Monmouth Named One of Billboard’s 2025 Top Music Business Schools

Monmouth University was again named one of Billboard magazine's Top Music Business Schools for 2025.

Schools are selected for the list based on industry recommendations, alumni information provided by honorees from multiple power lists, information requested from each school, and nearly a decade of reporting on these programs.

"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 the 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."

Billboard recognized Monmouth, home of the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music, for its distinctive integration of business and music coursework. The magazine highlights Monmouth's collaboration between the Leon Hess Business School and its music and music business programs, noting the University's "interdisciplinary model prepares students for a range of opportunities."

The feature also emphasizes the many ways in which Monmouth students gain hands-on industry experience through curating exhibits and working behind-the-scenes at the Archives, as well as with student-run record label Blue Hawk Records, in roles as A&R representatives, managers, producers, and artists. Monmouth's status as one of only four collegiate chapter affiliates of Women in Music, as well as its deep industry connections and partnerships with leading music organizations throughout the country, put students at an advantage when beginning their careers.

The Archives recently hosted a multi-day celebration of the 50th anniversary of the release of Springsteen's landmark album, Born to Run, which included a full-day symposium at Pollak Theatre. The event featured panels, presentations, and interviews with members of the E Street Band, and concluded with a surprise performance by Springsteen and his bandmates playing their iconic songs for the intimate symposium crowd.