Belmont University Launches New Atlanta-Based Entertainment Program

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Photo: Cara Baker Davis/Belmont University

In collaboration with the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business, Belmont University has launched Belmont ATL, a new program that offers students a semester interning in Atlanta.

The program aims to serve as a launchpad for entertainment professionals and entrepreneurs, offering them invaluable real-world experience in one of the world’s most influential music and entertainment hubs. Belmont ATL has been headed up by former Motion Pictures Chair Will Akers, Assistant Professor of Music Business Dr. Eric Holt and Professor of Music Business Dr. Cheryl Slay Carr.

“Historically, New York, Los Angeles and Nashville have been the primary entertainment markets for opportunity and growth. That is simply no longer true,” Carr says. “Atlanta is now an important location for music and film and has always been important for media. We wanted to provide students with a well-rounded curriculum that remains relevant and cutting edge. We want students to be positioned for this expanding entertainment industry.”

Students participating in Belmont ATL will undertake customized internships tailored to their specific fields of interest, covering areas such as marketing, social media, artist management, concert promotions, record studios, event management, publishing, hospitality, talent agencies, sports management, broadcasting and record company operations. Guided by Belmont faculty, students will take the onsite “Entertainment and Culture of Atlanta” course, gaining deep insights into the city’s thriving creative landscape.

Richard Dunn, a music industry veteran whose background includes working alongside India.Arie, PJ Morton and Aaron Shust, will be the onsite manager for the Belmont ATL program.

Carr shares, “Nashville has been so effective for providing our students with internship opportunities because of the networks built here by our faculty and staff. Richard’s extensive network reaches across the full spectrum of the entertainment industry and beyond it to include influencers and decision-makers that he can access. Richard’s experience is also invaluable, as he possesses an array of skills to teach students how to navigate working with diverse populations. We are extremely fortunate to have him serving Belmont.”

“Atlanta is an ideal location for creative minds, with its thriving music scene and rich cultural history,” Dunn says. “This program will give students a chance to explore their creativity and develop their entrepreneurial spirit.”

Belmont ATL is currently accepting applications from junior and senior-level students across various majors for the Fall 2024 program. Access the application here.

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