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Key details

Award title
MA Creative Events Management (PGDip also available)
Awarding body
Falmouth University
Level
7
Duration
MA 2 years; PGDip 15 months
Mode of study
Online, part-time
Total MA fee
£12,150
3 start dates per year
January, May and September
Next welcome week
15 January 2024
Next start date
22 January 2024
Application deadline
8 January 2024

Application process

Apply for MA

Apply for PGDip

Online Masters in Creative Events Management

Introduction

A Greener Future logoEvents play a decisive role across business, culture and sport. Managing increasingly discerning audiences, developments in technology and market shifts, demands skills and insight.

This masters degree will help you meet this need.

You will get access to international events expertise paired with academic rigour.

This will enable you to enhance your professional practice, creative perspectives and approaches, while critically evaluating current industry norms.

You will:

  • Develop skills to design, plan, produce and manage events across the creative and corporate sectors
  • Extend your career into event management
  • Gain certification as A Greener Future Stage 1 Assessor on completion of the A Greener Future Assessor Training course, as part of the Sustainable Practice module. This MA is one of the first courses in the world to be accredited by A Greener Future.
  • As part of the Creative Practice in Event Design module, gain a certificate in Disability Equality Training for Live Events, accredited by Attitude is Everything. 

Course details

This MA is built to help individuals find success in the events industry, with the capacity to address the needs of students with differing levels of expertise.

Understand event management and the business context in which events operate. Examine the impact of the digital economy on event management and design your own digital event. Consider the sustainability of events and undertake your own events research project.

Please note the module orders are subject to change.

MA

You will need to complete four 30-credit modules and one 60-credit project (180 credits in total). All modules on the course are compulsory and must be passed in order to complete the award.

PGDip

You will need to complete four 30-credit modules (120 credits in total). All modules on the course are compulsory and must be passed in order to complete the award. A dissertation (major project) is not required. 

Events managers attending event
Creative events management students
Module one

Principles of Event Management & Research (30 credits) 

The module is designed to introduce you to key themes that create the platform for understanding event management and the business context in which events operate.

This will include introductions to principles and practice of: 

  • Concept development & associated theory 
  • Business planning & finance 
  • Health & safety assessment 
  • Legal considerations 
  • Marketing theory 
  • Operational delivery 
  • Event impacts and evaluation.  

You will also acknowledge the potential impact of international variations in regulation and legislation when working with best practice examples. 

Module two

Creative Practice in Event Design (30 credits)

You will learn key theories, concepts, techniques and considerations around event and experience design, including principles and practice of:

  • Approaching the conception and delivery of the event, engaging a range of senses
  • Audience flow and focal points during the event
  • The differentiation between various stakeholders and expectation, including designers, creative agencies, set designers and producers
  • Creativity of stages and construction.
Module three

Digital Futures for Events and Events Marketing (30 credits)

The events industry is benefiting from technological developments and simultaneously being challenged by the digital economy.

You will look at this from a local, national and international perspective and identify fundamental sectoral issues and relevant theories.

You will then demonstrate knowledge gained by working in a group to design, implement and evaluate a digital event.

Module four

Sustainable Practice (30 credits)

The events industry operates globally and generates a wide range of environmental impacts.

You will look at the sustainability of events from a local, national and international perspective and identify fundamental sectoral issues.

You will consider varied approaches towards implementing sustainability, across event type, industry sector and country alongside the theoretical thread underpinning them.

Final major project (MA only)

Final Major Project (MA only) (60 credits)

In this module, you will undertake your own events research project. You will explore and analyse further a specialist area of contemporary events practice reflecting current theories and debates. In doing so you will initiate research that will inform your future career development.

This final module provides you with the opportunity to reflect on your learning on the course in relation to your personal objectives and professional development.

Examples of previous Final Major Project titles include:

  • Effective event experience design for UK higher education major gift level philanthropy
  • The fan family that conventions together stays together: A grounded theory study of family fan convention experiences in the United States
  • The influence of gamification practices on education events in the corporate sector
  • Exploring if cultural events and other supporting variables can revive tourism in Syria in the post-conflict era

Want to learn more about any of the modules?

Get in touch with our expert Course Adviser team. They’ll be able to answer all your questions about the programme, our application process, funding options, and more.

Principles of Event Management & Research (30 credits) 

The module is designed to introduce you to key themes that create the platform for understanding event management and the business context in which events operate.

This will include introductions to principles and practice of: 

  • Concept development & associated theory 
  • Business planning & finance 
  • Health & safety assessment 
  • Legal considerations 
  • Marketing theory 
  • Operational delivery 
  • Event impacts and evaluation.  

You will also acknowledge the potential impact of international variations in regulation and legislation when working with best practice examples. 

Creative Practice in Event Design (30 credits)

You will learn key theories, concepts, techniques and considerations around event and experience design, including principles and practice of:

  • Approaching the conception and delivery of the event, engaging a range of senses
  • Audience flow and focal points during the event
  • The differentiation between various stakeholders and expectation, including designers, creative agencies, set designers and producers
  • Creativity of stages and construction.

Digital Futures for Events and Events Marketing (30 credits)

The events industry is benefiting from technological developments and simultaneously being challenged by the digital economy.

You will look at this from a local, national and international perspective and identify fundamental sectoral issues and relevant theories.

You will then demonstrate knowledge gained by working in a group to design, implement and evaluate a digital event.

Sustainable Practice (30 credits)

The events industry operates globally and generates a wide range of environmental impacts.

You will look at the sustainability of events from a local, national and international perspective and identify fundamental sectoral issues.

You will consider varied approaches towards implementing sustainability, across event type, industry sector and country alongside the theoretical thread underpinning them.

Final Major Project (MA only) (60 credits)

In this module, you will undertake your own events research project. You will explore and analyse further a specialist area of contemporary events practice reflecting current theories and debates. In doing so you will initiate research that will inform your future career development.

This final module provides you with the opportunity to reflect on your learning on the course in relation to your personal objectives and professional development.

Examples of previous Final Major Project titles include:

  • Effective event experience design for UK higher education major gift level philanthropy
  • The fan family that conventions together stays together: A grounded theory study of family fan convention experiences in the United States
  • The influence of gamification practices on education events in the corporate sector
  • Exploring if cultural events and other supporting variables can revive tourism in Syria in the post-conflict era

Want to learn more about any of the modules?

Get in touch with our expert Course Adviser team. They’ll be able to answer all your questions about the programme, our application process, funding options, and more.

Why study with Falmouth?

Find success in the events industry

If you’re currently working in events and looking to enhance your capabilities, the course will help you further improve your practice, investigate new approaches, and gain access to international perspectives and expertise.

Alternatively, if you’re working in a similar field and seeking a route into events, or a graduate looking to develop your abilities, our MA will give you the specialist knowledge and practical know-how needed to forge a career in event management.

A Greener Future logo

Additionally, your certification as A Greener Future Stage 1 Assessor will allow you to conduct environmental assessments of events all across the world.

Careers and opportunities

Upon graduating from the course, you’ll be able to explore a variety of different progression paths - from corporate roles such as client entertaining and exhibitions, to non-profit roles like sponsorship coordination and campaign planning.

Learn more about the careers available to you as a Creative Events Management graduate:

Explore MA Creative Events Management careers

In addition to the guidance offered by our tutors, you can also access RealWORKS, our careers and employability service throughout your studies, and for up to 5 years following graduation. 

Our expert team will help you identify potential opportunities in the UK or internationally, prepare for job interviews, advise you on starting up your own business, and more. 

"I live in Iowa in the United States. I enjoyed the availability for online study - I did not have to relocate to a different country to complete my education. Being able to study online was really, really helpful."

Tiffany Schmeisser, MA Creative Event Management graduate

Entry requirements

An honours degree or Level 6 equivalent qualification.

If your first language is not English, you'll need to take one of the following tests to verify your proficiency:

  • IELTS - minimum overall score of IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening
  • TOEFL iBT (online test) - minimum of 88 overall and at least 21 in all 4 components
  • LanguageCert (online test) - a High Pass from the ESOL B2 Communicator test in reading, writing, speaking and listening (2 parts)

We accept a number of additional English language qualifications as well.

Candidates without a degree or formal qualification are also encouraged to apply. If you have prior learning or experience with this subject, you may even be able to apply for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). You can learn more about this via our APL guide.

For more information on course requirements, including advice regarding your eligibility, please get in touch via the form at the end of this page.

Eden project event
Have questions?

Our course advisors can guide you through the features and benefits of our flexible learning programmes and online platform.

They are here to answer any questions you have on choosing the right course, the application process, and financial support. 

Discuss my options

Events

Up to twice a year, you’ll have the optional opportunity to meet your classmates and tutors in person. Dates and location of the events will vary. Events usually incorporate a weekend to accommodate busy schedules.  

Find out more about face-to-face events on our student experience page. See some of our previous face-to-face events for Creative Events Management students:

Our latest Creative Events Management event was developed by MA students themselves, and examined the future of the events industry through a series of virtual presentations and workshops. There were sessions on integrating sustainability practices into events, making the most of moving to a new country and how to plan and execute virtual events. Read more about the discussions on the changing nature of global events management.

The event included a series of activities that explored diverse aspects of the events industry with a focus on risk management as well as the intersection of sustainability, consumerism and tradition. 

Using the lens of the Christmas market, students explored the event practice issues of risk management in large scale non-ticketed events, and sustainability, consumerism and tradition. To help students explore these issues in context, they also met representatives from the Event Agency Berlin, one of the city’s leading event production companies.  

"The module, 'Creative Practice in Event Design' was great because we had to design a real event, with a business plan. That was a really valuable experience. You get feedback, and then have to consider how you would do it again."

Jasper Mehagnoul, Teacher and Project Manager

"I really love the face-to-face events because they give you the opportunity to meet with your tutors and also other students. There's lots of workshops as well as being able to take part in events and build those relationships."

Rachel Cole, Senior Events Executive

How you'll learn

With Falmouth Flexible, you access your course content, interactions with other students and tutors, and learning resources, through Canvas, an easy-to-use online platform.  

You can access the course wherever you are in the world, and you can stop, pause and rewind lectures whenever you want.  

Engaging learning activities will help you apply theory to practice. They could include:

  • Concise online presentations to introduce key concepts
  • Small group and class discussions and crits to facilitate interaction and dialogue
  • Online critiques to test assumptions, ideas and to receive feedback from peers and tutors
  • Individual and group tutorials throughout the course
  • Independent study
  • Self-evaluation and peer feedback

As one of our students, you’ll have access to a range of services designed to support your studies and make your time with us as enjoyable as possible.

  • Falmouth’s comprehensive online library of books, journals, and resources
  • A Student Advisor team to answer non-academic queries
  • Online software tutorials via LinkedIn Learning
  • The Students' Union community
  • Career advice, CV creation, practice interviews, and more via our careers platform

All assessments are taken and submitted online.

Assessment methods for the masters degree in Creative Events Management can typically include:

  • Evaluation takes various forms including written coursework and practical activities
  • Written assessments include reports, a blog, a business plan, a research proposal, a literary review, a sustainability audit as well as a dissertation
  • Practical assessments include collaborative and individual presentations as well as a digital event.

Fees, costs & funding

Tuition fees

Total course fee

£12,150 (including £250 acceptance fee)

Payment options

  • One-off payment
  • Six equal instalments spread over a two-year period.

Payment methods

Payments can be made online or by phone, using a credit or debit card, or by bank transfer.

Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or call us on +44(0)1326 332 125 to speak to a course advisor.

Funding options

Application offers

We offer a range of bursaries, early application offers, and alumni discounts.

Loans

You may be eligible for funding from the UK Government. Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or speak to a course advisor.

Total course fee

£12,150 (including £250 acceptance fee)

Payment options

  • One-off payment
  • Six equal instalments spread over a two-year period.

Payment methods

Payments can be made online or by phone, using a credit or debit card, or by bank transfer.

Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or call us on +44(0)1326 332 125 to speak to a course advisor.

Application offers

We offer a range of bursaries, early application offers, and alumni discounts.

Loans

You may be eligible for funding from the UK Government. Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or speak to a course advisor.

Graduate stories

Rachel Cole, Senior Events Executive

Watch our Q&A with graduate Rachel to find out how the course helped her secure a new role:

Bettina Snowden, Events Professional

Watch our Q&A with Bettina to find out what it was like to start the course as an older student:

Teaching team

Designed with employer-focused learning at the core, our MA Creative Events Management team work with global organisations, staff and alumni to provide you with the breadth of experience and networks needed to accelerate your career.

The Sustainable Practice module for example, has been developed with A Greener Future. This not-for-profit organisation works internationally with festival, events and venues to help them reduce the environmental impact of their work.

Guest lecturers have included:

  • Steve Strange, one of the founders of X-ray Touring whose clients include Eminem, Coldplay and Snow Patrol
  • Claire Eason- Bassett, Managing Director of award-winning creative event management agency Mackerel Sky Events
  • Gordon Seabright, Director of Eden Project
  • Phil Morgan, Deputy Chief Executive, Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).

How to apply

Before you apply 

Visit our Application process page for detailed information on how to apply.

Should you require assistance with your application, don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable course advisors. They are dedicated to guiding you through the application process, ensuring you submit the strongest possible application for your course admission.

Application steps

Submit a copy of your first degree certificate or Level 6 equivalent qualification and your IELTS certificate if English is not your first language.

For free advice, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable course advisors on +44(0)1326 332 125.

MA Creative Events Management student working at an event
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Creative Events Management resources

Award-winning Falmouth graduate on the impact of her online MA
Award-winning Falmouth graduate on the impact of her online MA

Read about Falmouth Flexible graduate Caragh King's award-winning sustainable event project. 

Read More
The impact of COVID-19 on event management
The impact of COVID-19 on event management

The pandemic has caused seismic shifts in the events industry. Find out how it has changed.

Read More
4 essential events management tools
4 essential events management tools

As a flourishing industry, events management has quickly become fast-paced and competitive. To stay on top of their game, event managers must be timely, innovative, and stay updated with trends and technology. One of the best ways to do this is ...

Read More