Meeting and Event Planning

Certificate Program

Early Bird Discount Available! Register by November 1, 2024 to receive 15% off of the program cost. The discount will be automatically applied during the check-out process.

The market for meetings and events is growing rapidly. Valued at 5.6 billion dollars in 2022—a substantial increase of 37% from the previous year—the industry is expected to reach a revenue of over 2 trillion by 2032.* To thrive in this fast-moving industry, professionals need the specialized skills to effectively plan and manage many different types of events.

The online Certificate in Professional Meeting and Event Planning program at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is intended for both students and professionals who want comprehensive training in this dynamic industry. No experience or prerequisites are required, and the program is self-paced. The curriculum is built on the tenets of the Certification in Meeting Planning (CMP) administered by the Events Industry Council. 

Online, asynchronous classes are designed for anyone who wants to prepare for the CMP exam, fine-tune skills and methods, or become a qualified candidate for jobs in the industry. Students learn from an active professional with decades of experience who will provide their perspectives, knowledge, and unique learning opportunities.

The content covers all ten elements of the Events Industry Council Manual that CMP candidates should study before testing. Additionally, the course analyzes the 30 skills outlined in the manual, each introducing new concepts for learners. For those who are planning to qualify for or take the CMP test, this class will guide participants to the most relevant content.**

Students who successfully complete this program are eligible to receive a Digital Badge from CSULB’s College of Professional and Continuing Education. Each Digital Badge is embedded with a link to secure and specific information confirming that the participant has obtained the necessary skills and competencies as described in the program. The badge also includes the participant’s name, the course title, and date of completion. Badges are shareable and can be uploaded to CVs, resumes, social media profiles, or other digital platforms. Learn more about Digital Badges.

*Source: Event statistics from Cvent, an industry-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider.
**Testing qualifications and requirements are property of the Events Industry Council.

  • Meeting planning professionals who want to update their skills, gain a competitive edge, and improve their company or organization
  • Individuals making a career change to transition into the meeting and event planning industry
  • Planners who are looking to accumulate 6.0 hours towards qualifying to take or renew the Certified Meeting Professional exam
  • Hospitality or tourism professionals seeking additional skills and knowledge
  • Information about career opportunities in meeting planning and related fields
  • Specific skills and knowledge that are crucial to professional meeting planners
  • The logistics to create a successful event from idea creation through implementation
  • Access the course materials beginning on the official start date of the program, including online modules, resources, and required readings.
  • Progress through the asynchronous online content at a pace that suits your schedule.
  • Successfully complete all assignments and quizzes with a passing score.
  • Complete the program within the designated 10-week period. The final week is reserved for any remaining activities and assessments.
  • Share your feedback and final evaluation at the end of the program. Your input is valuable and helps us enhance our future offerings.
  • Upon successfully completing the program, receive a certificate of achievement that makes a valuable addition to your professional portfolio.
sean fistonich

This is a very interesting course that presents an insight into the booming industry of event planning in the Los Angeles area and around the world. It has inspired me to push further into this industry.

Sean Fistonich Fall 2020 Student Meeting and Events Planning
This was a great foundation for building my career as a professional event planner. I also had the opportunity to learn from experienced leaders in the industry and network with like-minded peers, and then I launched my own event planning business. I highly recommend this certificate program!
Elicia Magaña CEO, KIMA Event Management and Consulting Meeting and Event Planning