"Everything we learned, I was able to put to use in my new career. I would absolutely recommend CDI College." Deanna K., CDI College Graduate.
Conferences, festivals, weddings, and trade shows all need highly skilled event coordinators. In order to succeed as an event coordinator or event planner, you need up-to-the minute project planning, staff management, and business skills. CDI's Event Coordinator and Management diploma program teaches you the key elements you need to manage budgets, understand contracts and negotiations, supervise staff and volunteers, and run an event smoothly from start to finish.
Graduates of this program will be prepared to write key industry-recognized certification exams and will be prepared for employment as an event planning coordinator or self-employment career opportunities.
This program is 33 weeks in length.
Job Opportunities
- Conference Services Officer
- Convention Co-Ordinator
- Festival Organizer
- Special Events Organizer
- Trade Show Planner
- Event Planner
Event Coordinator & Management
For programs offered in Alberta:
Calgary City Centre Calgary North Calgary South Edmonton City Centre Edmonton North Edmonton South Edmonton WestProgram Courses
The program outline below is for British Columbia.
| Code | Course Name | Hours |
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- This is an introductory module designed to provide the student with a foundation in computer skills. This module will start with an overview of the Windows environment and desktop. Students will learn file management and customization concepts. Students will then learn to use Internet Explorer to browse the Web in search of information. The module then covers fundamentals topics in word processing, spreadsheets and presentations using MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Topical coverage includes Windows desktop and file management, Internet Explorer and research, MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint.
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- This module introduces the field of event coordination. Students will gain insight into the typical duties of event planning. Students will learn about the role and scope of professional event coordination as well as the elements that constitute a well-planned event. This course will try to explore these topics through the examination of the components of an event. Students will discover how the event coordinator should react to the various elements and considerations of an event. This course will also explore the professional and ethical guidelines that relate to the professional event coordinator as well as the possible professional recognitions that are available in this field.
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- This module explores the administrative functions that are necessary to achieve the successful coordination of an event. Students will learn and apply the administrative, management and coordination skills that will allow them to implement strategies to ensure that all goals and objectives are met on time and on budget. Module topics include business plans, developing critical paths, coordinating of committees, reporting and monitoring, financial controls and procedures, budgets and contingency plans.
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- This module explores the processes that allow the event coordinator to bring all aspects of the event planning together. Students will learn to assess and develop site plans, coordinate accommodations, performances, decor and production staging, food and beverage services, special needs and security. Topical coverage includes site plans; accomodations; decor and staging; performers, guest speakers and requirements; site setup and take down; environmental and social concerns; food and beverage coordination; security, controls, and emergency plans; transportation and parking.
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- Effective marketing and advertising of an event is a key piece of the event planning process. This module explores how the event coordinator is engaged in the implementation of the marketing plan. The module will cover the duties and activities relating to
market plan implementation as they apply to the event coordinator. In order to carry out these tasks, you require a basic
understanding of marketing and how it works. Topical coverage includes marketing plans and strategies; advertising of information; public relations strategies; trade and consumer shows; expositions; marketing collateral materials; events promotion and incentives.
- Effective marketing and advertising of an event is a key piece of the event planning process. This module explores how the event coordinator is engaged in the implementation of the marketing plan. The module will cover the duties and activities relating to
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- Every event is subject to possible risk. This module will explore some of the potential risks that may impact an event. The focus will be on the management of the risk through compliance with legislation, sticking to the risk management plan and the implementation of a contingency plan. As an event coordinator your role is to ensure that the plan is conveyed to the committees and that everyone shows a commitment to following the plan. Topical coverage includes legislation and it's impact; risk management plans; contracts and negotiations; sourcing suppliers and developing sponsors/donors and partnerships.
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- Human resources are at the heart of all event planning processes. Event planning relies on both paid staff and volunteers all of whom must work in a concerted effort to guarantee the success of the event. The co-ordinator’s role is to ensure that the right people are used for the right tasks and that they are used to their fullest potential. This module will explore the processes of recruiting, training and motivating staff and volunteers. Topical coverage includes recruiting staff and volunteers, job descriptions, interviewing and selecting candidates, training and orientation, motivation and leadership, teamwork, conflict resolution and performance reviews.
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- In this final module, the student will integrate all the skills acquired throughout the program. Students will be provided with a choice of events to plan and stage. Students will then proceed to apply their knowledge and skills to plan and stage the event. This course is 1-week long.
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- This module explores the administrative and management functions that are necessary to successfully manage the planning of an event. Students will learn and apply the skills that will allow them to develop strategies and plans to ensure that all goals and objectives are met on time and on budge. Module topics include researching events, developing business plans and critical paths, evaluating events, monitoring and reporting processes, developing event policies, developing budgets, funding and financial controls.
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- The event manager has the responsibility of developing the event plan and management strategy for both new events and established events. This module explores the processes that allow the event manger to design and plan event programs. Students will learn how to select event sites, contract entertainment, plan activities and attractions, develop food and beverage operations plans, plan event décor, and develop guidelines for all the associated operations.
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- Marketing an event goes beyond simple advertisement of the event. In order to properly market an event, the event manager needs to know and understand the needs and expectations of the customer and how the event can meet and exceed those needs and expectations. The key to this success is doing the proper research and then developing an appropriate marketing plan to ensure that all needs and expectations are addressed. In this module the student will learn how to develop a marketing plan and marketing strategies that can sell an event and create excitement around an event. Topical coverage includes developing marketing plans and strategies; marketing materials; merchandising and souvenirs; publicity strategies and materials; media plans and media releases; hospitality arrangements and advertising strategies.
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- Every event is subject to possible risk. This module will explore some of the potential risks that may impact an event. The focus of this module will be the development of a risk management plan. Students will learn how to mitigate event risks by developing and event risk management plan, contingency plans. Topical coverage includes legislation and its impact; development of a event risk management plan, develop contingency plans.
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- The event manager has the responsibility of assembling the team of individuals who will plan and coordinate the event. Human resource management skills are therefore key to ensure the success of an event manager. In this module the student will learn how to establish a human resource plan, as well as implement policies and procedures for human resource management. Topical coverage includes guidelines for human resource management, policies and procedures, interviewing and selecting candidates, training and orientation, motivation and leadership, teamwork, conflict resolution and performance reviews.
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- As a key member of the event management team, the event coordinator is required to project a professional image of himslef/herself and the organisation. This module will explore the characteristics, attributes skills and behaviours, that are important factors in leading to professional conduct and leadership. Topical coverage includes professionalism, leadership, problem resolution, managing multiple priorities, communication and effective presentations.
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- In this final module, the student will integrate all the skills acquired throughout the program. Students will be provided with a choice of events to plan and stage. Students will then proceed to apply their knowledge and skills to plan and stage the event.
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- This program includes a practicum component which consists of 120 hours of work at a job site. The practicum work experience is a mandatory diploma requirement and the business organization does not pay for the services of the student during the practicum.
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- This course will introduce students to skills and concepts that will help them achieve personal, academic, and career success.
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- Students will have the opportunity to review and discuss the final practicum placement. Simulated practice may be given in panel interviews as well as practice scenarios for the job interview. Students will update their resumes and cover letters. Students will have use of a Job Search lab which has unlimited Internet access, a job search resource library and a fax machine and phone for contacting prospective employers.
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- This course is designed to equip students with interpersonal skills identified by employers as essential for success in the professional world. Using a variety of instructional methods including case studies, group exercises, and discussion, students learn and practice key communication skills.