Should I Study for an Event Management Degree or Diploma?

Fees

From September 2012, a 3 year university course in event management is likely to demand total fees of up to 瞿27,000. Student loans can help cover the cost, and until your salary reaches the current threshold of 瞿21,000, you won't have to start repaying the amount, but this is still a huge financial commitment needing serious thought.

In comparison, a part-time diploma in Event Management will cost from around 瞿1,200 from a recognised organisation whose courses have been accredited by a professional body such as the Institute of Commercial Management (ICM). The diploma is the equivalent to Level 1 of a degree, so, should you wish to continue with additional studies, it is still possible, ultimately, to gain a degree should you wish. When selecting a training body, it is important to ensure it has received relevant accreditation, because it means that that course has been recognised for its rigorousness and practicality by employers within our industry. A good part-time diploma course will also provide students with the opportunity to attend trade shows and exhibitions and network with industry. It should also offer general help in finding work in the event industry once you have finished your diploma.

Work/Study

If you are considering a course in event management as part of your career development or for a career change, then it may be extremely important for you to keep your day job, or there may be other reasons why you need to continue earning whilst you study. If you opt for a full-time university course, it is unlikely you will have the time to have employment beyond some part-time or evening work. The alternative - studying for a part-time diploma with perhaps only 2 evenings a week over a 14 week period - means you can continue with a day job as you work towards your chosen career. You also have the flexibility to complete additional project and course work in your own time.

Time

If you study for a full-time degree in managing events, it will take you another 3 years to begin your desired career. With the job market as it is, you may think this could be a sensible option, anticipating that this situation will have improved by the time you enter the job market. However, a short course will allow you to begin working in event planning far sooner, gaining vital experience putting you ahead of each fresh crop of untested graduates.

Work experience & Employment

At university you will be encouraged to get work experience in an events business during your vacations, and in the case of some courses, during a 'sandwich year' between your second and third year, to gain practical, industry experience. With a part-time diploma you are encouraged to take on a work placement or internship whilst you are studying, taking advantage of the training organisation's industry connections.

After completing your event management degree, you are likely to find that you are only one of a large number of graduates seeking work and with whom you are competing. Those who stand the best chance of being offered a position in event management are those who have gained some real industry experience. Work experience, internships and even volunteering to help organise events are an essential part of studying for a qualification in event management, as they show employers your level of commitment and motivation. They are therefore likely to look more favourably on a diploma student who can demonstrate this, with real industry experience and knowledge of what to expect from the work.