Three New Jersey schools have made the list of Billboard’s 2025 Top Music Business Schools: Monmouth University, Rowan University (College of Performing Arts) and William Paterson University.
The recognition, announced online on Oct. 27, highlights each school’s excellence in preparing students for dynamic careers in the music business.
Billboard chooses the top music business schools based on industry recommendations, alumni information, reporting on educational options and information requested from the schools.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by Billboard as a top music business school again this year, a distinction that reflects the unique opportunities our students have to learn through creativity, entrepreneurship and real-world experience,” said Joe Rapolla, specialist professor and chair of Monmouth University’s Music and Theatre Arts department. “Our dynamic music industry program weaves together music, business and hands-on learning to prepare our students for leadership roles across the industry.”
“Our B.S. in Music Industry is as much about sharing essential industry knowledge with the students as it is about building a bridge to opportunities,” said Mathieu Gendreau, associate professor and director of Rowan University’s music program. “It is also about giving every learner the entrepreneurial tools needed to create their own success stories.”
Billboard also recognized William Patterson University’s focus on student internships, entrepreneurship in the music and entertainment industry and its new course about the live music industry.
The full list of what each school offers can be found here.
