BA (Hons) Hotel and Events Management

Why study this subject? 

Studying a hotel and events management course will help you to gain an in-depth, research-informed, theoretical, and practical understanding of core theories, approaches, and strategies, within the industry. You’ll feel well prepared to hit the ground running in this exciting industry, following graduation. 

Why study at BNU? 

This course has been developed to mirror today’s Hotel and Hospitality industry. Working closely with professionals we’ve made sure the course helps you to develop the skills and knowledge the industry is looking for. You’ll engage in real-world, practical activities that will prepare you for a successful entrepreneurial career. 

Undertaking work experience at our Missenden Abbey Hotel and Conference Centre is an integral part of the BA (Hons) Hotel and Events Management degree. This unique approach to studying at BNU, is underlined by our core belief that practical, hands-on experience must always complement a theoretical, research-informed teaching strategy. 

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, by taking part in community projects organised in collaboration with local hotels, as well as attending guest talks, industry visits and a wide range of networking events, conferences and seminars organised by our school and our industry partners.

What facilities can I use? 

During your time studying on the Hotel and Events Management degree, you will spend time at Missenden Abbey Hotel and Conference Centre. A former medieval abbey with a history of over 800 years, Missenden Abbey provides the professional backdrop for linking theory to practice It enables a unique, experiential learning approach that will help to cement your knowledge and skills during your studies. You will also benefit from the industry mentorship programme offered by our partner organisations, where you have the opportunity to learn directly from successful hotel leaders.

As well as this you’ll have access to our High Wycombe Campus. Here you’ll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, as well as newly built study and social areas. Our Library is open 24/7 and offers a range of resources to support your studies. We also have a Student Learning Achievement Team, who offer tailored support with research skills, critical thinking and referencing . 

You’ll also be automatically a member of our Students’ Union, which was rated as 1^st in the UK in the 2023 National Student Survey. We are the only university in the UK to offer free access to a huge range of events and entertainment,  CV building activities,  as well as competitive and recreational sport and wellbeing activities to enrich your time with us as part of our ‘Big Deal’.

What will I study? 

Our BA (Hons) Hotel and Events Management course is your gateway to an exciting and multifaceted career where creativity, strategic thinking, and exceptional guest experiences intersect. 

Blending theoretical knowledge, industry expertise, hands-on experiences, and ethical consciousness, this course enables you to shape the future of hospitality and events, making a positive impact on both the industry and society at large.

You’ll study the core business concepts and strategies associated with hotel and event management, including modules related to the industry landscape, digital marketing and communications, guest experience, planning and operations. 

As well as that, you’ll build up on core concepts, studying more specialised subjects focused on technology and innovation, and food and beverage management. You’ll also investigate research methods in hotel and events management studies. 

During your time studying with us you’ll delve into critical, contemporary issues; ethics and sustainability; financial management and leadership – including an industry research project that will give you the opportunity to explore into a specialised area of your interest.

Studying a BA (Hons) Hotel and Events Management degree at BNU is a unique opportunity for you to gain an in-depth, research-informed, theoretical, and practical understanding of core entrepreneurship approaches and strategies, as applied to various sectors of hospitality.

Fostering a culture of innovation, growth and sustainability, this course is designed to embed a strong entrepreneurial mindset, providing you with a solid foundation in business management principles and a specialised knowledge of hospitality entrepreneurship.

You’ll gain a comprehensive and dynamic educational journey that prepares you for success in the vibrant worlds of hospitality and event management. 

With a strong focus on theory, practice, employability, and industry relevance, this programme equips you with the knowledge, skills, and attributes that are essential for you to excel in a wide range of roles within these dynamic sectors. 

How will I be taught and assessed? 

Our teaching and learning methods include lectures and seminars, case studies, hands-on projects, guest speakers, field trips, practical work experience and placement opportunities at our Missenden Abbey Hotel and Conference Centre. and our industry partners.

You’ll learn from highly experienced lecturers, who have strong industry links as well as research interests in various aspects related to hospitality and entrepreneurship. Our strong links with industry professionals and trade associations ensure that you will have access to unique guest talks, industry trade shows and seminars.

Placements are an integral part of your course. Your placement will be practice-led, allowing you to gain experience in all departments, including front and back of house operations. You’ll gain experience in the different areas of operations, including restaurant, events, and conference departments. 

In order for you to make the most of your placement experience, your shifts may include occasional late finishes, or weekend work – as this is an integral part of how hospitality businesses are being operated. 

You’ll also benefit from field trips, site visits and residential trips to some of the most iconic hotel locations. These include places such as Zetter Hotels, but may vary from year to year.

You will be assessed through a range of traditional and innovative assessment methods, including:

• essays
• reports
• debates
• student-led seminars
• pitches
• live briefs
• podcasts
• case studies
• industry projects
• Dragon Den style assessments
• And creative live presentations.