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on the Guardian University Guide, 2025

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Key facts

Entry requirements

112 or DMM

Full entry requirements

UCAS code

N820

Institution code

D26

Duration

3 yrs full-time, 4 yrs with placement. 6 yrs part-time.

Three years full-time, four years full-time with placement. Six years part-time.

Fees

2025/26 UK tuition fees:
£9,535*

2025/26 international tuition:
£16,250

Additional costs

Entry requirements

UCAS code

N820

Duration

Three years full-time, four years full-time with placement. Six years part-time.

DMU is one of the few universities where you’ll benefit from a unique block teaching approach.

We offer more than a degree — every course is designed with employability and real-world experience at its core.

Enhance your studies and broaden your horizons, and develop new skills with our international experience programme, DMU Global.

"Being involved in the organisation of a large‑scale event and working as an Artist Liaison and Project Assistant taught me so much about what actually goes into the event production process."

Arts and Festivals Management is the longest-running degree of its kind in the UK and boasts enviable industry links.

Whilst deepening your understanding of academic debates, this course will equip you with the practical tools and skills needed to become a leader in key areas of the cultural arena, including theatres, music venues, galleries, museums and festivals. You can also choose to specialise in digital arts management and get practical experience of event delivery, tackling the real-life challenges of engaging audiences in increasingly new and innovative ways.

Alongside the ability to provide dynamic solutions within this continually evolving sector, you’ll pick up fundamental interdisciplinary skills including problem-solving, teamwork, marketing and management theory, fundraising and licensing, enhancing your employment prospects post-graduation.

  • Join the team behind the Cultural eXchanges Festival, our flagship annual event. Previous guests have included Jamal Edwards MBE, Benjamin Zephaniah, Sir Grayson Perry, and 2023 saw MOBO award winners ShxtsnGigs take the stage. The festival is now part of one of Leicester’s largest outdoor festivals working with key stakeholders in the city.

  • Take advantage of our strong links with Leicester Comedy Festival, founded by DMU alumnus Geoff Rowe. Past students have run venues, managed acts, and promoted events as part of the festival.

  • Gain real-life experience through a placement module with a professional organisation. Students have previously worked with Festival Republic, HQ Recording Studio, V&A Museum, and Birmingham Hippodrome.

  • Our graduates are equipped with valuable business planning, engagement and delivery skills that are in high demand across the arts sector. Many now work in key roles at LS Events, Aakash Odedra Dance Company, YouTube Music, and Curve Theatre.

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What you will study

Block 1: Cultural Events Design

This module will engage you with current practice within the arts by attending and critiquing a mixed programme of performances, exhibitions and other events. It also introduces you to the concept of event design and enables you to visit a number of venues to examine contemporary practices in staging events as well as explore your own approaches to event design. Talks by arts practitioners, technicians and event designers will further enhance your knowledge of relevant practice in cultural events design.

Block 2: Running and Promoting a Venue

The creative arts manager needs a fundamental set of skills, which will make their organisation work successfully on a number of levels from team building to the marketing of a cultural product. This module aims to show through the organisation, promotion and marketing of an actual, real event within a venue during Leicester Comedy Festival how you can become an effective producer in matching an artist and artistic work with a relevant audience. It identifies some of the key areas in the management and promotion of an artists within a venue that the arts manager requires in terms of personal management, marketing, communication and venue management.

Block 3: Cultural Leadership

This module introduces management and leadership concepts such as organisational culture, governance, motivation, team working, diversity, recruitment, workforce development, recruitment, fundraising, strategic and project planning that will enable you to understand how cultural organisations work and the roles that leaders play in them. The module is taught by industry practitioners and guest speakers.

Block 4: The Creative Arts Manager: Policy and Practice

Successful arts managers are flexible, creative and entrepreneurial. They are passionate about the arts product, politically astute, provide effective leadership and manage themselves and their organisations well. This module will get you started on the process of becoming a successful arts manager by introducing you to key aspects of the management of the cultural industries. You will be introduced to general issues in the financial management of arts organisations, such as how to understand financial statements of these organisations and how to plan for smooth running operations devoid of 'financial ill-health'. You will explore a range of issues including aspects of cultural theory and cultural policy which will enable you to develop a personal perspective on the role of the arts manager in the UK today.

In Block 3 you will have a choice of modules.

Block 1: Programming and Planning Festivals

As the business environment becomes more complex so the need increases for arts managers to develop management competencies which integrate different disciplines and traditions. In this module you have the chance to develop your understanding of business and strategic planning for a one-off festival event in a 'real life' context. The core of the module is a festival case study that introduces you to key concepts in programming and strategic planning and some management tools with which you can develop a business plan. It also addresses the principal areas of law that affect public events and the case study provides an in depth understanding of accounting practice in the context of tendering and business planning for festival and small organisational activities.

Blocks 1-4: International Research Visit

This module will provide a conceptual and historical overview of the emergence and development of public policies for arts and cultural provision in Britain and other European countries. You will identify and critique the relationship between different attitudes and approaches to the role of culture in society and how issues concerned with national, regional and local history, demography, socio-economic change and identity also influence how aspects of cultural practice are expressed in different countries. You will take part in an international research visit to a major European city during which you will arrange meetings and interviews with cultural sector policy makers, leaders and practitioners.

Block 2: Audience and Communities Project

This module introduced you to key concepts of audience development from both management and audience perspectives, strategically and tactically. You will investigate how, by understanding both our product and the motivations, perceptions and attitudes of existing and desired customers, we can develop diverse audiences for the arts from all walks of life. The issues of strategic choice will be examined as will the relationship between educational activities, marketing and audience development.

You will think about the relationship between social movements, cultural policies and practices and to expand your understanding of how arts and cultural practice can be made relevant to and accessible by people and communities that may be presently excluded. By looking at non-Western cultural practice, the module provides a critical framework from which current initiatives aimed at repositioning the role of arts in society can be interrogated. It also provides an opportunity to develop practical experience by producing an arts event of your choice in groups within a community setting.

Block 3: Digital Arts Management and Enterprise 1: Conceptualisation

In this module you will think critically about latest issues related to digital arts and management and enterprise. Is digitalisation a new progress of democratisation? How does the birth of AI change our understanding of arts? How do we under the new power of data? What are the ‘values’ of arts in the digital world? This module will be suitable for those who are interested in becoming arts managers, producers and entrepreneurs and is a prerequisite for the Digital Arts Management and Enterprise 2 : Applications module in th third year.

Block 4: Research Methods: Dissertation and Placement

Being able to carry out research is a fundamental requirement of being an effective arts manager. Through this module you will have the opportunity to study research from an academic and applied perspective in preparation for either your third-year dissertation or placement.

As part of this course, you will have the option to complete a paid placement year which offers invaluable professional experience.

Our award-winning Careers Team can help you secure a placement through activities such as mock interviews and practice aptitude tests, and you will be assigned a personal tutor to support you throughout your placement.

In Blocks 1 and 4 you will have a choice of module.

Blocks 1-4: Dissertation

This is an opportunity to explore in depth a topic of your own choice. You will develop your ability manage an original research project and you will be supported through individual tutorials and group seminar sessions.

Blocks 1-4: Placement

You will undertake a four-week placement in an arts organisation of your choice. The placement will build on the skills and knowledge gained throughout your studies and should involve you in work that is both complex and demanding and requiring a high degree of initiative, effectiveness and commitment. This is an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between theory and practice and to derive your own conclusions based not only on practice but also on an understanding of relevant management theory.

Blocks 1-4: Events and Festivals Management

This module provides an invaluable practical experience with students producing, programming and running the high-profile Cultural eXchanges Festival which will take place as part of one of Leicester’s largest outdoor festivals. You will develop an outline for the festival, undertake logistical analysis, market to potential funders and the general public, calculate the costs of the project and keep financial control, lead and work within a team, consider the legal framework and necessary insurance, licenses and contracts, and work with key stakeholders in the city.

Block 2: Arts Management Studio

The overall aim of this module is to increase a general understanding of working as an arts manager in current, thriving arts organisations by utilising the richness of the local arts community within Leicester. You will explore theoretical frameworks for understanding the organisational workings of the arts alongside gaining practical consulting experience which will involve building relationships between partners, developing strategic creative aims, and providing actionable opportunities to work side by side an arts organisation.

The main module component will include a consultancy-type project involving one of five arts pillars throughout Leicester – engaging organisations with missions and aims geared towards Performing Arts, Dance, Media, Theatre, and Festivals. Its hands-on approach is designed to provide students with ‘in-organisation’ and co-creative experience to develop their understanding of arts management issues; with the direct effect of increasing engagement and partnerships with local arts organisations and businesses.

Block 3: Music Industry Management

Music has a major influence on our everyday lives and the music industry ranks as one of the most successful elements of the UK's creative economy. The aim of this module is to increase your general understanding of the sector and to develop your personal confidence in it as a possible source of employment. The module provides an overview of the sector since 1945, tracking the emergence of the global system that we have today and considering key developments and influences in its history. It examines both the commercial and subsidised sectors and the role of Government and other national bodies, exploring their different roles and how they work together.

You will explore theoretical and philosophical frameworks for examining the workings of the music industry, the relationships between its many parts and the different styles and genres it produces, as well as how different aspects of the sector are managed e.g. an orchestra or a rock band. The module will include subjects such as copyright, royalties, live (touring, festivals), music publishing and recorded work, and explore the relationship between artists and management, and the role of the latter in developing a band/an artist's career.

Block 4: Digital Arts Management and Enterprise 2: Applications

Following the Digital Arts Management and Enterprise 1: Conceptualisation module, this module aims to transfer some of the academic knowledge and critical thinking into practices. How can digital arts management and enterprise be applied in the real world? This module will look at several key applications with relevant case studies. At the end of this module, you will be well equipped to enter the workplace with a digitally focused set of skills and strategies.

Note: All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.

Structure

In the first year you will be introduced to cultural theory and policy, designing cultural events, managing people and teams, personal management, marketing (including running and promoting a festival venue as part of Leicester Comedy Festival), finance, leadership skills and academic research. The Running and Promoting a Festival module will provide you with practical experience with a professional arts organisation.

In the second year the focus is on deepening your understanding of political and economic factors in the development of cultural products and services at national, regional and local levels. You can choose to focus on digital arts management to develop your knowledge of policy and trends in the production and engagement with digital arts and festivals. You will also begin preparation for your third-year placement or dissertation and take part in a research trip to a major European city through DMU Global.

In your third year you will complete a dissertation or placement, with a focus on developing your entrepreneurial skills. You will also undertake more specialist studies including Arts Management Studio and Music Industry Management, as well as plan and run our Cultural eXchanges. If you choose to specialise in digital arts management, you will apply the strategic thinking gained in your second year to develop a digital business.

You will be taught through a variety of methods including lectures, talks by visiting lecturers from the creative and cultural industries, seminars, workshops, tutorials and self-directed study. Practical modules are also delivered via workshops in our dedicated events office and the venues where the events are taking place. Assessment is tailored to each module and is predominantly coursework including essays, reports, critiques, business plans, finance exercises, case study analysis, group work, presentations and an optional dissertation.

You will have the opportunity to collaborate with industry professionals and gain valuable professional experience within Leicester’s vibrant cultural scene and creative industries. Students have previously worked with Phoenix Cinema and Arts Centre, Curve theatre, Serendipity and Soft Touch Arts.

Contact hours

In your first year you will normally attend around 8 hours of timetabled taught sessions (lectures and tutorials) each week, and we expect you to undertake at least 20 further hours of independent study to complete project work and research.

Graduate outcomes

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Our expertise

Profile picture for Simon Brown

Simon Brown

Programme Leader for Arts and Festivals Management

Simon has over 20 years’ experience of working within the cultural sector and delivering festivals and events across the UK, and is on the board of Greenbelt Festival and the Leicester Comedy Festival. Areas of teaching include Running and Promoting a Venue, Programming and Planning Festivals, and Arts Management Studio module.

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Dr Steven Hadley

Lecturer

Steven is an award-winning cultural policy scholar and the author of Audience Development and Cultural Policy (2021) alongside numerous academic books and articles. He is Co-Editor in Chief of Cultural Trends and has worked as a consultant, speaker and researcher in over thirty countries internationally.

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Dr Hiu Man Chan

Senior Lecturer

Hiu Man is Programme Lead for Cultural Events Management MSc. She specialises in International collaboration in the creative and cultural industries. She is an ExCo member of the British Malaysian Society and trustee of the Independent Cinema Office.

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Dr Jacqui Norton

Associate Professor and Programme Leader for Global Arts Management

Jacqui is passionate about music copyright. She is behind Talent Unlocked the UK’s 1st prison arts festival and a ground-breaking ACE funded music industry prison educational in-cell TV series. Jacqui leads on the research visit to Amsterdam, the Music Industry Management module and the Dissertation module.

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Katie Whyley

Senior Lecturer

Katie’s a nationally recognised business leader having won acclaim from Innovate UK for her work at Phoenix, Leicester. She specialises working with academic, industry and creative partners in the field of business and audience development in the arts. Areas of teaching include Cultural Leadership module and Creative Arts Management module.

What makes us special

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DMU Global

Our innovative international experience programme DMU Global aims to enrich studies, broaden cultural horizons and develop key skills valued by employers.

Through DMU Global, we offer an exciting mix of overseas, on-campus and online international experiences, including the opportunity to study or work abroad for up to a year.

Students on this course recently visited Amsterdam for a Cultural Policy research visit, where they exchanged knowledge with InHolland University students in Haarlem, The Netherlands on a sustainability/festival project. They also had meetings with arts organisations and venues such as the world famous Concertgebouw and the Paradiso. The Boekman Foundation in Amsterdam provided a presentation on cultural policy and a demonstration on how to use their catalogue to support our research.

Three students gathered around a laptop

Block teaching

Block teaching offers a focused, streamlined learning experience where you study one subject at a time, rather than juggling several simultaneously. This approach means you’ll benefit from quicker feedback through regular assessments, a simplified timetable, and a healthier study-life balance.

With more time to focus on each subject, you’ll have the flexibility to fully engage with the DMU community, build connections, and explore other enriching aspects of university life. Whether it’s participating in societies, pursuing personal interests, or making the most of campus opportunities, block teaching ensures you can thrive academically while enjoying a rewarding university experience.

Where we could take you

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Placements

During this course you will have the option to complete a paid placement year, an invaluable opportunity to put the skills developed during your degree into practice. This insight into the professional world will build on your knowledge in a real-world setting, preparing you to progress onto your chosen career.

Our Careers Team can help to hone your professional skills with mock interviews and practice aptitude tests, and an assigned personal tutor will support you throughout your placement.

The course also provides the opportunity to carry out a short term placement in the final year where students have secured placements at Festivals Republic, 2Funky Arts, Let’s Dance International Frontiers Festival and Birmingham Hippodrome.

Four students at a table inside the Careers Hub

Graduate careers

Our graduates are highly practical individuals who are equipped with business planning, engagement and delivery skills, which are hugely attractive in the arts sector. Many go on to forge successful careers in music, theatre, TV, film and charity sectors.

Recent graduate destinations include LS Events, Aakash Odedra Dance Company, YouTube Music, and Curve Theatre.

“The practical nature of the content means that graduates are able to hit the ground running when they start with us. We have taken 3 graduates over the years, and they have quite literally toured the world with our dance productions.”

Elaine Mulvihill, General Manager Aakash Odedra Company

Course specifications

Course title

Arts and Festivals Management

Award

BA (Hons)

UCAS code

N820

Institution code

D26

Study level

Undergraduate

Study mode

Full-time

Part-time

Start date

September

Duration

Three years full-time, four years full-time with placement. Six years part-time.

Fees

2025/26 UK tuition fees:
£9,535*

2025/26 international tuition:
£16,250

*subject to the government, as is expected, passing legislation to formalise the increase.

Additional costs

Entry requirements

GCSEs

  • Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and Maths

Plus one of the following:

A levels

  • A typical offer is 112 UCAS points. You need to study at least two subjects at A Level or equivalent (e.g. BTEC)

T Levels

  • Merit

BTEC

  • BTEC National Diploma - Distinction/Distinction/Merit
  • BTEC Extended Diploma - Distinction/Distinction/Merit

Alternative qualifications include:

  • Pass in the QAA accredited Access to HE overall 112 UCAS tariff with at least 30 L3 credits at Merit.
  • English and Maths GCSE required as separate qualification. Equivalency not accepted within the Access qualification. We will normally require students to have had a break from full-time education before undertaking the Access course.
  • International Baccalaureate: 26+ points.

Interview: No

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each band (or equivalent) when you start the course is essential.

English language tuition, delivered by our British Council-accredited Centre for English Language Learning, is available both before and throughout the course if you need it.

Contextual offer

To make sure you get fair and equal access to higher education, when looking at your application, we consider more than just your grades. So if you are eligible, you may receive a contextual offer. Find out more about contextual offers.