Events and Conventions Management Diploma

Get set for an exciting career planning, organizing, managing and promoting festivals, concerts, conventions, trade shows, weddings and special events.




You’ll study the concept of event design, the strategic event planning process, and technical logistics—gaining the management skills needed to successfully execute any special event, anywhere.

Event management is one of the fastest growing and dynamic segments of the Canadian tourism industry. Our graduates work in a diverse range of roles including with Shambhala Music Festival, Live Nation Concerts, the Vancouver Convention Centre and Sun Peaks Resort.

Our program is aligned with local, regional, national and international event management organizations and opportunities. Discover a wide range of pathways to success in the event management industry:

  • Festival and event production
  • Wedding and special event planning
  • Conference management
  • Starting your own event planning company
  • Corporate incentive travel planning
  • Fundraising, sponsorship and marketing for special events
  • Volunteer management

 Sequence of study

Year 1
Fall semester
CMNS 1810
Professional and Academic Composition (3,0,0)

CMNS 1810 Professional and Academic Composition (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students learn the theory and practice of successful academic and professional writing. Students compare and apply techniques involved in writing for business and academic purposes, learning skills in audience assessment, document planning and design, research, and effective writing. Students complete assignments ranging from academic essays to a variety of professional communication documents.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for more than one of CMNS 1810, CMNS 1291, ENGL 1810, CMNS 1811 or CMNS 1290
For more information, search for this course here.

EVNT 1100
The World of Events (3,0,0)

EVNT 1100 The World of Events (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students are introduced to the exciting world of events with a global snapshot of the modern events sector. Students gain insight into various genres and types of events, current trends, technology, management challenges, and best practices in delivering meaningful and memorable events.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% or equivalent.
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 1100
Finite Math with Applications 1 (3, 1.5, 0)

MATH 1100 Finite Math with Applications 1 (3, 1.5, 0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is intended primarily for Liberal Arts or Tourism students. Students solve problems that have direct relevance in the “real world." Topics to be covered include sets, counting, probability, matrices, linear programming, and math of finance. Prerequisites: Foundations of Math 11 with a minimum grade of 67% (C+) or Pre-Calculus 11 with a minimum grade of 67% (C+) or Foundations of Math 12 with a minimum grade of 60% (C) or MATH 0510 with a minimum grade of C- or MATH 0520 with a minimum grade of C- or MATH 0523 with a minimum grade of C- or MATH 0650 with a minimum grade of C-
Note: Students can get credit for only one of the following MATH 1070, MATH 1071, MATH 1090, MATH 1091, MATH 1100 or MATH 1101. Science Students do not receive credit for Math 1100.
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 1110
Introduction to Tourism (3,0,0)

TMGT 1110 Introduction to Tourism (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course introduces tourism as an industry and a phenomenon. Topics will include the economic, social, environmental and political environment in which tourism operates at a global and local level. Students are introduced to tourism products and experiences in B.C. and given the opportunity to identify career paths in the tourism industry.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% or equivalent
Note: Students may only receive credit for one of TMGT 1110, CONV 1010 or CONV 1011.
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 1160
Organizational Leadership in Tourism (3,0,0)

TMGT 1160 Organizational Leadership in Tourism (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is designed to address the changes occurring in the workplace today. As many of the graduates of this program will find themselves in supervisory positions within the tourism industry, the course will be delivered from the perspective of a supervisor and how he/she fits into today's organizations.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum 73% or equivalent or completion of ENGL 0600, or completion of ESAL 0570 and ESAL 0580 with a grade of C+ or better.
Note: Students may only receive credit for one of BBUS 2720, BBUS 2721, ORGB 2810, ORGB 2811 or TMGT 1160.
For more information, search for this course here.

Winter semester
ACCT 1000
Financial Accounting (3,0,0)

ACCT 1000 Financial Accounting (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students develop a basic understanding of financial accounting, which involves analyzing and recording a variety of financial transactions and preparing and evaluating financial reports. Topics financial statements; accounting events and entries; accounting adjustments; internal control and cash; accounts receivable; merchandising and inventory; long-term assets, liabilities; statement of cash flows; and financial statement analysis.
Prerequisite: Admission to the Diploma in Horticulture and Management, Tourism programs, Adventure Studies programs
Note: Students cannot receive credit for more than one of ACCT 1000, ACCT 1211, ACCT 1221, ACCT 2210, ACCT 2211, ACCT 1030, ACCT 1210, ACCT 1220, BBUS 2210 or BBUS 2211
For more information, search for this course here.

HMGT 1110
Catering and Service Management (3,0,5)

HMGT 1110 Catering and Service Management (3,0,5)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course presents a basic overview of the principles of catering and service management in a hospitality environment. Students review and critique styles of service and develop an understanding of how to make food and beverage outlets more guest-friendly and profitable. Service management is introduced by both theory and practice, and students reflect on contemporary issues related to providing service excellence in different service environments.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% or equivalent and Serving It Right and Foodsafe Level 1.
For more information, search for this course here.

CMNS 2290
Technical Communication (3,0,0)

CMNS 2290 Technical Communication (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students study a variety of technical communications used to document professional activity, including proposals, technical and formal reports, policies and procedures, technical descriptions and definitions, and instructions. Students learn the importance of documentation and accountability as part of professional due diligence, applicable across many fields including journalism, business, government, public service, consulting and research institutes. Students develop skills in assessing communication needs in a scenario, identifying communication goals, audience need and relevant media. Finally, students learn skills in research and synthesis to ensure professional engagement and presentation of research material. Prerequisites: CMNS 1291 OR CMNS 1290 OR ENGL 1100 OR ENGL 1101 OR CMNS 1810
Note: Students cannot receive credit for more than one of CMNS 2290, ENGL 2290 AND CMNS 2291
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 1140
Human Resources Management (3,0,0)

TMGT 1140 Human Resources Management (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Changing values, shifting demographics, evolving legislation and a growing emphasis on social responsibility are among the forces shaping the way we manage people today. Students examine human resource management issues as they relate to human resource planning, the legal environment, recruitment, and selection, evaluation and development, compensation, and emerging labour issues and trends in the tourism industry.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% or equivalent, or completion of ENGL 0600, or completion of ESAL 0570 and ESAL 0580 with a minimum of C+
Note: Students may only receive credit for one of BBUS 2810, BBUS 3810, BBUS 3811, HRMN 2820, HRMN 2821 or TMGT 1140.
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 1150
Tourism and Services Marketing (3,0,0)

TMGT 1150 Tourism and Services Marketing (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course explores the role, concepts and principles of marketing within the tourism industry. It examines market research and planning, product pricing and costing, packaging, promotion, service as a primary product, advertising methods, target marketing, factors in consumer preference and assessment of guest satisfaction.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum 73% or equivalent or completion of ENGL 0600, or completion of ESAL 0570 and ESAL 0580 with a minimum C+.
Note: Students may only receive credit for one of BBUS 2430, BBUS 3430, BBUS 3431, CONV 1060, CONV 1061, MKTG 2430, MKTG 2431 or TMGT 1150.
For more information, search for this course here.

Summer semester
COOP 1170
BTM Co-op Work Term 1

COOP 1170 BTM Co-op Work Term 1

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course provides TRU students access to co-op education. Co-operative education integrates academic studies with paid periods of relevant work experience and provides students with the opportunity to develop specific competencies, professional skills and technical knowledge related to their field of study.
Prerequisite: COOP 1000
For more information, search for this course here.

Total credits for Year 1 — 33
Year 2
Fall semester
EVNT 2100
Conference Management (3,0,0)

EVNT 2100 Conference Management (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students develop the knowledge and understanding necessary to plan, organize, manage and evaluate events primarily associated with meetings, conferences, and incentive travel. Students engage in objective setting, team building and program planning. Course topics include management functions such as transportation arrangements, selection of speakers, audio-visual arrangements, and risk management issues in the convention sector. Recommended
Prerequisite: EVNT 1100
Note: Students can only get credit for one of EVNT 2100 or CONV 2100
For more information, search for this course here.

EVNT 2260
Managing Festivals and Events (3,0,0)

EVNT 2260 Managing Festivals and Events (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course offers the basic skills needed for a business-like approach to planning and managing a well run, high quality special event. The focus of the course is on increasing organizational effectiveness and developing sound managerial strategies. Students explore practical subjects such as fundraising and sponsorship, managing volunteers, strategic planning, risk management, and post-event evaluation.
Prerequisite: EVNT 1100
Note: Students can only get credit for one of EVNT 2260, CONV 2260, CONV 1020 or CONV 1021
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 2010
Financial Operations Control in Tourism (3,0,0)

TMGT 2010 Financial Operations Control in Tourism (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course offers students an understanding of how they can use managerial accounting skills in their careers in the tourism industry. Students use accounting information for decision making, planning and control in the areas of marketing, operations, human resources, strategic investment, business performance evaluation, and budgeting.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% or equivalent and ACCT 1000-Introduction to Financial Accounting
Note: Students may only receive credit for one of ACCT 1010, ACCT 2250, ACCT 2251, BBUS 2541 or TMGT 2010.
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 2250
Tourism and Hospitality Law (3,0,0)

TMGT 2250 Tourism and Hospitality Law (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

In this course, students are introduced to the legal rights, responsibilities and obligations of organizations in the hospitality industry. This industry operates under a combination of Common Law and Statute Law passed by both federal and provincial legislature. Emphasis is placed on the legal problems regularly faced by business firms within this industry and their possible solutions.
Prerequisite: English Studies 12/English First Peoples 12 with a minimum of 73% or equivalent, or ENGL 0600, or ESAL 0570 with a minimum C+ and ESAL 0580 with a minimum C+
Note: Students may only receive credit for one of TMGT 2250, CONV 1050 or CONV 1051.
For more information, search for this course here.

Winter semester
EVNT 2070
Staging Special Events (3,0,0)

EVNT 2070 Staging Special Events (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students are introduced to the skills and terminology of the technical aspects of staging festivals, special events, concerts and conventions. Students are exposed to some of the fundamentals of staging including conception, design, delivery, logistics, lighting, and sound systems through a hands-on experience of staging an actual event.
Prerequisite: EVNT 2240 or EVNT 2260
Note: Students can only get credit for one of EVNT 2070 or TMGT 2070
For more information, search for this course here.

EVNT 2170
Fundraising for Non-Profit Organizations (3,0,0)

EVNT 2170 Fundraising for Non-Profit Organizations (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students learn the basic skills needed to conduct a fundraising campaign on behalf of a non-profit organization. In addition to discussions about the origins and evolution of philanthropy, students are exposed to various campaign models, public relations strategies and techniques for motivating volunteers.
Prerequisite: TMGT 1150 or equivalent
Note: Students can only get credit for one of EVNT 2170, CONV 2170
For more information, search for this course here.

EVNT 2500
Field Experience (0,2,3P)

EVNT 2500 Field Experience (0,2,3P)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course offers 2nd-year students the opportunity to connect academic course work with practical application by participating in a multi-day field experience where they have interaction and exposure to many facets of the events industry. Prior to engaging in the field experience, students participate in seminars to develop a deeper understanding of the aspects of the selected tours and visits, as well as to plan their travel itinerary within a budget. Upon return, students complete reflective oral and written assignments.
Prerequisite: Students must be enrolled in the 2nd year of the Events and Conventions Management Diploma or the Sport Events Management Diploma. Notes: This course has an activity fee attached. Students can only get credit for one of EVNT 2500, CONV 2500
For more information, search for this course here.

HMGT 2120
Hotel Sales and Convention Services (3,0,0)

HMGT 2120 Hotel Sales and Convention Services (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course provides insight into the scope and various segments of the groups market and demonstrates the relationship between professional service and operational success. Students will be given a comprehensive introduction to the complexities of managing a convention facility as well as exposure to key group markets and techniques for attracting them to the property.
Prerequisite: TMGT 1150 or equivalent.
Note: Students will only receive credit for one of HMGT 2120, BBUS 3450, BBUS 3451, MKTG 3450 or MKTG 3451.
For more information, search for this course here.

TMGT 2590
Entrepreneurship in Tourism (3,0,0)

TMGT 2590 Entrepreneurship in Tourism (3,0,0)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is designed to introduce students to entrepreneurship. Students examine the role and nature of entrepreneurship as a mechanism for creating new ventures along with career opportunities, and some methods for individual self-assessment. Additional topics include generating ideas for a business venture, opportunity analysis, locating and mobilizing resources, and developing a business plan.
Prerequisite: TMGT 1150 and TMGT 2010 or equivalent
For more information, search for this course here.

Total credits for Year 2 — 27
Total program credits — 60

TRU story: Nicole Sihlis

Events and Conventions Management - Bachelor of Tourism Management - Founder of Created Lovely Events, Kelowna, BC

Nicole Sihlis
Why TRU?

I’m creative and I love helping people achieve memorable, positive experiences. I wanted a career in event planning so when I discovered the Events and Conventions Management Diploma at TRU I knew I found the link to achieve my aspirations. Taking the leap to leave my hometown of Saskatoon to a end TRU changed my life.

From TRU to NHL

I started my business one month after graduation. In my first year I did three weddings, managing $40,000 worth of budgets. Last year, I completed 21 weddings with five staff members, and managed $1.5M worth of budgets. I planned two NHL player weddings and booked my first NBA player client. In five years of business I’ve been featured in over 20 magazines and blogs. I’m so proud of where I’m at and TRU was a big part of that.

TRU story: Michelle McAleese

BTM 2017, Events and Conventions Management Diploma 2015

Michelle McAleese
Why TRU?

“Don’t wait for school to be finished to look for a job. Network with peers, professors and community members throughout your university years and you never know where it will take you after graduation.”

 More about Michelle

Hometown: Blind Bay
Current residence: Kamloops
Employment: Social media and content marketing specialist for Tourism Kamloops

Michelle always wanted to combine marketing and tourism into one job. With the help of TRU, she landed her dream job. Michelle really likes inspiring people to come to cool, new places and show them the things that make a place unique. She also loves executing a business plan and seeing everything come together in the end. With Tourism Kamloops, her main responsibilities are to produce organic social media posts, organize and write blog posts, send out monthly emails, organize photography shoots and track analytics.


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