Studying event management abroad

What is event management?

Event management is the art and science of planning, organising and delivering events of all kinds.

From music festivals and international conferences to corporate launches and charity fundraisers, it involves coordinating people, schedules, venues and budgets to create memorable and successful experiences.

The field combines skills from business, marketing, communication and logistics.

As an event management student, you will learn how to design event concepts, negotiate with suppliers, manage teams and ensure everything runs smoothly on the day.

Your studies could take you behind the scenes at concerts, exhibitions, sporting events and cultural celebrations.

Why study event management abroad?

Studying event management in another country exposes you to diverse cultures, traditions and event styles.

You might work on fashion shows in Paris, large-scale sporting tournaments in Australia, or music festivals in South America. These real-world experiences give you a deeper understanding of global trends, audience expectations and industry best practices.

International study also helps you develop a worldwide network of contacts, which can be invaluable in an industry built on collaboration. You will gain insight into how events are managed under different regulations, budgets and cultural norms, making you more adaptable and marketable in a competitive field.

What you will study

Event management programmes blend theoretical knowledge with practical training. Common areas of study include:

• Event Planning – developing concepts, timelines and budgets for events.
• Marketing and Promotion – using media, branding and digital tools to attract audiences.
• Venue and Operations Management – selecting locations, managing logistics and coordinating staff.
• Sponsorship and Fundraising – securing financial and resource support for events.
• Risk Management – anticipating and handling potential challenges.
• Hospitality and Guest Services – creating positive experiences for attendees.
• Sustainability in Events – reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible practices.

Many courses include internships, live event projects and field visits to venues and festivals.

Related subjects you might also like:

• Hospitality
• Marketing
• International Tourism Management
• Arts and Cultural Management
• Public Relations

Accreditation

At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Business (BBus) in Event Management, Event and Tourism Management, or a related field.

Postgraduate options include a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MSc) in Event Management, International Events, or Live Entertainment Management. Some programmes allow you to specialise in areas like sports events, cultural festivals, or corporate events.

Professional accreditation may be available through organisations such as the International Live Events Association (ILEA) or Meeting Professionals International (MPI).

Careers

With a degree in event management, you could work as an event planner, festival coordinator, conference manager, or production assistant.

Opportunities exist in sectors like hospitality, tourism, arts, sports, media and corporate business.

Some graduates work for event agencies or large venues, while others join marketing departments, non-profit organisations, or government tourism boards. Many choose to become freelancers or start their own event companies.

The industry offers a fast-paced and creative career path for those who enjoy working with people, solving problems and bringing ambitious ideas to life. Skilled event managers are in demand globally, opening doors to work on projects across continents and cultures.