Event Management Pathways in the UK

Events management is a discipline that deals with the planning, organisation and execution of a wide range of event types. These could include music concerts, sports events, weddings, conferences, and exhibitions, as well as many more. You will develop your understanding of what makes for a successful event, and how to help all of the individual elements come together.

An undergraduate degree in events management will give you a good foundation of knowledge in the area. You will study modules on event hospitality management, planning for events, event design, marketing for events, festival and events tourism, and events contracts. Most courses emphasise work experience, which will bolster your professional development.

Your degree will be delivered through lectures and seminars, as well as practical sessions and field trips. You might be required to take part in a work placement year or module, which will give the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the events sector.

Depending on where you choose to study, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. This specialisation can influence the area in which you choose to work after you have graduated. Common specialisations include:

• Business Finance
• Organisational Behaviour
• Events Marketing
• Consumer Behaviour
• Managing Visitor Attractions
• International Events Management
• ‘Mega’ Events

If your degree requires you to write a dissertation, this will give you the chance to further research a favoured area of events management.

The accreditation of an events management degree will depend on where you choose to study. Different countries have different accreditation systems. Typically, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA), or a Bachelor of Science (BSc).

During your career, you may be presented with opportunities to gain further professional and academic certifications and qualifications.

Generally, an undergraduate degree in events management will take three to four years to complete. Foundation degrees, diplomas and certificates can last up to two years when studied full-time.

Once you have successfully completed your degree, you can choose to either seek employment in your chosen area, or further your studies. Continuation of your studies could be in the form of a postgraduate degree, such as a masters or PhD, or a graduate diploma or certificate.

Graduates of events management will find that there are a variety of career opportunities available to them. Your degree will have prepared you for work within different sectors, and you will not be limited to the events industry. If you choose to work in a role directly related to your degree, jobs could include events organisation, restaurant manager, hotel manager, or tourism officer.

You will have gained a range of useful and transferable skills throughout your degree. These skills could include project management, idea development, effective communication, time management, and problem solving.