Hospitality and hotel management are parallel programs in some ways, but they actually have different priorities and often have significant variances in coursework. Students also need to be aware that these degrees are not always interchangeable when it comes to future employment. This means it’s important to fully research each option to determine if it’s the right fit for a desired professional path. It’s also a good idea to discuss this issue with teachers, advisors and other faculty who have first-hand experience working in the industry.
Related resource: Top 15 Hotel and Hospitality Management Online Degree Programs
Hotel Management’s Business and Operational Priorities
As its name suggests, the field of hotel management revolves around the operational, managerial and financial aspects of hospitality establishments. These programs are designed to prepare students to take on supervisory and leadership roles within these environments. While these professionals do need to know a lot about practical hospitality, they also need a sound understanding of the social, financial and logistical aspects of the industry. Managers are also supervisors in most situations, so they need strong communications and leadership skills to succeed and build their careers.
Hospitality: Focusing on the Customer
Hospitality students cover some of the same business, financial and operational issues as hotel management majors, but their overall program typically focuses more on customer experience. Knowledge of human psychology, sociology, and health can be invaluable when providing services or designing spaces within the establishment. Hospitality degrees also cover much more ground in terms of industrial scope, with applications in food service, tourism, spas, clubs and other industries outside of conventional hotels.
Careers in Hotel Management
While demand for lodging managers is expected to grow relatively slowly through 2026, the requirements for entry-level positions aren’t very demanding, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Typical starting positions include housekeeping, guest receptio, and concierge services. Of course, successful managers of large or popular establishments enjoy an immense opportunity for professional advancement. A hotel management degree can prepare students to kick-start a career in the field or serve as professional development for newly-promoted managers that already have work experience.
Professional Opportunities for Hospitality Graduates
Since hospitality programs are broader and more diverse than hotel management, students can determine a direction and specialization to some extent. Graduates may use their degree to seek a job in food service, as either a chef, supplies director, bartender or kitchen supervisor. Experts in hospitality can also consult with establishments on interior design, delivery of services and general issues regarding accommodations. Hospitality training is also useful for travel coordinators as well as event guides and planners.
Students interested in working in the hospitality industry need to carefully consider what kind of educational program they want to invest their time and money into. Current professionals interested in a degree should also explore options for tuition assistance from their employer if possible. Whether students choose to pursue a degree in hospitality or hotel management, they should make the most out of the experience by actively participating in classes, expanding their professional network as much as possible and pursuing internship opportunities.