Why This Matters
-
LODGING MANAGERS EARN $54,430 PER YEAR
The median annual salary for lodging and hotel managers in the U.S. is $14,620 more than the average salary for all occupations.
-
DEMAND FOR EVENT PLANNERS EXPECTED TO INCREASE BY 8%
It’s estimated that 10,800 new jobs will be added through 2029 as organizations and businesses continue to host meetings, conventions, and events year-round.
-
2,200 MORE FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE NEEDED BY 2029
The need for managers to oversee food service operations and logistics will continue to increase, particularly at upscale hotels and restaurants.
Our Research
Our research covers master’s degree programs in hospitality management that prepare students for leadership positions in the service industry. Degrees offered include Master of Science in Hospitality Management, Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management, Master of Tourism Management, and Master of Hospitality Administration. All of these graduate programs are delivered online.
Accreditation is given to hospitality management programs that successfully prepare graduates for the global workforce. The programs on our list are accredited nationally and regionally by accreditors, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), and Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
- 77 hours to write this article
- 79 universities and colleges we assessed
- 173 education programs we compared
The Top 32 Master’s in Hospitality Management Degree Programs
Discover More Options
What You Should Know About This Degree
When pursuing a degree in hospitality management, you should also consider a master’s in hotel management. Hotel management programs specialize in tourism industry-related services, while hospitality management programs focus on administrative duties related to hotels, restaurants, clubs, and event spaces. If you’re interested in managing the day-to-day operations of hotel properties, you might want to pursue a graduate degree in hotel management. If you’re interested in a comprehensive curriculum that deals with operations, finance, marketing, and human resources, consider a graduate program in hospitality management.
Certifications can give graduates a competitive edge when pursuing senior-level positions in hospitality. The service and tourism industry is continually evolving, and certifications demonstrate to potential employers that you are up-to-date with recent changes and digital advancements within the industry. Graduates should consider pursuing certifications such as the Cvent Supplier Professional Certification, Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP), Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP), and Digital Event Strategist (DES).
While the demand for hotel managers is expected to decline due to the rise of short-term rentals, the demand for skilled event planners is projected to grow faster than that of all other occupations. The need for food and beverage service managers will also continue to grow by 1%, much slower than the national average.
What’s Next?
Ask yourself these questions when researching master’s in hospitality management programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students from all educational backgrounds who hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent can pursue a graduate degree in hospitality management. Certain programs might require a minimum GPA and previous coursework in relevant subjects such as accounting and statistics.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most master’s in hospitality management programs take two years of full-time study to complete. The programs on our list require students to complete between 30 and 36 credits to graduate.
Find out application deadlines and entry requirements for the programs to which you plan to apply. Detailed information is usually posted on the school website, or contact the school’s admissions department.
Graduate programs require financial investment, and you should consider how you’ll cover the costs associated with your study. If you have a job, your employer might pay all or part of your tuition fees. You may also be eligible for scholarships, grants, and federal student aid.