Event Planning

Program Overview:

Not every classroom has four walls. Our Event Planning program offers you the opportunity to gain valuable experiential planning, coordination and execution experience across the multiple facets of the events management industry.

The program focuses on event planning, design, coordination, marketing, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management and event evaluation.

Full Description:

GBC’s Event Planning program, you will learn about the exciting and diverse event project management fundamentals through a variety of event types including hospitality events, weddings and other social events, fundraising events, meetings, conferences, and trade shows.

Your first year in this program will provide you foundational industry knowledge, by learning and working alongside your peers across all sectors in our School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, referred to as a “common first year approach”.

In your first year you will gain knowledge in the areas of hotels, event planning, tourism, and food and beverages through a range of practical and theoretical courses.

During your second year of study, you will apply your understanding of theory through unique learning techniques and invaluable practical experience. You will be exposed to industry tactics used in designing, planning, marketing, budgeting, execution, and evaluation of events.

To better hone your international event planning skills, you have the option of participating in an exclusive European Study Tour.

Program Learning Outcomes:

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• 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.