How to Learn Virtual Event Planning Online (Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners)
As more companies look to host webinars, conferences, and workshops from behind a screen, demand for virtual event planners has exploded. If you’ve ever wondered how to learn virtual event planning online—and do it in a structured, affordable, and effective way—you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the online Virtual Event Planning course available on Coursera and whether it’s the right fit for you. We’ll also explore industry research, student feedback, and comparisons with other courses so you can make the best decision.
Let’s get started.
What Is the Coursera Virtual Event Planning Course?
The Virtual Event Planning course on Coursera is designed to train individuals on how to plan, manage, and execute professional online events—from small webinars to large-scale conferences.
The course is hosted on Coursera, known for offering accessible, expert-led content. Although the course creator isn’t specifically named, it’s curated in a way that makes it suitable for anyone—whether you’re new to the industry or transitioning from in-person event coordination.
What You’ll Learn Inside the Course
While there isn’t a full published syllabus, most virtual event courses (according to HubSpot’s digital education trends) cover the following:
- Selecting the right virtual event platform (Zoom, Hopin, Webex, etc.)
- Budget planning and securing online sponsorships
- Engaging virtual audiences through interactive content
- Managing tech hiccups and last-minute issues
- Building online agendas and optimizing the attendee experience
These core areas are crucial according to digital event professionals. In fact, according to EventMB’s recent report, audience engagement and tech issues are the two most common challenges virtual event planners face. So gaining reliable training in these areas is key to long-term success.
Why Learn Virtual Event Planning in 2024?
Here’s a fact you might not have known: Even post-pandemic, over 70% of companies are expected to keep hosting hybrid or fully virtual events (source: Bizzabo, 2023 survey).
That means getting trained as a virtual event planner could be a smart career move if you’re looking to:
- Start a side hustle or freelance business
- Change careers into event management
- Work as a remote employee for a large organization that hosts virtual conferences
Unlike traditional in-person event planning, you won’t need to rely on local venues, vendors, or logistics. That means less overhead—and more flexibility.
So if you’re the kind of person who loves organization, tech, hosting events, or working from anywhere, this skill is worth picking up.
Pros and Cons of the Coursera Virtual Event Planning Course
Let’s be honest: Not all online courses are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the major pros and cons of this course based on our research and user feedback from Reddit and Quora.
✅ Pros:
- Learn on your own schedule—perfect for busy professionals.
- Focus on Real Tools: Teaches practical platforms used in the industry.
- No Prior Experience Required: Beginner-friendly intro to a growing field.
- Affordable: Compared to $800+ programs, Coursera keeps things budget-friendly (often under $100/month).
❌ Cons:
- No Instructor Support: Currently, there’s no mention of live mentorship or 1:1 coaching.
- Lacks Published Price Structure: You must create an account to see exact pricing.
- Self-Discipline Required: You’ll need to stay motivated without instructors pushing deadlines.
How Does This Course Compare to Alternatives?
If you’re weighing your options, here’s how the Coursera course compares to other leading online event training programs.
IAP Career College Event Planner Course
- Self-paced, $149
- Offers downloadable resources and career coaching
- Strong in in-person events, basic in virtual specifics
Penn Foster Event Planning Diploma
- $849–$1,049
- Includes textbooks, progress tracking tools
- Geared toward structured learning, less hands-on with virtual tools
Universal Class Event Management Bundle
- ~$170
- Covers corporate and social events
- Better fit for traditional rather than digital event formats
Coursera’s Virtual Event Planning course is ideal if you’re committed to learning virtual-only strategies and don’t want to drop a thousand dollars doing it.
Real Student Feedback: What Are Learners Saying?
Because detailed reviews aren’t publicly listed, we researched discussion forums on Reddit and Quora. Learners routinely praise Coursera courses for offering:
- Affordable education
- Flexibility to work around careers and families
- Intros to tech platforms commonly used in the industry
But some users caution about outdated content in some Coursera programs—so it’s smart to verify course creation or update dates before diving in.
Is the Coursera Course Right for You?
You should take this course if you:
- Are curious about event planning but want a modern, digital approach
- Want to start offering freelance event planning services online
- Are already in marketing or admin roles and want to upskill your remote toolkit
This course may not be right for you if you’re looking for a highly personalized program with mentorship, or if you’re mainly interested in live/in-person events.
Tips to Get the Most from This Course
Make your online learning journey pay off by:
- Blocking off specific time on your calendar each week
- Applying what you learn by planning a mock event with friends
- Joining event planning Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities
- Pairing this course with tools like Canva (for design), OBS (for streaming), or Trello (for planning)
Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?
In a nutshell: learning how to plan virtual events online is one of those niche digital skills that’s likely to remain in demand for years. Whether for career growth or launching your own business, this course is a low-barrier entry into a scalable skill set.
While the Coursera Virtual Event Planning course doesn’t include 1:1 coaching or a community, it does offer solid training at an affordable price.
And for most beginners, that’s a great place to start.
Ready to Start Planning Virtual Events?
If you’re serious about making your mark in the digital event world, don’t wait. Start building your skills today with an affordable, flexible learning path.
Further Reading & Source:
1. EventMB Industry Report: https://www.eventmanagerblog.com
2. Reddit: “Best Online Event Planning Courses?” Thread (https://www.reddit.com/r/eventplanning/)