BSc (Hons) — 2026 entry International Event Management
The fast-moving events industry is a critical contributor to the global economy. Our International Event Management degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills to thrive in this vibrant industry. By blending theory with the hands-on skills employers look for, this course will empower you to make an impact as one of the next generation of events professionals.
Kick start your exciting career in events management by joining Surrey Hospitality and Tourism Management, which is renowned for its outstanding global reputation.
You’ll have the option to take one of our award-winning Professional Training placements that will prepare you for work in industry or study at one of our many partner universities across the world, or a mix of both.
Gain an expert understanding of every aspect of events – including event design and operations, sustainability in events, and event innovation
Develop specialised skills and knowledge for the events industry and essential business management skills.
Work with real clients and gain hands-on experience in live event design, planning and production, helping you develop the practical skills sought by employers.
“ The amount of extra-curricular activity offered was exceptional. By the mid-way point on my course, I’d volunteered at conferences and exhibitions all over, and had picked up paid work at The London Marathon and Ride London. ”
What you will study
Our International Event Management course prepares you for the dynamic world of managing events. Studying with us, you will gain a wide range of event management skills and experience, including the opportunity to produce a live event in every year of your studies.
You’ll learn from teaching staff who’ve worked on global high-profile events. We work closely with industry partners who help us deliver our modules, allowing you to draw upon their wealth of experience in events and business and start building your all-important professional networks.
While you are studying, there are lots of opportunities for you to gain valuable work experience on numerous events that take place throughout the year, on campus and with industry partners with whom we work, such as at major music festivals. We have so far provided over 140 opportunities for our event students to work at Latitude Festival.
Our Professional Training placements offer you the opportunity to look beyond the UK and consider events on an international scale. You will benefit from our location in the thriving economy of the South East, as well as our close proximity to London.
The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning and assessment.
The structure of our programmes follow clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes.
Please note: Thefull module listing for the optional Professional Training placement part of your course is available in the relevant programme specification.
Modules
Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Modules are subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.
The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff.
Services industries are a driving force of value creation. Nowadays nearly every product has a service component and as such service businesses are increasingly dominant forces in the global economy. Services are intangible, consumed at the time of their production, cannot be stored, and standardization is a challenge. This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the challenges service organizations face due to service characteristics, consumer behaviour, and a dynamic and increasingly challenging global environment. This module introduces the core principles of services marketing and consumer behaviour considering service characteristics. In doing so students will be dealing with a variety of marketing topics allowing them to appreciate the complexity of the topic as well as relevant theories and models service providers can take advantage of in terms of managing the service experience for their customers. To emphasize the applicability of service and consumer behaviour theories to various fields this module is divided into two parts: First, general principles of services marketing and consumer behaviour are covered. Second, industry (i.e., tourism, events, or hospitality) specific theory and applications are introduced. In an increasingly customer centered environment this module will provide an understanding about theories, approaches and techniques concerning how to attract and retain customers while dealing with challenges due to services characteristics and changing consumer behaviour. The module also creates an opportunity to facilitate 'real life' decision-making and enhances a wide range of study skills, such as independent research, analytical skills as well as critical thinking. As such the goal is to contribute to resourcefulness and resilience and to develop digital capabilities linked to the topics covered. Consequently, students develop skills relevant for employability.
This module will set the foundation for future modules where students would design and stage their own events. It will provide a rigorous framework of knowledge and understanding, concerning the key aspects in event operation. This module will also critically discuss the challenges appearing in event operation. These would prepare students for producing and operating a live event as well as providing solutions to main issues if arise.
All managers in service industries need to be able to understand, analyse and improve the processes for which they are responsible. In order to be able to do this effectively they need to understand the nature and purpose of the service concept and the fundamental ways processes and people deliver this.
Businesses do not exist in isolation. They operate within a complex and sometimes turbulent environments. This module invites students to explore the influences of various external factors¿international, economic, political, ecological, technological, socio-cultural and technological¿at local, national and international levels on business organisations, and how businesses can in turn impact the environment.
This module is intended to provide an introduction to financial accounting. It is aimed at students who are not majoring in accounting or finance but who are studying an introductory level of accounting and finance as part of their programme in management and is particularly focused on students specialising in the Hospitality, Tourism and Events sectors.
Private events are a diverse grouping of activities that can include, but are not limited to, weddings, parties, dinners, private dining, celebrations, family events and VIP events. They are not open to the general public and typically involve small numbers of people in intimate settings. Despite their small size, private events can hold immense significance for their participants, and designing and managing them effectively is crucial to their success. This module introduces this important sector of the events industry and supports students to plan and produce a small private event on campus.
The business data project introduces students to a range of analytical frameworks and skills that support the process of making business decisions. The project involves analysing industry and business data and producing a professional report. The project assists students to develop skills in business statistics, data analysis, report writing, and group work.
This module explains why event managers in the events and hospitality industries cannot afford to ignore sustainability as a business imperative. Throughout all the functions of a business, sustainability should be taken into account, and this perspective underpins the module. Through the lens of sustainable development and management, we will critically discuss how sustainable practices can be developed in various geographical and socio-cultural contexts. This will culminate in a review of sustainability management systems that reflect different approaches to problem-solving and impact that can be applied to organizations working in diverse international contexts.
The major part of this module is devoted towards the planning and marketing of a live event. Building on the knowledge gained from Year 1 modules, this task will require the students to work in collaboration as part of small teams with allocated roles and responsibilities. Students will go through the creative design process and then take ideas forward and through a feasibility process. In the course of this module students will learn essential knowledge about the practical planning, documentation, organisation and technical considerations for the staging of a live event. This will involve students using digital tools (e.g. Microsoft Teams) to create and share documents and software (e.g. Microsoft Publisher and Excel) to create marketing materials and an event profit and loss sheet. Students will receive regular feedback on their plans and their performance from peers, teaching staff and internal suppliers (e.g. venue managers) and will learn to reflect on their own professional development and to act upon feedback. Thus this module will help students to create self regulating teams and to build self confidence and this practical module will enable students to gain a real depth of understanding of the stage by stage process of successful event management. In Semester two students will be able to take the UG Live Event Project 2 which is the Event Delivery and Evaluation module in which student event teams deliver a live event and evaluate all key aspects of the business and operations management of the project.
The module introduces students to the fundamentals of human resources management and organisational behaviour. It encourages them to identify the relevance of these knowledge and theories and apply them to address real-world challenges and contemporary issues.
The prime motivator is to equip students with a good and meaningful understanding of hospitality/tourism/events finance and accounting. The objective is to develop accounting and finance skills needed by competent young professionals to achieve sustainable profits for various stakeholders. This module will covers management accounting that includes costing, budgeting and the fundamental principles of corporate finance and investment.
A large number of global events are undertaken in fixed locations, such as hotels, theatres, stadia and purpose built event spaces. The choice of venue is a critical element of event management, typically based on capacity, price and location, but also more complex variables such as the venue's sustainability credentials, credibility, experience, accessibility and how the venue is managed. This module will provide a firm grounding in understanding the complexities of venue selection in event management. Additionally, many careers in event management are venue based, and managing venues requires knowledge and skills in addition to those of the creative event manager. As such, this module will review operational venue management to include diary management, venue marketing, catering operations, legal, health and safety and licensing considerations as well as how developments in technology and sustainability are impacting venue management.
This module builds on the work completed in the UG Live Event Project (Event Planning & Marketing) module in semester one. The major part of this module is devoted towards the marketing, sales, delivery and evaluation of a live event. Students will continue to work collaboratively in order to implement a digital marketing strategy that is appropriate to the intended audience to promote their events. They will create and share digital documents, and income streams and cash flow will be managed through software such as Microsoft Excel. Students will create industry standard risk assessments and share and deliver all aspects of the planned events from the set-up of the event venues to the final break down and clearing up upon the completion of events. In the post event period students will report on the outcomes from their project and reflect on their own learning and their experience of working within an event project team. This module is intended to be taken by students returning from exchange programmes run within semester one of the L5 second year. Returning students will be assigned to an event team by the module leader as is deemed appropriate.
Digital innovation and data analytics are regarded as key for the development of enterprises, destinations and the services sector including hospitality, tourism, transport and events. Being aware of available technologies and being able to use data to extract patterns and generate insights to support strategic decision making are important for enterprises to be able to create innovative solutions to business problems and compete in an increasingly competitive and transparent environment. As such, awareness about digital innovation and data analytics as well as the ability to judge the quality of interfaces are vital to succeed in the social and economic business environment within the services sector, including hospitality, tourism, transport, and events. This module provides students with an understanding of the importance of digital innovation and data analytics in the services sector. It involves a critical reflection on contemporary strategies, concepts and ideas that currently shape hospitality, tourism, transport and event practices. It also aims to equip students with the fundamental concepts and tools needed to understand the emerging role of business analytics in service organisations and shows students how to apply business analytics tools and to communicate with industry professionals to effectively use and interpret analytic models and results for making better business decisions. The module deals with the importance of consumers' perception of the design of technological interfaces for business success and covers how to critically examine user interfaces and how to make sense of user-based interface evaluation data.
This module introduces students to the key issues, strategies and practices of marketing in the digital environment of tourism, hospitality and events. With the rapid rise in the use of the Internet and new media technologies, there are a number of digital tools and technologies available to marketing managers. This module provides students with an understanding of the importance and the application of digital marketing in general and social media in particular. It is vital for tourism, hospitality and event enterprises to acknowledge that consumers are now co-marketers, co-designers, and co-producers of travel experiences and that it is essential to take advantage of consumers as a source of knowledge for innovations and experience design in order to be able to compete in an increasingly competitive and transparent environment. The module therefore deals with how firms can utilize digital marketing and related channels and communication modes to enhance networking, collaboration, and travelers' engagement with services provided by tourism, hospitality or event organizations.
Visitor attractions are a key element of the tourist experience and a major element of a tourist destination. This module explores types of visitor attractions, identifying key attributes of each type and the management of visitor attractions worldwide using extensive real-world case studies, application of technology and innovation in visitor attraction management for example, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligent (AI). This module also investigates the functional management of visitor attractions, managing impacts of visitor attraction management on local environment, society and economy and taking into consideration ethical issues in visitor attraction management and risk management.
This module examines large public events and hospitality in situ. It involves taking students around an events and hospitality space and examining it in detail over a number of days. This field experience of a live events and hospitality space allows the student to experience different events, hospitality and their distinct spaces; to compare and contrast events and hospitality cross-culturally; to develop a detailed understanding of the strategies and operations that intersect with the city and the public space; how event and hospitality managers and organisers, stakeholders, and city authorities attempt to broker the relationship between events, urban environments, public spaces, communities and the strategic ambitions of the city. How is the event established, leveraged, made impactful, socially inclusive, sustainable, a mechanism for peace-building. And, crucially, what are the problems, obstacles and objections in place thwarting the development of eventful spaces.
This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the way hospitality, travel, tourism, events and aviation operations necessitate the adoption of a cultural approach to management. Understanding different theories, approaches and proven practices will allow students to analyse situations where the business environment has been compromised by deficient cultural approaches. Mastering the managerial skills required for efficient cultural diversity, with a broad understanding of how it applies to business objectives, is of paramount importance within this module. The outcomes ensure that students have a clear idea of the inherent considerations involved with managerial decision-making, and their cultural consequences.
Students need to take one optional module from Semester 2
Year 3 - BSc (Hons)
Semester 1
Compulsory
The module is intended to provide an opportunity to review current trends and strategic issues in the international THE (Tourism, Hospitality, Events) industry and their impact on managing international organisations. It will consider the influence of current and future global issues on strategic management of businesses including geo-dynamics, technological advances, new customer dynamics, sustainability concerns and resilience of key stakeholders through socio cultural and economic challenges. The content of the module will therefore review several theoretical concepts and case studies from THE industries delivered by industry experts and lectures/tutors to develop students' strategic thinking and management skills.
The Business Research Methods module aims to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to determine the information necessary to address the identified basic or applied research problem and, using these skills and knowledge, develop an actionable research proposal. Students will gain an understanding of relevant approaches, elements, and stages of undertaking a research enquiry to provide insights to solving a relevant business problem. Students will develop core competence required to carry out a research enquiry, including identifying and formulating research problems, setting appropriate research objectives, selecting and applying appropriate research approaches, secondary and primary data collection and instruments, sampling and analysis methods, as well as the importance of ethical conduct in business research. This module discusses different methods and techniques essential to the execution of effective, coherent, and rigorous research for informed business decisions and practices.
The module will provide students an insight of a wide range of leadership practices in the extant literature in the context of tourism, hospitality and events. The module will cover from the fundamental notions of leadership frameworks/concepts to contemporary views of leadership practices. It offers a range of theoretical approaches and practices and their application within tourism, hospitality and events context. This will allow students to understand how leadership styles can impact individual wellbeing as well as organisational performance.
This module uses some of the largest public events in the world - the carnival and the festival - to elucidate the role and impact of the creative industries in society. Latitude, Glastonbury, Woodstock, Burning Man, Nottinghill Carnival, St Patrick's Day parades: how do these international events differ? How are they managed and what issues do they portray? Heritage, Authenticity, Escapism? What are their similarities, successes and failures? How do the promoters and organisers in the creative industries campaign, co-opt and sustain their practice? This module will give theoretical and hands-on industry and digital experience to students working in this critical nexus.
The meetings, incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry is the largest and most lucrative sector of event management and has an important role to play in todays¿ global business environment. This module will explore the global importance of the industry and the critical issues facing managers within the industry such as the use of virtual conferencing to support sustainable business practices across diverse cultures. Specifically, the module will equip students with the underpinning knowledge of this sector of event management including the characteristics of corporate and association conferences and consumer and trade shows, the challenges of bidding for MICE events and how to effectively meet the needs of specific market segments. Students will explore strategies for delivering and partaking in exhibitions through the module content and the first assignment which is a simulation of a professional exhibition. The second assessment will provide students with the opportunity to engage with digital sources of information to critically assess the factors involved in bidding for and delivering a conference. The module aims to improve students¿ knowledge, negotiation and communication skills and thus contribute to building confidence when working in business to business environments.
Digital Events Management aims to increase student knowledge and understanding of Digital Event Operations, through the project management of an event. The module will focus on key project management tools and digital resources, and a range of possible interventions will be discussed.
Visitor attractions are a key element of the tourist experience and a major element of a tourist destination. This module explores types of visitor attractions, identifying key attributes of each type and the management of visitor attractions worldwide using extensive real-world case studies, application of technology and innovation in visitor attraction management for example, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligent (AI). This module also investigates the functional management of visitor attractions, managing impacts of visitor attraction management on local environment, society and economy and taking into consideration ethical issues in visitor attraction management and risk management.
Event Innovations introduces students to cutting edge technological and advanced event innovation and practices required to respond to the dynamic international event environment. This is a central part of our commitment to develop students' digital capabilities. For example, from XR Event Technology to host virtual events right through to intelligent technology solutions increasingly adopted across event venues to deliver contemporary and sustainable and economically viable events. This module provides a unique opportunity for students to hear from, talk to, and engage with industry leaders across a range of different business, sporting and cultural events and contexts.
The Dissertation module involves students in an original research project. It provides students an opportunity for a directed individual study focusing on topics of interest related to their programme of study. Using one or a variety of methods, students will collect data and contribute to problem solving in relevant management contexts. Emphasis will be placed on the process of scientific research. Students will develop skills on how to plan, carry out, and communicate research work as well as knowledge of theoretical and practical specialisation within relevant subject areas.
This module represents the final stage in the employability and professional development journey within the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management's undergraduate programmes. It is designed to equip students with the skills, confidence, and professional insight required to transition successfully into graduate employment.Students will engage in a structured, real-world learning experience through a dedicated partnership with an industry professional. work on a live industry-based project in conjunction with industry personnel. This collaboration will expose students to current industry practices and challenges, allowing them to apply academic learning in a practical, business-focused environment.The project will require students to explore a real organisational issue, develop analytical and technical competencies (including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, data analytics, strategy development etc), and deliver actionable recommendations. The student¿s professional growth is the aim, contributing to their industry awareness, communication skills, and strategic thinking.This hands-on experience serves as a capstone for students¿ employability development, strengthening their readiness for the dynamic demands of the hospitality, tourism, and events sectors.
This a practical module that provides the opportunity for students to collaboratively undertake a real consultancy project on behalf of an external industry client. Students will use project management, interpersonal and analytical skills in order to deliver a consultancy project that meets the needs of a client and supports businesses and organisations towards a successful and sustainable future. This module will enable students to draw upon the knowledge that they have acquired throughout their programme, and will strengthen students’ creative, digital and innovation skills, builds students’ resilience and resourcefulness, cross-cultural competencies, and provides a pathway into employability through the skills developed and direct industry interaction.
Students will have the opportunity to learn about the different approaches that aim to answer the question: how do I plan, assess, and implement a new business venture? Business plans are essential not just for the successful implementation of start-up ventures, but also for continued business growth, including strategic competitiveness. A good business plan underpins business success on all levels and becomes a major guideline to sound management practices. All students will find much value in the business principles inherent to the planning process, which will lead to an enhanced commercial understanding. This module’s content and outcomes build solidly upon undergraduate business-related courses from level 4 and 5, as well as any accumulated business experience. It doesn’t just reiterate much of the theory previously learnt, but also applies it in a create and innovate way to emphasise creative business development, profitability, growth, and sustainability. It holistically addresses preferred business outcomes and brings all its components together.
Hospitality, tourism and events businesses and organizations operate in a complex marketing environment. Whilst the future of brands and branding are the subject of intense debate in an age of accelerating disruption and digital revolution, the branding of hospitality, tourism and events products, places and services remains a crucial 'promise of an experience'. This module requires the student to adopt a consultant’s mind-set and develop a strategy for an event, hospitality, or tourism brand. The module aims to develop students’ abilities to critically explore and evaluate the key principles and characteristics of brand management. It aims to discuss the essential components of brand management, including market analysis, brand auditing, and brand evaluation. Students are provided with the opportunity to apply brand management theories to practice as the development of a feasible and credible brand strategy represents a key component of this module.
European Event Field Trip examines the way events strategies and operations intersect with the city and public spaces. How and why they do this, the local social and economic impact of doing so, and how both managers and city authorities attempt to broker the relationship between events, urban environments, public spaces, communities and the strategic ambitions of the city
Destination management organizations (DMOs) and convention bureaux operate in a complex environment. They need to act as change agents and embrace social responsibility, sustainability, and stewardship. Destination management must be understood as building and sustaining partnerships between society, businesses, and governments, which makes destination management a highly complex area of study. This module aims to develop students' ability to critically explore and evaluate the key principles and characteristics of destination management. It aims to explore the essential components of destination management, including stakeholders and partnerships, governance structures, leadership, event strategies, sense of place, and performance evaluation. Students are provided with the opportunity to apply destination management theories to practice as the incorporation of real-world national and international cases represents a key component of this module.
Students need to take two optional modules from Semester 1 and take one optional 15 credit module and one optional 30 credit module from Semester 2
Year 1 - BSc (Hons) with placement
Semester 1
Compulsory
Services industries are a driving force of value creation. Nowadays nearly every product has a service component and as such service businesses are increasingly dominant forces in the global economy. Services are intangible, consumed at the time of their production, cannot be stored, and standardization is a challenge. This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the challenges service organizations face due to service characteristics, consumer behaviour, and a dynamic and increasingly challenging global environment. This module introduces the core principles of services marketing and consumer behaviour considering service characteristics. In doing so students will be dealing with a variety of marketing topics allowing them to appreciate the complexity of the topic as well as relevant theories and models service providers can take advantage of in terms of managing the service experience for their customers. To emphasize the applicability of service and consumer behaviour theories to various fields this module is divided into two parts: First, general principles of services marketing and consumer behaviour are covered. Second, industry (i.e., tourism, events, or hospitality) specific theory and applications are introduced. In an increasingly customer centered environment this module will provide an understanding about theories, approaches and techniques concerning how to attract and retain customers while dealing with challenges due to services characteristics and changing consumer behaviour. The module also creates an opportunity to facilitate 'real life' decision-making and enhances a wide range of study skills, such as independent research, analytical skills as well as critical thinking. As such the goal is to contribute to resourcefulness and resilience and to develop digital capabilities linked to the topics covered. Consequently, students develop skills relevant for employability.
This module will set the foundation for future modules where students would design and stage their own events. It will provide a rigorous framework of knowledge and understanding, concerning the key aspects in event operation. This module will also critically discuss the challenges appearing in event operation. These would prepare students for producing and operating a live event as well as providing solutions to main issues if arise.
All managers in service industries need to be able to understand, analyse and improve the processes for which they are responsible. In order to be able to do this effectively they need to understand the nature and purpose of the service concept and the fundamental ways processes and people deliver this.
Businesses do not exist in isolation. They operate within a complex and sometimes turbulent environments. This module invites students to explore the influences of various external factors¿international, economic, political, ecological, technological, socio-cultural and technological¿at local, national and international levels on business organisations, and how businesses can in turn impact the environment.
This module is intended to provide an introduction to financial accounting. It is aimed at students who are not majoring in accounting or finance but who are studying an introductory level of accounting and finance as part of their programme in management and is particularly focused on students specialising in the Hospitality, Tourism and Events sectors.
Private events are a diverse grouping of activities that can include, but are not limited to, weddings, parties, dinners, private dining, celebrations, family events and VIP events. They are not open to the general public and typically involve small numbers of people in intimate settings. Despite their small size, private events can hold immense significance for their participants, and designing and managing them effectively is crucial to their success. This module introduces this important sector of the events industry and supports students to plan and produce a small private event on campus.
The business data project introduces students to a range of analytical frameworks and skills that support the process of making business decisions. The project involves analysing industry and business data and producing a professional report. The project assists students to develop skills in business statistics, data analysis, report writing, and group work.
This module explains why event managers in the events and hospitality industries cannot afford to ignore sustainability as a business imperative. Throughout all the functions of a business, sustainability should be taken into account, and this perspective underpins the module. Through the lens of sustainable development and management, we will critically discuss how sustainable practices can be developed in various geographical and socio-cultural contexts. This will culminate in a review of sustainability management systems that reflect different approaches to problem-solving and impact that can be applied to organizations working in diverse international contexts.
The major part of this module is devoted towards the planning and marketing of a live event. Building on the knowledge gained from Year 1 modules, this task will require the students to work in collaboration as part of small teams with allocated roles and responsibilities. Students will go through the creative design process and then take ideas forward and through a feasibility process. In the course of this module students will learn essential knowledge about the practical planning, documentation, organisation and technical considerations for the staging of a live event. This will involve students using digital tools (e.g. Microsoft Teams) to create and share documents and software (e.g. Microsoft Publisher and Excel) to create marketing materials and an event profit and loss sheet. Students will receive regular feedback on their plans and their performance from peers, teaching staff and internal suppliers (e.g. venue managers) and will learn to reflect on their own professional development and to act upon feedback. Thus this module will help students to create self regulating teams and to build self confidence and this practical module will enable students to gain a real depth of understanding of the stage by stage process of successful event management. In Semester two students will be able to take the UG Live Event Project 2 which is the Event Delivery and Evaluation module in which student event teams deliver a live event and evaluate all key aspects of the business and operations management of the project.
The module introduces students to the fundamentals of human resources management and organisational behaviour. It encourages them to identify the relevance of these knowledge and theories and apply them to address real-world challenges and contemporary issues.
The prime motivator is to equip students with a good and meaningful understanding of hospitality/tourism/events finance and accounting. The objective is to develop accounting and finance skills needed by competent young professionals to achieve sustainable profits for various stakeholders. This module will covers management accounting that includes costing, budgeting and the fundamental principles of corporate finance and investment.
A large number of global events are undertaken in fixed locations, such as hotels, theatres, stadia and purpose built event spaces. The choice of venue is a critical element of event management, typically based on capacity, price and location, but also more complex variables such as the venue's sustainability credentials, credibility, experience, accessibility and how the venue is managed. This module will provide a firm grounding in understanding the complexities of venue selection in event management. Additionally, many careers in event management are venue based, and managing venues requires knowledge and skills in addition to those of the creative event manager. As such, this module will review operational venue management to include diary management, venue marketing, catering operations, legal, health and safety and licensing considerations as well as how developments in technology and sustainability are impacting venue management.
This module builds on the work completed in the UG Live Event Project (Event Planning & Marketing) module in semester one. The major part of this module is devoted towards the marketing, sales, delivery and evaluation of a live event. Students will continue to work collaboratively in order to implement a digital marketing strategy that is appropriate to the intended audience to promote their events. They will create and share digital documents, and income streams and cash flow will be managed through software such as Microsoft Excel. Students will create industry standard risk assessments and share and deliver all aspects of the planned events from the set-up of the event venues to the final break down and clearing up upon the completion of events. In the post event period students will report on the outcomes from their project and reflect on their own learning and their experience of working within an event project team. This module is intended to be taken by students returning from exchange programmes run within semester one of the L5 second year. Returning students will be assigned to an event team by the module leader as is deemed appropriate.
Digital innovation and data analytics are regarded as key for the development of enterprises, destinations and the services sector including hospitality, tourism, transport and events. Being aware of available technologies and being able to use data to extract patterns and generate insights to support strategic decision making are important for enterprises to be able to create innovative solutions to business problems and compete in an increasingly competitive and transparent environment. As such, awareness about digital innovation and data analytics as well as the ability to judge the quality of interfaces are vital to succeed in the social and economic business environment within the services sector, including hospitality, tourism, transport, and events. This module provides students with an understanding of the importance of digital innovation and data analytics in the services sector. It involves a critical reflection on contemporary strategies, concepts and ideas that currently shape hospitality, tourism, transport and event practices. It also aims to equip students with the fundamental concepts and tools needed to understand the emerging role of business analytics in service organisations and shows students how to apply business analytics tools and to communicate with industry professionals to effectively use and interpret analytic models and results for making better business decisions. The module deals with the importance of consumers' perception of the design of technological interfaces for business success and covers how to critically examine user interfaces and how to make sense of user-based interface evaluation data.
This module introduces students to the key issues, strategies and practices of marketing in the digital environment of tourism, hospitality and events. With the rapid rise in the use of the Internet and new media technologies, there are a number of digital tools and technologies available to marketing managers. This module provides students with an understanding of the importance and the application of digital marketing in general and social media in particular. It is vital for tourism, hospitality and event enterprises to acknowledge that consumers are now co-marketers, co-designers, and co-producers of travel experiences and that it is essential to take advantage of consumers as a source of knowledge for innovations and experience design in order to be able to compete in an increasingly competitive and transparent environment. The module therefore deals with how firms can utilize digital marketing and related channels and communication modes to enhance networking, collaboration, and travelers' engagement with services provided by tourism, hospitality or event organizations.
Visitor attractions are a key element of the tourist experience and a major element of a tourist destination. This module explores types of visitor attractions, identifying key attributes of each type and the management of visitor attractions worldwide using extensive real-world case studies, application of technology and innovation in visitor attraction management for example, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligent (AI). This module also investigates the functional management of visitor attractions, managing impacts of visitor attraction management on local environment, society and economy and taking into consideration ethical issues in visitor attraction management and risk management.
This module examines large public events and hospitality in situ. It involves taking students around an events and hospitality space and examining it in detail over a number of days. This field experience of a live events and hospitality space allows the student to experience different events, hospitality and their distinct spaces; to compare and contrast events and hospitality cross-culturally; to develop a detailed understanding of the strategies and operations that intersect with the city and the public space; how event and hospitality managers and organisers, stakeholders, and city authorities attempt to broker the relationship between events, urban environments, public spaces, communities and the strategic ambitions of the city. How is the event established, leveraged, made impactful, socially inclusive, sustainable, a mechanism for peace-building. And, crucially, what are the problems, obstacles and objections in place thwarting the development of eventful spaces.
This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the way hospitality, travel, tourism, events and aviation operations necessitate the adoption of a cultural approach to management. Understanding different theories, approaches and proven practices will allow students to analyse situations where the business environment has been compromised by deficient cultural approaches. Mastering the managerial skills required for efficient cultural diversity, with a broad understanding of how it applies to business objectives, is of paramount importance within this module. The outcomes ensure that students have a clear idea of the inherent considerations involved with managerial decision-making, and their cultural consequences.
Optional modules for Year 2 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 5
Students need to take one optional module from Semester 2
Year 3 - BSc (Hons) with placement
Semester 1
Compulsory
The module is intended to provide an opportunity to review current trends and strategic issues in the international THE (Tourism, Hospitality, Events) industry and their impact on managing international organisations. It will consider the influence of current and future global issues on strategic management of businesses including geo-dynamics, technological advances, new customer dynamics, sustainability concerns and resilience of key stakeholders through socio cultural and economic challenges. The content of the module will therefore review several theoretical concepts and case studies from THE industries delivered by industry experts and lectures/tutors to develop students' strategic thinking and management skills.
The Business Research Methods module aims to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to determine the information necessary to address the identified basic or applied research problem and, using these skills and knowledge, develop an actionable research proposal. Students will gain an understanding of relevant approaches, elements, and stages of undertaking a research enquiry to provide insights to solving a relevant business problem. Students will develop core competence required to carry out a research enquiry, including identifying and formulating research problems, setting appropriate research objectives, selecting and applying appropriate research approaches, secondary and primary data collection and instruments, sampling and analysis methods, as well as the importance of ethical conduct in business research. This module discusses different methods and techniques essential to the execution of effective, coherent, and rigorous research for informed business decisions and practices.
The module will provide students an insight of a wide range of leadership practices in the extant literature in the context of tourism, hospitality and events. The module will cover from the fundamental notions of leadership frameworks/concepts to contemporary views of leadership practices. It offers a range of theoretical approaches and practices and their application within tourism, hospitality and events context. This will allow students to understand how leadership styles can impact individual wellbeing as well as organisational performance.
This module uses some of the largest public events in the world - the carnival and the festival - to elucidate the role and impact of the creative industries in society. Latitude, Glastonbury, Woodstock, Burning Man, Nottinghill Carnival, St Patrick's Day parades: how do these international events differ? How are they managed and what issues do they portray? Heritage, Authenticity, Escapism? What are their similarities, successes and failures? How do the promoters and organisers in the creative industries campaign, co-opt and sustain their practice? This module will give theoretical and hands-on industry and digital experience to students working in this critical nexus.
The meetings, incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry is the largest and most lucrative sector of event management and has an important role to play in todays¿ global business environment. This module will explore the global importance of the industry and the critical issues facing managers within the industry such as the use of virtual conferencing to support sustainable business practices across diverse cultures. Specifically, the module will equip students with the underpinning knowledge of this sector of event management including the characteristics of corporate and association conferences and consumer and trade shows, the challenges of bidding for MICE events and how to effectively meet the needs of specific market segments. Students will explore strategies for delivering and partaking in exhibitions through the module content and the first assignment which is a simulation of a professional exhibition. The second assessment will provide students with the opportunity to engage with digital sources of information to critically assess the factors involved in bidding for and delivering a conference. The module aims to improve students¿ knowledge, negotiation and communication skills and thus contribute to building confidence when working in business to business environments.
Digital Events Management aims to increase student knowledge and understanding of Digital Event Operations, through the project management of an event. The module will focus on key project management tools and digital resources, and a range of possible interventions will be discussed.
Visitor attractions are a key element of the tourist experience and a major element of a tourist destination. This module explores types of visitor attractions, identifying key attributes of each type and the management of visitor attractions worldwide using extensive real-world case studies, application of technology and innovation in visitor attraction management for example, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligent (AI). This module also investigates the functional management of visitor attractions, managing impacts of visitor attraction management on local environment, society and economy and taking into consideration ethical issues in visitor attraction management and risk management.
Event Innovations introduces students to cutting edge technological and advanced event innovation and practices required to respond to the dynamic international event environment. This is a central part of our commitment to develop students' digital capabilities. For example, from XR Event Technology to host virtual events right through to intelligent technology solutions increasingly adopted across event venues to deliver contemporary and sustainable and economically viable events. This module provides a unique opportunity for students to hear from, talk to, and engage with industry leaders across a range of different business, sporting and cultural events and contexts.
The Dissertation module involves students in an original research project. It provides students an opportunity for a directed individual study focusing on topics of interest related to their programme of study. Using one or a variety of methods, students will collect data and contribute to problem solving in relevant management contexts. Emphasis will be placed on the process of scientific research. Students will develop skills on how to plan, carry out, and communicate research work as well as knowledge of theoretical and practical specialisation within relevant subject areas.
This module represents the final stage in the employability and professional development journey within the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management's undergraduate programmes. It is designed to equip students with the skills, confidence, and professional insight required to transition successfully into graduate employment.Students will engage in a structured, real-world learning experience through a dedicated partnership with an industry professional. work on a live industry-based project in conjunction with industry personnel. This collaboration will expose students to current industry practices and challenges, allowing them to apply academic learning in a practical, business-focused environment.The project will require students to explore a real organisational issue, develop analytical and technical competencies (including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, data analytics, strategy development etc), and deliver actionable recommendations. The student¿s professional growth is the aim, contributing to their industry awareness, communication skills, and strategic thinking.This hands-on experience serves as a capstone for students¿ employability development, strengthening their readiness for the dynamic demands of the hospitality, tourism, and events sectors.
This a practical module that provides the opportunity for students to collaboratively undertake a real consultancy project on behalf of an external industry client. Students will use project management, interpersonal and analytical skills in order to deliver a consultancy project that meets the needs of a client and supports businesses and organisations towards a successful and sustainable future. This module will enable students to draw upon the knowledge that they have acquired throughout their programme, and will strengthen students’ creative, digital and innovation skills, builds students’ resilience and resourcefulness, cross-cultural competencies, and provides a pathway into employability through the skills developed and direct industry interaction.
Students will have the opportunity to learn about the different approaches that aim to answer the question: how do I plan, assess, and implement a new business venture? Business plans are essential not just for the successful implementation of start-up ventures, but also for continued business growth, including strategic competitiveness. A good business plan underpins business success on all levels and becomes a major guideline to sound management practices. All students will find much value in the business principles inherent to the planning process, which will lead to an enhanced commercial understanding. This module’s content and outcomes build solidly upon undergraduate business-related courses from level 4 and 5, as well as any accumulated business experience. It doesn’t just reiterate much of the theory previously learnt, but also applies it in a create and innovate way to emphasise creative business development, profitability, growth, and sustainability. It holistically addresses preferred business outcomes and brings all its components together.
Hospitality, tourism and events businesses and organizations operate in a complex marketing environment. Whilst the future of brands and branding are the subject of intense debate in an age of accelerating disruption and digital revolution, the branding of hospitality, tourism and events products, places and services remains a crucial 'promise of an experience'. This module requires the student to adopt a consultant’s mind-set and develop a strategy for an event, hospitality, or tourism brand. The module aims to develop students’ abilities to critically explore and evaluate the key principles and characteristics of brand management. It aims to discuss the essential components of brand management, including market analysis, brand auditing, and brand evaluation. Students are provided with the opportunity to apply brand management theories to practice as the development of a feasible and credible brand strategy represents a key component of this module.
European Event Field Trip examines the way events strategies and operations intersect with the city and public spaces. How and why they do this, the local social and economic impact of doing so, and how both managers and city authorities attempt to broker the relationship between events, urban environments, public spaces, communities and the strategic ambitions of the city
Destination management organizations (DMOs) and convention bureaux operate in a complex environment. They need to act as change agents and embrace social responsibility, sustainability, and stewardship. Destination management must be understood as building and sustaining partnerships between society, businesses, and governments, which makes destination management a highly complex area of study. This module aims to develop students' ability to critically explore and evaluate the key principles and characteristics of destination management. It aims to explore the essential components of destination management, including stakeholders and partnerships, governance structures, leadership, event strategies, sense of place, and performance evaluation. Students are provided with the opportunity to apply destination management theories to practice as the incorporation of real-world national and international cases represents a key component of this module.
Optional modules for Year 3 (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 6
Students need to take two optional modules from Semester 1 and take one optional 15 credit module and one optional 30 credit module from Semester 2
Professional Training Year (PTY)
Semester 1 & 2
Core
This module supports students’ development of personal and professional attitudes and abilities appropriate to a Professional Training placement. It supports and facilitates self-reflection and transfer of learning from their Professional Training placement experiences to their final year of study and their future employment. The PTY module is concerned with Personal and Professional Development towards holistic academic and non-academic learning, and is a process that involves self-reflection, documented via the creation of a personal record, planning and monitoring progress towards the achievement of personal objectives. Development and learning may occur before and during the placement, and this is reflected in the assessment model as a progressive process. However, the graded assessment takes place primarily towards the end of the placement. Additionally, the module aims to enable students to evidence and evaluate their placement experiences and transfer that learning to other situations through written and presentation skills.
On this course, each 15-credit module involves 150 hours of student work. This time will be spent in lectures, computer labs, seminars and tutorials, and includes your own study time, both individual and in small groups.
You’ll also write essays, assignments and projects, individually and in groups, that draw on your understanding of the different operational areas of multinational corporations in international business environments.
You’ll learn how to make a creative proposal for a multinational corporation to expand its international business with strategies and develop your critical analysis skills by studying up-to-date topics in the current international business environment.
Our staff members are innovative in delivering engaging learning sessions that bring together theory and practice for your intellectual and professional development.
Lectures
Seminars
Tutorials
Independent study
Group work
Project work
Practical sessions
Workshops
Assessment
We assess modules individually and award credits for the successful completion of each one. Assessment takes place through a combination of examination and/or coursework, practical examinations and reports.
Check the individual module information to see full details at a module level.
General course information
Contact hours
Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.
Timetable
New students will receive their personalised timetable in Welcome Week. In later semesters, two weeks before the start of semester.
Scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week (Monday – Friday), with part-time classes normally scheduled on one or two days. Wednesday afternoons tend to be for sports and cultural activities.
This course is based at Stag Hill campus. Stag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught.
We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.
In the survey, Graduate Outcomes 2024, HESA, results show that 100 per cent of our undergraduate Surrey Hospitality and Tourism Management students go on to employment or further study.
With our degree in International Event Management, you are well placed to meet your career aspirations.
Graduates from Surrey Hospitality and Tourism Management have gone on to prestigious positions within the event management industry such as:
Events Coordinator, The Ampersand Hotel
Events Executive EMap Publishing
Events Manager International Hospitality Media
Event Control Room staff London Marathon, Ride London and Royal Ascot
Voyage Management Trainee, Grosvenor House JW Marriott Hotel
HR Coordinator, Sofitel London Heathrow
Front Desk Management Trainee, Hilton Hotels
Executive (Events), Global Compact Network Singapore
Graduate Trainee, Lexington Catering.
Our graduates have also gone on to roles at Mash Media, The British Academy, Cannes Lions International Festival, BCD Meetings & Events, Tencent (China), HERO GAMES, LOL Worlds, Trivandi (Middle East), Boombox Group (North America) and Louis Vuitton.
Learn more about the qualifications we typically accept to study this course at Surrey.
Typical offer
BSc (Hons):
BCC-CCC
Please note: A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted for either route. Applicants taking an A-level science subject with the Science Practical Endorsement are expected to pass the practical element.
GCSE or equivalent: English language at grade 4 (C) and mathematics at grade 4 (C).
BSc (Hons):
DMM-MMM
GCSE or equivalent: English language at grade 4 (C) and mathematics at grade 4 (C).
BSc (Hons):
30-30
GCSE or equivalent: English A HL4/SL4 or English B HL5/SL6 and Mathematics (either course) HL4/SL4.
BSc (Hons):
70-68%
GCSE or equivalent: Maths 6 and either English language (1/2) 6 or English language (3)7.
BSc (Hons):
QAA-recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma, 21 Level 3 Credits at Distinction, 18 Level 3 Credits at Merit, and 6 Level 3 Credits at Pass - 21 Level 3 Credits at Distinction, 3 Level 3 Credits at Merit and 21 Level 3 Credits at Pass
GCSE or equivalent: English language and mathematics at grade 4 (C).
BSc (Hons):
BBBBC-BBBCC
GCSE or equivalent: English language- Scottish National 5 - C, maths - Scottish National 5 - C.
BSc (Hons):
BBC-CCC from a combination of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and two A-levels.
Please note: A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted. Applicants taking an A-level science subject with the Science Practical Endorsement are expected to pass the practical element.
GCSE or equivalent: Please check the A-level drop down for the required GCSE levels.
BSc (Hons):
Merit-Pass Overall with C in the Core Component
GCSE or equivalent: English Language at Grade 4 (C) and Mathematics at Grade 4 (C).
Applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will receive our standard A-level offer for this programme, plus an alternate offer of one A-level grade lower, subject to achieving an A grade in the EPQ. The one grade reduction will not apply to any required subjects.
Applicants can only receive one grade reduction from the published grades, an EPQ grade reduction can’t be applied in addition to other grade reductions made through other schemes such as Contextual Admissions or In2Surrey.
If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
International Foundation Year
If you are an international student and you don’t meet the entry requirements for this degree, we offer the International Foundation Year at the Surrey International Study Centre. Upon successful completion, you can progress to this degree course.
If you are a suitable candidate you will be invited to an offer holder event. During your visit to the University you can find out more about the course and meet staff and students.
Recognition of prior learning
We recognise that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational and community contexts.
If this applies to you, the recognition of prior learning (RPL) process may allow you to join a course without the formal entry requirements or enter your course at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience.
Explore UKCISA’s website for more information if you are unsure whether you are a UK or overseas student. View the list of fees for all undergraduate courses.
The annual tuition fees for courses starting in September 2026
* Please note: Professional Training placement year fees are approximately 20% of the full-time fee for the academic year in which you undertake your placement.
Students with Tuition Fee Loan: the Student Loans Company pay fees in line with their schedule.
Students without a Tuition Fee Loan: pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be early October of each academic year)
50% in January of the same academic year.
The exact date(s) will be on invoices. Students on part-time programmes where fees are paid on a modular basis, cannot pay fees by instalment.
Sponsored students: must provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of study.
Professional training placement fees
Professional Training placement year fees are approximately 20% of the full-time fee for the academic year in which you undertake your placement.
Additional costs
Local travel expenses: £100 for travel to site visits
Clothing: £50 for professional black outfit for working on private events and for use in practical assessments
Optional European field trip: £500 (maximum).
Grand total: £150 to £650 depending on optional choices.
These additional costs are accurate as of September 2024 and apply to the 2025 year of entry. Costs for 2026 entry will be published in September 2025.
We have thousands of placement providers to choose from, most of which offer pay. So, become one of our many students who have had their lives and career choices transformed.
International event management placements
The Professional Training placement is an integral part of our course. Our prestigious partner organisations provide opportunities for you to gain valuable experience in a professional working environment, increasing your confidence, skills and employability when you graduate.
You can choose to spend your placement in the UK, Europe or even further afield.
Some examples of organisations that participate in this scheme include:
Barcelona Home
Beyond Certainty Events
Four Seasons Hotel
Goose Live Events
Hilton Worldwide
Langham Hotel
MCI Group
The Commonwealth Games
TUI UK and Ireland.
Applying for placements
Students are generally not placed by the University. But we offer support and guidance throughout the process, with access to a vacancy site of placement opportunities.
Find out more about an events Professional Training placement at BMW.
Student
I loved every minute of my Professional Training placements and I am sure you will too: just say 'yes'!
Annika Victoria Zahn International Event Management BSc (Hons) Student profile
Study and work abroad
Studying at Surrey opens a world of opportunity. Take advantage of our study and work abroad partnerships, explore the world, and expand your skills for the graduate job market.
The opportunities abroad vary depending on the course, but options include study exchanges, work/research placements, summer programmes, and recent graduate internships. Financial support is available through various grants and bursaries, as well as Student Finance.
Perhaps you would like to volunteer in India or learn about Brazilian business and culture in São Paulo during your summer holidays? With 140+ opportunities in 36+ different countries worldwide, there is something for everyone. Explore your options via our search tool and find out more about our current partner universities and organisations.
Apply for your chosen course online through UCAS, with the following course and institution codes.
We provide these terms and conditions in two stages:
First when we make an offer.
Second when students accept their offer and register to study with us (registration terms and conditions will vary depending on your course and academic year).
This online prospectus has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies.
Whilst we have done everything possible to ensure this information is accurate, some changes may happen between publishing and the start of the course.
It is important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us. Read our full disclaimer.
