Program Information

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you have a question? Read on to find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Event Management Certificate Program.

Should I attend an Informational Open House?

Yes, if at all possible. If you are unsure about the program or wish to speak to students currently in the program, you are invited to attend a free informational Open House on Career Opportunities in Event Management. At this hour long Open House, you will learn about the program as well as what you can do with the Certificate once you graduate. Open House is usually held every other month at The University of San Diego Manchester Executive Conference Center.

To reserve your spot at an upcoming Open House, call 619.260.5986 or reserve online.

Can I expect to receive a registration confirmation?

When you register online and payment is processed, registration is confirmed. You will not receive anything else in the mail. Please call 619.260.5986 if you have any additional questions about your registration.

What if a course for which I thought I have registered for does not appear on my confirmation letter or invoice?

You should contact the Program Coordinator by telephone at 619.260.5986, or email Monica Phelps-Zambrano at monica@sandiego.edu whenever you are in doubt about any course for which you have registered.

What if I have to drop a course?

USD does not issue refunds. You will have a course credit which can be used towards future courses.

Where are courses held?

All Courses are held at the USD Manchester Executive Conference Center, unless otherwise stated. Click here for directions.

What if I can't get into a class because it is full?

Because we cap the courses at 35 students, sometimes they become full. At those times, students can request to be placed on a waiting list. Should a space open up in a class, students on the waitlist will be notified. We encourage you to register early for courses. Click here to register online for the Event Management Certificate Program.

When are classes held?

View our current class schedule.

In what sequence should I take classes?

You should take "Best Practices in Event Management" first. We then suggest you take "Event Coordination", "Event Marketing", and "Risk Management: Financial, Legal, and Ethical Safeguards" next, in that order. For further information about the sequence in which you should take classes, please contact the Program Coordinator or send an e-mail to monica@sandiego.edu.

What electives should I take?

You should take courses in which you are interested, or ones that can best help you pursue your goals.

What kind of position and earning potential can I experience once I become a graduate of the Event Management Program?

Our alumni have gone on to become Professional Event Managers in the government and private sectors, Meeting Planners with large Associations, and Conference Directors of major Universities. Starting salaries vary depending on the type of job and geographical location.

Can I take courses in Event Management outside of USD?

USD as a licensee with GWU and five other Universities worldwide offer this standardized event management curriculum.

When is graduation?

Graduation Ceremonies are annually. For more information on certificate completion requirements and the graduation date click here.

What if my address or phone number changes?

Please email the Program Coordinator at monica@sandiego.edu or call 619.260.5986

Is there a distance learning option available?

Yes. Distance learning courses are coordinated directly through George Washington University. Please visit http://www.gwu-aqe.org for more information.

Billing Questions

How much are courses?

Courses that are 1.2 CEUs are $350.00; in-class courses that are 0.6 CEU are $200.00. Click here to find out how many CEUs are granted to each course.

How can I pay for the courses?

Upon registration, you may submit a check for the amount of the course(s) for which you have registered. All checks should me made payable to: The University of San Diego and mailed to:

University of San Diego
5998 Alcalá Park
San Diego, CA 92110
ATTN: Monica Phelps-Zambrano

You may also pay by credit card. MasterCard, Visa and American Express are accepted.

What if I still have questions about my invoice?

Contact the Program Coordinator at 619.260.5986 or by email at monica@sandiego.edu.

Can I receive a refund for a course if I was absent?

No. USD will issue you a credit which can be used for future courses within two years.

Once I graduate from the program, do I get any discount on courses?

All Event Management courses are available to qualified USD/GWU Alumni of the Event Management Program at a nominal fee of $225.00. No credit is received for alumni audit courses. To enroll or for further information, call the Program Coordinator at 619.260.5986.

Program Requirements Questions

When do I become an alum of the Program?

Alumni are students who have completed seven courses (four core courses and three electives), the practicum and portfolio. They have no outstanding debt to the University.

How long do I have to complete the Certificate?

You have two years to complete the Certificate. The start date is the first day of your first class.

What is the practicum?

A practicum is similar to an internship where you have a chance to get real experience by working in the events industry. 100 hours of practicum hours are required and can be done in one or more sites. Most students complete over 100 hours in practicum experience.

Where should I do my practicum?

We ask that you select a practicum site that you would like to know more about and is different from your present work. For example, if you work in catering and know little about décor lighting, you should seek out a practicum in the décor or lighting fields. Your practicum hours will not count if you use your current job for the hours.

How do I find a site to do my 100 hours of practicum?

Students are expected to locate their own practicum site, however, help is available if requested. For help, please contact the Program Coordinator at 619.260.5986.

Will I get paid for doing my practicum?

In the past, some students have been paid for their practicum. This is not always the case, and should not be expected.

How do I complete the portfolio?

Click here for more information on completing your portfolio.

What is ISES?

The International Special Events Society (ISES) is an independent organization made up of professionals in the event industry. ISES grants the Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) designation to qualified persons. One can earn up to 10.5 points towards the 35 needed to sit for the exam by taking courses in the Event Management Professional Certificate Program. For more information regarding ISES, the CSEP, and point allotments, please contact ISES at 1-800-688-ISES or www.ises.com.