BECOME A MUSIC LICENSING MANAGER

Before the music starts, let's tune up. This welcome session sets the tempo for the course — you’ll meet your instructor, get a backstage pass to the course layout, and preview your final project.

• Meet your instructor
• Course structure 
• Assignments
• Final project overview

Step into the spotlight with a crash course in the licensing landscape. Gain a bird’s-eye view of the UK industry, understand the key roles involved, and break down the types of licenses that make the sync world go round.

• What music licensing is
• The UK licensing landscape
• Key industry players
• Types of licenses

Who owns the beat? In this lesson, you’ll demystify rights ownership, sharpen your research skills, and explore the tools pros use to track down rights holders. A hands-on workshop and real case studies show why getting this step right matters — big time.

• Researching rights ownership
• Verifying rights: Tools & resources
• Workshop: Identify the rights holders and relevant contacts for three tracks
• Case Studies: What can happen?

Discover how to assess a song’s sync-ability — from lyrical alignment and mood to legal red flags. Case comparisons reveal what works where, so you can pick the perfect track for any media moment.

• What makes a track sync-friendly?
• Lyrical and thematic alignment
• Legal and logistical red flags
• Syncing for different media
• Case studies: Case comparisons of good vs. bad matches

Assignment #1: Evaluate three songs for sync. Match each to a media format and justify your picks based on mood, lyrics, and potential roadblocks.

Behind every great scene is a perfectly licensed soundtrack. You’ll learn how to budget for music, manage expectations across creative teams, and hear first-hand from an industry pro about real-world licensing workflows — plus what makes a sync a smash hit.

• Budgeting for music
• Managing stakeholders
• Guest speaker: Real-world insights on licensing workflows
• Guest speaker Q&A
• What does success look like?
• Case Studies: Example of a successful sync placement and why

Assignment #2: Create a mock budget for a short film. Assign specific music and outline your plan A, B, and C.

Music sells — but only when it hits the right note. Lesson 5 dives into licensing for ads, from legal terms to audience targeting. Learn to interpret briefs, pitch with purpose, and match music to a brand's DNA.

• Demands & opportunities
• License terms & rights
• Brand identity & approvals
• Discussion: Analysing advertising briefs and translating them into music selections
• Case Studies: Example of a successful sync placement and why

Assignment #3: Select 10 songs that would work for a provided brief.

A messy playlist can cost you a placement. Learn how to keep your catalog pitch-perfect using industry tools and metadata best practices. When every second counts, good organisation = faster syncs.

• Why organisation matters
• Overview of tools
• Metadata must-haves

Every deal starts with a conversation. This lesson helps you master the art of clear, confident communication — and the negotiation chops to strike win-win deals. Learn to navigate conflict and close with finesse.

• Negotiation strategies
• Communication with stakeholders
• Conflict resolution & deal-closing techniques

Going indie doesn’t mean doing it alone. Discover how independent artists navigate the sync world — from agent relationships to DIY opportunities — and hear real-world insights from a guest speaker who’s done it all.

• Indie licensing challenges
• Sync licensing 
• Sync agents: Pros & cons
• Guest speaker: Practical tips and insights into their approach 

There’s more than one way to break into the biz. Explore the full spectrum of music licensing careers, get clarity on industry expectations, and map out your next steps with confidence.

• Licensing career paths
• Skill-building & networking
• Industry expectations

Assignment #4 (optional): Submit your CV for the next lesson.

Now it’s your turn to take the mic. Polish your CV, craft a compelling cover letter, and practice your interview skills to help you stand out in the licensing space — whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up.

• Interview prep
• Building a standout CV
• Practical experience & applying for jobs
• Workshop: Mock job interview 

Assignment #5: Prepare and submit your CV and cover letter for a job that you want to apply for.

Sync is a relationship game. Learn how to manage clients, communicate through pressure, and advocate for your vision without burning bridges. Because a well-handled convo today can mean a deal tomorrow.

• Managing client & team relationships
• Staying professional under pressure
• Communicating upwards

Assignment #6: Reflect on a past difficult situation. What would you do differently next time?

One last jam session. We’ll review the greatest hits from the course and give you the floor for any burning questions. Leave with confidence — and a licensing toolkit you can actually use.

• Final Q&A
• Course wrap-up