The emerging combined Creative Industries is a fast-growing segment in the global economy that increasingly is being recognized as a major determinant of national and regional economic growth. Within this segment, digital platforms have created instant global markets for creative industry players, while globalisation and digital convergence are transforming the face of the industry. But building a competitive creative (services) business is a complex process including content design and protection, new distribution and business models, and product diversification that cannot be achieved by talent alone.
The BA Business degree in Creative Business & Entertainment Management combines general business skills with competencies specific to management in the creative industries. During the second year, students are introduced to the concepts and techniques of the creative industries and explore critical core theory concerning marketing, finance, human resource management and communications as they relate to the creative business environment.
Also in the second year, students undertake two projects: Project Management and Product Development enabling them to immediately apply the academic theories they have learned and to practice solving basic business problems independently and within their study group.
In the third year, copyright and contract law and an academic approach to creativity form the major part of the programme. Creative industry practices are contextualized within more general business routines, and integrated with functions and operations required in the business world. Students will further develop their research, evaluation and analytical skills and begin to consider career directions. The two projects Running Your Own Company and Managing Sales & Accounts put the student firmly in the driving seat as manager of an entertainment business.
During the fourth year, the wide selection of modules offered by the University of Westminster provides challenging opportunities for further specialisation. Those interested in the design dimension, for example, can opt to study Identities and Image Management, Innovation, New Product Development and Developing a Small Business. Any number of individually selected combinations is available both for aspiring entrepreneurs and for future creative members of larger organisations.
The final project may be realised anywhere in the world depending on the location of the company offering the final project assignment. The types of careers available to graduates of this programme include: (Cross and Interactive) Media Executive, (Executive) Producer for Television, Event Manager, Cross Media Marketing Manager, Artist Manager, Live Entertainment Producer, Digital Sector Marketing Executive, and Product or Promotion Manager in the music industry.
