Event Planning Program (H141)
Program Description
Program Overview
If you thrive in fast-paced environments where every day brings something new, the Event Planning program is for you. Develop the skills to design, co-ordinate, promote and deliver impressive events, including conferences, fundraisers, trade shows and weddings.
Full Description
Get ready to launch an exciting career in the fast-paced world of event planning. Develop the skills and get the practical, real-world experience to succeed in a range of roles, including event planner, festival planner, catering manager and event fundraiser with the two-year Event Planning (H141) diploma program.
The program focuses on event planning, design, co-ordination, marketing, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management and event evaluation. It is taught online and through in-class lectures. Each semester, you will participate in event management opportunities, culminating in a final capstone event and a 14-week work-integrated learning placement. This hands-on approach to learning and the course mix, including event-specific courses, business foundations and hospitality, will provide you with the skills to launch your career in event management.
This program allows you to switch to any of our hospitality and tourism management diploma programs by your second year should your hospitality area of interest change. We know life can be full of unexpected events; should you not be able to complete your final year of study, our common first-year model makes you eligible to graduate with a one-year certificate in Hospitality Services (H101).
Note: George Brown College has adopted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative. As a result, we no longer have computer lab classrooms. For classes that require computers, students will need to bring their own laptops. Our Library Learning Commons offers open access computers as well as equipment that can be borrowed on a short-term basis. For more information, please contact The Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts at chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca
Your Field Education Options
This program provides a final capstone event and a mandatory 14-week work-integrated learning placement. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed event management industry work experience opportunities they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the program's learning outcomes. This valuable work experience can be added to your resumé.
In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide learning opportunities with real-world challenges and customers.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Earn a diploma and a bachelor’s degree. Qualified graduates of our Event Planning program may be eligible to enter the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Hospitality) degree program at George Brown College as an advanced standing student in September or January. You may also choose to start in the spring bridging semester from May to August, continuing into the degree program in September. This educational path requires a minimum grade point average of 2.7 to qualify. Talk to a program coordinator about articulation options.
For further information, see the Transfer Guide.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
| HOSF 1145 | Sanitation (online certificate) |
| HOSF 1146 | Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR (weekend course) |
| HOST 1068 | Smart Serve (online certificate) |
| HOST 1070 | Introduction to Catering |
| HOST 1085 | Principles of Hospitality and Tourism Management |
| HOST 1146 | Leading, Following and Speaking with Confidence |
| HOST 1171 | Global Accommodation Industry |
| HOST 1172 | Introduction to Wines and Beverages |
| MATH 1250 | Introduction to Management Numeracy with Excel Applications |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ACCT 1048 | Hospitality Accounting** |
| GSCI 1035 | Science of Sustainability |
| HOST 1043 | Special Events Planning and Delivery |
| HOST 1160 | Career Preparation |
| HOS T1173 | Hospitality Marketing and Social Media |
| HOST 1174 | Remarkable Restaurant Service – An Introduction to the Industry |
| HOST 1175 | Global Tourism Geography** |
| HRM 1015 | Human Resources Management** |
| LAW 1017 | Introduction to Hospitality Law** |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOST 1097 | Meetings and Conferences |
| HOST 1129 | Selling Special Events |
| HOST 1139 | Technical Meeting and Event Production |
| HOST 2066 | Event Operations I |
| HOST 2072 | Volunteer Management |
| HOST 2077 | Building Your Special Event Business |
| HOST 2091 | Budgeting for Special Events |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOST 2063 | Events Operations II – Capstone Event Project |
| HOST 2141 | Industry Externship |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course.
**seven-week courses
Program Learning Outcomes
- Plan and design events to meet organizational and client objectives.
- Select food and beverage catering services, site location and decor 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.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Additional Cost
Textbooks, manuals, etc. – $575 (fees are subject to change).
Included in material fees is a uniform; black pants, grey Oxford shirt and a bib apron.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- OSSD (Ontario Secondary School Diploma) or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Applicants may also qualify for admission through completion of the Hospitality Services (Pre-Hospitality) program (H101). There are a limited number of seats available, and admission is not guaranteed.
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Health Policy
Students should be aware that various allergens, including nuts, dairy and shellfish, are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to Halal and Kosher foods.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
FINANCIAL/FEES
For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.
Event Planning (H141)
For general School of Hospitality and Tourism Management related inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Join us for an upcoming Open House Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.
Event Planning Program (H141)
Program Description
Program Overview
If you thrive in fast-paced environments where every day brings something new, the Event Planning program is for you. Develop the skills to design, co-ordinate, promote and deliver impressive events, including conferences, fundraisers, trade shows and weddings.
Full Description
Get ready to launch an exciting career in the fast-paced world of event planning. Develop the skills and get the practical, real-world experience to succeed in a range of roles, including event planner, festival planner, catering manager and event fundraiser with the two-year Event Planning (H141) diploma program.
The program focuses on event planning, design, co-ordination, marketing, sponsorship, budgeting, risk management and event evaluation. It is taught online and through in-class lectures. Each semester, you will participate in event management opportunities, culminating in a final capstone event and a 14-week work-integrated learning placement. This hands-on approach to learning and the course mix, including event-specific courses, business foundations and hospitality, will provide you with the skills to launch your career in event management.
This program allows you to switch to any of our hospitality and tourism management diploma programs by your second year should your hospitality area of interest change. We know life can be full of unexpected events; should you not be able to complete your final year of study, our common first-year model makes you eligible to graduate with a one-year certificate in Hospitality Services (H101).
Note: George Brown College has adopted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative. As a result, we no longer have computer lab classrooms. For classes that require computers, students will need to bring their own laptops. Our Library Learning Commons offers open access computers as well as equipment that can be borrowed on a short-term basis. For more information, please contact The Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts at chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca
Your Field Education Options
This program provides a final capstone event and a mandatory 14-week work-integrated learning placement. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed event management industry work experience opportunities they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the program's learning outcomes. This valuable work experience can be added to your resumé.
In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide learning opportunities with real-world challenges and customers.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Earn a diploma and a bachelor’s degree. Qualified graduates of our Event Planning program may be eligible to enter the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Hospitality) degree program at George Brown College as an advanced standing student in September or January. You may also choose to start in the spring bridging semester from May to August, continuing into the degree program in September. This educational path requires a minimum grade point average of 2.7 to qualify. Talk to a program coordinator about articulation options.
For further information, see the Transfer Guide.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOST 1085 | Principles of Hospitality and Tourism Management |
| HOST 1171 | Global Accommodation Industry |
| HOST 1172 | Introduction to Wines and Beverages |
| HOST 1070 | Introduction to Catering |
| HOST 1146 | Leading, Following and Speaking with Confidence |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts** |
| MATH 1250 | Introduction to Management Numeracy with Excel Applications |
| HOST 1068 | Smart Serve (online certificate) |
| HOSF 1145 | Sanitation (online certificate) |
| HOSF 1146 | Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR (weekend course) |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOST 1174 | Remarkable Restaurant Service – An Introduction to the Industry |
| HOST 1043 | Special Events Planning and Delivery |
| HOST 1173 | Hospitality Marketing and Social Media |
| HOST 1160 | Career Preparation |
| HOST 1175 | Global Tourism Geography* |
| HRM 1015 | Human Resources Management* |
| LAW 1017 | Introduction to Hospitality Law* |
| ACCT 1048 | Hospitality Accounting* |
| GSCI 1035 | Science of Sustainability |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOST 1097 | Meetings and Conferences |
| HOST 1139 | Technical Meeting and Event Production |
| HOST 2066 | Event Operations I |
| HOST 2077 | Building Your Special Event Business |
| HOST 2091 | Budgeting for Special Events |
| HOST 1129 | Selling Special Events |
| HOST 2072 | Volunteer Management |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOST 2063 | Events Operations II - Capstone Event Project |
| HOST 2141 | Industry Externship |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
* 7-weeks courses
** Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit the Assessment Centre for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Plan and design events to meet organizational and client objectives.
- Select food and beverage catering services, site location and decor 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.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Additional Cost
Textbooks, manuals, etc. – $575 (fees are subject to change).
Included in material fees is a uniform; black pants, grey Oxford shirt and a bib apron.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- OSSD (Ontario Secondary School Diploma) or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Applicants may also qualify for admission through completion of the Hospitality Services (Pre-Hospitality) program (H101). There are a limited number of seats available, and admission is not guaranteed.
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Health Policy
Students should be aware that various allergens, including nuts, dairy and shellfish, are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to Halal and Kosher foods.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.
FINANCIAL/FEES
For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.
Event Planning (H141)
For general School of Hospitality and Tourism Management related inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.
