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Commercial Music

In Person
Campus: Jackson
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Two people in a sound studio work at a computer with audio editing software on the screen, collaborating on commercial music. One sits using the mouse while the other stands beside him, both focused on producing quality audio. Sound equipment fills the room.

Make music with purpose

The Bachelor of Music in Commercial Music at Union University prepares students for careers in the music industry through studies in performance, composition, arranging, music technology, and business — all integrated with a Christian perspective. Students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge, equipping them for the diverse demands of today’s commercial music landscape.

Quick Facts

Academic Program

Bachelor of Music

Department

Department of Music

Format

In Person

Program Type

Major

Curriculum

What You'll Study

Commercial Music at Union develops working musicians for the real music industry — combining rigorous musical training with the business knowledge, production skills, and professional formation needed to build a sustainable career in a fast-changing field.

During a lively performance, a person in a black shirt plays an acoustic guitar on stage, smiling. Blue curtains and a microphone stand frame the scene, while a laptop sits on a stand in the foreground—perfect for commercial music settings.
A woman with long blonde hair gives a powerful vocal performance, singing into a microphone on stage with one arm raised. She is wearing a dark top and light pants, while several people and purple lighting highlight this music education event.

Making Music with Mastery and Meaning

At Union, commercial music is about more than talent — it’s about developing the full range of skills, knowledge, and character needed to thrive in the music industry with purpose and integrity. Faculty with real-world experience guide your growth as a musician, creator, and professional ready to make an impact.

Study with Those Who Know the Field

Instructors with real-world industry experience guide your growth as a musician, creator, and professional ready to make an impact.

Bob Mayo

Assistant Professor of Recording Engineering and Music Technology

Testimonials

Hear from our Bulldogs!

Jordyn Youngblood sits at a large mixing console in a recording studio, focused intently on using the computer. Another person’s legs are partially visible beside them, while studio equipment and speakers surround the scene. The photo is captured in striking black and white.

“Union was a huge part of my journey in audio engineering. I was able to learn the fundamentals of audio while being in a Christ-like environment. Union also helped me to realize that no matter what you do, you can do it for the Lord!”

Alumni

Keith Stanfill

A large audio mixing console with colorful buttons and screens in a control room; video monitors above show people performing on stage, while Jordyn Youngblood gives a thumbs-up gesture.

“Union played a huge role in preparing me for where I am today. Through the hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities at Union, I was able to consistently develop my technical skills and step into a full-time audio production role after graduation. I’m so grateful for the people and experiences at Union!”

Alumni

Gavin Kopko

Ryan Cipkowski, wearing a headset and light shirt, stands with one hand in their pocket, looking forward. Other people sit and stand in the background of a room with acoustic panels on the wall.

“God was preparing me for church ministry before I even knew. One of those first steps was going to Union. Not only did I learn audio production, but I also took part in worship teams and learned biblical foundations of corporate worship. Little did I know God planned for me to go from Union to Lakeside to serve as their Production Director. Through the connections, friendships, and teaching I got at Union, God prepared me for a life I never thought about.”

Alumni

Ryan Cipkowski

Tracks

Arranging & Composition Track

A person wearing a black long-sleeve shirt and light jeans is seated and playing a red Nord Stage 3 keyboard, arranging sounds and adjusting controls. A microphone and audio equipment hint at a commercial music or composition session.

The Arranging and Composition emphasis in Commercial Music equips students to create music for commercial artists, film, worship, and digital media. Students develop specialized skills in songwriting, commercial composition, film scoring, and music technology with real-world experience through partnerships with ministry and production companies.

Recording Engineering & Producing Track

Several people are in a sound control room; one man stands and points at a monitor while two others sit at a sound mixer, focused on music management and the screens. Two more people sit in the background observing.

The Recording Engineering and Producing emphasis in Commercial Music equips students for careers as recording engineers, producers, live sound engineers, and studio musicians in both sacred and secular markets. Students develop a blend of artistic and technical skills alongside music business strategy — preparing them to promote their creativity in today’s professional music industry.

Songwriting Track

Several people are in a recording studio, with one person at a large 00-Component mixing console and another in front of a piano behind a glass window. Monitors and audio equipment are visible throughout the room.

The Songwriting emphasis in Commercial Music at Union University trains students in the craft of melody and lyric writing for church, commercial, film, and educational contexts. Grounded in sound theology and creative excellence, students are prepared to write songs that shape worship, disciple believers, and engage culture with the gospel.

Performance Tracks (Vocal & Instrumental)

A person with long hair is seated in front of a music stand with sheet music, playing a string instrument in an orchestra. The scene reflects the art of composition, with other musicians and chairs visible in the background.

The Performance emphasis in Commercial Music prepares students for careers as performing musicians in popular and commercial styles. Students develop performance skills alongside training in composition, music technology, and songwriting, gaining practical experience on both the church platform and the community stage.

Related Programs

Composition Music Music Education Music Performance Music Theory Worship Leadership MMWL: Christian Ministry MMWL: Worship Technology Commercial Music: Arranging & Composition Commercial Music: Performance Commercial Music: Recording Engineering & Producing Commercial Music: Songwriting MMMT: Live Performance Technology MMMT: Studio Recording/Post-Production Technology Master of Music in Music Technology Master of Music in Worship Leadership Music Education: Instrumental Music Education: Vocal Music Performance: Organ Music Performance: Piano Music Performance: Voice Music: Communication Arts Music: Management Worship Leadership: Arranging & Composition Worship Leadership: Recording Engineering Worship Leadership: Songwriting

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