Essential Information
Students interested in a two-year spa management degree can work toward an Associate in Occupational Studies in Spa Management or an Associate in Applied Science in Resort and Spa Management. These students gain foundational skills in spa services and learn overall business management strategies.
Undergraduate programs leading to a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Resort and Recreation Management often offer a specialization in spa management. Students focus on the business and operational sides of spa management while learning about health and wellness, exercise and spa services.
In general, these programs include traditional in-class or online courses in accounting, marketing, customer service, spa treatments, spa cuisine and personnel management. Internships are common at both levels as well. Some associate's programs only admit licensed massage therapists, estheticians or related beauty service providers. Graduates of both associate's and bachelor's programs may qualify for voluntary certification.
Admission into these programs entails a high school diploma or GED and may also require satisfactory ACT or SAT scores. Continued enrollment in some programs require the maintenance of a 2.0 or better GPA.
Associate's Degree Programs in Spa Management
At this level, students take general education classes as well as spa management classes in:
- Customer relations
- Personnel management
- Design and marketing strategies for spas
- Computer technologies in spas and resorts
- Designing nutritious meal plans for spa clientele
Bachelor's Degree Programs in Spa Management
Undergraduate spa management students are required to obtain professional work experience. They must complete all coursework with a 2.0 GPA or higher. Spa management classes consist of:
- Finance
- Types of spa treatments
- Client wellness
- Group exercise activities
- Nutrition therapy
Popular Career Options
Spa management associate's degree holders can work in health and day spas and luxury resorts. Job titles may include:
- General spa manager
- Spa designer
- Menu planner
- Personal services consultant
- Spa marketing manager
Employment Prospects and Salary Information
From 2019 to 2029, the number of lodging managers, who direct accommodations like spas, is expected to decline 12%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In 2019, the BLS found that lodging managers earned a median salary of $54,430 annually.
Professional Certification and Continuing Education Information
Professional spa management certification is available on a voluntary basis. The International Spa Association (www.experienceispa.com) offers a Certified Spa Supervisor credential. To be eligible for certification, applicants have to meet minimum requirements and pass examinations.
If you are interested in becoming a spa manager, you have a few educational options to choose from, including associate's and bachelor's degree programs in spa management. While certification through the International Spa Association is optional, it may help you find employment.
