Fascinating New Major Offered This Fall at University of Montana

When a field of study like this goes from a certificate to a four-year degree, there's bound to be a lot of excitement.

For 24 years the University of Montana's College of Business has delivered the Entertainment Management Certificate. UM News Service tells us that will be changing, starting with the Fall Semester 2025. 

Last month, the Montana Board of Regents approved expanding the program from a certificate to a major. Starting this fall, students can enroll in the four-year program within the College of Business called Entertainment, Events and Sports Management (EESM). 

While earning a certificate with still be part of the school's curriculum, expanding the program addresses the growing interest from existing and potential students as well as a growing job market across Montana. The new EESM major will offer a wider range of topics such as talent management, event planning and execution, athletic administration, sponsorship and revenue development, and venue and facility operations. It also will train students interested in the fast-growing film and television production industry in Montana.  

Suzanne Tilleman, Sprunk and Burnham Endowed Dean of the College of Business, pointed out that many of their graduates are working in music, film and sports businesses, and by "By expanding it to a major, we further prepare our graduates for the financial, marketing, risk management and analytical skills our employers value.”

The new major is seen as a huge opportunity for students to gain more experience and connect with supportive alumni who are in the entertainment industry. It will hopefully  will open more doors open and more networking paths now that UM has the four-year degree, leveling the playing field with bigger colleges. 

With a name like Entertainment, Events and Sports Management, it promises to be a huge draw in which to obtain a four-year degree. More information on UM's new EESM program can be found here.