Best Hospitality Colleges in the U.S.

Questions About Hospitality Degrees

What are the different degrees I can get in Hospitality?

Undergraduates typically receive a Bachelor of Science degree. While some universities have distinct hospitality schools, others have their hospitality programs under the direction of the business school. Common majors include hospitality management, entertainment and event management, or restaurant and food services management. Within each of these disciplines, some colleges offer additional specialization. For example, hospitality management students at Orlando-based University of Central Florida may select a track in golf and club management, lodging management, professional tennis management, or theme park and attraction management.

Students wishing to further develop their industry knowledge often pursue a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management, a Master of Management in Hospitality, or a Master of Business Administration. For hospitality-related research or teaching, a Ph.D. is the next step. Many schools also conduct continuing education programs for working professionals. These certificates serve as recognized marks of achievement in specific areas, such as destination marketing or event management.

What are some of the skills and experiences I will gain through Hospitality?

Core classes often include human resources management, marketing, hospitality law, leadership, ethics, strategic management, food sanitation, and managerial communication. Much of your additional coursework will be devoted to your particular area of interest. An event management major, for instance, might take specialized courses such as food preparation for catered events, event promotion, and advanced trade show management. An entertainment management student’s schedule might include consumer behavior in entertainment, entertainment and technology, and entertainment law and ethics. All hospitality degree seekers need to be prepared to get out from behind a desk. Most schools encourage internships and other practical experiences. At Rochester Institute of Technology, Henry’s Restaurant operates on the same floor as the hospitality department, enabling students to experience what it takes to run all aspects of an actual dining establishment.

What are Hospitality programs seeking in their applicants?

Couple a solid high school transcript with an entrance essay showcasing your enthusiasm for a career in the hospitality industry. When listing extracurricular activities, be sure to highlight examples of leadership and organizational skills. And be proud of any related work experience. Future execs benefit from understanding what’s involved in being a waitress or a city tour guide!

Should I study Hospitality online or on a campus?

Online programs can be especially appealing for practicing professionals, especially ones who routinely travel for work. And with well-known institutions such as The School of Hospitality Business at Michigan State University getting in on the action, the quality of classes continues to increase. Through videos and live-streamed classes, you might choose to learn about career-specific areas such as hospitality management information systems or gaming operations. Those who select a traditional campus setting often appreciate the active role schools take in helping them find those all-important internships. They also benefit from hands-on campus facilities, such as the 200-seat training dining room, two test kitchens, and beer and wine laboratory at the University of Central Florida.

What are some cutting edge careers in this industry?

How about managing a casino property? As various states continue to expand their gaming industries, new establishments will need skilled leaders. (And, of course, there’s always Vegas.) Knowledge of operations, food and beverage, event planning, and hotel management could lead to a lucrative casino resort management job. Top execs can command a salary around $200,000. Or perhaps you’re better suited to a position in international tourism. It’s a small world (and not just at Disney), so cities, convention centers, theme parks, and other attractions want to increase their revenues by attracting foreign visitors.

How do you work your way to the top in the Hospitality Industry?

Experts cite education, experience, and leadership skills as keys to advancement. The best colleges realize the importance of real-life practice to future employment prospects and make internships and hands-on learning vital parts of the curriculum. For instance, undergrad degree requirements at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration include 800 hours of practice credit earned over summers or through part-time employment. Practicing professionals desiring higher positions need to keep up on industry trends and present a solid track record of quality performance.

Are there scholarships or grants available to people looking to study hospitality?

The American Hotel & Lodging Education Foundation provides undergraduate and graduate scholarship opportunities for future hospitality leaders. It will award more than $860,000 in 2016 alone, with amounts ranging from $500 to $6,000. The non-profit foundation Tourism Cares seeks to help aspiring hospitality leaders through up to 52 scholarships presented each year. The selection committee awards these merit scholarships based on academic performance, extracurricular and volunteer activities and experiences, motivation, and leadership potential. And if your future hospitality career has a food-related angle, check out the James Beard Foundation. The organization honors a man dedicated to helping people interested in culinary education – perhaps the next one selected could be you!