TAHLEQUAH — Beginning this fall, Northeastern State University will offer a certificate in event management to train those interested in excelling in the hospitality and tourism management industry.
Students who enroll in the 15-hour certificate program will learn the basics of meeting management, service industry management, tourism marketing, and convention and trade show management.
“It’s a great way for the university to help provide professional development for workers without them needing to return to university full-time,” said Dr. Joan Williams, associate professor of management. hospitality and tourism. “We can accept any student wanting the certificate, regardless of their previous university experience.”
Williams said university officials are constantly looking for opportunities to better serve the community, which led officials to develop a certificate in event management to better prepare individuals for the hospitality industry. .
She said the COVID-19 pandemic has shown how vulnerable the hospitality and tourism industry can be. She added that while great strides have been made in integrating technology to keep business going, there is still no substitute for face-to-face interactions and events.
Williams said students enrolled in the certificate program will also learn how the pandemic has changed the way the industry operates and how it will influence it in the future.
“Some things will go back to ‘normal’ but so many things will be different as we move forward,” Williams said. “We want our students to have the best practices available.”
Williams said the certificate would also be beneficial for those who work with nonprofits. She said that many non-profit organizations organize fundraising events which are their main source of income. Additionally, she said nonprofits also provide networking and educational experiences for their members to help them stay relevant and vital in their sector.
According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, employment of meeting, convention and event planners is projected to increase by 7.1% from 2018 to 2028. Additionally, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment of meeting, convention and event planners is expected to increase 8% from 2019 to 2029.
In addition to the new certificate, NSU also offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management. The program has three components: meeting and convention management, tourism destination development, and gaming operations and procedures.
To learn more about the Event Management Certificate or Hospitality and Tourism Management program, contact Williams at [email protected] or visit https://cbt.nsuok.edu/HTM.aspx
