The DePaul University’s performing arts management program was named one the 23 best cross-discipline programs for aspiring entrepreneurs in a Fortune Small Business magazine review of entrepreneur education programs,“America’s Best Colleges for Entrepreneurs,,” which appears in the September issue.

The major was among three DePaul academic programs, two affiliated centers and a business school faculty member that were recognized among the best in the nation by the 2.4-million-circulation magazine.

“Fortune Small Business’ recognition of the academic excellence of our performing arts management program is a validation and endorsement of the exceptional quality of the training we value in preparing the next generation of music and arts leaders,” said Alan Salzenstein, a School of Music faculty member who directs the program.

Launched in 2003 under the guidance of Salzenstein, a veteran arts administrator, theatrical producer, entertainment attorney and arts educator, the program offers a multi-disciplinary major that combines music, theatre and business instruction. The program prepares students for careers in the multi-faceted fields of symphony and opera management, music presentation, the recording industry, artist representation and promotion, and venue operations.

“A unique aspect of this bachelor of music program is the integrated minor in business administration through DePaul’s College of Commerce, which provides students with a foundation in accounting, management, marketing and finance,” Salzenstein said. He noted that the competitive program attracts students from across the country.

The program also takes full advantage of the vibrant music industry in Chicago and beyond, offering guest lecturers and internships from a host of organizations including The Lyric Opera, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Ravinia Festival, NARAS/Grammy Awards, Aware Records, Chicago Opera Theater, and numerous live music clubs and radio stations.

Overall, DePaul won praise from the magazine for emphasizing “learning by doing.” The College of Commerce’s undergraduate entrepreneurship program was chosen as one of the best 25 programs in the country, and the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business was named among the nation’s top 26 “b-schools with entrepreneurial flair” for its entrepreneur MBA concentration. Programs offered to the university community and public by DePaul’s Coleman Entrepreneurship and the Center for Creativity and Innovation, as well as the motivational teaching style of management Professor Gerhard Plaschka, also were praised by the magazine.

Fortune Small Business said its university picks were based on seven months of interviews with hundreds of entrepreneurs, professors, students, alumni, university administrators and venture capitalists.

###