You love business and you love entertainment. Maybe you are experienced in the entertainment industry and looking to further your career. Maybe you have expertise in a different area and want to switch careers. In either case, you are looking at getting a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) to accelerate your career in the world of entertainment.

Do you really need an MBA to work in the entertainment industry? Which schools should you target? What kind of job should you look forward to? Here are three big things to think about as you consider your next career step.

* MBAs are business people…not entertainers. Be 100% honest with yourself on your intentions for being an MBA in entertainment. Understand that MBAs are highly trained business people that specialize in the traditional functions of business. You will most likely work in marketing, strategy, finance, supply-chain management, or a similar function. If your passion is to produce music with the latest music mogul, an MBA is probably not the best path. However, if your passion is to start your own record label and control all distribution…now you are thinking more like an MBA.
* Jobs will come from networking…not on-campus recruiting. With only a few exceptions, entertainment companies do not recruit at MBA schools. Most entertainment companies hire “industry insiders” with relevant experience and contacts. Your main mission during business school will be to become an “industry insider”. This is easiest if you choose an MBA program in a strong media market. Los Angeles and New York are two great places to start looking. These schools will have the most targeted classes and the most connected professors. Still, your success will come from your ability to gain experience, exposure, and new contacts. Leave no stone unturned.
* Opportunities may not come as quickly…but they are there. Companies like Citigroup, Kraft, and Accenture typically have fast track programs to accelerate an MBA’s growth within the company. Companies like Arista Records, Warner Brothers Pictures, and Vibe Magazine typically do not. Your MBA degree alone will not catapult you into the executive ranks. As a matter of fact, you are probably going to have to make a lateral career move in terms of salary and responsibility. Your career will accelerate once you establish your unique niche in the new culture. Be patient, and know that opportunities are everywhere.