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CERTIFICATION 6 min read December 1, 2025

The Difference Between BASE, CORE, ACE & CEP: Which Level Is Right for You?

A comprehensive guide to SEA's structured certification pathway—from foundational competence to elite mastery.

Introduction

The Special Events Academy offers a structured, tiered pathway designed to take you from foundational competence to elite mastery. Understanding the differences helps you select the best starting point.

1
BASE
2
CORE
3
ACE
4
CEP

BASE

Building the Foundations

Who it's for:

Beginners
Career changers
Volunteers stepping into leadership
Junior coordinators

What you learn:

  • How events work behind the scenes
  • Event types & industry sectors
  • Basic budgeting
  • Venue logistics
  • Vendor coordination
  • Intro to marketing
  • Understanding permits & safety

Outcome:

A solid baseline understanding with enough knowledge to support or coordinate small to mid-sized events.

CORE

Operational Excellence & Professionalization

Who it's for:

Working planners
Those ready for more responsibility
People wanting to progress into leadership roles

What you learn:

  • Advanced budgeting
  • Risk management
  • Contracting & insurance
  • How to scale operations
  • Sponsorship acquisition
  • Marketing systems
  • Volunteer & staffing frameworks

Outcome:

You become a competent, reliable, professional event operator capable of producing complex events.

ACE

Advanced Certificate of Excellence

Who it's for:

Experienced planners
Festival producers
Venue managers
Corporate event professionals

What you learn:

  • Large-scale event operations
  • Multi-day planning
  • Crisis management
  • Revenue expansion
  • Leadership & team building
  • Strategic decision-making
  • Advanced guest experience design

Outcome:

You're recognized as a high-level expert capable of producing major events with confidence.

CEP

Certified Event Professional (Capstone Required)

Who it's for:

Students who have completed: BASE + CORE + ACE

What it includes:

  • A comprehensive capstone project
  • Real-world application
  • Demonstration of full, professional-level competence

Outcome:

Certification as a CEP—your evidence that you meet the highest training standard in the SEA system.

Ready to Start Your Certification Journey?

Whether you're just starting out or ready to complete your CEP, we have the right program for you. Save $248 when you enroll in the Full Bundle.

Quick Comparison Guide

Level Best For Duration Investment
BASE Beginners & Career Changers 4-6 weeks $249
CORE Working Planners 6-8 weeks $349
ACE Experienced Professionals 8-10 weeks $449
CEP All Three + Capstone 3-6 months total $799 Bundle

Save $248 when you enroll in the Full CEP Bundle ($799 vs $1,047 separately)