Online Event Planning Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

There are a number of online programs that offer professional and advanced degree options in event planning. Students interested in a career in event planning may consider a degree in event planning or management. Online students should also keep in mind various online program types, technical requirements and degree of education required to attain their career goal.

How to Select an Online Program in Event Planning

Award Levels

Event planners and managers require an array of specialized skills to ensure that events and conventions run smoothly. They scout locations, arrange catering, negotiate a budget, arrange travel plans and prepare contracts. The online certificate in event management offers the quickest route to entry level positions in even planning. Employers looking to hire for more advanced positions in event management may prefer candidates with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration or an undergraduate degree in hospitality management.

Program Type

Online programs in event management offer students the option to enroll in full online immersion and hybrid programs. Online immersion programs provide course instruction though virtual platforms and generally don't require students to take classes on campus. They are well suited for working professionals who need full access to course material and lectures at any time of day or night.
Some programs may also offer students the option to enroll in a hybrid. Hybrid or low-residency programs require students to spend at least part of the time on campus. Students enrolled in a hybrid program still take most of their courses online, but they can also benefit from hands-on training and program social during special events and student orientations.

Technical Requirements

In order to participate in online programs students are required to have access to fast wireless or cable Internet that can accommodate the transmission of large media files like video and live streaming. It's recommended that students have a modem, as well as enough memory to run software and browser simultaneously. Students will also need some level of technical know-how to feel comfortable uploading, opening and accessing files on the Internet.

List of Popular Online Program in Event Planning and Management

Online Certificate in Meeting and Event Management

The online certificate program introduces students to the essentials of planning, organizing and evaluating successful events, meetings and conferences. Students in the online program will study core concepts in the field of event management, including event publicity, marketing, negotiation, contracts and budgeting. Online certificate programs in event management usually take about a year to complete.
A typical curriculum includes courses such as budget and financial strategies, the basics of negotiation, catering, design and decoration. Students in the program follow video lectures on the Web, engage in discussions in the virtual classroom, correspond with professors and take online tests and quizzes.

Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality Management

An online bachelor's degree program in business administration provides students with the necessary business skills required for advanced positions in business administration. A concentration in hospitality management is designed for students who plan on advancing to positions in hotel and hospitality management.
The degree takes an average of 3-4 years to finish during which students complete a core of liberal arts courses and are introduced to a variety of crucial topics in business law, ethics, economics, finance and accounting. Students also learn how to address specific issues hospitality marketing, management, accounting and law.
Most online business programs can be completed online and don't require on-campus attendance. Students move though the material at their own pace by streaming on-line lectures, viewing demonstrations and completing online assignments. Competency in the field is measured though successful lesson completion, quizzes and final exam.