Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranked school for a master’s in hospitality management is Purdue University, followed by University of Central Florida.
- These programs develop skills for diverse hospitality careers, enhancing customer service in sectors like hotels and restaurants.
- They focus on real-world applications, like managing tourism and food service, with opportunities for significant research.
- Top programs often include internships and practical training, supported by career centers at the institutions.
- Graduates are prepared for leadership roles, with the ability to handle dynamic challenges in the hospitality industry.
Hospitality isn’t just about working in a hotel or restaurant—one of the 30 Best Master’s in Hospitality Management will provide you with the skills you need for a career where no two days are ever the same.
Earning a master’s degree in hospitality will prepare you for an endless array of career opportunities. You’ll acquire the customer service skills you need to give customers a fantastic experience, whether that’s by managing a hotel or restaurant, whipping up delicious foods as a chef or baker, or working in marketing at a theme park.
As a hospitality major, you’ll be able to work with people from different backgrounds and flex your creative muscles. Plus, your diverse skill set will enable you to pursue all kinds of jobs in an industry that seems to be constantly growing and evolving. In fact, in just one month of 2019 alone (June), the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that more than a million new jobs were created in the leisure and hospitality industry.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to consider a master’s degree in hospitality.
Last Updated: January 29, 2025
What Are the Best Master’s in Hospitality Management Degrees?
At CollegeRank, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals.
To supply you with the best of the best in Master’s in Hospitality Management degree programs, we considered the following points when compiling this list, such as:
- The school’s ability to provide a quality Master’s degree program in the field of Hospitality Management,
- Offering various learning degree formats, such as online, on-campus, or hybrid coursework,
- Taught by professionals in the field of Hospitality Management,
- Offers financial aid opportunities, such as federal loans, scholarships, and grants,
- Displays proper accreditation, pursuant to the field of Hospitality Management,
- Prepares graduates for career advancement in Hospitality Management.
Please feel free to visit our dedicated methodology page for a step-by-step breakdown. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@www.collegerank.net.
Purdue University – Main Campus
With more than 200 majors for undergraduates and 69 majors for graduate students to choose from, Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, is a jack of all trades when it comes to higher education. It also has more than 900 student organizations and 18 intercollegiate sports teams!
Yet despite this diversity of programmatic offerings, this school remains acutely committed to student success and has one of the very best master’s in hospitality management. You will have two options to choose from—a Master of Science and a Doctor of Philosophy in hospitality. It is a highly customized program that will enable you to choose 18 out of the 34 required hours to meet your own unique needs and goals.
The College of Health and Human Sciences’ master’s in hospitality will allow you to pursue research in lodging, tourism, or food service. You will have the opportunity to work closely with faculty in small, close-knit classes as you complete your research and take classes in your area of interest.
Courses cover topics like consumer affairs, industrial management, food science and nutrition, community planning, and more. This degree is ranked the best master’s degree program by the Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Education. You’ll have access to the services of the HTM Career Center as you pursue internships and one-year practical training positions.
University of Central Florida
Just a few miles from downtown Orlando, the University of Central Florida is located in what might be considered one of the world’s biggest tourism hubs. As a student at this Orange County campus, you’ll have access to all kinds of employment opportunities, including those at Walt Disney World, the Space Coast, and much more.
Offered by the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, the Master of Science in hospitality and tourism management is facilitated by a university that is ranked as one of the most innovative colleges by the U.S. News & World Report. It’s highly affordable, too.
This program will help you explore your interests and build your strengths in industry skills. It’s perfect for candidates who possess undergraduate degrees in business management, hospitality, or related fields. With both non-thesis and thesis options available, this program can be completed entirely online.
You’ll take a total of 33 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Required courses include Managing Hospitality and Guest Services Organizations, Financial Analysis of Hospitality Enterprises, Strategic Marketing in Hospitality and Tourism, and Data Analysis in Hospitality and Tourism Research.
Florida International University
As Miami’s first public university, Florida International University has two main campuses in Miami-Dade County as well as several branch campuses and research facilities throughout South Florida as well as in Italy and China. This international feel—which makes a lot of sense, given the name of the university!—is just part of the reason why Florida International is one of the best places to consider studying hospitality management.
The Master of Science in hospitality management at Florida International University is offered by the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. A 33-credit hour program, it can be completed entirely online in just 12 months. You’ll take more classes like Financial Management, Hospitality Enterprise Technology, and Globalization and Competitive Methods of Multinational Hospitality Companies.
An affordable degree, it features low tuition rates that will enable you to pay just $2,250 per course. Not only that, but all military members and FIU graduates are eligible for a $2,250 tuition scholarship toward tuition, too. There are corporate sponsorship programs available for some employees as well.
University of Houston
The University of Houston is a public research institution in Houston, TX, known for its commitment to international research and to improving the overall student experience. This university has more than 40 research institutes on campus along with over 400 student organizations to choose from. As a hospitality major here, you’ll graduate not only with the skills you need for a successful career, but with the experience of a lifetime, too.
The Master of Science in hospitality management will enable you to gain more in-depth industry knowledge and increase your earning potential as you study at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management. You can pursue an area of specialization such as human resources, hotels, finance, revenue management, food and beverage, events, and more.
A 36-credit hour program, it can be completed over the course of just two years. However, there are also part-time and accelerated programs available. You’ll have three options for completion, including a professional track, a thesis, and the completion of a professional paper and work practice. To apply, you will need to submit an online graduate admission application and a $50 application fee. A completed resume, curriculum vitae, transcripts, and a personal statement are also required.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, also known as Virginia Tech, has a main campus in Blacksburg, VA along with educational facilities in six other locations around the state and study abroad programs in places like Riva San Vitale, Switzerland.
The Virginia Tech Hospitality And Tourism Management program will help you analyze and address the problems faced by the hospitality and tourism businesses. It’s one of six departments in the Pamplin College of Business, all of which are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
You’ll be able to choose from two graduate degrees—a Master of Science in business administration with a concentration in hospitality and tourism management as well as a Ph.D. in business with a concentration in hospitality and tourism management. Classes can be taken on campus in Falls Church, VA as well as online.
In addition to core coursework in hospitality, you may also choose to customize your degree by adding supplementary graduate certificates. Virginia Tech has several of these available in disciplines such as Hospitality and Tourism Analytics and Revenue Management, Entrepreneurship in Hospitality and Tourism Management, and International Hospitality and Tourism Strategy.
University of North Texas
Originally founded as a teacher’s college, the University of North Texas in Denton, TX, knows what it takes to educate professionals in all kinds of fields. Today, this school, founded in 1890, has programs in more than a dozen colleges and schools.
The Master of Science in hospitality management is a 36-credit hour program that provides an integrated curriculum focusing on the management of services, products, and experiences in a global, consumer-focused market.
You’ll work closely with supportive and attentive faculty as you take classes in things like hospitality operations, sustainability, marketing of hospitality services, global consumer issues, and more.
This is an affordable degree that provides learners with plenty of opportunities for financial support and awards. You can apply for a number of competitive academic scholarships and student assistant positions to help you pay for your degree. To apply, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. You should submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume with your application.
Michigan State University
First founded as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, Michigan State University was one of the nation’s first colleges dedicated to teaching scientific agriculture. Today, the school offers so much more than agriculturally-focused programs, providing top-ranked graduate programs in things like rehabilitation counseling, industrial and organizational psychology, supply chain management, and of course, hospitality business and management.
The Master of Science in hospitality business management at Michigan State University is offered by the Eli Broad College of Business and Graduate School of Management. You will take core classes like Financial Management in the Hospitality Industry, Marketing in the Hospitality Industry, Supply Chain Management, and Hospitality Information Technology.
To apply, you will need to submit a formal application along with official transcripts and GMAT or GRE scores. The degree does not require the completion of a thesis, instead encouraging students to design their own unique and individualized plans of study that meet their specific professional needs.
University of Nevada – Las Vegas
If you’re going to study hospitality management, what better place is there to do it than in the heart of the entertainment industry itself—in Las Vegas? The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, is technically located in the city of Paradise, NV, but it’s just a mile and a half east of the famed Las Vegas Strip.
The Executive Master of Hospitality Administration at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas is an online degree that is meant to be self-paced and to serve as a professional development opportunity for candidates in the hospitality industry. It’s designed for the busy working professional and includes concentrations such as Hospitality Management and Gaming Management.
A 30-credit hour program, it includes courses that are offered throughout the year in convenient eight-week sessions. You’ll complete a final professional paper and entrepreneurship class as well. To apply, you will need to submit undergraduate transcripts with a minimum overall GPA of 2.75.
Three years of full-time management experience in the hospitality industry is also required, as is an online application, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Occasionally, applicants will also be asked to participate in an interview.
Temple University
Temple University has the unique reputation of providing professional education to the largest group of students in the world. With a variety of professional and pre-professional programs in fields like architecture, podiatry, law, pharmacy, medicine, engineering, and more, this school has one of the best reputations for preparing students for the workforce.
You’ll find that’s true with the hospitality degree here, too. Not only will you benefit from flexible scheduling and evening courses that cater to the working professional, but you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to participate in hands-on learning. In fact, Temple is known for its unique consulting project that is required of all hospitality majors.
As a student in this program, you’ll take courses that are part of an industry-backed curriculum so that you have the skills to navigate an ever-changing work environment. Sample courses include Service Industry Analytics, Financial Management in Tourism and Hospitality, and Strategic Management in Tourism and Hospitality.
You can also choose an area of focus such as Hospitality Operations Management and Tourism and Hospitality Marketing. You will benefit from powerful career support, with one-on-one career coaching, industry intelligence tools, and resume critiques so that you can take the next step in your career. Tuition for this 30-credit hour program is affordable, too, starting at just $933 per credit hour with scholarships and financial aid available.
Pennsylvania State University – Main Campus
Pennsylvania State University is considered a Public Ivy, offering a quality of education that is comparable to what you might find at a top Ivy League institution—but with a significantly lower price tag. There are numerous campuses to choose from, with 19 commonwealth campuses and five special mission campuses spread out among the state, but it’s on the main campus where you will find the award-winning master’s degree in hospitality.
The Master of Science in Hospitality Management at Penn State is designed for students who want to pursue advanced study at the doctoral level as well as those who are interested in pursuing industry research. You can customize your studies by choosing from a variety of emphasis areas, such as branding, services marketing, sales, financial management, strategy, facilities management, hospitality real estate management, and more.
To be eligible for admission, you must have at least one year of work experience in hospitality. You should submit a resume, three letters of recommendation, and an autobiographical statement. Official GMAT or GRE scores are also required, as are official undergraduate transcripts.
Iowa State University
Coeducational from its inception in 1858, Iowa State University is a groundbreaking institution known for rejecting the status quo—and for always going one step further when it comes to educating its students. It’s ranked as one of the top research universities in the state of Iowa and has more than 112 different master’s programs for students to choose from.
In the master’s in hospitality, you’ll acquire the skills you need to be successful in any hospitality-oriented career—but in an untraditional way. You can choose from either a Master of Science or a Doctor of Philosophy degree, both of which are available on-campus as well as in a hybrid distance format. New cohorts for the distance program start each summer, with the master’s consisting of 30-36 credit hours.
You can choose to complete a thesis as part of your coursework, or you can select a non-thesis option that includes coursework online. Prerequisites for the program include courses in nutrition, marketing, human resource management, food preparation, financial accounting, and several other service- and business-oriented topics.
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University, located in Lubbock, TX, has garnered a unique selection of praise over the years. This school is not only designated as a Hispanic-serving institution, but it’s also received accolades for its gorgeous Spanish Renaissance-themed campus and its excellence in things like groundskeeping, public art displays, and even for its collegiate marching band!
Its programs of study have also received attention from ranking publications like U.S. News & World Report—especially its hospitality management degrees. Courses can be completed entirely online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format. A Master of Science in hospitality and retail management will provide you with firsthand experience in subjects like retail buying, sales and cost control, category management, visual merchandising, hotel management, and more.
The degree not only includes study abroad options, but it will also allow you to conduct extensive research investigating industry trends. You’ll join a passionate campus community of diverse peers as you learn from industry experts and receive a degree that is well-respected among employers and industry leaders.
The degree features two tracks: a professional option designed for candidates who wish to enter directly into the workforce as well as a research option that will prepare you for a Ph.D. program. To apply, you will need to submit an application and application fee along with unofficial transcripts of all universities you have attended.
California State Polytechnic University – Pomona
It might surprise you to hear that California State Polytechnic University-Pomona is listed as having one of the best master’s in hospitality management, their nationally recognized Collins College of Hospitality Management is one of the broad ranges of programs the university offers with a top-notch polytechnic experience.
The College of the Extended University has a Master of Science in hospitality management that will help you become an expert in accounting and finance, marketing, human resources management, and more. You must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours but can choose between a thesis and non-thesis option.
Some required courses you will take include Hospitality Accounting and Financial Management, Hospitality Strategic Marketing, and Research Applications and Data Analysis in Hospitality Management. You can choose to complete a final hospitality project as an alternative to your final thesis.
An affordable degree, it features low tuition of just $800 per credit hour. Significant financial aid is available. To apply, you will need to fill out the MSHM application and submit undergraduate transcripts from a bachelor’s degree in hospitality or a similar field. A GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 is required, as are scores from the GRE or GMAT. You will also need to submit evidence of one year of hospitality management experience, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose.
Oklahoma State University – Main Campus
The flagship institution for the Oklahoma State University System, Oklahoma State University, is a public research university located in Stillwater, OK. If you want to study hospitality management, particularly as an aspiring event planner, you won’t find a better place to do so than OSU. The campus is known for hosting some of the world’s most exciting and monumental events, such as the OSU Homecoming Celebration, frequently hailed as “America’s Greatest Homecoming Celebration.”
The hospitality and tourism management program is offered by a department that has a strong tradition of preparing leaders in the global hospitality industry. The curriculum is business-focused and will allow you to work in hands-on learning labs, to complete enriching study abroad experiences, and even to participate in an integrated internship. You will learn in state-of-the-art facilities from instructors who have diverse industry experience.
Not only that, but you’ll also be able to interact regularly with industry experts through signature campus and off-campus events. For example, you may participate in high-profile options like the Distinguished Chef Series, Hospitality Days, and the Wine Forum of Oklahoma. Because of this and the extensive career development resources that you will be provided, 94% of graduating seniors from this program either had employment or job offers within just three months of graduation.
The University of Alabama
First established early in the 19th century, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL offers programs of study in more than a dozen divisions. It offers programs that you won’t find anywhere else in Alabama, such as communication and information sciences, music, social work, anthropology, and more.
The hospitality major might be more common around the state, but its reputation at UA is nothing short of impressive. The Master of Science in Hospitality Management consists of 30 credit hours of study and features low tuition rates of just $420 per credit hour. It has a generous rolling admissions policy in which applications are accepted year-round.
You’ll complete a variety of classes meant to hone your skills and develop your experience in hospitality. You will have the option of completing a thesis or a non-thesis track, with sample classes including Hospitality Law, Strategic Management in the Hospitality Industry, Leadership in the Hospitality Industry, and Special Problems in Hospitality Management.
Still not convinced? Let the rankings do the talking—this program was ranked 18th in the country among the top 50 Hospitality and Hotel Management schools in the world by CEOWORLD Magazine.
Florida Atlantic University
A public research university, Florida Atlantic University has campuses all around the state as well as a main campus in Boca Raton. The first public university in southeast Florida opened its doors in 1964 and has an impressive array of graduate programs with partnerships with major employers all around the country.
The online MBA in hospitality and tourism management at Florida Atlantic University consistently ranks among the top 30 programs in the United States and will give you the experience you need to join the global hospitality network. You’ll learn from faculty who have extensive industry experience as you take classes that are continuously updated to meet industry demands.
You will complete classes such as Hospitality Operations: A Case Approach, Strategies for Excellence in Guest Service Management, Meetings and Events Management, Contemporary Issues in Hospitality Marketing, and more. You will also be able to conduct an advanced-level research project within the hospitality industry before you graduate, too.
University of New Orleans
With more than 120 registered clubs and student organizations, including over a dozen fraternities and sororities, it’s easy to get carried away with thinking about all the things there are to do on the campus of the University of New Orleans. However, it’s important that you consider all the things you can learn here, too—particularly as a student in the hospitality management program.
The faculty at Lester E. Kabacoff School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Administration at the University of New Orleans have extensive alumni and business networks, allowing you to pursue all kinds of opportunities for career advancement. You can take most of your courses on-campus although there are selected online classes available, too. You’ll gain extensive in-person guidance from your instructor as well as industry experience working in the heart of New Orleans.
There are two convenient programs for you to choose from: a Master of Science in hospitality and tourism management and an executive Master of Science in hospitality and tourism management. The latter of these two programs is designed for working professionals with industry experience who wish to complete their degrees more quickly. It consists of 12 months of condensed, compacted courses and allows the convenience of an online program of study so you can complete your studies as quickly as possible.
More than 95% of this program’s graduates have jobs in their fields after completing the program. You’ll benefit from state-of-the-art research facilities and the opportunity to collaborate at both the state and city levels in interesting tourism research.
Kansas State University
Kansas State University is a public research university with a main campus in Manhattan, KS. This Manhattan may not be as busy and bustling as the one in New York City, but what Kansas State lacks in nightlife, it makes up for in the quality of academics. Here, you’ll find some of the best master’s programs in the country—with more than 65 majors to choose from.
The Master of Science in hospitality administration at Kansas State University is offered by the Department of Hospitality Management. This program will help you to develop your analytical decision-making skills and learn how to apply leadership skills in managing food service and hospitality operations.
In addition to the stand-alone Master of Science in Hospitality degree, there is also a dual degree that will allow you to receive both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in hospitality administration. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore research in event and meeting management, lodging, food safety, and food service, too.
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Located in Columbia, SC, the University of South Carolina-Columbia is known for its vast array of majors, with more than 350 different degrees to choose from. As the largest university in South Carolina, this school has an enrollment of 52,000 students with thousands of future students in feeder programs at nearby technical colleges.
You don’t need to be interested in tech-related programs in order to benefit from everything that this school has to offer, though. The Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of South Carolina is offered by the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management. It’s ranked among the top 10 programs in the country by Shanghai Rankings.
You will be able to choose from asynchronous and synchronous online options along with courses that you can complete entirely on campus. A 33-credit hour program, it covers specialized topics like marketing and social media, strategic leadership, customer experience management, and finance. There are international learning opportunities as well as electives and field projects that will let you tailor your degree to your unique interests.
While a student here, you’ll benefit from many impactful research institutes, allowing you to get involved in facilities like the Center of Economic Excellence in Tourism and Economic Development, International Tourism and Research Institute, Culinary and Wine and Beverage Institutes, and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Travel and Tourism Industry Center.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University, founded in 1913 and located in Atlanta, GA, is considered the most comprehensive public institution in the state. It has more than 250 degree programs in more than 100 fields of study.
Among these is the hospitality degree. Offered by the J. Mack Robinson College of Business, the Reginald G. Washington Master of Global Hospitality Management will enable you to study amidst Atlanta’s thriving $15 billion hospitality industry. It’s a flexible program that will allow you to study just two evenings a week—no need to quit your day job! Not only that, but you’ll be able to support your career goals with customized projects.
You will learn and work among a team of career advisors, academic coaches, and faculty who want nothing more than to see you succeed. You’ll also benefit from industry partnerships in Atlanta, networking with key leaders at guest speaker events and collaborating with businesses on real-world projects.
Finally, Georgia State’s hospitality program is a good choice if you want to participate in events that will build your professional network and allow you to engage in some of the most enriching events in the industry. Just to name a few, you’ll participate in the IHG First Look Event, the Graduate Education and Graduate Student Research Conference in Hospitality and Tourism in Las Vegas, and the STR Student Market Study Competition in New York City.
University of Delaware
The University of Delaware is located in Newark, DE, and is a school of many traditions and many “firsts.” It was the first American university to offer a study abroad program, paving the way in 1923 with many of the same study abroad programs offered today. It also is just one of four schools in North America with an art conservation program—and it also has one of the very best master’s in hospitality.
The Master of Science in hospitality business management can be completed as a thesis- or non-thesis program, with both one- and two-year completion options available. You’ll be able to work in the school’s learning labs, including the Marriott Center for Tourism and Hospitality and the campus gourmet restaurant, Vita Nova.
You’ll complete between 30 and 39 credit hours of study, depending on your career goals and the courses you select. You are expected to have at least two years of work experience. You’ll take classes like Hospitality Financial Management, Projects and Valuations in Hospitality, and Revenue Management in Hospitality.
New York University
If you’re going to study hospitality, why not do it in one of the most tourism-focused cities in the world? New York University is located in the heart of the Big Apple and provides students with one of the best environments when it comes to studying hospitality.
You’ll have easy access to some of the biggest tourist attractions in the world (like the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, and Times Square) along with a thriving business and cultural environment that will help you grow as a student and as a professional.
The Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality at NYU offers multiple programs for graduate students to choose from, including Master of Science degrees in travel and tourism management, global hospitality management, and event management. Regardless of the pathway you select, you’ll benefit from an education that takes place in the heart of one of the world’s most influential cities. You’ll be able to interact constantly with industry leaders and professionals, both in and out of the classroom.
Students who study here are highly sought-after, resulting in a 99% student placement rate. You can take classes in a hybrid or blended fashion in addition to the traditional on-campus learning environment. The degree has an excellent return on investment, with more than a million dollars in scholarship funding alone.
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus
Located in Durham, NH, the University of New Hampshire has six different colleges, making it the largest university system in the state. Here, you’ll be able to choose from degrees in more than 100 different majors with 2000 different courses.
The Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics is home to one of the country’s best master’s in hospitality management. It is a business degree that will prepare you to work anywhere in the world, featuring small class sizes, innovative learning experiences, and state-of-the-art facilities.
You’ll take classes in all aspects of hospitality management with the potential to add minors and additional certificates in things like tourism management and eco-gastronomy. Core classes include Lodging Operations Management, International Food and Culture, and Happy and Healthy at Work: Promoting Wellness, Diversity, and Inclusion. You can even gain experience in things like managing resort properties and private clubs. There are plenty of study-abroad opportunities available, too.
Cornell University
Cornell University might be best known for its programs in veterinary medicine, technology, and engineering, but if you’re an aspiring hospitality major, you shouldn’t overlook this Ithaca, NY school. Admissions here are highly competitive, but you’ll benefit from one of the strongest and most well-connected alumni networks in the world.
The Master of Management in Hospitality at the SC Johnson College of Business at Cornell is a business program that is firmly rooted in core hospitality principles. You’ll acquire generalized business skills like you might with an MBA, you’ll also learn how to understand and experience the unique world of hospitality management, too.
You will take core courses like Leadership and Ethics, Marketing Management for Services, and Corporate Finance. In addition, you’ll enjoy an experiential curriculum design that will enable you to reach out and grow your professional network through special events and opportunities, like the Leadership Development Program and the Hotel Show in New York City.
This degree can be completed in just three semesters and one summer internship. You’ll be able to specialize in things like digital marketing, operations and analytics, and entrepreneurship, or you can choose to minor in real estate through the Baker Program in Real Estate to further customize your degree.
George Washington University
The largest institution of higher education in the District of Columbia, George Washington University is located in the historic Foggy Bottom neighborhood. It has degrees in more than 71 majors and is ranked as one of the Top Colleges or Universities for Internship Opportunities by The Princeton Review.
The hospitality management program at George Washington focuses on the core aspects of the hospitality industry, including customer service, marketing and sales, feasibility analysis, hospitality business analytics, and operations. You can choose to pursue an additional certification in hotel industry analytics from the American Hotel and Lodging Association Education Institute and Smith Travel Research, too, if you choose.
This program is loaded with experiential learning opportunities that will take you to field visits to different hotels, internships in various areas of hotel operations, and more. You’ll benefit from in-depth case analysis, class discussion, and guest lectures from industry experts. You can engage in client-based projects and field visits along with innovative study abroad programs in Shanghai and Beijing, just to name a few options.
You’ll take nine credit hours of concentration courses and enjoy real-world learning opportunities in tourism, hospitality, events, and meetings. The program has a strong network of alumni, so you’ll find connections in the industry no matter where you turn.
Boston University
A private research university in Boston, MA, Boston University has historical connections with the United Methodist Church. First founded in Newbury, VT, this school is now located in what can be considered a hub for international tourism—in Boston, MA.
The Master of Management in Hospitality at the Boston University School of Hospitality Administration is an accelerated graduate-level program that will prepare you for success in the industry no matter where you decide to work. It can be completed in just one three-semester year.
It’s the perfect degree for working professionals as well as recent college graduates hoping to expand their networks. It boasts a 100% career placement rate, with all graduates employed in the hospitality industry within three months of graduation. It has a strong liberal arts background and will allow you to explore the hundreds of hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and other hospitality businesses right within the city of Boston.
Johnson & Wales University – Providence
A private university located in Providence, RI, Johnson & Wales University is known for its exceptional programs in business, technology, and, of course, hospitality. It also has campuses in places like Charlotte, NC.
The Master of Science in Hospitality Management at Johnson & Wales University-Providence takes just two years to complete. Each course lasts only eight weeks with a 100% online career-focused curriculum. Class sizes are small, with just a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. You’ll get to know your instructors quite well as you work your way through your courses.
Because of this, the hospitality program at Johnson & Wales has a nearly 98% career outcomes rate. You’ll be able to choose from electives that align with your career objectives and will prepare you for various industry-recognized certifications when you graduate.
You’ll take major courses like Competitive Strategies for Hospitality, Organizational Behavior in the Hospitality Industry, and Hospitality and Tourism Global Issues. In all of your courses, you will learn from experienced instructors who can help you bridge theory with practice for a more well-rounded degree.
Roosevelt University
A private university, Roosevelt University is named in honor of the late President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, enrolling roughly 6000 students between its undergraduate and graduate programs. It is located in multiple cities in Illinois, including Chicago, Waukegan, Peoria, and Schaumburg.
The Chicago campus offers a master’s in hospitality and tourism management that is perfect for students who want a more hands-on approach to their graduate studies. You’ll be able to explore a wealth of world-class restaurants and hotels and learn from a dedicated team of hospitality and tourism professionals. With start dates in the fall, spring, and summer months, this program is taught by some of the world’s best hospitality practitioners. The degree has a commitment to service-learning, featuring a partnership with the Marriott Foundation so that you can gain experience and help others in need at the same time.
All classes are conveniently offered in the evening so that you can continue to work full-time if you choose to do so. You’ll take interesting, engaging classes like Executive Leadership, Operations Analysis, Organization Development and Multicultural Issues, and Management Theory and Practice for the Hospitality Industry.
Drexel University
With more than 170 different majors to choose from, Drexel University is a smart choice for aspiring hospitality majors. Here, you’ll have access to a world-renowned cooperative education program in which you’ll have the opportunity to gain up to 18 months of paid, full-time work experience in your field of study.
The food and hospitality management program at Drexel is uniquely offered by the College of Nursing and Health Professions. You’ll be able to connect with award-winning hotels, first-class venues, and destination restaurants in the heart of Philadelphia as well as nearby cities like Boston, Baltimore, New York, and Washington, D.C.
You will learn from a dedicated team of faculty and benefit from a committed co-op support team and expert academic advisors. The hospitality program exists as a combined hospitality MBA/BS so that you’ll be able to graduate more quickly while also acquiring the valuable connections you’ll need with the hospitality industry.
Fairleigh Dickinson University – Metropolitan Campus
As New Jersey’s largest private university, Fairleigh Dickinson University educates more than 11,000 students in over 100 different programs of study. The school has campuses in New Jersey (the main campus is in Madison/Florham Park) along with one in British Columbia and South East England. It also has multiple online programs for students to choose from.
The Master of Science in hospitality management studies is designed for working professionals who are passionate about hospitality and who want to further build their leadership skills. You will learn from expert faculty and join an alumni network of more than 3000 strong as you study topics like Online Distribution, Lifestyle Branding, and Innovation Leadership. You can complete your degree in as few as 12 months!
A 33-credit hour program, this degree requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 to apply. You will also need to provide transcripts, evidence of industry work experience, and a personal statement. A personal interview with a graduate adviser is also required.
How to Choose the Right Master’s in Hotel Management Program
The above ranking is meant to be a starting point in your journey to find the hotel management master’s that is right for you. Even top ranked programs may be missing something that is important to you. While we can’t decide which program is right for you, we can help you make an informed decision yourself.
Here are 5 of the most important considerations to help you choose a Master’s in Hotel Management:
1. Specializations and Focus Areas
Different programs offer varying concentrations or specializations within hotel management, such as operations, finance, marketing, sustainability, or entrepreneurship. It’s important for students to choose a program that aligns with their career goals and interests. Consider whether the program allows customization or if it offers specialized tracks that cater to niche areas within the hospitality industry.
2. Industry Connections and Internship Opportunities
The strength of a program’s connections to the hotel and hospitality industry is crucial. Look for schools that offer internships, co-op programs, or direct access to industry professionals. Strong industry ties can lead to valuable networking opportunities and hands-on experience, which are essential for securing high-level positions after graduation.
3. Reputation and Accreditation
A well-respected program with proper accreditation ensures that the degree will be recognized by employers in the industry. Accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA) can validate the quality and rigor of the program. Consider the university’s overall reputation in hospitality management and the success of its alumni.
4. Global Perspective and International Opportunities
Hospitality is a global industry, and many top-tier hotel management programs offer international exposure. Consider whether the program includes study-abroad opportunities, partnerships with international hotels, or internships in global markets. A program with a strong global perspective can open doors for working at international hotel chains or managing hotels in various regions.
5. Location and Practical Experience
The location of the program can significantly influence access to the hotel industry. Programs based in cities or regions known for a vibrant hospitality scene (like New York, Las Vegas, or Paris) may offer better access to leading hotels and resorts. Additionally, consider if the program includes practical, real-world experience, such as management simulations, project-based learning, or collaboration with local hospitality businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting a master’s in hospitality management is a smart move if you want to gain a competitive edge in the industry. A master’s degree in hospitality management can help you advance to higher-paying positions and open doors to leadership roles. Since the industry continues to grow, jobs are in demand, with a projected 10% increase in employment through 2033.
With a master’s in hospitality management, you can pursue many different career paths within the hospitality industry. Careers include:
• Corporate hospitality roles
• Destination management
• Hospitality consulting
• Hotel and resort management
• Restaurant management
• Revenue management
• Spa and wellness management
• Tourism development and management
You can also qualify for work in various managerial and executive positions within the broader service industry.
The average time it takes to get a master’s in hospitality management is two years. Most colleges and universities require students to complete between 32 and 36 credits to earn the degree. Some students take more credits to earn a concentration in an area of focus. There are online programs that offer accelerated pacing, which allows students to graduate quickly.
You can pursue hospitality management as both a master’s degree and an MBA. Universities offer specialized Master’s in Hospitality Management programs, while some business schools also provide an MBA with a hospitality focus. Getting a concentration in hospitality management alongside an MBA is a common path for future hotel and restaurant managers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 10% increase in jobs for lodging managers and other hospitality management professionals. The increase in jobs comes from the need to replace workers who retire or transfer to other positions. About 6,000 openings for lodging managers will occur each year through 2033, according to the BLS. About 44,500 openings for food service managers will result in each year for the next decade.
There is a certain level of difficulty in getting a master’s degree. The curriculum for hospitality covers everything from business to marketing. You also study theories of management, tourism, and event planning. There is substantial reading and writing, along with a capstone project and research.
The highest-paying hospitality job involves executive-level positions such as a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or a top-level hotel or resort general manager. These roles can command significant salaries due to their leadership and strategic responsibilities. CEOs of major hotel chains or hospitality corporations can earn anywhere from $500,000 to several million dollars annually, depending on the size and profitability of the company.
Yes, it’s possible to earn six figures in hospitality. Senior executives like hotel CEOs, top-level General Managers, or certain specialized professionals with extensive experience can command salaries exceeding $125,000 annually.