Online MBA in Hospitality Management

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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.

FAQ

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Online MBA in Hospitality Management Programs 2021