Should you major in hospitality?

If you’re someone who loves working with people, enjoys planning events and has a passion for creating amazing experiences, then pursuing a hospitality degree might be the perfect fit for you! But before you decide to major in hospitality, it’s important to know what to expect from this academic path and where it can lead you career-wise.

What is a hospitality degree?

A hospitality degree is more than just learning how to run a hotel or restaurant. It covers various topics, including business management, customer service, marketing and event planning. As a hospitality major, you’ll develop the skills needed to thrive in fast-paced, customer-focused environments.

Classes you’ll take

One of the best things about a hospitality degree is the variety of classes you can take. Most programs require core courses in business management, finance and marketing, but you’ll also have the flexibility to explore specific areas, such as:

• Hotel and resort management: Learn how to manage accommodations, guest services and operations.
• Event planning: Discover the ins and outs of organizing corporate events, weddings and conferences.
• Food and beverage management: Explore the business side of restaurants, catering and beverage services.
• Tourism and travel: Understand the global tourism industry and how it impacts local economies.
• Customer service and leadership: Develop essential communication and leadership skills to provide exceptional guest experiences.

Skills you’ll develop

Majoring in hospitality equips you with a broad skill set that applies to many careers. Some of the most valuable skills include:

• Leadership: You’ll learn how to manage teams, resolve conflicts and create positive work environments.
• Customer service: Providing exceptional guest experiences is at the heart of hospitality.
• Business and financial management: Understanding budgets, revenue management and financial planning is crucial for success in the industry.
• Problem-solving: Handling unexpected challenges and making quick decisions are essential in hospitality roles.
• Marketing and branding: Learn how to promote businesses, attract customers and create memorable experiences.

Preparing for a hospitality major

What jobs can you get with a hospitality degree?

A hospitality degree opens doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities. Whether you want to work in hotels, restaurants, tourism or event planning, the possibilities are endless. Here are some potential career paths:

Careers

• Hotel Manager: Oversee daily operations, staff and guest experiences in hotels and resorts.
• Restaurant Manager: Manage dining establishments, coordinate staff and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Event Manager: Plan and execute corporate events, weddings and special occasions.
• Resort or Cruise Director: Create and manage entertainment programs for vacation destinations.
• Catering Manager: Oversee food service operations for events, banquets and corporate functions.

Non-traditional jobs

Not all hospitality majors work in hotels or restaurants. Some graduates explore alternative careers, such as:

• Travel Consultant: Help clients plan vacations, business trips and group tours.
• Human Resources Manager: Recruit and train employees in hospitality businesses.
• Sales and Marketing Manager: Promote hotels, resorts or restaurants to attract customers.
• Entrepreneur: Start your own hospitality-related business, such as a catering company or event planning service.
• Luxury Brand Manager: Work with high-end hospitality brands in sales, marketing or guest experience roles.

Salary expectations

Hospitality careers can offer competitive salaries, especially in management roles. While entry-level positions may start lower, salaries increase with experience, leadership roles, and specialized skills. Here are some average salary ranges for key hospitality careers:

• Hotel Manager: $50,000 - $100,000+ per year, depending on location and experience.
• Restaurant Manager: $45,000 - $80,000 per year.
• Event Planner: $40,000 - $75,000 per year.
• Catering Manager: $50,000 - $85,000 per year.
• Luxury Hospitality Manager: $60,000 - $120,000 per year.

The value of a hospitality degree

One of the biggest advantages of a hospitality degree is its versatility. The skills you gain are transferable to many industries, including tourism, entertainment, corporate events and business management. Plus, hospitality careers often provide the opportunity to travel, work in diverse environments and meet people from all over the world.

Tips for success

• Gain hands-on experience: Internships, part-time jobs or volunteer work in hospitality settings will boost your resume and prepare you for the workforce.
• Develop strong leadership skills: Take on leadership roles in clubs, organizations or group projects to enhance your management abilities.
• Network: Attend industry events, join hospitality organizations and connect with professionals in the field.
• Stay up-to-date: The hospitality industry is always evolving. Keep up with trends, new technologies, and customer expectations.
• Be adaptable: Hospitality careers often require flexibility and the ability to handle unexpected challenges positively.

Exploring hospitality at Central Michigan University

A hospitality degree is more than just a pathway to a job - it’s a gateway to an exciting, fast-paced industry where no two days are the same.

By pursuing a hospitality services administration degree at Central Michigan University, you’ll learn from experts and connect with industry leaders – all while gaining crucial hands-on experience before you graduate.

From working alongside experienced professionals at our on-campus Marriott Hotel to immersing yourself in the ecotourism industry by studying abroad in Costa Rica, you’ll be sure to stand out before you go out into the real world to begin your career in hospitality.