West Virginia University, through a partnership with Gatlin Education Services, offers online career training services for adults who want to attain the skills needed for many in-demand professions such as Event Management and Design.

Computer Requirements
This program can be taken on either a PC or a Mac.  A high speed internet connection (DSL or Cable) is required.  Students will need a basic understanding of computers and be comfortable navigating the Internet.  E-mailing capabilities are also required.

Materials
Gatlin Education Services will provide the following textbooks:

• Art of the Event, by James C. Monroe, CMP, CSEP
• Special Events:  The Roots and Wings of Celebration, Fifth Edition by Dr. Joe Goldblatt, CSEP

Background
This exciting Event Management and Design online program is structured to provide both practical knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the modern special event industry.  Event Management and Design will equip you with the knowledge to advance in the field if you are already working in events, or prepare you to enter the profession with an understanding of the industry.

Course Goal
Students will build the foundation to build a career in special events or start their own special event business.

Course Objectives
By completing this program, students will:

• Understand the Five Stages of Event Management: Research, Design, Planning, Coordination, and Evaluation.
• Learn the concepts of communication and synergy, and how they apply to Event Design.
• Learn different leadership styles.
• Understand how to manage their time effectively.
• Learn how to manage human resources and volunteers.
• Gain insight into hiring vendors, catering, sound/light technicians, entertainment, and other resources.
• Consider various marketing strategies.
• Learn how to conduct an event site inspection.
• Study risk management procedures and tactics.
• Learn about the requirements for necessary contracts, permits, and licenses, and how to meet these requirements.
• Be introduced to software for the office, event management, and CADD.
• Learn about continuing education and career advancement.
• Understand budgeting, pricing, and accounting as they relate to Event Design.
• Be able to apply the Principles of Design to event decoration.
• Understand the application of decorative elements available to the Event Designer, including backdrops, flowers, fabric, and lighting.
• Understand the various types of special events, and the requirements for each.
• Submit a complete Event Design Project, in which the student applies his or her knowledge of Event Management and Design to a professional-level Event Design Plan.
  

Course Structure and Schedule
This is a non-credit course offered for 300 hours.  The student can register at any time during the year.  Cost is $1,895 per student.  A certificate for course completion will be issued.

Prerequisite(s)
There are no specific prerequisites for this course. However, it would be useful for the student to have:

• A high school degree/GED.
• Basic liberal arts knowledge.
• An understanding of, and interest in, different cultures.
  

Overview/Subject Matter

1. Special Event Management
1. Principles of Event Management
2. Administration
3. Coordination
4. Marketing
5. Legal, Ethical, Risk Management
6. Special Event Management Technology
7. Special Event Career Development

1. Special Event Design and Decorations
1. Design and Decorations
2. Decorative Elements
3. Types of Special Events

Registration

Register online through our secure server or fill out this form and fax or mail it to Extended Learning. You will be given class access by email within five working days. Call 1-800-2Learn2, or email WVUEnrich@mail.wvu.edu if you have any questions. Major credit cards and electronic checks are accepted.

Refund Policy
Any cancellation and refund request must be submitted in writing by the student to WVU Extended Learning. A $50 processing fee will be charged to the student for a cancellation requested before materials (books) are mailed to the student. If the student cancels within ten days after the materials are mailed to the student, then a $100 processing fee will be charged, provided the student returns the materials, within five days of the written request, in their original condition. If the materials are not returned within the specified period of time or are not in their original condition, then a $500 processing fee will be charged to the student. If the student cancels any time between eleven and thirty days after the materials ae mailed to the student, then a $300 processing fee will be charged, provided the student returns the materials, within 5 days of the written request, in their original condition. If the materials are not returned within the specified period of time or are not in their original condition, then a $500 processing fee will be charged to the student. No other refunds will be considered.