LIPA named a Billboard Top Music Business School for a fifth consecutive time

The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) has been recognised as one of the world’s leading places to study music management, after being named a Billboard Top Music Business School for the fifth consecutive time. 

The annual list, produced by Billboard — one of the most respected publications in global music and entertainment media — highlights institutions that excel in preparing students for careers across the music industry. Selections are based on industry recommendations, alumni information and information requested from each school. 

LIPA’s inclusion recognises the strength of its BA (Hons) Management and MA Music Industry Management programmes with Billboard highlighting LIPA’s collaborative ethos. “The school’s distinctive mix of performers and practitioners provides everything students need to create, produce and manage fully realized productions and projects.” 

Keith Mullin is LIPA’s Head of Management: “This is a fantastic accolade, and to receive it for a fifth time is continued recognition of the work that we do here. It means we are getting it right — and getting it right consistently. 

“It’s also recognition of the work our students and graduates are doing. This is a practice-led institution, and they are out in the industry making a difference, having an impact.” 

Image: LIPA's collaborative music festival, 2ube Xtra, featuring contributions from Management, Music, Dance, Filmmaking, Sound Technology and Theatre & Production Technology students. Photography by Robin Clewley.

LIPA’s Management graduates have held leadership roles at some of the biggest names in global media and music, including Universal Music, TikTok, and Meta. Others have gone on to set up successful companies including Sentric Music and Tap Management, which represents artists including Lana Del Rey and Ellie Goulding. 

The BA (Hons) Management degree offers three pathways, Music Industry Management, Live Events, and Theatre & Screen. Each student completes a three-month industry placement or enterprise project, which often leads directly to employment. This year’s placements include Co-op Live, Modern Sky, and Sound City Liverpool. 

LIPA’s pioneering MA Music Industry Management course bridges the gap between theory and practice with students developing advanced research skills while deepening their understanding of management through industry-engaged, mentored practical projects. 

Programme Leader, Dr Eva Petersen says it means students work closely with industry: “As practice researchers they are doing real-world work that connects them to the music industry, and they are leading the way. Many of them are securing employment very early on during the course and that doesn’t go unnoticed.” 

Find out more about our BA (Hons)Management (Music Industry Management)

Find out more about our MA Music Industry Management

Billboard Top Music Business School 2025

Top image. 2ube Xtra 2025. Photography by Robin Clewley