2018-2019

News Release

REF NO.: 20

SUBJECT: Memorial University launches Canada's first joint music and business degree

DATE: November 1, 2018

Memorial University is launching a joint degree program in music and business administration, the first degree of its kind in Canada.

The new program enables students to earn two degrees — a bachelor of music (B.Mus.) and a bachelor of business administration (BBA) — after five years of full-time study. Memorial will be the only university in Canada to offer a comprehensive, integrated program in both disciplines.

'Leading edge'

“This program allows aspiring musicians to develop their musical skills and artistry while also developing business acumen to forge successful careers in creative and cultural industries," said Dr. Ian Sutherland, dean, School of Music. "It’s a program that puts Memorial on the leading edge of education for young musicians, preparing them for the dynamic 21st-century marketplace that is today’s music industry.”

The B.Mus. degree focuses on developing students’ musicianship, artistry and musical creativity through artist mentorship, musicologies, music theory, music technology, career skills and ensemble work.

The BBA degree provides the competencies to mobilize these in commercial and social business settings through learning in business in society, marketing, management, strategy and entrepreneurship.

'Grow the music industry'

Dr. Isabelle Dostaler, dean of Memorial’s Faculty of Business Administration, says the new program will also help to grow the music industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Studies show that the music industry, while an important cultural export, offers fewer jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador than in other provinces across Canada. As a result, we are also seeing fewer economic benefits,” she said. “Our new program aims to address this issue by helping to grow the music industry in this province, thereby increasing its economic impact and providing highly qualified graduates who are ready to lead that growth.”

Expanding career horizons for students

According to a 2018 study by MusicNL and BDO Canada, the Newfoundland and Labrador’s music industry contributes $51.5 million to the provincial economy each year, with related job growth at 15.4 per cent since 2011 — well above the national average of 6.2 per cent. However, the number of music industry jobs remains 32 per cent below the Canadian average.

“The music industry is constantly changing and evolving, and today’s musicians need a thorough understanding of business concepts, in addition to musical talent and skill, to enjoy successful careers,” added Dr. Sutherland. “We’re excited to partner with Memorial’s business faculty to offer this joint degree that will expand the career horizons of our students.”

The joint B.Mus./BBA is expected to be approved by Memorial’s Board of Regents next month. Interested students may subscribe to program updates here.

Prospective students must be admitted to the B.Mus. program to pursue the joint degree in business administration. The application deadline is Jan. 15, 2019. Visit here for more information.

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