Event Management BA

Event Management is the study of planning, organising and delivering events of all kinds, from music festivals and sports tournaments to conferences, weddings and corporate functions. It combines creativity with business and leadership skills, making it ideal for students who enjoy working with people, managing projects and seeing ideas come to life.

Course Structure

Most Event Management degrees last three years full time, or four years with a placement or study abroad option. Many courses include live projects and work experience opportunities with event companies, venues or charities. Teaching is delivered through lectures, workshops, group projects, simulations and practical event planning.

Typical Modules

While content varies, common modules include:

Introduction to the Events Industry

Event Planning and Operations

Marketing, Branding and Promotion

Finance and Budgeting for Events

Human Resource Management

Event Technology and Production

Risk Management, Health and Safety

Sustainable and Ethical Event Management

International Events and Tourism

Dissertation or Major Event Project

Entry Requirements

Typical entry requirements are between BCC and BBB at A level, or the equivalent UCAS tariff. Universities may consider applicants with strong vocational qualifications and relevant experience.

Useful Entry Subjects

• A levels: Business, Travel and Tourism, Media Studies, English, Geography.

  
  

• BTEC: Travel and Tourism, Business, Performing Arts, Creative Media.

  
  

• T Levels: Management and Administration, Digital Production, Catering.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Business, Media, or Arts-based subjects at Higher Level are helpful.

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities look for applicants who are enthusiastic, organised and able to demonstrate interest in events. A strong application may include:

• Relevant experience volunteering at school or community events.

  
  

• Part-time work in customer service, hospitality or production.

  
  

• A personal statement showing awareness of the global events industry.

  
  

• Evidence of creativity, teamwork and leadership skills.

  
  

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

Event Management graduates gain a versatile mix of skills, including:

• Project planning and organisation

  
  

• Marketing, branding and customer engagement

  
  

• Budgeting and financial management

  
  

• Problem-solving and decision-making

  
  

• Negotiation and supplier management

  
  

• Communication and leadership

  
  

• Creativity and adaptability in fast-changing environments

Personality Type It Suits

This course is well suited to students who are proactive, creative and thrive in dynamic settings. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail and the ability to stay calm under pressure are key qualities. It particularly suits those who enjoy working with people and managing projects from start to finish.

Career Options After Graduation

Graduates can pursue a wide variety of careers, such as:

• Event Manager or Coordinator

  
  

• Conference and Exhibition Organiser

  
  

• Festival or Concert Planner

  
  

• Corporate Events Specialist

  
  

• Wedding and Private Events Planner

  
  

• Charity and Fundraising Events Officer

  
  

• Venue and Hospitality Manager

  
  

• Marketing and Sponsorship Roles in Events

Typical Pay After Graduation

Starting salaries for event management roles are typically £21,000–£26,000. With experience, event managers can earn £30,000–£45,000, while senior positions in international events, corporate functions or festival management may exceed £50,000–£70,000+.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Students

Here are four useful books for future event professionals:

“Event Management: A Professional and Developmental Approach” by Glenn Bowdin et al. – A comprehensive textbook on events.

“Into the Heart of Meetings” by Eric de Groot and Mike van der Vijver – Practical insights into successful event design.

“The Art of the Event” by James C. Monroe – A guide to the creative and business sides of event management.

“Meeting Architecture” by Maarten Vanneste – How to design impactful, goal-driven events.