyone wanting to understand the intricacies of music law and copyright management.

It explores music publishing, licensing agreements, and fair use 一 teaching you how to monetize your songs effectively and protect your intellectual property. 

With insights from industry experts and access to real-world case studies, you’ll gain knowledge that’s key for not getting overwhelmed when it comes to legal issues.

And, maximizing your potential in the music industry, too.

18. MasterClass – Alicia Keys Teaches Songwriting and Producing

In her MasterClass, Alicia Keys shares her approach to songwriting and music production, giving aspiring songwriters and producers insight into her creative process.

 

This course covers everything from laying down meaningful lyrics to capturing authentic performances (all the insider tips, tricks, and techniques you’ll need to know).

She gives you a hands-on look into audio production and the role of music law for musical artists which she’s dealt with for decades.

I haven’t taken this course personally, but I mean, come on, it’s frikkin’ Alicia Keys.

Alicia’s experience makes this one of the most engaging music industry courses, offering skills for both independent artists and those looking to understand artist management in the industry.

19. Noiselab – Music Production Bootcamp

The Music Production Bootcamp course by Noiselab focuses on expert strategies for establishing a career as a producer or artist in today’s industry. 

This course dives into music marketing, branding, and creating a strong network — essential tools for independent artists looking to build their presence. 

With a focus on hands-on experience, you’ll learn how to position yourself in the music industry and lock down a top spot, landing on everyone’s playlists.

Understanding management marketing and reaching new audiences through digital platforms is key, and you’ll get it all with this course.

20. Coursera – Music Production Specialization (University of Colorado)

The Music Production Specialization from the University of Colorado on Coursera is designed for producers seeking a deeper understanding of audio production.

Along with music business principles that can change the game for you.

This series of music industry courses covers the entire production process 一 from sound design to post-production and film scoring. 

Perfect for those aiming to succeed in the recording industry, this course gives you knowledge about copyright law and music publishing.

Plus how to generate income through various revenue streams, which can help you secure a bag quickly.

21. Berklee Online – Music Marketing 101

Berklee Online’s Music Marketing 101 is a legendary course in music marketing, focusing on how to build a brand and engage with fans all day long. 

It covers topics like:

• Crowdfunding campaigns
• Social media strategies
• Rapid audience growth

It’s been crowned one of the most valuable online music business courses for both artists and managers alike, so which path you’re traveling, it’s got you.

By the end of the course, you’ll have a comprehensive set of skills to promote your songs and reach wider audiences around the globe.

This is essential for a sustainable music career in today’s digital world because having a local fanbase is cool, but taking over the world is much better if you ask me.

22. LinkedIn Learning – Music Production and Entrepreneurship with Dave Pensado

Dave Pensado goes down as one of the best in history, so if he offers a music industry course, you don’t overlook it. 

The Music Production and Entrepreneurship course with Dave Pensado on LinkedIn Learning blends music production techniques with entrepreneurship.

It provides all different kinds of music industry courses that cover everything from sound design to business courses on management and revenue streams. 

Pensado’s real-world examples/experience make it ideal for independent artists who want to build their music careers while mastering audio production. 

It also emphasizes legal issues like copyright law and music publishing so you’re well-prepared to protect and profit from your music. 

This man has been a role model of mine since before I can remember, and believe me, he brings all the most beneficial information to the table, no matter the specific course.

23. Yellowbrick – Artist Management Essentials

Yellowbrick’s Artist Management Essentials course provides a thorough overview of artist management, like:

• Contract negotiation
• Music law
• Management marketing
• Negotiating contracts
• Not getting screwed over

This course is designed for producers and artists looking to take over the music industry, focusing on skills like branding, audience engagement, and music supervision. 

With content created in partnership with industry experts, you’ll gain insights that are crucial for managing both your creative work and your music career.

24. Understanding the Music Business: What is Music Worth? (Vanderbilt University on Coursera)

This course from Vanderbilt University covers the economic side of music 一 exploring the financial aspects of music valuation, copyright, and licensing. 

Yes, there is a lot of details, examples, specific instances, and helpful tips included.

It’s perfect for those wanting to understand how the music business generates and protects value, plain and simple.

Speaking of, if you want to really understand the industry with an internship, we break down how to get the job over the competition.

25. Touring 101 for Musicians (Coursera)

Offered by Berklee College of Music (the top dogs), this Touring 101 course dives into the logistics of touring, from booking shows to managing a tour. 

It’s a great choice for artists and managers who want to understand the intricacies of live performance logistics and how to make touring extremely profitable.

Now of course this one isn’t for all of you, especially my fellow producers out there, but if you’re an artist planning on touring, it’s seriously valuable.

26. Music Production: Crafting Award-Worthy Songs (Coursera)

Created by Grammy GO, this specialization course teaches techniques for creating professional-quality songs across all popular genres. 

You’ll learn about songwriting, arranging, and working with artists 一 making it a great fit for producers looking to enhance their creative skills as a whole.

27. Building Your Audience for Music Professionals (GRAMMY GO on Coursera)

This Building Your Audience course emphasizes strategies for building a fanbase and creating a personal brand in the music industry. 

You’ll explore topics like: 

• Digital marketing tactics
• Social media management
• Audience engagement

It helps artists and managers at any point of their journey grow their influence online, which can seriously boost your appeal/skills.

Remember, to really make it in the industry, you have to have a serious following and die-hard fans that can spread the word about you.

28. The Art of Music Production (Berklee Online)

Designed to improve your technical music production skills, The Art of Music Production covers audio recording, mixing, and sound engineering. 

It’s perfect for anyone looking to create studio-quality tracks because it offers in-depth insights into professional production techniques.

Also, it shows you how to really find the right sonic signature for you.

29. Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music (Berklee Online)

Aimed at aspiring singers and songwriters, this Songwriting covers the creative process of songwriting, arranging, and producing. 

It’s unmatched for artists who want to develop their own music from start to finish, blending creativity with technical skills.

From song structure to recording your tracks, it brings invaluable information to the table that you won’t find anywhere else.

30. Aulart Masterclass Series

Aulart offers masterclasses led by well-known DJs and music producers like Chris Liebing and The Alchemist (two GOATs).

They cover electronic music production, live performance, and networking within the music industry, making it a good fit for those focused on EDM.

31. The Strategy of Content Marketing (University of California, Davis on Coursera)

While not exclusively focused on music, this Content Marketing course teaches content marketing principles that are highly relevant for music artists and managers. 

You’ll learn strategies for creating and distributing content that resonates with audiences and builds a brand that really blows the competition away.

I figured I would include it in today’s list because I heard some of their methods are really unique and out of the box, which I respect big time.

32. Point Blank Music School Online Courses

Point Blank is a pretty respected name in the industry that offers a range of online courses focused on music production and sound engineering. 

These courses cover DAWs like Ableton and Logic Pro, sound design, and even music business topics 一 making it a versatile option for music producers at all levels.

They even dive into the more advanced topics like modulation, granular synthesis, and things along those lines (some of my favorite subjects).

33. Music Production: Techniques and Concepts (LinkedIn Learning)

Taught by Grammy-winning producer Scott Jacoby, this Music Production course covers essential production techniques, from mixing to track editing. 

If you really want to refine your technical skills and excel in the production world, this one is a winner for sure.

.

Music Industry Courses: Final Thoughts

All of the music industry courses that we covered today can really set you up for success. 

They can help you understand the ins and outs of the music business, from artist management to music marketing. 

Plus, you’ll learn how to build a brand, leverage copyright law, and tap into different revenue streams like a true professional. 

However, if you REALLY want to excel at things like songwriting, production, sound design, and beat-making, then you’ve got to check out all our Top Courses.

There’s a wide variety of powerful courses made exclusively for serious music creators that want to take the game by storm. 

For example, the Beatmaking Secrets course, led by industry experts, will teach you absolutely everything about creating professional-level beats.

This includes sound selection, arrangement, and secret mixing techniques.

On the flip side, the Sound Design Secrets course includes over 20 hours of training on mastering sound design across various genres.

It will help you instantly transform your sounds with advanced techniques your competition probably don’t know about yet.

The Songwriting Secrets course dives deep into creating hit-worthy melodies, chord progressions, and drum patterns, perfect for artists of all genres.

Plus, each course comes with special bonuses that will blow your mind.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your music career, these music industry courses are all invaluable choices. 

Remember, the more you invest in your skills, the closer you’ll get to reaching your full potential as a music professional.

Until next time…