Experienced hospitality management professionals ensure that guests enjoy themselves. These professionals provide excellent customer service, mentor less senior staff members, and oversee events. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that lodging managers earn a median salary of $56,670 per year. Meeting, convention, and event planners earn a median of $51,560 annually.
Aspiring lodging managers often need every advantage to secure a fulfilling career, as the BLS projects the field to contract 12% from 2019-2029. Hospitality management programs help students gain in-demand knowledge and skills, preparing learners for entry-level positions and helping experienced professionals become more competitive for high-level roles.
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Why Get a Degree in Hospitality Management?
Hospitality management programs generally feature career-focused curricula covering business fundamentals and hospitality best practices. An MBA in the field may qualify graduates for a raise or promotion. Other benefits include improved employability in the competitive job market and up-to-date information on industry trends.
Online learning features many advantages, such as the ability to attend an out-of-state school without relocating. Many online MBA in hospitality management programs offer asynchronous curricula that appeal to busy learners. These programs allow degree-seekers to view lectures and complete coursework around other responsibilities. Many students in asynchronous programs continue working while earning their degree.
Online MBA in Hospitality Management Programs
#1 Online MBA In Hospitality Management
Dakota Wesleyan University
- Mitchell, SD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dakota Wesleyan University is one of the best schools for online degrees. With a rigorous curriculum and faculty experts, the MBA program ranks among the top degrees in the field. Prospective students can use college admissions tests to strengthen their application. The school offers advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff for online learners. In online graduate classes, students interact with faculty and peers in a virtual learning environment.
Since the school holds accreditation, it can issue federal financial aid. In addition to this online program, Dakota Wesleyan University offers three other master's degrees.
Dakota Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 135
Distance Learning Master's Programs: 4
Graduate Tuition Rate: $14,400 in-state and out-of-state
Dakota Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online MBA In Hospitality Management
University of South Dakota
- Vermillion, SD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Vermillion, the University of South Dakota has one of the best online MBA offerings in the country. This school delivers online and on-campus master's degree options. The health services administration MBA program educates learners through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. Full-time learners complete the program in about two years. Part-time enrollment gives students more time to complete the degree.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or scholarships. In addition to this online program, University of South Dakota offers nine other master's degrees.
University of South Dakota Facts:
Number of Learners Enrolled Online: 4,939
Number of Online Master's Degrees: 10
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $6,062 in-state; $11,656 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $4,558
Average Price With Financial Aid: $17,689
University of South Dakota has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online MBA In Hospitality Management
Dakota State University
- Madison, SD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Madison, Dakota State University is a public institution. In the accredited MBA program, graduate students learn through a rigorous business curriculum taught by experts. The school considers test scores in the application process. The institution's advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff help distance learners complete a master's degree. In online courses, learners interact with faculty and peers in a virtual environment.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or scholarships. While completing their master's program, degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure roles in their field.
Dakota State University at a Glance:
Enrolled Distance Learners: 2,206
Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 6
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,939 in-state; $11,088 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Student: $4,729
Average Price After Financial Aid: $17,063
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Courses in Hospitality Management
Students earning their hospitality management degree online prepare to make decisions that impact an entire organization. They also learn to apply communication skills when working with guests and staff to analyze and resolve problems. Degree-seekers gain these skills while completing core MBA courses and hospitality electives. Graduation requirements may include a capstone course during the final semester.
The following sample curriculum features three courses students commonly take while earning an MBA with a hospitality concentration. Students should research each prospective program's requirements, as curricula can impact graduates' career opportunities. Learners can also note each program's alumni outcomes to determine how the program prepares students for careers.
Corporate Social Responsibility
A business impacts not only employees and customers but also the wider community. Students in this course examine these effects by researching academic literature, exploring the relationship between businesses and society, and studying various economic systems. Learners also prepare to determine the social responsibilities of a business based on the goods or services it offers.
Experience, Adventure, and Education Tourism
Degree-seekers in this class gain an understanding of why people travel. Coursework emphasizes the differences between individual travel and tour groups. Learners also examine the importance of hands-on activities and safety best practices. Advanced topics may include specialized travel experiences, such as ecotourism and culinary tourism. Learners also explore how international destinations attract visitors.Information Technology in Hospitality and Tourism
Lodging managers and event planners use various software suites to book guests' rooms, manage budgets, coordinate employees' work schedules, and keep data secure. This course helps students master IT fundamentals and develop relevant problem-solving skills. Coursework covers online marketing techniques, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
How Much Does a Hospitality Management Degree Cost?
Degree-seekers can save money on their degree by choosing an in-state public university. These schools typically charge in-state students the most competitive tuition rates. However, some public universities charge all online learners the same tuition rates, regardless of residency status. Prospective students should also consider the cost of textbooks and fees.
Online learning features many potential financial benefits, no matter which school learners select. Students earning an online hospitality management degree do not usually pay for on-campus housing or meals. Some schools also waive facilities fees for online degree-seekers.
Students can further reduce their financial burden by selecting a school with generous institutional and departmental financial aid opportunities. Learners may qualify for grants and scholarships. Institutions may also offer reduced tuition rates to veterans, active-duty service members, and alumni. Some awards may require a separate application.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
Applicants can determine a degree's affordability using the free calculation tool below. Users input their expected tuition costs, income, financial aid, and expenses. The software uses this information to determine how much the user can contribute per month. A result lower than the cost of tuition and fees indicates the need for additional financial aid, such as scholarships or grants.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Hospitality Management Majors Make?
A hospitality manager's salary depends on their employer and state. According to the BLS, lodging managers who work for hotel or motel chains earn a median salary slightly higher than colleagues employed by recreational camps. Workers in the District of Columbia, Colorado, and New Jersey earn median salaries about $40,000-$60,000 higher than the median for the profession. However, the cost of living in these states may exceed the national average.
Job title also impacts earning potential. General and revenue managers often earn higher salaries than front office or convention services managers. Professionals can also increase their salary potential by gaining on-the-job experience.
In addition to earning a hospitality management degree, professionals can pursue industry certifications to qualify for raises and promotions. Private organizations and agencies award certifications to talented and experienced workers in the field. Learners pursuing an MBA in hospitality management can speak with a career advisor about certifications relevant to their interests.
Certifications and Licensure for Hospitality Management
Individuals can obtain professional certification to demonstrate mastery of one or more in-demand skills. Typical certification requirements include a degree and professional experience, completion of a short course, and a passing exam score. Some organizations award certifications only to members, and renewal requirements may include professional development courses.
Managers overseeing front-office hotel staff can pursue this certification. Candidates need at least one year of management experience and must pass an exam. Members of the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute receive a discount. Professionals renew the certification every five years, a process which requires a fee and documentation.
The International Live Events Association developed this credential in 1993 to help experienced event planners advance professionally. Candidates with a hospitality management degree need only three years of experience. The association provides an exam preparation guide and practice exams. Applicants can retake the exam for an additional fee.
The International Association of Venue Managers awards this certification to members with at least seven years of experience. Applicants must submit an essay, take a written exam, and participate in an interview. Professionals qualify for certification renewal every three years by taking continuing education courses, performing community service, or publishing research in an industry journal.
Scholarships for Hospitality Management
Private scholarships often help MBA in hospitality management degree-seekers avoid long-term student debt. Online learners in the field can research and apply for scholarships such as those below. The following list features scholarship programs accepting applications in 2021. Students should review the latest application requirements and deadlines before applying.
AfterCollege Business Student Scholarship
Who Can Apply: AfterCollege awards this competitive scholarship to degree-seekers majoring in a business-related field. Application requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA and a 200-word essay discussing the candidate's professional goals.
Amount: $500
Explore Here
AKA Graduate Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Alpha Kappa Alpha awards merit-based and need-based awards to full-time graduate students. Applicants must meet minimum GPA requirements, and degree-seekers with a history of community service receive preference.
Amount: Varies
Explore Here
AAAA Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Members of the Army Aviation Association of America and dependents of members can apply for these scholarships. Applicants must be attending an accredited college or university and must submit official transcripts, an essay, and a recommendation letter. The association uses an April 30 application deadline.
Amount: Varies
Explore Here
FAQ About MBA in Hospitality Management
Is an MBA in hospitality management worth it?
An MBA in hospitality management may qualify graduates for management-level positions and raises. Master's students often specialize in an area such as food service, event planning, or casino management.
Is hospitality management a good career?
Careers in the field can be fulfilling and rewarding. Successful hospitality management professionals typically have a passion for meeting individuals' needs and ensuring that guests leave satisfied.
How long does it take to get an MBA in hospitality management?
Hospitality management degree programs typically require about two years to complete. Some programs offer accelerated 18-month tracks, while others give part-time students additional time to graduate.
What kinds of jobs can I get with a hospitality management degree?
Positions in the hospitality management field include food service manager, event planner, and destination marketing manager. Students often explore these and other job opportunities while earning their hospitality management degree online.
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