What Can I Do With A Degree In Hospitality Management?

Over the centuries, people have been empowered to explore the world beyond their hometown boundaries thanks to advances in transportation and communication technologies. Remote parts of the globe that were previously closed off have now been opened up to tourism. For those with adventurous spirits who want to help others tap into their sense of wanderlust, a degree in hospitality management can open up a wealth of career opportunities.

In addition to jobs in tourism, those who pursue a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management also can become involved in event planning, facilities management and more. Some of the most popular academic specializations include:

  • Lodging
  • Tourism and Travel
  • Casinos
  • Food and Beverages
  • Conventions and Events

Meeting, Convention and Event Planning

Meeting, convention and event planning is one of the highest growth careers in the field of hospitality management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that this job will grow 11 percent between 2016and 2026. These hospitality professionals meet with clients to plan events such as weddings, business conventions, parties, anniversaries and other occasions. They assist in coordinating amenities such as rooms, transportation and food, in addition to soliciting bids from various providers of these services.

Education Requirements

A bachelor’s degree and 1-2 years of experience is typically desired in this profession.

Certifications

There are two voluntary certifications which may enhance one’s candidacy among prospective clients or employers:

  1. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation
  2. Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) designation

Employment and Mean Wage Estimates (BLS, 2017)

  • Currently employed in this occupation: 102,420
  • Mean annual wage: $52,630
  • Top-paying locations for this occupation include District of Columbia, New York, New Jersey, Alaska and Connecticut.

Lodging management

Lodging management is another common career path for hospitality professionals, although the BLS projects that this career will grow only four percent between 2016 and 2026. Some of the responsibilities of this job include maintaining hotel standards for guest services, monitoring staff performance and allocating funds to various departments.

Education Requirements

A bachelor’s degree is highly recommended for those employed at full-service hotels.

Certification

Lodging managers may find it useful to earn a certification from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.

Employment and Mean Wage Estimates (BLS, 2017)

  • Currently employed in this occupation: 36,610
  • Mean annual wage: $59,620
  • Top-paying locations for this occupation include District of Columbia, New York, New Jersey, Hawaii and Nevada.

Food Service Management

Finally, food service management is another possible specialization for people interested in careers in hospitality. The BLS predicts nine percent growth for this industry between 2016and 2026. Some of the responsibilities include managing inventories, maintaining standards of customer service and ensuring compliance with health and food safety regulations.

Education Requirements

Similar to lodging managers, a bachelor’s degree is preferred for positions in upscale companies.

Certification

There’s a voluntary certification offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.

Employment and Mean Wage Estimates (BLS, 2017)

  • Currently employed in this occupation: 208,110
  • Mean annual wage: $57,250
  • Top-paying locations for this occupation include New Jersey, Delaware, District of Columbia, New York, and Connecticut.

A degree in hospitality management can provide a number of opportunities in hotels, restaurants, casinos and travel agencies, to name a few. Please check the visual below for salary information and a full list of references.

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