Hotel Management: Degree Programs & Career Requirements

Associate of Science in Hotel Management

An Associate of Science (A.S.) in Hotel Management or Hospitality Management program allows students to gain an entry-level understanding of the hospitality business while developing the leadership and problem-solving skills needed to excel in the industry. Besides introductory courses in the hospitality industry, students in this program take business-related classes. Students gain knowledge in all aspects of the field, ranging from accounting, marketing and advertising, to developing skills in menu planning, purchasing and other aspects of food service operations. The following courses help students develop the necessary skills needed for a career in hotel management:

• Accounting
• Hospitality
• Foodservice and beverage operations
• Marketing
• Nutrition
• Managerial finance

Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management

A bachelor's degree program in hotel management is geared toward those pursuing managerial or supervisory positions in the field. Students learn to supervise, manage inventory, work with vendors, develop marketing plans, oversee information technology options, set rates and manage employees. Group exercises and case studies offer hands-on experience. Those who major in hotel management at the bachelor's degree are prepared to be prospective managers, gaining experience in everyday business operations, typically through required practice credits. These practice credits, also known as paid internships, are part of the course curriculum of the hotel management degree program. Most colleges require students to work a specific number of hours prior to graduation, usually at an affiliated establishment. In addition to the general education courses that students take, those enrolled in the bachelor's degree program learn more about standards and practices, the hospitality industry and the role of management. Common subjects in hotel management degree programs include:

• Marketing management
• Labor relations
• Convention and meeting planning
• Hotel operations
• Business and hospitality law
• Purchasing

Hotel management graduate programs are ideal for those who have already obtained a bachelor's degree, and they typically prepare students for upper-level management or ownership roles in hospitality. A hotel management specialization at the master's level will generally require two years of study. The ability to speak at least two languages is highly preferred. For many hotel managers, taking this step is something that is considered after a career has already been established. However, those who have just completed a bachelor's degree may also be drawn to a master's program. A PhD program in hotel administration is generally for someone interested in teaching hotel management or performing extensive research about the field.

Due to the growth in the hospitality and tourism industry, a hotel management major and hospitality and tourism management major are likely to prepare students for employment in a variety of supportive entry-level positions. The following positions are available for those who have an associate's degree in hotel management:

• Assistant hotel manager
• Event planner
• Food and beverage manager

While many hotel management majors go on to positions as hotel managers, others gain employment in specialty areas such as event planning, catering, housekeeping and front desk management.

Well-trained hospitality professionals are in demand due to the rise of hotel construction and the increase of national and international travel. The bachelor's degree program prepares students for management positions throughout the hotel industry in roles such as a:

• Catering manager
• Sales director
• Regional manager
• Resort manager
• Hotel manager

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute offers many different kinds of certification for hotel professionals who want to further their careers. Some of these forms of certification are available to those who have not yet obtained any university education, while others are forms of recertification for those who have been involved in the industry for many years. Professional certification is available for several roles, such as front desk manager, housekeeping manager, spa supervisor, laundry attendant and security officer. It is also available for other areas of hotel work, including hotel industry analytics and executive positions. It may be worth exploring the kinds of certification available in order to see which ones are right for you based on your educational goals and current level of experience.

Students with an A.S. in Hospitality Management may wish to continue their education by enrolling in a bachelor's degree in hospitality management program. Some employers require a bachelor's degree in hotel management to apply for certain positions.

To gain an upper-management position, a master's degree may be a good next step. An advanced degree can open up opportunities for international positions, corporate roles and eventually, ownership. The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute offers certification for hotel professionals who want to further their career. Professional certification is available for several roles, such as front desk manager, housekeeping manager, spa supervisor, laundry attendant and security officer.

The end goal of a hotel management degree program, at the associate's or bachelor's level, is to prepare students to successfully manage hospitality establishments. Students gain strong communication skills for working with both staff and customers, a knowledge of relevant labor and business laws, and general understanding of running a hotel.

Source: United States Bureau of Labor Statistics