But before we jump in, let’s explore:
- What is event management certification?
- Different ways to obtain it
- Benefits of an online professional certificate in event management.
- How to choose the right online event management course for you
What is Event Management Certification?
Event management certification can be considered a professional credential that helps validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in event planning, organizing, and execution. The certifications are offered by industry associations, educational institutions, and e-learning platforms.
With these certifications, you learn about the different aspects of event management and their practical applications from professionals and experts in the field.
Different Ways to Obtain the Event Management Certification
The event management certification can be obtained in different formats depending on the individual’s needs and career goals. From a short-term course to a more comprehensive long-term degree, there are multiple options available.
Let’s delve into some of the most popular ways to obtain an event management certification:
1. Online event management courses
Online event management courses offer you the flexibility and convenience to opt for certification courses while managing other commitments. These courses are widely available across different digital channels.
LinkedIn Learning, institutions, and e-learning platforms like Coursera offer a variety of online event management courses, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. You can obtain the certification upon successful completion of the course.
2. Distance learning
Distance learning is another great option for event planners to obtain a degree with a validated certificate in event management and related courses. This accredited diploma or degree program is usually offered by educational institutions and universities and is accessible to individuals across the globe.
3. Onsite event management courses
If you’re seeking full-time or part-time courses, you can opt for onsite event management courses. These courses offer hands-on and comprehensive learning experiences, helping you hone your skills with dedicated time, resources, and activities.
Universities across the world offer several courses in event management. The eligibility criteria and duration of the courses are subject to differ based on the selected courses and chosen university.
Onsite event management certifications are provided with event management diploma courses, bachelor’s degree in event management, and master’s degree in event management.
You will obtain the degree and certification once you’ve completed your course fulfilling the university-specific directions and requirements.
Out of the above-mentioned ways, online event management courses are the most preferred source. This is because of the accessibility, freedom, and feasibility it offers. Next, we will discuss the major benefits of online event management certifications.
Benefits of an Online Professional Certificate in Event Management
“Online learning provides fantastic flexibility, among other benefits, and aids in making the task of arranging development opportunities far easier.”
Dr. Sharon Jones, Founder of Dottie Rose Foundation
Here are some key benefits of obtaining a Professional Certificate in Event Management:
Time and Cost-Effective:
Professional online certifications offer flexible learning schedules, allowing individuals to study independently at their own pace. Additionally, online courses often have lower enrollment fees compared to traditional in-person programs, eliminating the need for travel and accommodation expenses.
Skill Validation:
Professional certifications in event management validate your skills and knowledge in the field, providing tangible proof of your expertise.
Enhanced Credibility:
Professional certification serves as a concrete validation of your expertise and excellence in event management, making you a more trustworthy and qualified professional.
Latest Industry Knowledge:
Certifications in event management typically incorporate the most current industry trends, requirements, technologies, and best practices, guaranteeing that certified professionals remain well-informed and maintain the relevance of their skills.
Increased Job Opportunities:
Holding a professional certification can make you stand out in the job market. The relevance of your acquired skills and knowledge further underscores the value you bring to potential employers in this dynamic field.
Access to Specialized Roles:
Certain professional certifications are tailored to specific niches within the event industry. Achieving these specialized certifications can qualify you for roles that demand niche expertise, expanding your career options.
How to choose an online event management course?
Here’s a simple algorithm to find the right event management course for you. Just ask these questions while selecting a course:
- Is the course offered by an accredited or a credible institution?
- Does the course offer any specialization? If yes, then do they fit your interests?
- What is the minimum level of experience required to make the best use of the event management certification?
- Check if a particular online event management course exceeds your budget.
- Answer: “Am I only considering online event planning courses, or are you open to in-person programs?”
- Is the event management certification industry recognized?
- What’s the best curriculum an event planning course can offer you?
- Do you value the option of self-paced learning more than anything else?
- What are the areas where you can compromise?
- How does a particular event management course stand up against other options?
- Does the course offer you credit towards the coveted CMP certification?
Event Management Courses and Certifications for Different Proficiency Levels
Event Management Courses for Beginners
Course Title | Course Provider | Benefits | Duration | Fee |
The course covers all aspects of event management, offers certificate of completion, and provides 22 downloadable resources | 1h 46m | $34.77 | ||
The course covers the role and responsibilities of showcallers in corporate events, conferences, and production side of events. The course also offers 31 downloadable resources. | 1h 59m | $21.58 | ||
The course provides insights and knowledge on topics such as identifying target audiences, organizing logistics, handling contracts and procurement, ensuring health and safety standards, utilizing social media for event marketing, developing revenue-generating strategies, and more. | 51m | $9.58 | ||
This free certificate course offers insights into the art of Event Management, covering the fundamentals from planning to post-event strategizing. It provides a comprehensive understanding of conceptualizing ideas, planning, budgeting, coordinating, and executing events. | 1h 30m | Free | ||
The course covers aspects of sports event management, logistics, risk assessment, and the key skills that an event or facility manager requires. There is no pre-requirement. | 3h 38m | $27.57 | ||
This comprehensive course is crafted to provide a thorough understanding of organizing successful events. It includes 26 downloadable resources, a course workbook with activities, a 30+ page reference material, event planning templates, and the exclusive 7-step event planning process developed by the course instructor. | 5h 32m | $29.97 |
Event Management Courses for Intermediate Level
Course Title | Course Provider | Benefits | Duration | Fee |
The course covers fundamental steps for creating and running successful events, pinpointing factors to boost ROI, and post-function evaluation. | 1h 5m | $9.58 | ||
This course emphasizes modern marketing concepts relevant to events, delves into full-funnel marketing and its application to events, and teaches how to design events to enhance pipeline and generate revenue. | 4h 32m | $27.57 | ||
The course offers a thorough scrum events training guide, complete with practical examples illustrating scrum events, timeboxing, and the purposes of scrum events. | 2h 35m | $23.98 |
Event Management Courses for Advanced Level/Expert Level
Course Title | Course Provider | Benefits | Duration | Fee |
The Advanced Diploma of Event Management covers all facets of event management, equipping you with a versatile skill set applicable to various industry positions and types of events. | 360 hrs | $83.95 | ||
This Advanced Event Management Course offers a comprehensive introduction to the events sector, outlining the key responsibilities of event planning professionals. The course consists of 18 interactive modules that address key topics including event planning, different event types, the planning process breakdown, customer service and marketing, contingency planning, and more. | 620 hrs | $1,379.67 | ||
The course teaches effective research methods for event management and best practices for organizing successful events and meetings. It provides insights into the event industry through scenarios and activities covering various types of events. | Self-paced | Each online course costs $450 |
Best short-term online event management courses
| Course Title | Course Provider | Benefits | Duration | Free |
| Event Management Fundamentals: Plan Events with Confidence | Udemy | This course offers knowledge on event budgeting, venue selection, and event promotion. Additionally, you will also learn the basics of event logistics and operations management. | 3.5 hours | $49.99 |
| Event Planning: The Complete Guide to Successful Events | Udemy | This program covers the aspects of event planning from start to finish. You get to learn about event design, budgeting, marketing, and execution. Additionally, you get handy and useful downloadables, templates, and resources to kick-start your event planning journey. | 6.5 hours | $94.99 |
| Event Management: Research, Design, Plan and Execute Events | Coursera | If you’re looking for something that’s a little more comprehensive and dives deeper than the courses on Udemy, this course on Coursera could be right for you. It covers, even strategies, techniques, and planning templates, and explains event sponsorships and ways to get them. Gain insights into event budgeting and evaluation | 17 hours (self-paced) | Varies (financial aid available) |
| Event Planning and Management Specialization | Coursera | Series of courses covering event planning and management- Includes topics such as event design, marketing, logistics, and risk management. Hands-on assignments and case studies. | 3 months (8-10 hours/week) | Varies (financial aid available) |
Other Quick and Effective Online Event Management Courses and Certifications
Course Title | Course Provider | Benefits | Duration | Fee |
The course offers knowledge on Event Project Management, Risk Management, Financial Management and Budgeting, Site and Venue Management, Event Marketing, Event Production, and Event Design This course also offers guidance on building your portfolio | 2-Hours | ₹3,499/$42.17 | ||
The course covers aspects of event planning, growth, marketing, monetization, and management. This course is ideal for those who desire to grow their businesses, improve event attendance, gain potential customers, and generate revenue through events. | 7-Hours | ₹3,499/$42.17 | ||
The Ultimate Guide to Professional Event Planning Management | The Ultimate Guide to Professional Event Planning and Management focuses on aspects of how one can become a professional event planner. From corporate events to weddings, the course thoroughly explores the planning, budgeting, management, design, and branding aspects. The course is an ultimate guide for both beginners and experienced event planners. | 5.5-Hours | ₹3,999/$48.20 | |
This course provides valuable insights and best practices for managing event budgets and logistics, securing sponsorships, crafting compelling sponsorship proposal materials, effectively engaging and supporting event speakers, and leveraging data insights post-event. | 1-Hour | ₹1,150/$13.86 | ||
If you’re looking to expand your influence and grow your business through virtual events, then this course is for you. The course provides insights into event planning and management, guiding you on how to create, structure, and execute a virtual summit online with a substantial audience. | 1-Hour | ₹3,499/$42.17 | ||
ROCK Your Virtual Events, Webinars, Group Coaching, Meetings | This course provides insights into creating transformative virtual experiences. The lectures focus on techniques for creating engaging virtual events, webinars, meetings, live streams, and group coaching sessions. | 3.5-Hours | ₹3,499/$42.17 |
Best Event Management Courses and Certifications For Event Planners
Quick Overview:
Event Management Courses and Certifications | Provider |
Offline and Online Event Management Certificate Courses | NACE |
CPCE Online Event Management Certification | NACE |
QC Event Management Certification Course For Aspiring Event Managers | QC Event School |
CMP Event Planning Certification For Event Managers | Events Industry Council (EIC) |
CMM: Certification in Meeting Management For Event Managers | Meeting Professional International – Accredited by the Indiana University Faculty |
CSEP Certification | International Live Events Association |
Online Event Management Course | MPI Academy |
Online Event Manager Certifications | ELI (Events Leadership Institute) |
Events Management Course Online: Diploma and Advanced Diploma | International Career Institute (ICI) |
Event Planning & Management Certificate | Emory Continuing Education |
The Event Management and Leadership course | Bryant University |
Event management courses online and offline | Event Academy |
Profitable Event Business Course | Udemy |
Diploma in Event Management by AAFT Online | AAFT Online |
Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) | Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP) |
Digital Event Strategist Certification (DES) | Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) |
Certified in Exhibition Management | International Association of Exhibitions and Events |
Sustainable Event Professional Certificate | Events Industry Council (EIC) |
Certified Quality Event Planner (CQEP) | Management and Strategy Institute |
Online Certification in Wedding Planner, Consultant and Coordinator | Wedding Planners Institute of Canada (WPIC) |
Certified Trade Show Marketer | Exhibitor Media Group |
1) Offline and online event management certificate courses by NACE
NACE brings courses curated by experts and brilliant minds to give you the knowledge you need to cement your position in the event planning industry.
You get the option to purchase a bundle of 6 online event management certifications. What’s the best part? You get to contact hours towards your CPCE certification.
The course covers topics like event management, accounting, catering, sales and marketing, and experience curation for events.
In short, NACE becomes a great choice for those who want to pursue an online event management certificate course while also gaining some contact hours CPCE certification for a future-proof investment.
This brings us to the next course on the list — the CPCE certification.
2) CPCE online event management certification by NACE
Imagine graduating from a globally acclaimed program in event management. CPCE event management certification is one such course offered by NACE. The course attempts to train you in the eight core principles of event management and planning.
The program’s structure allows you to pursue an in-person or online training path.
You get all the study material and mentorship to advance your career. Ultimately, you graduate from the event management course by clearing an exam that you can either choose to take online or offline to get your event planning and management degree.
Learn more about the course here
3) QC event management certification course for aspiring event managers
This course by the QC Event School brings immense value to those seeking an online event management course. It’s a self-paced program with no strict deadlines and lifetime access to the course material.
The list of course catalogs is also impressive. You can choose your niche from various options like Corporate Event Planning Certification, Private Event Planning Certification, Wedding Planning, and more.
Once you’re done with the foundational courses, you can take your skills one step ahead as an event planner with the advanced courses offered by QC Event School. Choosing to advance in a field like Promotional Event Planning, Event Decor, or Virtual Events can further enhance your potential.
Check out the event management courses and certifications offered by QC Event School here:
4) CMP event planning certification for event managers
CMP is a globally recognized program and a highly coveted one. Undertaking this course can open up better opportunities for you as an event professional.
You can earn a certification based on your professional experience, education, and score on the certification exam.
You can learn more about a CMP certification here
5) CMM: Certification in meeting management for event managers
Corporate meetings and events require careful planning. That is why only trained and experienced event professionals and managers are trusted with such a big responsibility.
The CMM certificate is issued by Meeting Professional International, which is accredited by Indiana University Faculty.
The best part of getting a CMM certification is the validation and recognizability in the corporate world that open up multiple doors for you.
This certification is offered as a 15-week on-campus intensive program, making it a certification on the list that can’t be completed online.
6) CSEP Certification
“Okay, this person is legitimate. He has the competence and necessary skills to host mindblowing events.” Do you want to be recognized like this in the event industry? A CSEP certification would help you do that.
It’s claimed to be the benchmark certification in the event industry and is designed in a fashion that elevates the experience and caliber of event professionals.
With this certification, you get enough experience to climb the leadership ladder or jump-start your own event planning business.
7) Online event management course by MPI Academy
It’s the perfect path for event planners and professionals looking for self-paced and flexible courses with various topics to upskill themself in the field of events.
The MPI Academy offers online courses and certificates in event planning and management that add to the credibility of aspirants. The course content, assignments, and certificates are awarded online and in person.
The best part? You can also complete MPI courses and earn credits toward your CMP certification.
The course fee ranges from 480 USD to 4000 USD, depending on the clock hours, course topic, and content.
Check out professional event planner certifications and courses online here.
8) Online event manager certifications by ELI (Events Leadership Institute)
ELI offers industry-relevant courses that help event professionals develop skills in event management, event monetization, event experience, and technical production.
You can prepare for an online certification with the help of on-demand and multi-week instructor-led courses.
You can also choose to pursue on-off courses on niche topics with the help of content that’s available online. Choose from a large variety of training in business, planning and management, technical production, venue management, and more. The best part? On-demand training is short and snappy (30 minutes per lecture) that can help you self-pace your course.
Check out their courses here
9) International Career Institute (ICI)
ICI is a well-known institute that specializes in distance education. A little more detailed, the course also helps students prepare for interviews and teaches them how to get more clients, increase their business and become professional event planners.
Students will get their certificates at the end of the program to confidently enter the event planning business.
ICI has an entry-level diploma course and an advanced course for those with some work experience.
Ideal for beginners with a few years of experience in the event management industry.
Check out the course here
10) Emory Continuing Education
The Emory Continuing Education institute offers six different courses for event management.
To obtain the certificate, students must go through all program levels. The online courses are unique because they focus on the critical aspects of hosting a successful event.
Ideal for beginners and event management professionals who want a degree and contact hours towards CMP.
11) Bryant University
The Bryant University’s Executive Development Centers train students to take leadership roles in the event planning business.
The Event Management and Leadership course covers technology, service management, hospitality, green events, and sustainability.
This course will also train people with marketing skill sets to become dependable event planners.
12) Event Academy
Event Academy is a recognized institute that offers event management courses online and offline.
The online course is divided into three levels. Each level has a different duration, is priced differently, and opens additional opportunities. One of their courses, (Online Postgraduate Diploma) is a detailed course which lasts for a year.
Students are taught about PR, advertising, marketing, social media, event budget, special events, business plans, social events, etc., to become experts and host different types of events. This course also offers job placement and helps students jumpstart their careers in event management.
13) Profitable Event Business course by Udemy – an online course to kickstart your own event planning business
This beginner-friendly course kickstarts your entrepreneurial journey in the event planning industry. Learn the skills you need to build a lucrative event business and become a successful event planner.
14) Diploma in Event Management by AAFT Online
The Diploma in Event Management by AAFT is a one-year program designed to teach you how to plan and execute successful events. The course offers an opportunity to gain knowledge from industry experts through recorded video lectures and downloadable e-workbooks.
15) Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP)
The Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) program is tailored for meeting planners, contract planners, and suppliers who operate within the regulatory framework of the federal government. Offered by the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP), the course is available in three formats: in-person, virtual, and on-demand.
To enroll in the course, individuals must hold an active SGMP membership and possess a minimum of 12 months of full-time experience in the hospitality industry.
16) PCMA's Digital Event Strategist Certification
The DES certification offered by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) provides access to leading experts in the business events industry. These experts will guide you in navigating beyond traditional digital event models, helping you stay ahead in a dynamic landscape characterized by cutting-edge hybrid experiences and emerging technologies like the metaverse.
17) Certified in Exhibition Management by International Association of Exhibitions and Events
Established in 1975 with the aim of enhancing professional standards within the event industry, this globally recognized designation signifies the highest standard of professionalism across the exhibitions and events management fields. The CEM Learning Program is accessible in various countries and territories, and is available in virtual, in-person, and on-demand formats.
18) Sustainable Event Professional Certificate by EIC
The Sustainable Event Professional Certificate (SEPC) program, offered by the Events Industry Council (EIC), equips event planners with the expertise and resources to develop eco-friendly event strategies and execute sustainable events.
Through 16 modules, the SEPC emphasizes the significance of sustainability in business, methods to enhance the environmental friendliness of meetings and events, and strategies for successfully attaining social impact objectives.
19) Certified Quality Event Planner (CQEP)
The Certified Quality Event Planner certification is tailored to showcase your ability to proficiently manage large-scale corporate and professional events. Offered exclusively by the Management and Strategy Institute, this certification provides an opportunity to excel in various event types, including corporate conferences, music festivals, and weddings.
20) Online Certification in Wedding Planner, Consultant and Coordinator
Offered by the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada, this online certification course is a valuable option for both newcomers and experienced professionals in the wedding industry.
The certification covers a broad range of topics, including the roles of wedding planners, coordinators, and consultants, their historical significance, the profile of a wedding professional, reasons for hiring them, income potential, roles & responsibilities, understanding couple psychology, managing expectations, wedding etiquette, and more.
21) Certified Trade Show Marketer by Exhibitor Media Group
The Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) stands as the only university-endorsed professional certification program tailored for trade show and event marketers.
To attain this certificate, participants must complete 23 mandatory sessions, along with 7.5 hours of elective courses, and successfully pass a 3-hour online exam with a minimum score of 75%. The exam includes a mix of multiple-choice and true/false questions.
Professional certifications in event management validate your skills and knowledge in the field, providing tangible proof of your expertise.
Professional certification serves as a concrete validation of your expertise and excellence in event management, making you a more trustworthy and qualified professional.
Certifications in event management typically incorporate the most current industry trends, requirements, technologies, and best practices, guaranteeing that certified professionals remain well-informed and maintain the relevance of their skills.
Holding a professional certification can make you stand out in the job market. The relevance of your acquired skills and knowledge further underscores the value you bring to potential employers in this dynamic field.
Alright, you’re all set to kickstart your online event management education
You found some best event planning courses to pursue to move forward in your career. However, while choosing a course for yourself, you should keep your budget, schedule, and professional goals in mind. Some goals are comprehensive and teach you A-Z of event management and planning, while some courses offer a deeper perspective on specific topics.
Online event planning degrees and certificates give you the flexibility to finish your course at your own pace. But you should aim to complete it in the recommended time frame for the best results.
Consider the right virtual event platform for your future events
As an event planner, you’ll face a decision to choose the right virtual events platform for your events sooner or later in your life. A virtual event platform guide like this can come in handy. That’s all for today. It was good to Airmeet you.
Online Event Management Courses: FAQ
Yes, many of these online courses also cover event branding, marketing, revenue generation, monetization, and business growth strategies.
They typically delve into areas such as establishing brand identity for events, crafting cohesive branding materials, and executing branding strategies to boost event recognition and visibility.
From conference volunteer or event volunteer roles, one can explore opportunities as event assistants, coordinators, and specialists.
Advancing further, they may pursue positions as event managers, senior event managers, and event directors, eventually reaching leadership roles such as Head of Events or Chief Events Officer.
The responsibilities of a conference volunteer usually involve aiding with registration, directing attendees, overseeing sessions, offering assistance to speakers and presenters, coordinating logistics, and ensuring the smooth operation of the event.
Start by gaining event planning experience and knowledge of virtual event platforms and event marketing tools. You can then build an event management portfolio by interning, or volunteering. The next step would be to leverage your network to stay updated on event management trends and get certified. Once you have the experience, updated knowledge, and an event management certification, you can become an event manager that works for an organization or finds their own clients.
You can consider studying subjects such as event management, hospitality, marketing, communications, and business administration. These fields will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to plan and execute successful events. Practical experience through internships or volunteering can also be valuable in gaining relevant industry insights.
It’s difficult to label any single online course as the absolute best in event management, as the choice may vary based on individual priorities. However, we have highlighted several esteemed online event management courses in our article.- Event Management and Design Certificate – offered by the University of California, Berkeley Extension.- Event Management Certificate – provided by Event Leadership Institute.- Professional Event Management Course – offered by the Event Academy.- Online Event Planning and Management Course – provided by the International Institute of Event Management.- Event Planning and Management Certification – offered by the University of Washington.- Each course has its own strengths and focuses, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your specific interests and goals in event management.
