New events degree
generates early interest

AUT University’s BA in Event Management is being officially launched at a function on October 10. However, the degree is already generating a huge amount of interest with some 50 people indicating that they are keen to apply for the course.

Professional conference organisers, meeting planners, exhibition organisers and other event managers are also likely to find the degree course a boon, as it is being offered on a part time as well as full time basis.

This means managers already in the field can boost their theoretical knowledge in the sector and gain a formal high level qualification while continuing to extend their practical knowledge.

AUT University already offers a one year Diploma in Event Management and students in that course will be able to obtain cross credits and thus ‘staircase’ into the normally three year degree programme.

Programme leader Lexie Matheson says the degree will include core papers such as academic writing, literacy and research, as well as the IT paper from the diploma course (currently taught by well known industry personality Linda Wong) and a communications paper.

Students will be able to major in event planning, event production and event design. A number of papers focusing on finance, entrepreneurship, public relations, marketing and Marae protocol are being brought in from other areas of the university and incorporated into the degree programme.

‘There are existing resources we have drawn on.’

Event management comes under the umbrella of the School of Hospitality and Tourism at AUT University.

Matheson says students will be able to earn up to 90 points, with six electives and four minor papers. There will also be the opportunity to do a double degree (two majors) and discussions are under way about offering event management as part of a conjoint degree.

The degree is seen as having wide ranging appeal and the existing diploma has seen students move into everything from sports and cultural event fields to exhibitions, conferences and even wedding planning.

Linda Wong says the degree will definitely appeal to event managers and PCOs working in New Zealand, particularly because many feel they currently have to take courses offshore to gain any formal recognition and/or qualifications.

The new degree has already met with approval from the New Zealand Association of Event Professionals.

(See also page 58, The pathway to accreditation: A New Zealander’s tale)

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