BSc (Hons) International Event Management is a program offered by the University of Surrey designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and industry know-how to succeed in the rapidly changing international events sector. The program is a blend of theory and practice enabling the students to study how events are designed, planned, and delivered globally. From conferences and exhibitions to music events and sporting events, the program equips the graduates with the skills to plan events that leave long-lasting memories.
The programme is stated over three years (with the potential for a year of professional development in between Year 2 and Year 3):
Year 1: First-year students are introduced to the events industry principles, with modules in event management principles, international marketing, and the business environment for events. The first year provides initial knowledge of the events' position in tourism, culture, and the economy.
Year 2: The focus shifts more towards more advanced knowledge and functional skills. The topics that are taught may include financial management, event operations, risk management, and consumer behavior. The students also begin learning about event design and the uses of digital technology in offering innovative experiences.
Year 3: The final year gets students into practice by challenging them at a strategic level. Modules typically encompass event policy and strategy, sustainable event management, and international leadership. Students also produce a dissertation or major project, whereby they study an area of their choice from the events industry.
Curriculum Structure:
The course is well-balanced between practice and theory.
The students are trained in areas like business management, marketing, finance, digital event technologies, and sustainability.
Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and intercultural awareness are also emphasized by Surrey.
Accreditation:
Professionally endorsed by associations such as the Association for Events Management Education (AEME).
Close links with leading event organisations, keeping the course current with industry best practices.
Campus Location:
University of Surrey is located in Guildford, Surrey (UK), just 34 minutes away from London's city centre.
The campus features cutting-edge facilities, including lecture theatres, collaborative workspaces, and digital event platform access that mirrors industry technologies.
Students benefit from:
Professional Training Year: Optional placement year between Year 2 and Year 3 with organisations such as event agencies, sports organisations, music and festival companies, and international corporations.
Live Projects: Modules often involve an external client, giving students the experience of staging actual events or addressing real-world issues.
Field Trips and Guest Lectures: Frequent guest speakers from the industry and trips to top venues, exhibitions, and events abroad.
Clubs and Societies: Opportunities to develop leadership and organising skills through the Students' Union.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Time at Surrey's partner institutions globally, providing an international perspective.
Support includes:
Personalized career consulting and guidance.
CV and cover letter workshops specifically for the events sector.
Mock interviews and employer networking events.
Strong alumni network and employer contacts, offering internships and graduate jobs.
Employability:
Surrey graduates in International Event Management are in high demand worldwide.
Career paths include event management for international companies, festival and conference production, sporting event coordination, hospitality and tourism event supply, and destination management.
Graduates work with organisations such as Live Nation, Reed Exhibitions, Hilton Hotels, and professional sporting governing bodies.
Postgraduate opportunities include International Tourism Management, Marketing, Sustainable Event Management, or MBAs specializing in leadership and business strategy.
Skills are also transferable to industries like hospitality, PR, and business consultancy.
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.