The Conference Management & Event Planning (CMEP) certificate program is designed to provide a comprehensive overview and knowledge of the meeting and event industry. Gain a firm understanding of how the industry operates and knowledge in the designing, planning, coordinating and executing phases of meetings, conferences, conventions, special events and trade shows. Students will learn best industry practices and the role of a meeting and event planner. All instructors have master’s degrees, CMP, CSEP, CPCE or similar designations.

A requirement to receive the Certificate is to develop a project plan for a specific conference and special event from start to post-event analysis. The project ultimately serves as a professional portfolio demonstrating the student’s learning and ability.

A 30 hour externship is required. Online students are welcome to contact the school for assistance in arranging for an externship in Las Vegas or to request for an introduction letter for an externship in their home city.

The development, management and instructional team for this program consist of prominent individuals in the industry dedicated to creating one of the most hands-on and personalized training program of its kind in the nation. The program constantly evolves to include the most current and industry relevant learning in the meetings and events fields.  

Program Consultant

This course is developed and managed by Patti Shock CPCE. Ms. Shock is recognized as one of the most influential people in meetings and catering. Among the dozen plus awards she has received, the list includes outstanding leadership and achievement awards from the International Association of Exhibitions and the Professional Convention Management Association. She co-authored the texts, "Hotel Catering: A Handbook for Sales and Operations,"  "A Club Manager's Guide to Private Parties and Club Functions", "On-Premise Catering" , "Restaurant Marketing for Owners and Managers" and "A Meeting Planner's Guide to Catered Events" - all published by Wiley.

Those interested in gaining specialized knowledge about this exciting industry segment or industry personnel wanting credentials for career advancement. FASTtrack and online programs open to international students.

High school diploma or GED (no work experience necessary)

• Classroom Learning - Three-month (12-week) semester, meets Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6-9 pm, plus 30 hour externship. 90 hours, 10 quarter credits, 9 CEU Tuition: $2,950 UPCOMING START DATES:   Monday, September 13, 2010    Monday, January 24, 2011    Monday, May 16, 2011    Monday, September 12, 2011      • FASTtrack - One month, meets five days a week, Monday through Friday, from 9 am – Noon, plus 30 hour externship 90 hours, 10 quarter credits, 9 CEU Tuition: $2,950 UPCOMING START DATES:   Monday, November 01, 2010   Monday, March 14, 2011   Monday, July 11, 2011   Monday, October 31, 2011     • Online - Up to six months time to complete, study at your own pace with dedicated instructors. The curriculum is divided into easily navigable modules, each containing lectures, quizzes, assignments and supplemental reading materials in addition to textbook learning. Internship optional. There are no specific start dates for online programs. Students receive one-on-one guidance from instructors and each student can specify their own start date on the application form. 90 hours, 9 quarter credits, 9 CEU Tuition: $2,950 UPCOMING START DATES:

Placement Assistance:
Students receive expert counseling that includes a career action plan, resume-writing assistance and interview coaching. Networking opportunities are plentiful and continue after graduation through the alumni association.