Palm tree lined street in Los Angeles

Belmont Los Angeles

Belmont USA

Belmont Los Angeles

Belmont Los Angeles combines academic and experiential learning in the heart of Los Angeles with an internship at a professional company. You will complete general education and major specific courses while working at your internship and living in Los Angeles for a semester. Courses are taught by Belmont University faculty and local industry executives serving as adjunct faculty.

Program Curriculum

You will take three to four courses concurrently with your internship. A selection of Belmont courses will be available in asynchronous online and/or in-person formats, including: Third Year Writing, Junior Cornerstone, Internship and a selection of courses in your major or for BELL Core/General Education credit.

Specific course information can be found on the program's page on Belmont Global under Academics

View Available Courses

Program Details

A hallmark of the Belmont Los Angeles program, internships for academic credit are required.

You may work up to full-time hours with your internship. There is also a possibility to have two internships (both still must be for credit).

It is ultimately your responsibility to secure the internship. However, there are many resources on campus to assist with that process including:

Belmont Los Angeles students have interned with companies like:

20th Century Fox

NoiseTrade

Academy of Country

Nu Image/Millennium Films

American Idol Productions

Off Central Public Relations

Atlantic Records

Paramount Pictures

Atlantic/APG

Playtone Music

Bill Silva Entertainment

Q Prime/Volcano Records

BMG Music

Quincy Jones Productions

Bug Music

Red Light Management

California Country Connection

Relativity Media

Capitol Records

Reveille (NBC Universal)

Chop Shop Music Supervision

Riptide Music

Chrysalis Music Group

Rogers & Cowan

Clear Channel Music Group/Instant Live

Satellite Studio

Compadre Records

SB Projects

Conan O’Brien

Secret Road

Creative Artists Agency

Shiny Objects

Crowd Surf

Sony Music/Epic Records

Crush Music Media

Sony Pictures

Deep Marketing

Soul Pancake

Disney/ABC Cable Networks Group

Spike

Downtown Music Publishing

Temple Hill Productions

Fader 5 Music

The Agency Group

FOX

The Creation Lab Recording Studios

Global Positioning Services

The Ellen Degeneres Show

Heavy Hitters Music Group

The Joe Lewis Company

Jingle Punks

The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson

Kemosabe Records

The Recording Academy

Late Late Show with James Corden

Ticketmaster

Lionsgate

Triple 7

LiveNation Marketing

Universal Media Studios

Mulholland Drive Entertainment

Universal Music Group

Music Matters Management (M^3)

Walt Disney Music Publishing

MySpace Records

Warner Brothers Records

NBC Universal

Warner Music Group

Are You Eligible to Apply?

In order to be eligible for study in Belmont Los Angeles, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Complete at least 64 credit hours and be of junior standing by the start of the program.
  • Carry a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative institutional grade point average at time of application and start of the program.
  • Be in good academic and financial standing from the time of application through completion of the program.
    • Students on academic probation cannot participate in Belmont USA, even if the probation occurs after acceptance to the program.
  • Approved Resume on Handshake prior to application deadline
  • Attend an Information Session prior to the application deadline
  • Intern for credit while studying at Belmont Los Angeles
    • All prerequisite work for internship eligibility, based on your major, must be completed by the time of program start. You must have taken or be enrolled in any prerequisite work at time of application.
  • Show significant progression towards Well Core completion as follows (based on the year and semester that you will be studying away):
    • 1st semester junior: 40% complete
    • 2nd semester junior: 60% complete
    • 1st semester senior: 80% complete
    • 2nd semester senior: 100% complete
  • Well Core credits will be checked by the Belmont USA coordinator on or around the application deadline.

Note: Students who become ineligible after acceptance for any of the above reasons MUST pay the program fee balance.

**Because of visa requirements, international students may not be able to participate in Belmont Los Angeles.

 

Deadlines

Term Application Open Date Application Deadline

Spring 2026

August 1, 2025

September 9, 2025

Selection Process

  • Students meeting the above eligibility requirements will be extended an invitation to interview.
  • During the brief interview with the selection committee, students will be evaluated on the following:
    • Thoughtful preparation (courses, Well Core, preliminary internship searches, etc.)
    • Articulate responses
    • Professionalism
    • Overall attitude
  • The following criteria are considered during the overall selection process:
    • Academic performance
    • Professional Experience
    • Internship experience
    • Progress towards degree requirements
    • Maturity
    • Overall preparedness
  • Students who are not selected for participation, may be put on a wait list. If an accepted student declines admission, a student from the wait list is notified and offered the opportunity.

Note: Students with prior Belmont New York or Belmont Los Angeles participation may be deferred to allow a student who has not yet had the opportunity to participate in the program

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Housing

You will be housed in double occupancy rooms at AVA Toluca Hills in Los Angeles which is located less than 4 miles from Universal Studios, Warner Brothers, Disney Animation, and other major studios.

You can expect to be placed in furnished apartment living that includes a living area, dining area, kitchen, 2 bedrooms with 2 people in each room and a private bathroom attached to each bedroom. Apartments are fully furnished (bedding, towels, kitchen supplies, etc) and laundry facilities are onsite.

Enjoy loads of amenities such as workout facilities, onsite retail and a swimming pool.

Transportation

In LA, you are required to have access to a car for daily transportation. You may bring your own, ship your car or rent a car.

 

Kikko CorsoKikko Corso
Major: Songwriting, Spanish & Music Business 

"One of the most impactful experiences of my college career was participating in the Belmont Los Angeles program. With the encouragement of Drew Ramsey, Department Chair and Instructor of Songwriting, I was inspired to pursue this opportunity. His guidance motivated me to prioritize my WellCore hours, allowing me to complete them two semesters early—well before my move to LA.

I also began working with the GPS department during my freshman year, which was instrumental in shaping both my academic and professional journey. Living in Los Angeles had been a dream of mine since I was a little girl and being able to realize that dream with Belmont’s support helped me grow into a more confident, capable, and self-assured person.

While in LA, I participated in writing sessions and interned with two companies, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Having the chance to live and learn in both Nashville and LA offered unique insight into the distinct songwriting and creative communities in each city.

Belmont Los Angeles gave me the structure to develop a healthy work-life balance and the community to explore a new city alongside new friends. While living in this fast-paced city, I made it a point to slow down, disconnect, and reflect daily with gratitude.

My time in Los Angeles was truly transformative, and I’m deeply thankful to Belmont University for making such a life-changing experience possible."

Drew KedershaDrew Kedersha
Major: Songwriting Minor: Music Business and Video Production

"I absolutely loved my time in Los Angeles—moving there was a pretty daunting decision, but it turned into a season of growth, adventure, and discovery that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

My A&R internship gave me a hands-on look at the industry, helping me make connections, understand the LA music scene, and figure out more about what I do (and don’t) want to do in my career. The Entertainment + Culture class made that even richer, giving me behind-the-scenes insight and the chance to learn from industry professionals through classroom Q&As and follow-up coffee chats.

More than anything, living in LA pushed me to grow in confidence and independence, and I’m so grateful for the friendships, experiences, and clarity I found along the way."

Gabby SanchezGabby Sanchez
Major: CEI, Music Business & Sports Media

"Belmont Los Angeles has been one of the most transformative experiences of my college career. Living and working in the fast-paced entertainment industry pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.

I gained real, hands-on experience, formed meaningful professional connections and developed the confidence to adapt, collaborate and advocate for myself in unfamiliar environments.

This program was deeply affirming. It proved to me that I can succeed in new markets—and more importantly, that there is a place for me in this industry.

A big part of what made the experience so impactful was our on-site leader. His reliability, encouragement and genuine presence created a supportive environment where I felt seen and valued. I always knew I had a family in my corner, and that sense of community grounded me throughout a season of tremendous personal and professional growth."

Kadaisha SummersKadaisha Summers
Major: Media Production and Communications

"I’m from Nashville, so moving to Los Angeles was my first time living away from home. Belmont Los Angeles offered countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

With the support of Belmont, I was able to step outside my comfort zone, try new things, and reflect on my career goals. Through my internship, I gained valuable industry experience while also learning how to establish stronger boundaries and advocate for myself in a professional environment.

I also connected with Belmont alumni, whose relationships opened doors for me to work at a film festival, on a movie set, and at a BuzzFeed event. I even had the opportunity to be an extra in a music video. My time at Belmont Los Angeles was one to remember!"

Hannah ClantonHannah Clanton
Major: Music Business

"Participating in Belmont Los Angeles gave me the perfect opportunity to study away while fulfilling my degree requirements. I gained hands-on industry experience, built meaningful connections in the heart of the entertainment world and explored the exact career path I hope to pursue after graduation—live events.

The Entertainment and Culture of LA class added even more depth to my experience, helping me connect classroom concepts to real-life moments while expanding my industry network.

Between a full internship schedule, online classes and exploring a new city, I learned how to manage my time, stay organized and still make space to enjoy everything LA had to offer.

Every day in Los Angeles helped build my confidence—both socially and professionally. Living in such a massive, fast-paced city pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best way. I learned how to work hard, play hard and take pride in everything I do. The experience gave me a completely fresh perspective on life. There were so many moments where I’d pause and just take it all in—the palm trees, the ocean, the sense of gratitude for being able to live and grow in a place so full of opportunity, even if only for a season.

My biggest piece of advice for future students is to leave your expectations behind. I moved to LA and had to evacuate just three days later due to wildfires. At the time, it felt like a huge disruption—but in hindsight, it was one of the experiences that brought our cohort closer together and led to unexpected opportunities. Letting go of my expectations helped me fully embrace everything LA had to offer.

I’m incredibly grateful to Belmont for making this experience possible. Belmont Los Angeles was truly a dream come true, and one of the most rewarding, growth-filled chapters of my college journey."

Katie WashkoKatie Washko
Major: Music Business

My Belmont Los Angeles experience was a defining chapter in my journey as a Music Business Major with a Legal Studies emphasis.

Interning with PULSE Music Group’s Sync & Licensing department gave me invaluable insight into the intersection of music and licensing, expanding my understanding and passion towards a future career in entertainment law. I also gained clarity about my future path as I toured local law schools.

Beyond professional growth, the program challenged and shaped me spiritually. Living in a fast-paced, unfamiliar environment pushed me to rely more fully on God for strength and direction. Attending services at churches outside my own tradition expanded my understanding of worship and enriched my faith journey. These experiences helped me become more grounded, open minded and connected to others.

Belmont Los Angeles stretched me beyond my comfort zone and helped shape a stronger, more confident version of myself—professionally, spiritually and personally.

To future participants: embrace every opportunity, lean into the discomfort and trust that the experience will change you for the better.

Caitlyn KnowlesCaitlyn Knowles
Major: Media Production, Business Administration

My decision to attend Belmont was largely influenced by my knowledge of the Belmont USA program and its unique opportunities.

As a working dancer and freelance artist, I have always dreamed of living in either New York City and Los Angeles. However, the cost of attending school in either city made that path feel out of reach.

Belmont USA presented a credible, low-risk launch pad to explore both coasts while staying connected to my academic goals. During my junior year, I participated in the NYC (Fall '24) and LA (Spring '25) programs. These experiences brought clarity to my creative direction and helped shape my vision for the future.

In both cities, I joined training programs solo. By the end, I met chosen family—creative collaborators and close friends who share my passions and push me to grow. It helped me learn, firsthand, the importance of community within the industry.

I now feel confident not only in my understanding of the industry, but also in my ability to independently navigate life in these cities. These programs made me a more grounded, driven and resilient person.

Belmont Los Angeles Program Staff

Belmont Los Angeles is administered by staff in both Nashville and Los Angeles. In Nashville, the Belmont USA Assistant Director manages the application and pre-departure processes and communicates with all students prior to their arrival in Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, the Belmont Los Angeles Onsite Manager coordinates move-in and mentors you through your internship experience.

Belmont USA

Siobhan Harren (Nashville)

Assistant Director, Belmont USA
Email: belmontusa@belmont.edu
Office Location: 1009 Ayers
View Bio
Belmont USA

Caleb Pierce (Los Angeles)

Onsite Manager, Belmont Los Angeles
Email: caleb.pierce@belmont.edu
Office Location: Los Angeles
View Bio

 

Belmont west students pose for picture at the Warner Bros Studio Tour Belmont west students pose for picture at Disney

Contact Us

Belmont USA is coordinated through the Office of Study Abroad.

Campus Location:  1009 Janet Ayers Academic Center 
Mailing Address: 1900 Belmont Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37212
Email:  belmontusa@belmont.edu