Subject Spotlight: Event Management
What is Event Management?
Welcome to the exciting world of Event Management, a field that fuses creativity, planning, and people skills. Studying Event Management can lead to a dynamic career that brings people together for memorable experiences.
Event Management involves planning and executing events such as conferences, festivals, weddings, and corporate functions. It includes tasks like budgeting, scheduling, site selection, acquiring necessary permits, coordinating transportation and parking, arranging speakers or entertainers, arranging decor, event security, catering, and emergency plans.
Why Study Event Management?
Choosing to study Event Management offers several benefits:
- Creativity: Designing and delivering unique events allows you to express your creative vision.
- People Skills: You’ll develop strong interpersonal skills as you liaise with clients, suppliers, and team members.
- Versatility: The varied nature of events means no two days are the same, keeping your work engaging and challenging.
What’s it like to study Event Management?
Studying Event Management involves learning about various aspects of the industry, such as event planning, project management, marketing, and risk management. You’ll also explore topics like sustainability in events, customer service, and event design. Learning often includes hands-on projects, industry placements, and opportunities to plan and execute real events.
What Can You Do with an Event Management Degree?
A degree in Event Management can lead to a variety of rewarding careers. Here are some potential career paths:
- Event Planner: Event planners design, organise, and execute various types of events, from corporate conferences to social gatherings. They coordinate all aspects of the event, including venue selection, catering, décor, entertainment, and logistics.
- Wedding Planner: Wedding planners specialise in organising weddings. They work with couples to plan every detail of their special day, from venue and menu selection to décor, music, and photography.
- Festival Director: Festival directors oversee the planning and execution of festivals. They coordinate the programming, manage the budget, liaise with performers and vendors, and ensure the smooth running of the event.
- Corporate Event Coordinator: Corporate event coordinators plan and organise events for businesses, such as product launches, corporate retreats, or client appreciation events. They work closely with stakeholders to align the event with the company’s goals and brand image.
- Public Relations Specialist: Public relations specialists may organise events as part of their role in managing a company’s public image. These events can range from press conferences to promotional events and product launches.
- Marketing Manager: Marketing managers often oversee event marketing strategies. This can involve organising events to promote a product or brand, or participating in events to engage with potential customers.
Each of these roles requires a strong foundation in event management principles, along with creativity, organisational skills, and excellent communication skills. As you progress in your career, further qualifications and professional certifications may open up more specialised opportunities.
Professional Bodies for Event Management
Organisations like the International Live Events Association (ILEA), the Meeting Professionals International (MPI), and the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) offer resources, certifications, and networking opportunities for professionals in this field.
Careers for Event Management Graduates
Graduates can work in various roles in the event industry, such as planning and executing corporate events, organising music festivals, managing weddings, or overseeing charity fundraisers. They may also pursue careers in related fields like public relations, marketing, or hospitality management.
Skills that Event Management Students Need
Students in this field need strong organisational skills, attention to detail, creativity, and excellent communication skills. They should also have the ability to work under pressure and solve problems efficiently.
Typical Degree Titles that are Event Management Focused
Degree titles in this field include Bachelor of Science in Event Management, Master of Science in International Events Management, and PhD in Hospitality and Tourism Management with a focus on events. Some programs may offer specialisations in areas like sports events, cultural events, or sustainable event management.
By completing an NCUK qualification, you have access to a wide range of Event Management courses with our University Partners. Find more information about the wide range of courses, the universities offering them and the entry requirements using our course finder.