Event Planning (Co-op option available) at Durham College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-10-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Event Planning program at Durham College is an excellent choice for individuals who are organized, detail-oriented, and thrive in fast-paced environments. This program is designed for those aspiring to become event planners or coordinators, preparing students for a versatile career that spans various industries. Students will learn to design, plan, and execute a diverse range of corporate, community, and social events while developing strong business acumen and a keen eye for detail. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the event planning industry.

Program Structure

The Event Planning program is a two-year diploma program offered at the Whitby campus. It consists of four semesters, where students engage in both classroom instruction and practical application. Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: Four semesters
Delivery Method: In-person learning
Co-op Option: Available, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in the field
Experiential Learning: Students participate in real-world events and a capstone project

This comprehensive structure ensures that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in practical settings, preparing them for successful careers in event planning.

Featured Experiences

The Event Planning program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Co-op Opportunities: Students can apply for a co-op option to gain valuable work experience in the industry.
Capstone Event: A significant experiential component where students plan and execute a major event.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, which includes modern event spaces and labs.
Hands-On Learning: Students engage in various experiential events, applying their skills in real-world scenarios.

Career Options

Graduates of the Event Planning program can pursue a variety of career paths in the event planning industry. Here are some potential job titles and brief descriptions:

Conference Services Coordinator: Manages logistics and operations for conferences, ensuring smooth execution.
Event/Festival Coordinator: Plans and oversees events and festivals, coordinating all aspects from logistics to marketing.
Event Manager: Responsible for the overall planning and execution of events, managing teams and budgets.
Public Relations/Marketing Coordinator: Develops marketing strategies and manages public relations for events.
Wedding Planner: Works with clients to plan and execute weddings, managing all details to create memorable experiences.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to work in various settings, including corporate, non-profit, and private sectors.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-10-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To enter the Event Planning program, you will need:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status AND
Grade 12 English (C or U)

Are you missing Academic Requirements? We are here to help.

Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet Academic Requirements in English and/or math. Domestic applicants that are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program, and who do not have the required program credit(s) i.e., Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 math are eligible to take an admissions assessment test.

DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program. Available to individuals 18+, these courses are offered on-campus at DC. Boost your qualifications with:

Grade 12 Math (MAP4C equivalent)
Grade 12 English (ENG4C equivalent)
Grade 11 Biology (SBI3C equivalent)
Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4C equivalent)

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

We encourage all students to apply as soon as possible to secure their place in this exciting program. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to Durham College for our undergraduate programs if they have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent high school diploma from another country which includes:

One senior-level English language credit (from an English-speaking country as listed below)
Equivalent English Proficiency test results (see chart below), or
Completion of an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program through one of our recognized English Language Partner schools.

Applicants from Canadian curriculum high schools, both inside and outside of Canada, must complete a minimum of three years of high school credits to be considered for exemption from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript.

Applicants with a minimum of three years of high school or post-secondary studies in Canada, Australia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, New Zealand, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, some Caribbean countries, and selected other countries may be exempted from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript. Exceptions may apply.

English Language Proficiency Tests accepted include:

Academic IELTS: 6.0, no band score less than 5.5
IBT TOEFL: 80, with minimum section scores of 20
PTE Academic: 53 minimum overall, no section below 49 L,W,S,R
CAEL: Overall scores of 60 with no section below 60
DUOLINGO ENGLISH TEST (DET): 105

For specific programs, such as Practical Nursing, the requirements are:

Academic IELTS: 7.0, with no band less than 6.5
TOEFL: 94, with minimum section scores of 23

All other students must submit their valid IELTS Academic/TOEFL/PTE Academic scores to International Admissions. Only tests taken in the last 2 years and valid at the time a student begins their program will be accepted.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!