College of Education and Professional Studies
Event Management
Bachelor of Science | Major
Event Management Specialization
Event management is a field that thrives on innovation, imagination, and the ability to create extraordinary experiences.
With a bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management, you will take courses that combine the principles of hospitality and tourism with the art of crafting unforgettable events. From intimate gatherings to large-scale productions, you will work on actual events and learn the intricacies of creating immersive experiences that captivate and delight attendees.
Questions? Contact Us.
Carla Jellum
Do Something Great
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management
Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management Core
- HRM 381 - Management of Human Resources
- HTE 201 - Introduction to Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management
- HTE 230 - Program and Event Budgeting
- HTE 303 - Hospitality Leadership
- HTE 373D - Convention and Meeting Management
- HTE 419 - Applied Research and Evaluation
- HTE 420 - Program Promotion, Sales and Advertising
- HTE 484 - Hospitality Law, Negotiation, and Risk Management
- HTE 487 - HTE Capstone
- HTE 492 - Senior Practicum Credits
Event Management Specialization
- ACCT 301 - Accounting Skills for Non-Accounting Majors
- OR BME 146 - Basic Accounting
- OR SPM 430 - Grant Writing, Fundraising, and Sponsorship in Sport Management
- HTE 331 - Sustainable Events: Best Practices
- HTE 374 - Festivals and Event Planning
- HTE 375 - Virtual Event Design
- HTE 393N - Destination Marketing
- HTE 405 - Hospitality Catering
Department-Approved Electives
- HTE 202 - Food and Beverage Operations
- HTE 272 - Lodging Operations I
- HTE 309 - Facility Planning, Maintenance and Safety
- HTE 310 - Customer Service Operations
- HTE 337 - Tour and Interpretive Program Development
- HTE 371 - Tourism Essentials
- HTE 373E - Resort Management
- HTE 379 - Cruise Line Industry
- HTE 386 - International Travel
- MKT 360 - Principles of Marketing
- MKT 376 - Foundations of Digital Marketing
- WINE 201 - Wine Service and Food Pairing
- WINE 452 - Regional Wine Tourism
Benefit from Connections
Engage in real-world event planning through CWU’s connection to local festivals, conventions, and community events, allowing you to apply classroom theory to practice.
HTE 393N – Destination Marketing
Discover what makes a place worth visiting and how to share its story. Learn how destinations build their brand, attract visitors, and create sustainable tourism.
Study Abroad
Expand your knowledge by studying event management globally through CWU’s study abroad opportunities, enhancing your cultural competence in the events field.
Experienced Faculty
Learn from instructors who bring years of industry experience in event planning and management, providing insights into current trends and best practices.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Industry
The event management industry is projected to grow by 18% from 2021 to 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Skill Set
Develop transferable skills in project management, communication, and leadership that are essential across various industries.
Benefits
Careers in event management often offer dynamic work environments, with opportunities to travel, meet new people, and work on high-profile events.
Career Outlook
Event planners bring people together for unforgettable experiences. With strong organizational and communication skills, graduates can find opportunities across Washington State and beyond.
Wages and Opportunities
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners earn competitive salaries that grow with experience and specialization.
- In Eastern Washington, professionals earn an average of $57,400 annually.
- Nationally, event planners earn an average of $59,440.
- Across the state of Washington, the average salary rises to $66,070, with the top 10% earning more than $102,000 per year.
Data provided by O*NET and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Successful Fields
Festival Organizer/Manager
Meeting and Convention Planner
Nonprofit Event Coordinator
Wedding and Private Event Planner
Entertainment Supplier
Commitment to a Sustainable World
Central Washington University is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. Many CWU programs embed sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.
CWU is nationally recognized for this work through the AASHE STARS Gold rating, reflecting our dedication to transparency, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement.
Sustainability courses include:
- HTE 309 Facility Planning, Maintenance and Safety
- HTE 371 Tourism Essentials
- HTE 330 Sustainable Resources for Tourism
- HTE 331 Sustainable Events: Best Practices
- HTE 355 Sustainable Tourism
Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.