This degree can be completed in as little as two years, earning 61 credit hours. To complete the degree in two years, you would take a full course load of 13-15 credits per semester in addition to one Summer Session internship. Length of completion depends on your personal needs and schedule. You will work with your advisor to design a class schedule that is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Description
This Associate of Arts degree program prepares graduates for various careers in Meeting, Convention, and Event Planning; including in such positions as meeting planners, conference planners, catering planners, exposition organizers, travel managers, corporate planners, trade show coordinators, incentive travel planners, independent meeting planners, seminar coordinators and sports event planners.
Can I receive in-county tuition if I live in Delaware or Montgomery County?
If you are a resident of Delaware or Montgomery County and enrolled in the Meeting, Convention, and Event Planning program, you will not have to pay out-of-county tuition. Please review our Shared Programs at Bucks for more information. Additionally, the request form for out-of-county residents can be found below.
How long does it take to complete this program?
When does this program begin?
Classes at Bucks are offered on a rolling basis, and there is no set start date for the Meeting, Convention, and Event Planning degree. You can consult with an academic advisor to determine the best time to begin your classes.
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How much does the program cost?
Tuition is calculated by credit hour and is determined by your residency* – in-county, out-of-county or out-of-state. Each course is billed at the time of registration, and so the cost per term is determined by the courses for which you register. In addition to tuition, the following fees are assessed at registration:
- College Service Fee: Flat rate
- Activity Fee: Per credit hour (Fall and Spring terms only)
- Technology Support Fee: Per credit hour
- New Student Fee: Flat rate (First term of enrollment only)
Please refer to our Tuition webpage for a full breakdown of tuition and fees for the current academic year. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
*If you are a resident of Delaware or Montgomery County and enrolled in the Meeting, Convention and Event planning program, you will not have to pay out-of-county tuition. Please visit our Shared Programs page for more information.
Can I take the classes online?
Yes! Classes are offered in-person and online through Zoom and eLearning.
Synchronous classes meet at an assigned time and have 'face-to-face' interaction with instructors through Zoom. Asynchronous eLearning classes do not have assigned class times and work can be completed at your convenience, although assignments must be completed by due dates. Students regularly interact through online discussions with instructors and fellow students. Times and modalities offered for a specific class can be found in Self-Service.
If you don't find what you are looking for, be sure to search another semester. Students who require a fully remote degree should meet with an advisor to discuss options.
How do I find an internship?
You will work one-on-one with an advisor to find a situation that fits your schedule and needs. Arrangements will be made to accommodate those students who are currently employed full time to help them complete the internship requirement.
What skills and abilities are needed to be successful in this field?
Some skills required of the successful event planner include those in problem solving, leadership, attention to detail, time and financial management, creativity and flexibility, communication, networking, and tech expertise as well as interest in and willingness to travel.
How will this degree prepare me for my career?
Graduates of this program are able to plan corporate and business meetings and conferences; provide a variety of service functions in preparing for an event and managing ancillary services, including food and beverage requirements; develop sales techniques and marketing plans; and develop business presentation techniques for group and convention presentations.
What is the career outlook for this field?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, this field is projected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average of 3% for all occupations. Employers include professional, civic, and religious organizations (17%); arts, entertainment, and recreation (12%); accommodation and food services (12%), and administrative and support services (9%).
How do I register for classes?
Follow these admissions steps:
- Apply to Bucks
- Complete Placement Testing and/or receive waivers.
- Meet with an Advisor and Register.
- Your advisor can assist you with course registration
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Find Scholarships