Course Overview
Course summary
Want to play a key role in delivering some of the world’s biggest sporting events?
Delivered in partnership with London Marathon Events (LME), our Sports Events Leadership and Management Postgraduate Certificate combines academic learning with applied industry expertise, giving you the knowledge, leadership skills and industry insight to lead diverse teams and deliver major sports events worldwide.
This online course is designed for anyone looking to enter or progress within the sports events industry, including recent graduates, career changers and professionals seeking to develop their skills and take on greater responsibility.
You’ll explore the full lifecycle of major sports events, from strategy and partnerships through to leadership, operations, participant experience, volunteering and event impact. You’ll also consider how events can be designed and delivered in ways that are inclusive, accessible, sustainable and meaningful for diverse communities and audiences.
Alongside this, you’ll explore the wider contexts of community and charity events, engaging with real-world event challenges and guest speakers from LME.
Through our partnership, you’ll have opportunities to volunteer at selected LME events, with training provided and the potential to take on leadership roles within volunteer teams. These experiences will help you develop practical event skills and understand how events are planned, delivered and experienced in the real world.
The course offers three entry points each year, in September, January and May, allowing you to choose the next available start that works for you.
Top reasons to study with us
- Study online with three entry points a year, giving you flexibility to fit postgraduate study around your career
- Learn directly from London Marathon Events professionals, giving you industry insight to support your professional development
- Gain practical experience at LME events, helping you demonstrate real-world skills to future employers
- Develop your leadership and strategic skills, preparing you to take on greater responsibility in sports events
- Build expertise across sustainability, participant experience and event management, opening up more career opportunities across the sector
Course structure
This postgraduate certificate is made up of three modules, studied part-time online over one year, combining online teaching, guided independent study and coursework.
Each week, you’ll take part in a range of learning activities, including:
- Recorded lectures and guided resources introducing key theories and each week’s topic
- Live online workshops: Join a 90-minute workshop every Tuesday at 1pm GMT, focused on structured discussion and critical analysis.
You’ll also learn through industry-led activities including case study analysis, live briefs, guest speakers and filmed insight from across the sector. At the end of each module, you can attend a panel event either in person or live online, with both options providing equal access to learning.
Assessment includes a mix of individual and team projects, industry reports, investigative assignments, role play and digital artefacts, giving you opportunities to apply your learning and demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
Core modules
This module explores the strategic planning, delivery and impacts of global events within an increasingly interconnected and sustainability-focused environment. You'll critically examine the challenges and opportunities associated with staging major international events, including the effects of globalisation on the development, export and replication of event formats worldwide. The module develops advanced teamwork and leadership skills, enabling you to make informed strategic decisions and collaborate effectively in diverse professional settings. Through the evaluation of bidding processes, event legacies and stakeholder outcomes, you’ll assess the economic, social, environmental and cultural impacts of global events on host destinations and local communities, with a particular emphasis on sustainable and responsible event management.
This module examines the professional practice of event management, with a particular focus on responsible leadership, ethical decision-making and sustainable event delivery. You’ll explore the roles and responsibilities of event professionals, and critically assess how leadership, communication and project management principles contribute to successful event planning and execution. The module emphasises inclusive and sustainable approaches to managing events and leading diverse teams, while developing the strategic thinking required to address ethical challenges within the industry. You'll also create a Professional Development Plan to support your career progression, enhance your leadership capability and strengthen your strategic influence within the events sector.
This module explores the principles and practices of event experience design, focusing on the creation of engaging, immersive and interactive environments that meet the needs of diverse audiences. You’ll examine how sustainable, inclusive and accessible design solutions can enhance event experiences while delivering value for stakeholders. Through the study of event design theories, emotional engagement and sensory experiences, the module develops critical and practical skills for designing memorable events within commercial contexts. You'll also learn to evaluate and apply event design strategies that balance creativity, participant engagement and sustainable stakeholder objectives.
Programme partner
Delivered in partnership with London Marathon Events, a leading organisation in the global major sports events sector, this course is designed to reflect current professional practice and industry standards. This means you’ll gain insight into real-world event delivery and contemporary approaches used across major sporting events.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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Careers
On this course, you’ll develop the leadership, strategic and practical skills needed to progress your career in the sports and events industry. Combining industry insight, real-world case studies and authentic assessments, the course also offers opportunities to gain experience with London Marathon Events.
You’ll graduate with expertise in event leadership, global events, sustainability and stakeholder management, preparing you for roles in major sporting events, community sport, marketing and commercial strategy.
Develop industry expertise
Build the knowledge and skills employers value across the sports and events industry.
Grow your professional network
Connect with industry professionals and grow your network across the sports and events sector.
Open up new opportunities
Develop the confidence and experience to progress your career or move into sports events leadership.
Industry links
Our Sports Events Leadership and Management Postgraduate Certificate is delivered in partnership with London Marathon Events (LME), giving you access to expertise from one of the world’s leading organisations in the global major sports events sector.
Guest lecturers bring current industry insight into the course, while opportunities to gain experience through LME events allow you to put your learning into practice. This close industry connection will help you develop valuable knowledge, experience and professional networks for your future career.
Graduate employers
Graduates from our Tourism and Events Management courses have gone on to work for organisations including:
- International Olympic Committee (IOC)
- Professional Football Clubs such as Watford FC and Chelsea FC
- CAA Eleven
- Stats Perform
- England Rugby
- Wembley Stadium
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles in a variety of areas, such as:
- Sports Event Manager
- Major Events Coordinator
- Event Operations Manager
- Participant Experience Manager
- Partnerships or Sponsorship Manager
- Event Project Manager
- Charity Events Manager
- Stakeholder Engagement Manager
Course Leader
Dr Anees Ikramullah
Assistant Head of School
Anees joined the Sports Management team at the University of Westminster as a Senior Lecturer in 2021, following his PhD at the University of Kent, where he researched sustainability in publicly funded community sports programmes.
His industry experience includes managing the UK's largest disability network football programme and securing more than £100,000 in funding for community football in London. His research has included work for Sport England and the Stepping Out with Carers programme.
Anees specialises in grassroots football and commercial relationships in the voluntary sector. He is also chairman of his own football club and charity, which delivers to over 400 people each week.
In 2025, he became Assistant Head of the School of Management, Marketing and Experience Industries.
It’s a real delight to work with London Marathon Events to deliver a world-class Sports Events Leadership and Management programme, helping develop the next generation of sports events leaders.
Why study this course?
Flexible study
Study online with three entry points a year, designed to fit around your career and commitments.
Learn from industry
Study in partnership with London Marathon Events and gain insight from industry experts.
Build your career
Develop practical skills to progress your career or move into sports events management.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second-class honours degree (2:2). Exceptionally, an applicant without formal qualifications but with considerable work experience in the sport, event or related industries may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Leader.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with a 6.0 in each component.
Course dates and application deadlines
January 2027
- Application deadline: 4 January 2027
- Teaching starts: 18 January 2027
May 2027
- Application deadline: 3 May 2027
- Teaching starts: 10 May 2027
September 2027
- Application deadline: 10 September 2027
- Teaching starts: 27 September 2027
A minimum of a lower second-class honours degree (2:2). Exceptionally, an applicant without formal qualifications but with considerable work experience in the sport, event or related industries may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Leader.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with a 6.0 in each component.
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
Course dates and application deadlines
January 2027
- Application deadline: 4 January 2027
- Teaching starts: 18 January 2027
May 2027
- Application deadline: 3 May 2027
- Teaching starts: 10 May 2027
September 2027
- Application deadline: 10 September 2027
- Teaching starts: 27 September 2027
More information
A minimum of a lower second-class honours degree (2:2). Exceptionally, an applicant without formal qualifications but with considerable work experience in the sport, event or related industries may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Leader.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with a 6.0 in each component.
Course dates and application deadlines
January 2027
- Application deadline: 4 January 2027
- Teaching starts: 18 January 2027
May 2027
- Application deadline: 3 May 2027
- Teaching starts: 10 May 2027
September 2027
- Application deadline: 10 September 2027
- Teaching starts: 27 September 2027
A minimum of a lower second-class honours degree (2:2). Exceptionally, an applicant without formal qualifications but with considerable work experience in the sport, event or related industries may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Leader.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with a 6.0 in each component.
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
Course dates and application deadlines
January 2027
- Application deadline: 4 January 2027
- Teaching starts: 18 January 2027
May 2027
- Application deadline: 3 May 2027
- Teaching starts: 10 May 2027
September 2027
- Application deadline: 10 September 2027
- Teaching starts: 27 September 2027
More information
Learn new skills
Think strategically
Understand how major sports events create value and lasting impact.
Lead with confidence
Develop practical approaches to leading people, partners and projects.
Shape experiences
Learn how to create inclusive, engaging journeys for participants.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £8,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
International tuition fee: £8,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
UK tuition fee: £8,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
International tuition fee: £8,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
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Read our blog to get an insight into student life and studying at the University of Westminster.
Teaching and assessment
How you’ll be taught
Studying online gives you the flexibility to combine independent study with live, interactive sessions, helping you fit your learning around your schedule.
You’ll learn through recorded lectures, guided reading and live online workshops via our Virtual Learning Environment, Blackboard. You’ll also have opportunities to explore ideas and connect with tutors, fellow students and industry professionals through:
- Recorded lectures and guided resources introducing key theories and each week’s topic
- Live online workshops with structured discussions that encourage critical thinking
- Interactive Q&A sessions to exchange ideas with tutors, fellow students and industry professionals
- Session recordings on Blackboard so you can revisit live sessions 24/7
- Online discussion boards for comments and follow-up questions, monitored by module leaders who can direct queries to industry guests
How you’ll be assessed
You’ll be assessed through a range of practical, career-focused assessments that help you apply your learning to real-world challenges. These are designed to develop your knowledge, analytical skills and practical experience, preparing you for your future career.
Assessments may include:
- Individual and group projects to apply your learning in practice
- Reports and assignments to demonstrate your knowledge and analytical skills
- Presentations and portfolios to showcase your ideas and abilities
- Practical assessments and live briefs that reflect real-world industry challenges
London Marathon Events in action
Explore some of the major sporting events delivered by London Marathon Events and gain insight into the industry through our partnership.
Loch Ness Marathon start line
Runners crossing iconic Tower Bridge during London Marathon
Swim Serpentine start and finish line
Mini London Marathon outside Buckingham Palace
Brighton Marathon finish line
Elite wheelchair athletes competing in London Marathon
Brighton Marathon start line
Supporting you
We are ranked first in London for student support (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026).
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
This course is taught online.
CHANGES TO OUR COURSES
All content on our course pages is accurate at time of publication.
Where significant or material changes have been made, applicants will be informed of these in line with Competition and Markets Authority guidance.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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