Master of Science in Event and Experience Management

This fully online, 30-credit Master of Science in Event and Experience Management will provide advanced skills in areas like event design, marketing, and data-driven decision making, aligning with the analytical rigor of an MS degree. The curriculum combines theory and application, leveraging faculty and industry expertise for leadership development. This focused and affordable program recognizes the distinct competencies of event management as a business function across various sectors, including but not limited to hospitality. The online format ensures global accessibility. This program addresses a gap in leadership-focused event management education, positioning MSU Denver as a leader in the field.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

1. Synthesize advanced event management theories and industry trends to design innovative, high-impact experiences that meet diverse audience and stakeholder needs.
2. Evaluate and integrate financial, contractual, and risk management strategies to ensure fiscal responsibility, legal compliance, and operational resilience in complex event environments.
3. Design and implement evidence-based marketing and branding strategies that leverage digital platforms, audience analytics, and experiential storytelling to maximize event engagement and return on investment.
4. Lead diverse, cross-functional teams and vendor networks with cultural competence, ethical integrity, and strategic collaboration in both domestic and global contexts.
5. Develop comprehensive event portfolios that incorporate logistics, program design, sustainability initiatives, and contingency planning for various event formats, including in-person, virtual, and hybrid.
6. Critically assess the social, cultural, and economic impacts of events, applying sustainability principles to enhance community and stakeholder value.
7. Apply project management methodologies and performance metrics to evaluate event outcomes and inform continuous improvement.
8. Integrate emerging technologies and experiential innovations into event design and delivery to create competitive advantages and enhance attendee experiences.
9. Collaborate with industry partners on applied, real-world projects that simulate executive-level event planning, negotiation, and strategic decision-making.

Minimum Passing Grade and GPA Requirements

Students must complete the required coursework while maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater. Any student falling below a 3.0 in any given term will be placed on academic probation and be required to develop a remediation plan with an academic advisor to raise the GPA above a 3.0. Students who fail to complete the requirements of their remediation plan may be dismissed from the program.

Students receiving below “C-” will be placed on a remediation plan and will be required to repeat the course.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Master of Science in Event and Experience Management, applicants must submit the following:

• A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.50. Strong applicants with a GPA below 2.5 may also be admitted based on other compelling parts of their application, for example, extensive relevant industry experience.
• A completed MSU Denver Graduate Application
• A nonrefundable $50 application fee
• Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities
• A current resume outlining relevant academic and professional experience
• A personal statement describing academic goals, professional interests, and reasons for pursuing the program