Spring is the time for celebrating graduations. But, if you work in the hospitality industry and don't have a degree, you may wonder how you can get ahead.
There are 716 programs offering hospitality management degrees, providing flexibility with a program type for every learner. Programs at "brick and mortar" institutions allow you to attend class in person with lectures and coursework. Online universities provide flexibility to earn a degree via the Internet, at a time that best fits your work schedule. The success and acceptance of online, has led to the development of a hybrid system that combines brick-and-mortar colleges with online classes.
Whatever your learning needs, there is now a program for you.
Before you commit time and money to a university education, it is important to do your research. Questions to ask include: Is it accredited? Is there a proactive, caring learning environment? Do the professors have experience in the field? Does the hospitality management program have a student honor society? Are professors published? Is there an active industry advisory council? What type of financial aid is provided?
What type of average salary can you expect? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor shows it depends on the position. Urban locations typically pay more, whereas nonmetropolitan areas pay less. The exception to this is a high-end tourist nonmetropolitan area (think Aspen, Colorado). Here is a look at some average salaries:
- Lodging manager: $54,570
- Food service manager: $52,220
- Travel accommodations food manager: $54,710
- Casino manager: $73,940
Employers typically start you in entry-level positions to learn the business, before considering advancement. Most of these positions are paid hourly.
- Maintenance and repairs: $12.47/hour
- Hotel/resort front desk attendant: $9.34/hour
- Game dealers: $7.29/hour
- Hotel bartenders: $9.55/hour
- Hotel cooks: $12.27/hour
Since management and supervisory careers pay more, continuing your education will be important. Consider taking additional electives in finance, marketing, human resources, communications/team building and legal matters/ethics.
If a two- or four-year degree is not viable, consider earning a certificate in specialty areas of hospitality. This benchmark prepares you for later classes and shows your employer commitment. Certificate programs can be found at universities as well as the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. Check with the individual institution for certificates in such areas as sanitation, food and beverage management, event planning, spa management, and lodging accounting, to name a few.
Does a degree guarantee success? No, but it often is the "door opener" that is needed in today's economy. The savvy hospitality management graduate will make sure to overlay this relevant education by setting up a professional network with a mentor.
On the job, this graduate will cultivate a positive work environment no matter the position held, remain calm under pressure, be prepared for emergencies, know the competition, work toward improving the business and be a customer-oriented professional. These are the additional keys to success.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, hospitality is a "high-growth segment." A degree is hospitality management is one that can provide you an opportunity to further excel in life.
