Essential Information
Through courses in event planning, students will learn to develop an eye for detail and to develop a high level of organization. An event planner is responsible for all aspects of a meeting, wedding, banquet or other type of large gathering. They must find suitable locations, manage guest lists, build a list of contacts, and coordinate caterers and vendors.
Some schools offer event planning as a minor or specialization within a degree program such as hospitality and tourism. Certificate programs are the shortest option varying from 2 months to 1 full semester of fall and spring classes.
Common concepts taught in event planning courses are:
- Scheduling wedding dates
- Social events and business meetings
- Staff management
- Promotional materials
- Cost control
- Food and beverage knowledge
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List of Event Planning Courses
Meeting Planning Basics
Students will learn the basics of planning and coordinating meetings in this introductory course. The course discusses how to make contacts and organize an event. Students learn about legal issues in event planning, event coordination, promotions, entertainment and other relevant topics.
Promotion and Marketing
Students in this event planning class learn about the use of marketing tools and advertising to promote events. Coursework typically includes creating an event marketing plan that can be used as an outline for future projects.
Design and Production
This course develops the student's abilities to manage materials, staff, entertainment and other resources. Students gain practical experience in setting up events and in making sure all aspects of the event are properly organized. Topics include: serving staff coordination, food delivery, and guest registration.
Catering Management
Catering management courses provide an overview of managing the food preparation workers, catering staff, drivers, and other necessary staff members. The course teaches specific tips for determining prices and choosing menus. Students gain hands-on experience in catering events and working with staff. They will also become familiar with on-site expectations. This course may be taken near the middle of a student's event planning education.
Weddings and Social Events
This course addresses weddings and related events. It involves an overview of helping people to plan every aspect of their weddings, including budgeting and choosing a location(s). The course identifies ways to organize the events so the couples are happy and the events less stressful.
Training Programs
Programs in event planning are offered at many community colleges, colleges and universities. An event planning program can take anywhere from 2-4 years of study and typically involves both lectures and practical event organization work. Depending on the program, graduates might earn a certificate, associate's degree, bachelor's degree or master's degree in event planning.
Job opportunities for graduates of event planning training program should experience faster-than-average growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For example, the BLS projects that the employment of convention and meeting planners will increase by 16% between 2008-2018, since most corporations host events at some point.
