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It\u2019s music to their ears.<\/p>\n
The University of North Alabama\u2019s Department of Entertainment Industry has made the Billboard<\/em> magazine charts.<\/p>\n But, it wasn\u2019t not for a top-selling song. Instead, the department was named one of the publication\u2019s 2025 Top Music Business Schools for its success in preparing the \u201cnext generation of music business leaders.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBeing named to Billboard\u2019s <\/i>\u00a0list is an incredible honor and a testament to the vision, dedication, and hard work of our students, faculty, staff, and industry partners,\u201d said department Chair Janna Malone. \u201cThis recognition places the Department of Entertainment Industry among the nation\u2019s elite programs and reinforces our commitment to preparing the next generation of music business leaders through innovation, hands-on experience, and real-world engagement.\u201d<\/p>\n The department has become a beacon for students who want to find their niche in the music business.<\/p>\n (University of North Alabama\/Facebook)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Now in its 50th year of providing this education, people such as Blake McDaniel, who has been named UNA\u2019s Alumni of the Year for 2025, say they have come to rely on the foundational knowledge they gained during their time as students in the program.<\/p>\n \u201cMy education in the music industry program at the University of North Alabama provided more than just a strong understanding of the entertainment world \u2013 it gave me a comprehensive foundation in core business disciplines such as accounting, finance, and marketing,\u201d he said. \u201cAdditionally, it gave me the ability to understand the creative process from songwriting and production to performance.<\/p>\n \u201cUNA\u2019s well-rounded academic approach armed me with a unique advantage over many graduates from other programs, equipping me with the tools to succeed in a competitive field.\u201d<\/p>\n