What Can You Do with a Hospitality Management Degree: 2025 Costs & Job Opportunities

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

For people with a service mindset and a hunger to lead, hospitality management degree programs might be the ideal career. With the diverse industries one can possibly venture into, it sure is well worth putting skills like great communication, flexibility, and time management into good use. Fulfill the passion of being of service to others and bringing smiles to faces by taking careers in lodging, travel and tourism, food and beverage, recreation, and meetings and events.

There is no better way to motivate employees in the workplace, or soon-to-be ones than by learning about the vast pool of opportunities waiting. In 2019, there were more than 700,000 hotels and resorts worldwide with the United States hotel and motel industry raking in a total revenue of $206 billion (Condor Ferries, 2020)—that is just the tip of the iceberg in the hospitality management sector.

In this guide, our team at Research.com has compiled the requirements, costs, career opportunities, and tips on how to get started in the hospitality management discipline.

Hospitality Management Degree Table of Contents

What is a hospitality management degree?
How does a hospitality management degree prepare you for global opportunities?
Cost of Hospitality Management Degree
Hospitality Management Degree Jobs
Types of Degrees in Hospitality Management
Hospitality Management Degree Requirements
What to Look for in a Hospitality Management Program
Majors Related to Hospitality Management
How Can Accelerated Degree Programs Enhance My Hospitality Career?
The Future of Hospitality Management
Can Complementary Business Degrees Enhance a Hospitality Career?
Is an Advanced Business Degree Worth Pursuing for Enhancing My Hospitality Career?
Global Career Opportunities in Hospitality Management
How Can Certification Programs Elevate My Hospitality Career?
How Can a Doctoral Degree Propel My Hospitality Career?
Can a One-Year Online MBA Accelerate My Hospitality Management Career?
Can Enhanced Financial Acumen Strengthen My Hospitality Management Strategy?

What is a hospitality management degree?

Hospitality management includes the day-to-day administrative, commercial, and operational activities of businesses in the hospitality industry. This hospitality management definition is based on this discipline, which covers diverse industries and departments, ranging from housekeeping and maintenance to reception, concierge, spa services, and many others.

What can you do with a hospitality management degree?

The hospitality industry is one of the largest career sectors that continues to grow. Hospitality management graduates can work not only in leading hospitality and tourism departments but also in emerging industry sectors (Rosen College of Hospitality Management, n.d.). With an in-depth understanding of the operation and structure of the hospitality sector; employment opportunities can originate from hotel chains, events venues, restaurants and fast food companies, conference and exhibition centers, airlines, and even from the public sector. In December 2021, there were 15.11 million people working in the hospitality and leisure industry in the U.S. (Statista, 2022).

How does a hospitality management degree prepare you for global opportunities?

A hospitality management degree is a great way to prepare for a career in the global hospitality industry. With the sector being inherently international, this degree equips students with essential skills for global success. Here’s how:

Global Hospitality Trends: Students learn about global trends, such as sustainable tourism and international customer expectations, essential for adapting to diverse markets.
Cross-Cultural Communication: Graduates develop effective communication skills for managing teams and interacting with clients from various cultural backgrounds.
International Business Practices: Courses on global marketing, international law, and multinational operations prepare graduates for leadership roles in global companies.
Study Abroad and Internships: Many programs offer opportunities for study abroad and international internships, providing real-world experience in global hospitality operations.
Leadership Skills for Global Operations: Graduates gain leadership skills necessary for managing large-scale international properties and overseeing cross-border teams.

Cost of Hospitality Management Degree

Knowing the hospitality management degree tuition is one way to prepare for your desired education. Remember, besides tuition fees, there are other expenses to consider. These are board and lodging, uniforms, seminars, practicums, and other activities. You can learn more about these additional expenses by checking the institution’s website or reaching out to the university or college you want to get into.

How much does it cost to get a hospitality management degree?

Public and private schools offer different tuition rates, with the latter charging fees that are significantly higher than the former. As of 2020, the median in-state public tuition is $6,429 while the median out-of-state private tuition is $31,190 (Data USA, 2020).

It is also good to consider that public institutions have different rates depending on whether you live within the state. Meaning, if you wish to attend a university outside your locale, you can expect to pay an out-of-state rate. The fee for out-of-state tuition is double or triple of what in-state students pay.

Degree Type

Public In-State (Tuition and Fees Only)

Public Out-of-State (Tuition and Fees Only)

Private (Tuition and Fees Only)

Associate Degree

$3,131

$8,516

$15,765

Bachelor's Degree

$6,429

$21,706

$31,190

Master's Degree

$8,950

$10,354

$19,792

Doctoral Degree

$10,560

$11,440

$44,910

Is a degree in hospitality management worth it?

As published in Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Tourism Industry and Ways to Ensure High Competitiveness of the Territory in the Global Tourism Market after the Pandemic, Pashkus et al. (2020) found that “…the pandemic hit the global tourism industry very hard, and caused many negative effects that will affect the global attractiveness of cities in the future. The pandemic is causing significant changes in the competitive situation in the tourism market. As a result, a realignment of the tourist market has been launched, during which each competitor must clearly understand which factors they should pay the most attention to, since they determine the choice of consumers."

The hospitality and travel and tourism sectors were the major victims of the COVID-19 crisis, but hospitality companies continue to realign their businesses to serve and deal with current market needs, which proves its resilience and rebound capacity from unexpected scenarios (HospitalityNet, 2021). With that, hospitality management graduates can still look forward to work opportunities.

After all, the hospitality management discipline is a dynamic field. The possibilities are endless as the world of service encompasses even travel opportunities. Pursuing this as a career can open the door to exploring other countries and discovering new cultures. There is no limit to landing job opportunities that will take you to places you have never been before.

Hospitality Management Degree Jobs

As discussed earlier, hospitality management degree jobs cover a wide range of industries. Professionals in the industry can make a mark in the fields of lodging, guest relations, food and beverage, tourism, travel, and similar careers.

Is hospitality management in high demand?

The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the hospitality and leisure industry but the employment rate has steadily risen. From 5.7% in January 2021, it has dramatically increased to 9.9% in January 2022, which is higher than the 7.0% opening rate for the overall economy (US Travel Association, 2022).

From 2021 to 2031, the employment of lodging managers is projected to grow by 18%. As such, there will be about 7,100 lodging manager job openings projected each year, on average, over the decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

What jobs can you get with a hospitality management degree?

Hotel general manager. The hotel general manager is in charge of all aspects of facility operations. This includes staff management and ensuring a great guest experience throughout their stay. The hotel general manager is also a brand ambassador who supports company goals and culture.
Restaurant manager. The restaurant manager supervises the front-of-house operations of food service business as well as some administrative processes. He is in charge of managing the restaurant staff, planning for the kitchen and wait staff, hiring and training employees, developing marketing strategies, updating menus, managing budgets, and creating a positive environment for staff and customers.
Event manager. The tasks of this professional include event planning, organizing, and management. In a corporate setting, the event manager plans the client and company meeting to develop brand awareness.
Travel manager. A travel manager can work for a travel agency or a big corporation. His job responsibility includes directing, operating, and administering travel programs.
Food service director. The food service director is responsible for leading the operations of a restaurant and similar food service businesses. He deals with employee hiring and training, scheduling, and payroll completion. He also takes care of inventory, food prices, equipment, and sanitation.

What kind of salary can I earn with a hospitality management degree?

A hospitality management bachelor’s degree can open up a host of opportunities for a student. The average wage for people with a hospitality management bachelor’s degree is $50,565 (PayScale, 2022). This can vary depending on the industry that you are working in. For instance, the average annual salary for food service managers is $55,320, hotel managers can yield $54,430, and event planners can earn an average of $50,600 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). These aside, hospitality management professionals that work as administrative service managers and sales managers can earn $96,940 per year and $126,640 per year, respectively. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). For a paycheck increase, pursuing further hospitality management studies, be it through degree programs or certification programs, is the best move.

Types of Degrees in Hospitality Management

The different hospitality management degree types have different unit requirements, scopes of study, and durations. Students who are interested in pursuing this particular field of study can start by taking up an associate or bachelor’s degree, depending on their budget and how fast they want to enter the workforce. They may also enroll in master’s or doctoral programs as soon as they graduate or later on in life to further their careers. Alternatively, there are plenty of certification programs to consider, depending on their chosen fields.

What kinds of hospitality management degrees are there?

1. Associate Degree in Hospitality Management

Average time to complete: Two years
Credit requirements: 60 credits

An associate degree in hospitality management covers the industry basics. Learn about food and beverage, room division, and travel and tourism—all of which will focus on communication skills.

Entry-level jobs: Receptionist, Travel Coordinator, Tour Guide, Food Service Professional

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management

Average time to complete: Four years
Credit requirements: 120 credits

A bachelor’s degree in hospitality management is one of the most commonly awarded degrees in the field, with 11,587 conferred from public universities in 2020 alone (Data, USA, 2020). In the same year, the total for all hospitality management degrees across institutions was 17,825. This kind of program deals with the hospitality business and advanced electives. A student will learn about leadership, communication, teamwork, analytical skills, networking, and IT and hospitality management tools.

Entry-level jobs: Hotel Management Assistant, Hospitality Marketer, Event Coordinator

3. Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management

Average time to complete: Two years
Credit requirements: 30 credits

A master’s degree in hospitality management will teach you about high-performance distribution strategies for hotels. You will also learn about e-marketing and social media strategies, hotel budgeting and forecasting, revenue management, advanced corporate finance, hotel asset management, financial statement analysis, and valuation of hotel investments.

High-level positions: Hotel Manager, Facilities Director, Cruise Director, Director of Guest Services

4. Doctoral Degree in Hospitality Management

Average time to complete: 60 credit hours

A doctoral degree in hospitality management includes training in the highest level of hospitality as well as tourism research and education. In this program, there will be a qualifying exam and students will need to complete a dissertation.

High-level positions: Professor of Hospitality Management, Chief Operations Manager, Hospitality Consultant

5. Certificate in Hospitality Management

Average time to complete: Three months
Credit requirements: 12 credits

A certificate in hospitality management will hone skills in the workplace and team strategy development, building a loyal client base, organization management, finances, and team building. Acquiring a certificate in hospitality management can serve as a pathway to working in different hospitality settings.

Hospitality Management Degree Requirements

Hospitality management degree prerequisites vary for each educational institution. Improve your chances of getting into the college you prefer by knowing and meeting the general requirements we gathered.

Admission Requirements

Proof of Graduation. College admission requires a high school proof of graduation. You can submit a certificate, diploma, or evidence of completing the 30 credit hours of the General Education Program (GED).
Transcript. Each university will require a different Grade Point Average (GPA). If you want to join a premier university, chances are they require a top-notch GPA. But generally, the overall minimum requirement for hospitality management degree programs is a GPA of 2.5.
Coursework. A hospitality management degree will cover management courses. As such, students who wish to take up this course should have good grades in math. Additionally, a student should also be adept in English or at least one other foreign language.
SAT or ACT Score. Similar to GPA requirements, the needed SAT or ACT score will depend on the institution you want to join. The average requirements for SAT scores are 1200 to 1500 and 25 to 35 ACT scores.
Other Requirements. Get better chances of getting university admission by submitting an additional requirement like a letter of recommendation. If you are an international applicant, you might also need to demonstrate your proficiency in spoken and written English. The required minimum score for admissions is 8 for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Meanwhile, students need a score of 550 (paper test) or 80 (internet-based) for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (University of North Texas, n.d.).

Skill Requirements

Communication. Perhaps the most important among the hospitality management degree skills is communication. Professionals in the industry are expected to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds. It is essential to be able to speak, understand, and relate to other people as clearly as possible.
Organizational skills. A student looking to pursue hospitality management must be good at organizing and multitasking. To fulfill daily tasks as efficiently as possible, one must quickly respond to sudden requests while maintaining organizational structures.
Service orientation Hospitality goes hand in hand with service. It is important to have the passion to assist people. A student looking to pursue hospitality management must have an innate sense to identify and serve others.
Leadership In hospitality management, leadership is important to inspire, motivate, and set examples for subordinates. One must know how to bring out the best in every individual on the team.
Technical skills. Working in the hotel industry entails being good with numbers and familiarity with accounting software. On the other hand, a good understanding of social media will benefit the hotel industry and events.

What to Look for in a Hospitality Management Program

Finding the best hospitality management program can be tricky. For guidance on the ideal path to hospitality management education, here are the top considerations to look for.

Available Specializations. Get ahead in your hospitality management education by attending a college with a specialization. Some available hospitality management specializations are operations and analytics, entrepreneurship, service marketing, and food and beverage management.
Accreditation. Accreditation will help determine whether a school offers quality education. Look for an educational institution that is regionally accredited or is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration.
Student-to-Teacher Ratio. There is more to the student-to-teacher ratio than numbers. It is one of the strongest success and engagement indicators of a student. As per the National Center for Education Statistics (2022), the average student-to-faculty ratio is often 14:1 for public institutions and 10:1 for private schools.
Financial Aid Options. Reducing tuition costs always helps. In 2019-2020, four-year degree-granting postsecondary institutions overall awarded 87% of first-time, full-time degree/certificate-seeking undergraduate students with financial aid (NCES, 2022). Look for a university that could accommodate different scholarships for the field. Among these are the ABA Academic Merit Scholarship, the Hungry to Lead Scholarship Program, as well as Network of Executive Women in Hospitality (NEWH) scholarships.

Hospitality and Tourism
Hotel and Restaurant Management
Culinary Arts

How Can Accelerated Degree Programs Enhance My Hospitality Career?

Pursuing an accelerated program offers a strategic pathway to develop industry-specific leadership and operational skills in a shorter timeframe. This approach integrates intensive coursework with practical experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for immediate challenges in the hospitality sector. For professionals looking to fast-track their education while gaining a competitive edge, an accelerated bachelor's degree provides a comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the evolving demands of today's global market.

The Future of Hospitality Management

Global trends and new challenges are shaping the future of hospitality management. The industry is set to grow but will face opportunities that redefine leadership in the field. Here’s what lies ahead for those pursuing a hospitality management degree:

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices: Sustainability is a top priority. Practices like reducing energy use, minimizing waste, and sourcing local products are becoming essential for attracting eco-conscious travelers. Graduates skilled in sustainable management will be equipped to lead responsible hotels, restaurants, and events.
Advanced Technology Integration: Technology is revolutionizing service delivery. Innovations like AI chatbots, mobile booking apps, smart hotel rooms, and contactless check-ins are now standard. Hospitality programs are teaching students how to use these tools effectively, preparing them for roles where tech skills enhance operations and guest experiences.
Personalized Guest Experiences: The demand for personalized services is growing. Data analytics and CRM tools help businesses customize services based on guest preferences. Future leaders must use data to improve customer satisfaction and foster loyalty.
Global and Cultural Competency: As the industry expands, cultural competency is key. Professionals who communicate well and respect cultural differences will be in demand. Programs focusing on global perspectives and intercultural skills will better prepare graduates for international roles.
Post-Pandemic Adaptability: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for adaptability. Future professionals must navigate health protocols and manage crises effectively. Programs that include emergency preparedness and flexible service strategies will give graduates an advantage.
The Rise of the ‘Bleisure’ Market: The blend of business and leisure travel, or ‘bleisure,’ is growing. Travelers now seek accommodations that cater to both work and play. Graduates who understand this demographic will be well-positioned in the job market.
Skilled Leadership: With changing expectations, skilled leaders are crucial. Programs focusing on leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving will produce graduates who can lead effectively and tackle industry challenges. Professionals can also benefit from considering the easiest project management degree to enhance their leadership and strategic skills for the evolving hospitality field.

Can Complementary Business Degrees Enhance a Hospitality Career?

A robust blend of business acumen and hospitality expertise is vital for rapid adaptation in today’s competitive market. Cross-disciplinary business programs equip professionals with advanced insights into strategy, finance, analytics, and marketing, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities. Integrating these skills helps hospitality leaders drive innovation, manage complex challenges, and facilitate sustainable growth. Accessing resources from online business colleges and universities further supports the pursuit of complementary business education tailored to the dynamic demands of the hospitality sector.

Is an Advanced Business Degree Worth Pursuing for Enhancing My Hospitality Career?

For hospitality professionals aiming to broaden strategic insight and leadership capabilities, obtaining an advanced business degree can be a decisive career enhancer. Complementing a hospitality management degree with robust business knowledge offers access to higher-level analytical skills, improved financial literacy, and innovative management techniques. Such advanced education supports decision-making in complex operational environments and fosters proficiency in global market trends. Prospective students may explore programs that provide both specialization in hospitality and comprehensive business management. Evaluating cost-efficiency is essential; for instance, integrating an affordable business program—learn more about options with the online MBA cheapest—can help control education expenses while securing long-term career benefits.

Global Career Opportunities in Hospitality Management

A hospitality management degree opens the door to exciting global career opportunities. The hospitality industry is vast and internationally connected, offering students a chance to work in dynamic settings worldwide. From luxury hotels in Paris to adventure tourism companies in New Zealand, graduates are equipped to pursue jobs that span borders.

Hospitality management professionals often work with international hotel chains, airlines, and travel agencies, allowing them to build careers that can take them anywhere. Many top hospitality management programs offer internships and job placement services with global companies, providing students valuable experience in diverse cultural environments.

In addition to traditional roles like hotel managers, restaurant owners, or event planners, hospitality management graduates can also explore specialized sectors like cruise line management, eco-tourism, or international conference coordination. With the rise of global travel and tourism, professionals in the field can easily find opportunities in popular tourist destinations, major metropolitan areas, and emerging markets that attract international visitors.

By pursuing an online hospitality degree, students can gain the flexibility to work and study from anywhere worldwide, further enhancing their global career prospects. Whether managing a high-end resort or working with international clients in the travel industry, a degree in hospitality management provides numerous opportunities to thrive globally.

Find a Silver Living in Hospitality Management

The hospitality industry faced an unprecedented crisis in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic, shattered many dreams, hotel doors were closed, and tourism was restricted. But for hospitality management degree programs, there is a silver lining. Since hospitality is critical to the economy as it encompasses accommodation, external venues, food, drink, and travel; we learn to adapt, prove resiliency, strive for development, and maintain an optimistic view even from a negative experience.

Hospitality will thrive because people will eat, travel, and enjoy themselves in one way or another. If you feel that delivering warmth and service to others will make you the happiest, take note of the different tuition fees, admission requirements, and job opportunities in hospitality management. Additionally, you can also pursue online hospitality management programs for easier access to education in this field.

How Can Certification Programs Elevate My Hospitality Career?

For professionals seeking to enhance their academic background with practical expertise, specialized certifications provide targeted education that complements a hospitality management degree. These programs focus on developing industry-specific skills that address real-world challenges, from innovative revenue management to digital service strategies. Pursuing such certifications can increase marketability and expedite career progression in an ever-evolving sector. Employers increasingly recognize the value of supplemental credentials that validate operational competence and strategic thinking, much like certificate programs that pay well.

How Can a Doctoral Degree Propel My Hospitality Career?

A doctoral program in hospitality management offers a strategic pathway to advanced leadership without reiterating prior operational insights. It sharpens research capabilities, strategic analytics, and innovative problem-solving skills that are pivotal for influencing organizational direction and industry policy. By engaging rigorously with academic research and real-world challenges, graduates can access senior executive and thought leadership roles across the hospitality ecosystem. Prospective candidates should also assess all financial implications and explore program options by reviewing the cost of DBA degree before making informed decisions.

Can a One-Year Online MBA Accelerate My Hospitality Management Career?

A one-year online MBA can offer hospitality professionals a fast-track route to acquiring advanced business acumen without lengthy time commitments. Integrating strategic decision-making, financial management, and leadership theories, this specialized program equips graduates to manage complex operations, optimize revenue streams, and drive innovation in service delivery. The concentrated curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between core hospitality expertise and broader commercial insights, enhancing skills in crisis management, digital transformation, and global market strategies. For a guided exploration of program options, consider the best 1 year online MBA programs.

Can Enhanced Financial Acumen Strengthen My Hospitality Management Strategy?

In today’s competitive market, integrating financial management with operational insights is essential to drive profitability and sustainable growth in hospitality. Leaders who refine their economic acumen optimize resource allocation, forecast market trends, and mitigate financial risks effectively. Embracing core economic principles can enhance pricing strategies, budgeting practices, and investment decisions. For professionals seeking to complement their hospitality expertise with solid fiscal foundations, pursuing a cheapest online bachelors in economics degree offers valuable insights that can translate into improved decision-making and competitive advantage.

Key Insights

Diverse Career Opportunities: A hospitality management degree opens doors to various industries, including lodging, food and beverage, travel and tourism, and event management.
Growing Industry: Despite the impact of COVID-19, the hospitality sector is rebounding, with significant job growth projected, particularly for lodging managers.
Cost of Education: The cost of obtaining a hospitality management degree varies, with public in-state tuition being the most affordable option and private institutions charging significantly higher fees.
Importance of Specializations: Specializing in areas such as operations, service marketing, or food and beverage management can enhance career prospects.
Skill Development: Essential skills for hospitality management include communication, organizational skills, service orientation, leadership, and technical proficiency.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Numerous financial aid options and scholarships are available to help reduce the cost of education in hospitality management.

FAQ

What is a hospitality management degree? A hospitality management degree encompasses the administrative, commercial, and operational activities of businesses in the hospitality industry. This includes sectors such as lodging, food and beverage, travel and tourism, and event management.
How much does it cost to get a hospitality management degree? The cost varies depending on the institution and whether it is public or private. For example, the median in-state public tuition is $6,429, while the median out-of-state private tuition is $31,190. Additional expenses include room and board, uniforms, seminars, and practicums.
Is a degree in hospitality management worth it? Yes, a degree in hospitality management is worth it for those passionate about service and leadership. The hospitality sector offers diverse job opportunities and the potential for career growth, despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
What jobs can you get with a hospitality management degree? Jobs include hotel general manager, restaurant manager, event manager, travel manager, and food service director. These roles involve managing operations, staff, budgets, and customer service.
What kind of salary can I earn with a hospitality management degree? The average salary for someone with a hospitality management degree is $50,565. Specific roles offer varying salaries, such as food service managers earning $55,320 and hotel managers earning $54,430 annually. Higher-level positions like administrative service managers can earn $96,940 per year.
What are the different types of hospitality management degrees? Degrees include associate (2 years), bachelor’s (4 years), master’s (2 years), doctoral (60 credit hours), and certificate programs (3 months). Each degree level offers different career opportunities and specializations.
What are the admission requirements for a hospitality management degree? Requirements typically include proof of high school graduation, transcripts, a minimum GPA of 2.5, SAT or ACT scores, and possibly letters of recommendation and English proficiency test scores for international students.
What skills are essential for a career in hospitality management? Essential skills include communication, organizational skills, service orientation, leadership, and technical skills. These are critical for managing operations and providing excellent customer service.
What should I look for in a hospitality management program? Consider available specializations, accreditation, student-to-teacher ratio, and financial aid options. Look for programs that offer hands-on experience and internships to enhance practical skills.
Are there financial aid options for hospitality management students? Yes, many universities offer financial aid and scholarships, such as the ABA Academic Merit Scholarship, the Hungry to Lead Scholarship Program, and NEWH scholarships. Students should explore these options to help reduce tuition costs.