Essential Information
Students in hospitality management associate's degree programs learn how to apply basic business concepts, such as accounting and marketing, to restaurant and lodging operations. They also have the opportunity to build customer service abilities and enhance their decision-making and event-planning skills. The curricula may allow for hands-on work experience in school lab settings, and some programs also require students to complete internships. Applicants typically need a high school diploma or GED for admission to these two-year programs.
Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Students are required to complete approximately 60 semester hours of coursework. Most programs teach students about customer relations, etiquette and registration procedures for a hotel's front desk. Students also learn to create budgets, analyze costs and avoid stockroom shortages. Students can explore food preparation techniques or discover the differences between menu planning for dining facilities and banquet events. They then learn the logistics of planning a special event for entertainment services. Common courses include:
- Sanitation
- Hospitality marketing
- Customer service
- Housekeeping supervising
- Food and beverage service
- Hotel operations
Popular Career Options
Graduates are qualified for entry-level positions in the tourism, restaurant and hotel industries. Possible job titles include:
- Food and beverage assistant manager
- Banquet coordinator
- Guest services specialist
- Maitre d'hotel
- Dining supervisor
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of lodging managers is projected to decrease by 12% from 2019 to 2029. Food service managers are expected to see a 1% increase in employment during that same time period. In May 2020, the BLS reported that lodging and food service managers earned median annual salaries of $56,670 and $56,590, respectively.
Continuing Education Information
Graduates can expand their knowledge by participating in certificate programs that focus on an area of specialization, such as spa management or hospitality marketing. Those interested in transferring their credits to a 4-year program can find hospitality management or hotel and restaurant management bachelor's degrees. These programs may include advanced coursework in managing casinos or retirement communities.
Overall, AAS programs in hospitality management provide a general introduction to the industry, thereby preparing graduates for a wide range of careers. Graduates who are interested specialized or more advanced studies can continue their educations.
