Pursue the Leading Online Graduate Program in Meeting and Event Management
Shaped in collaboration with MPI to address industry needs, the San Diego State University (SDSU) L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management’s Meeting and Event Management (MEM) Master’s program prepares professionals to move beyond execution into strategic leadership. This 21-month online program supports advancement at multiple points in a professional career. Start With a Program Advisor Today.
Benefit from a Unique Partnership
With MPI and SDSU, you gain more than just an education—you gain a powerful partnership with an industry leader and a mentor dedicated to your success. In a field as fast-moving as meetings and events, the core principles of strong leadership remain timeless.
SDSU’s program is designed to instill these enduring leadership lessons, equipping you to navigate change and drive innovation. As the largest global association in the industry, MPI is committed to connecting the global meeting and event community to learn, innovate, collaborate, and advocate—ensuring you have the resources and network to thrive in your career.
Learn on Your Time With a Supportive Community
Join a nationwide community of professionals earning their master’s degrees online through SDSU. Our cohort-based format ensures you learn as much from your peers as from the coursework. The Meeting and Event Management Master’s program blends flexibility with immersive learning—featuring two on-campus weeks in beautiful San Diego, where interactive discussions and hands-on activities forge lasting connections. Between these transformative experiences, enjoy the freedom of our online format, balancing your education with your career.
Meet weekly coursework deadlines on your own schedule, connect with industry leaders, and shape the future of meeting and event planning – all while applying learnings to your personal and professional life.
Leadership Development Grounded in Real-World Practice
- Active engagement with industry leaders
- Instantly applicable business and leadership takeaways
- Personalized mentor relationships to support your success
- TED Talk-style guest lectures
- A capstone project that elevates your professional impact
The Meeting and Event Management Master’s is designed for professionals working across the meetings and events ecosystem, including:
- Corporate meetings and events
- Association and nonprofit meetings
- Third-party and independent planning organizations
- Convention services and venue operations
- Audiovisual, production, and technical services
- Event marketing, communications, and brand experiences
- Event design, strategy, and experience architecture
The program is well-suited for professionals holding industry credentials such as CMP or CMM, as well as those preparing to advance into more strategic leadership roles.
Interested in hospitality and tourism management? We also offer an HTM master's program that offers the same opportunities for career advancement in that related field. Looking for more details about our innovative Master’s in Meeting and Event Management? Provide your contact information below to stay informed about the program and receive educational content.


