Event Planning (Co-Op Option Available)

This two-year program focuses on the business of events as students will develop and apply essential skills in the areas of leadership, financial management, effective decision-making, critical thinking and strategic planning while learning about the various industry segments, including corporate, social, not-for-profit, incentive, community & cultural, wedding, festival, music and sport. Participation in several experiential learning events, including a capstone event, will provide opportunities for students to apply the skills acquired throughout the program. In addition to their diploma, they will also obtain several, well-recognized, industry certifications.

Students will focus on events designed to support the economic growth, quality of life and richness of rural and urban communities; learn how to plan and execute large and small events; and gain valuable hands-on experience in event management practices through courses and experiential learning.

The Event Planning program is ideally suited for organized and detail-oriented individuals, who naturally take the lead in groups and projects and thrive in a high-energy, creative environment. Students are prepared for a career that offers incredible versatility and spans almost every industry.

The Event Planning program is offered at the Whitby campus, home of the college’s W. Galen Weston Centre for Food (WC). This incredible learning space provides access to state-of-the-art labs, classrooms and event spaces.

Students in the Event Planning Diploma program will be invited to apply to the co-op option during their first academic semester. Entrance to the co-op option is limited and the processes for securing a work term are competitive.  Students enrolled in the co-op option are required to complete a four-month, paid work term between the second and third semesters of their program.

What You’ll Learn

• Plan and design events to meet organizational and client objectives.
• Select food and beverage catering services, site location, and décor, according to the theme and needs of an event.
• Develop marketing plans and related promotional plans for events that will meet the needs of the organization and/or client.
• Coordinate and/or supervise staff, contractors and volunteers in order to achieve the desired performance.
• Employ best practices for financial management in the planning of events.
• Manage the business transactions of event projects to meet organization and/or client needs.
• Develop strategies to mitigate risk and liability to ensure the safety and security of participants during an event.
• Maintain ethical practices and professionalism in the events field to create positive relationships and experiences.
• Apply strategies that support intercultural awareness and inclusion in event offerings that meet the needs of diverse populations.
• Use industry standard technology platforms, systems, tools and applications to support the operations of events.
• Secure monies through sponsorships, funds, or grants to support event objectives.
• Engage in ongoing learning for professional and career growth.
• Identify and respond to new career opportunities that may include contract work and entrepreneurship, to secure employment.
• Communicate information persuasively and accurately in written, verbal and interactive formats.