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MBA Programs in Hospitality Management
Tuition, ROI, Graduate Salary, GMAT Requirements

10 Best Ranked | Interactive Table | Salaries | Tuition | ROI | GMAT | Alumni Networking | How We Rank

$35,759

Average Tuition – Hospitality Management MBA Programs

$76,637

Average Starting Salary – Hospitality Management MBA Programs

544

Average GMAT Scores – Hospitality Management MBA Programs

210%

Average ROI – Finance MBA Programs

Executive Summary for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management MBA Programs

The ranking team at MBAGuide.org, evaluated 52 Hospitality Management MBA programs. Here is a summary of our comprehensive findings. Explore the details about the Hospitality Management MBA, compare schools, find states and cities where the degree is offered.

  • Starting salary for new MBA graduates in Hospitality Management is between $39,900 and $155,048 with an average of $76,637.
  • Campus tuition in for Hospitality Management MBAs ranges between $8,460 to $159,820, with an average total tuition cost of $35,759
  • ROI for campus MBA programs in Hospitality Management ranges between -40% to 615%, with an average ROI return of 210%
  • A GMAT score between 420 and 707 with an average of 544 is needed for acceptance into an MBA program in Hospitality Management.
  • There are 52 campus and 42 online MBA Hospitality Management Programs.
  • Average student enrollment varies between 6 and 1,188 with an overall average of 262.
  • Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA programs offering a Hospitality Management concentration varies between 8:1 and 37:1 with an average of 18:1 students.
  • 51 MBA programs in Hospitality Management are ranked by the following institutions MBAGuide: 43, US News: 5, Forbes: 3, BW: 4, FT: 3 and Economist: 3.
  1. Comprehensive comparisons, data and analysis – MBAGuide conducted an in-depth analysis of 52 AACSB-accredited campus MBA programs in Hospitality Management to find the top programs in the country.
  2. Ranking metrics you care about – such as average starting salaries, tuition fees, return on investment (ROI), GMAT scores, alumni networks, student-to-faculty ratios, and more with no paywall.
  3. Detailed school profiles of Hospitality Management MBA programs their strengths, faculty expertise, alumni networks to help align your program choice

Best 10 MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

Michigan State University

The Eli Broad College of Business

Location:

  • East Lansing

,

  • MI

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $34,564
  • Graduate Salary: $119,539
  • Graduate ROI: 246%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 680
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 22:1
  • Enrollment: 5115

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 16
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Law
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Supply Chain
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 9
  • Online Rank: 5
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

The George Washington University

School of Business

Location:

  • Washington

,

  • DC

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $113,090
  • Graduate Salary: $115,951
  • Graduate ROI: 3%
  • GMAT Required: No
  • Avg. GMAT: 669
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
  • Enrollment: 2964

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 21
  • Accounting
  • Communications
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Education
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Ethics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Insurance
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Manufacturing
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Sports Management
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 3
  • State Rank: 3
  • National Rank: 38
  • Online Rank: 13
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Cornell University

College of Business

Location:

  • Ithaca

,

  • NY

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $159,820
  • Graduate Salary: $155,048
  • Graduate ROI: -3%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 707
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
  • Enrollment: 4078

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 9
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Economics
  • General Business
  • Hospitality Management
  • Management
  • Nonprofit
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 4
  • National Rank: 45
  • Online Rank: Not Ranked
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Isenberg School of Management

Location:

  • Amherst

,

  • MA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $33,622
  • Graduate Salary: $111,227
  • Graduate ROI: 231%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 638
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 25:1
  • Enrollment: 6500

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 13
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Sports Management
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 6
  • National Rank: 61
  • Online Rank: 35
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of Delaware

Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics

Location:

  • Newark

,

  • DE

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $39,954
  • Graduate Salary: $82,000
  • Graduate ROI: 105%
  • GMAT Required: No
  • Avg. GMAT: 634
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
  • Enrollment: 4054

Degree Level(s):

  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 17
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Economics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Hospitality Management
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Sports Management
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 2
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 66
  • Online Rank: 39
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Georgia State University

J. Mack Robinson College of Business

Location:

  • Atlanta

,

  • GA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $36,522
  • Graduate Salary: $93,600
  • Graduate ROI: 156%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 630
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 25:1
  • Enrollment: 8232

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 22
  • Accounting
  • Actuarial Science
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Economics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Insurance
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 3
  • State Rank: 4
  • National Rank: 70
  • Online Rank: 42
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Purdue University Northwest

College of Business

Location:

  • Hammond

,

  • IN

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

  • Tuition: $12,350
  • Graduate Salary: $87,100
  • Graduate ROI: 605%
  • GMAT Required: No
  • Avg. GMAT: 610
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 15:1
  • Enrollment: 966

Degree Level(s):

  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • Concentrations: 10
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 5
  • National Rank: 99
  • Online Rank: Not Ranked
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of San Francisco

School of Management

Location:

  • San Francisco

,

  • CA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $79,200
  • Graduate Salary: $82,500
  • Graduate ROI: 4%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 617
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 11:1
  • Enrollment: 1402

Degree Level(s):

  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 13
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Hospitality Management
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 10
  • National Rank: 106
  • Online Rank: 72
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

University of Southern Mississippi

College of Business

Location:

  • Hattiesburg

,

  • MS

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $17,131
  • Graduate Salary: $62,300
  • Graduate ROI: 264%
  • GMAT Required: No
  • Avg. GMAT: 660
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 13:1
  • Enrollment: 2088

Degree Level(s):

  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 13
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Sports Management
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 112
  • Online Rank: 83
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

San Jose State University

Lucas College and Graduate School of Business

Location:

  • San Jose

,

  • CA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

  • Tuition: $39,270
  • Graduate Salary: $90,800
  • Graduate ROI: 131%
  • GMAT Required: Conditional
  • Avg. GMAT: 587
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 31:1
  • Enrollment: 6334

Degree Level(s):

  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • Concentrations: 21
  • Accounting
  • Communications
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Other
  • Product Management
  • Project Management
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Best in:
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 13
  • National Rank: 131
  • Online Rank: 90
  • Top 10% in State: ROI, Tuition
  • Better than State Average: GMAT
  • Better than National Average: Student / Faculty Ratio

Interactive Table of the Best Ranked MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Hospitality Management MBA programs by RankSchool NameROITuitionAverage Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Hospitality Management. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University ROIIn State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryStateOnline
1 Michigan State University 246.00% $34,564 $119,539MIYes
2 The George Washington University 3.00% $113,090 $115,951DCNo
3 Cornell University -3.00% $159,820 $155,048NYNo
4 University of Massachusetts Amherst 231.00% $33,622 $111,227MAYes
5 University of Delaware 105.00% $39,954 $82,000DEYes
6 Georgia State University 156.00% $36,522 $93,600GAYes
7 Purdue University Northwest 605.00% $12,350 $87,100INNo
8 University of San Francisco 4.00% $79,200 $82,500CAYes
9 University of Southern Mississippi 264.00% $17,131 $62,300MSNo
10 San Jose State University 131.00% $39,270 $90,800CAYes
11 Georgia Southern University 615.00% $9,824 $70,200GAYes
12 Washington State University 199.00% $32,328 $96,500WAYes
13 Oklahoma State University 280.00% $19,295 $73,300OKYes
14 California State University, Dominguez Hills 385.00% $16,986 $82,400CAYes
15 Central Michigan University 246.00% $27,300 $94,350MIYes
16 Utah Valley University 442.00% $13,956 $75,700UTNo
17 Florida Atlantic University 117.00% $36,000 $78,220FLYes
18 Montclair State University 167.00% $34,669 $92,400NJYes
19 Belmont University 19.00% $69,207 $82,200TNNo
20 University of New Hampshire 62.00% $41,182 $66,667NHYes
21 Frostburg State University 400.00% $16,740 $83,700MDYes
22 Sacred Heart University 118.00% $35,840 $78,300CTNo
23 California State University, Fullerton 83.00% $44,550 $81,500CAYes
24 University of Alaska Anchorage 210.00% $22,161 $68,700AKYes
25 University of Hawaii at Manoa 278.00% $21,288 $80,400HINo
26 Appalachian State University 262.00% $17,463 $63,285NCYes
27 Purdue University Fort Wayne 362.00% $16,756 $77,400INYes
28 The University of North Carolina at Greensboro 180.00% $25,000 $70,100NCYes
29 DePaul University 59.00% $53,952 $86,000ILYes
30 Texas Woman's University 300.00% $20,000 $79,925TXYes
31 Pace University -39.00% $116,744 $71,590NYYes
32 College of Charleston 149.00% $28,204 $70,314SCYes
33 California State University, San Bernardino 84.00% $41,500 $76,200CAYes
34 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 91.00% $62,000 $118,300VAYes
35 Nova Southeastern University 105.00% $44,351 $90,756FLYes
36 Southeast Missouri State University 330.00% $13,804 $59,400MOYes
37 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 270.00% $17,745 $65,600TXYes
38 Kennesaw State University 279.00% $19,000 $72,000GAYes
39 Rochester Institute of Technology -40.00% $108,352 $64,800NYYes
40 West Virginia University 155.00% $24,273 $61,847WVYes
41 University of Louisiana at Lafayette 64.00% $31,281 $51,200LAYes
42 Augusta University 493.00% $10,590 $62,800GAYes
43 Florida Gulf Coast University 345.00% $13,428 $59,700FLYes
44 Southern Illinois University Carbondale 171.00% $21,972 $59,600ILYes
45 Western Carolina University 216.00% $13,967 $44,100NCYes
46 University of West Florida 359.00% $12,460 $57,200FLYes
47 Delaware State University 196.00% $15,625 $46,300DEYes
48 Stockton University 44.00% $33,012 $47,700NJNo
49 Nichols College 95.00% $28,440 $55,392MAYes
50 Coastal Carolina University 184.00% $18,460 $52,500SCYes
51 Grambling State University 372.00% $8,460 $39,900LANo

An MBA program in Hospitality Management will cost you between $8,460.00 to $159,820.00.

  • Number of Programs Offering Hospitality Management MBAs: 52
  • Average GMAT Score for Hospitality Management MBA Programs: 544
  • Average In-State Tuition for Hospitality Management MBA Programs: $35,758.59
  • Average Graduate Salary for Hospitality Management MBA Programs: $76,637
  • Average ROI for Hospitality Management MBA Programs: 210%

Compare Hospitality Management MBA Program Averages vs Campus

 AveragesMBA ProgramsOnline MBA Programs
Number of Programs5242
Average Starting Salary$76,637$75,217
Average MBA Tuition$35,759
$32,672
Average ROI210%209%
Average GMAT Scores544
536
Average Full-Time MBA Faculty8788
Average MBA Student Faculty Ratio18:119:1
Faculty with Doctorate84%84%
Average Full-Time MBA Enrollment262223
Average Part-Time MBA Enrollment322349
Average % of MBA Students from U.S.84%84%

Read about our ranking methodology.

What is the Average MBA Salary for Hospitality Management Graduates?

Though it’s not the only factor, compensation is an important consideration for individuals considering obtaining an MBA degree. Salaries for graduates with master’s degrees in Hospitality Management can be significantly higher than those of graduates with only a bachelor’s degree. In addition, advance salary projections from the US Department of Labor show that average MBA salaries are expected to increase by 13.5% each year through the year 2028 with an annual need of 99,000 new managers needed each year.

MBA salaries differs wildly depending on the program you chose, the industry you enter and the experience you have. After earning an MBA from Grambling State University, the average MBA graduate annual salary is $39,900 . A degree from Cornell University, will provide an annual salary of $155,048.

Average MBA starting salary for graduates from accredited programs is $76,637 with the lowest of starting of $39,900 and the highest reported starting salary of $155,048.

Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person Hospitality Management MBA Programs

  • Average Hospitality Management: $76,637
  • Lowest Hospitality Management: $39,900
  • Highest Hospitality Management: $155,048

10 Highest Salaries for In-Person MBA Graduates in Hospitality Management

  1. Cornell University - $155,048.00
  2. Michigan State University - $119,539.00
  3. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - $118,300.00
  4. The George Washington University - $115,951.00
  5. University of Massachusetts Amherst - $111,227.00
  6. Washington State University - $96,500.00
  7. Central Michigan University - $94,350.00
  8. Georgia State University - $93,600.00
  9. Montclair State University - $92,400.00
  10. San Jose State University - $90,800.00

10 Lowest Salaries for In-Person MBA Graduates in Hospitality Management

  1. Grambling State University - $39,900.00
  2. Western Carolina University - $44,100.00
  3. Delaware State University - $46,300.00
  4. Stockton University - $47,700.00
  5. University of Louisiana at Lafayette - $51,200.00
  6. Coastal Carolina University - $52,500.00
  7. Nichols College - $55,392.00
  8. University of West Florida - $57,200.00
  9. Southeast Missouri State University - $59,400.00
  10. Southern Illinois University Carbondale - $59,600.00

Average Salary for Graduate of MBA Programs in Hospitality Management Programs – Interactive Table

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Hospitality Management MBA programs by Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Hospitality Management. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University Avg. Starting SalaryIn State TuitionROIStateOnline
1 Grambling State University $39,900 $8,460 372.00%LANo
2 Western Carolina University $44,100 $13,967 216.00%NCYes
3 Delaware State University $46,300 $15,625 196.00%DEYes
4 Stockton University $47,700 $33,012 44.00%NJNo
5 University of Louisiana at Lafayette $51,200 $31,281 64.00%LAYes
6 Coastal Carolina University $52,500 $18,460 184.00%SCYes
7 Nichols College $55,392 $28,440 95.00%MAYes
8 University of West Florida $57,200 $12,460 359.00%FLYes
9 Southeast Missouri State University $59,400 $13,804 330.00%MOYes
10 Southern Illinois University Carbondale $59,600 $21,972 171.00%ILYes
11 Florida Gulf Coast University $59,700 $13,428 345.00%FLYes
12 West Virginia University $61,847 $24,273 155.00%WVYes
13 University of Southern Mississippi $62,300 $17,131 264.00%MSNo
14 Augusta University $62,800 $10,590 493.00%GAYes
15 Appalachian State University $63,285 $17,463 262.00%NCYes
16 Rochester Institute of Technology $64,800 $108,352 -40.00%NYYes
17 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley $65,600 $17,745 270.00%TXYes
18 University of New Hampshire $66,667 $41,182 62.00%NHYes
19 University of Alaska Anchorage $68,700 $22,161 210.00%AKYes
20 The University of North Carolina at Greensboro $70,100 $25,000 180.00%NCYes
21 Georgia Southern University $70,200 $9,824 615.00%GAYes
22 College of Charleston $70,314 $28,204 149.00%SCYes
23 Pace University $71,590 $116,744 -39.00%NYYes
24 Kennesaw State University $72,000 $19,000 279.00%GAYes
25 Oklahoma State University $73,300 $19,295 280.00%OKYes
26 Utah Valley University $75,700 $13,956 442.00%UTNo
27 California State University, San Bernardino $76,200 $41,500 84.00%CAYes
28 Purdue University Fort Wayne $77,400 $16,756 362.00%INYes
29 Florida Atlantic University $78,220 $36,000 117.00%FLYes
30 Sacred Heart University $78,300 $35,840 118.00%CTNo
31 Texas Woman's University $79,925 $20,000 300.00%TXYes
32 University of Hawaii at Manoa $80,400 $21,288 278.00%HINo
33 California State University, Fullerton $81,500 $44,550 83.00%CAYes
34 University of Delaware $82,000 $39,954 105.00%DEYes
35 Belmont University $82,200 $69,207 19.00%TNNo
36 California State University, Dominguez Hills $82,400 $16,986 385.00%CAYes
37 University of San Francisco $82,500 $79,200 4.00%CAYes
38 Frostburg State University $83,700 $16,740 400.00%MDYes
39 DePaul University $86,000 $53,952 59.00%ILYes
40 Purdue University Northwest $87,100 $12,350 605.00%INNo
41 Nova Southeastern University $90,756 $44,351 105.00%FLYes
42 San Jose State University $90,800 $39,270 131.00%CAYes
43 Montclair State University $92,400 $34,669 167.00%NJYes
44 Georgia State University $93,600 $36,522 156.00%GAYes
45 Central Michigan University $94,350 $27,300 246.00%MIYes
46 Washington State University $96,500 $32,328 199.00%WAYes
47 University of Massachusetts Amherst $111,227 $33,622 231.00%MAYes
48 The George Washington University $115,951 $113,090 3.00%DCNo
49 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University $118,300 $62,000 91.00%VAYes
50 Michigan State University $119,539 $34,564 246.00%MIYes

What is the Average In-Person MBA Tuition for Hospitality Management Programs?


If you plan on attending an MBA program, it’s best to start thinking about fiscal responsibility. A prospective B-Student needs to weigh their tuition options. An AACSB-accredited MBA program can pave the way for a great starting salary or career advancement. An MBA program can provide the flexibility of completing a program while being employed in your respective career.

The average in-state tuition for an MBA in Hospitality Management is $35,758.59 compared to an average campus program Hospitality Management is $35,758.59 .

The lowest AACSB tuition rate at $8,460.00 from Grambling State University.

The highest AACSB tuition rate is $159,820.00 from Cornell University.

Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

10 Most Affordable MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  1. Grambling State University - $8,460.00
  2. Georgia Southern University - $9,824.00
  3. Augusta University - $10,590.00
  4. Purdue University Northwest - $12,350.00
  5. University of West Florida - $12,460.00
  6. Florida Gulf Coast University - $13,428.00
  7. Southeast Missouri State University - $13,804.00
  8. Utah Valley University - $13,956.00
  9. Western Carolina University - $13,967.00
  10. Delaware State University - $15,625.00

10 Most Expensive MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  1. Cornell University - $159,820.00
  2. Pace University - $116,744.00
  3. The George Washington University - $113,090.00
  4. Rochester Institute of Technology - $108,352.00
  5. University of San Francisco - $79,200.00
  6. Belmont University - $69,207.00
  7. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - $62,000.00
  8. DePaul University - $53,952.00
  9. California State University, Fullerton - $44,550.00
  10. Nova Southeastern University - $44,351.00

Interactive Table – Tuition for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management Programs

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Hospitality Management MBA programs by Tuition to find and to compare MBA programs in Hospitality Management. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University In State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryROIStateOnline
1 Grambling State University $8,460 $39,900 372.00%LANo
2 Georgia Southern University $9,824 $70,200 615.00%GAYes
3 Augusta University $10,590 $62,800 493.00%GAYes
4 Purdue University Northwest $12,350 $87,100 605.00%INNo
5 University of West Florida $12,460 $57,200 359.00%FLYes
6 Florida Gulf Coast University $13,428 $59,700 345.00%FLYes
7 Southeast Missouri State University $13,804 $59,400 330.00%MOYes
8 Utah Valley University $13,956 $75,700 442.00%UTNo
9 Western Carolina University $13,967 $44,100 216.00%NCYes
10 Delaware State University $15,625 $46,300 196.00%DEYes
11 Frostburg State University $16,740 $83,700 400.00%MDYes
12 Purdue University Fort Wayne $16,756 $77,400 362.00%INYes
13 California State University, Dominguez Hills $16,986 $82,400 385.00%CAYes
14 University of Southern Mississippi $17,131 $62,300 264.00%MSNo
15 Appalachian State University $17,463 $63,285 262.00%NCYes
16 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley $17,745 $65,600 270.00%TXYes
17 Coastal Carolina University $18,460 $52,500 184.00%SCYes
18 Kennesaw State University $19,000 $72,000 279.00%GAYes
19 Oklahoma State University $19,295 $73,300 280.00%OKYes
20 Texas Woman's University $20,000 $79,925 300.00%TXYes
21 University of Hawaii at Manoa $21,288 $80,400 278.00%HINo
22 Southern Illinois University Carbondale $21,972 $59,600 171.00%ILYes
23 University of Alaska Anchorage $22,161 $68,700 210.00%AKYes
24 West Virginia University $24,273 $61,847 155.00%WVYes
25 The University of North Carolina at Greensboro $25,000 $70,100 180.00%NCYes
26 Central Michigan University $27,300 $94,350 246.00%MIYes
27 College of Charleston $28,204 $70,314 149.00%SCYes
28 Nichols College $28,440 $55,392 95.00%MAYes
29 University of Louisiana at Lafayette $31,281 $51,200 64.00%LAYes
30 Washington State University $32,328 $96,500 199.00%WAYes
31 Stockton University $33,012 $47,700 44.00%NJNo
32 University of Massachusetts Amherst $33,622 $111,227 231.00%MAYes
33 Michigan State University $34,564 $119,539 246.00%MIYes
34 Montclair State University $34,669 $92,400 167.00%NJYes
35 Sacred Heart University $35,840 $78,300 118.00%CTNo
36 Florida Atlantic University $36,000 $78,220 117.00%FLYes
37 Georgia State University $36,522 $93,600 156.00%GAYes
38 San Jose State University $39,270 $90,800 131.00%CAYes
39 University of Delaware $39,954 $82,000 105.00%DEYes
40 University of New Hampshire $41,182 $66,667 62.00%NHYes
41 California State University, San Bernardino $41,500 $76,200 84.00%CAYes
42 Nova Southeastern University $44,351 $90,756 105.00%FLYes
43 California State University, Fullerton $44,550 $81,500 83.00%CAYes
44 DePaul University $53,952 $86,000 59.00%ILYes
45 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University $62,000 $118,300 91.00%VAYes
46 Belmont University $69,207 $82,200 19.00%TNNo
47 University of San Francisco $79,200 $82,500 4.00%CAYes
48 Rochester Institute of Technology $108,352 $64,800 -40.00%NYYes
49 The George Washington University $113,090 $115,951 3.00%DCNo
50 Pace University $116,744 $71,590 -39.00%NYYes

What is the Average ROI for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management?

Choosing an MBA program requires more than a glance at the school’s reputation or curriculum. The return on investment (ROI) should take center stage in your evaluation. This measurement reveals the potential value derived from your tuition investment, putting key factors such as starting salary and career progression under the microscope.

By scrutinizing the ROI, you’re not just making a decision—you’re making an informed one. This approach will ensure the selection of an MBA program that provides the most bang for your buck. Checking the ROI might not be an afterthought; it could be the game-changer in your MBA journey.

For MBA programs in across the U.S., the ROI ranges from -40% to 615%.The lowest MBA ROI of -40% is from the program at Rochester Institute of Technology.The highest MBA ROI of 615% is offered by Georgia Southern University.On average, MBA programs across the U.S. have an ROI of 186%.

Interactive Table – ROI for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management Programs

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Hospitality Management MBA programs by ROI to find and to compare MBA programs in Hospitality Management. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University ROIIn State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryStateOnline
1 Georgia Southern University 615.00% $9,824 $70,200GAYes
2 Purdue University Northwest 605.00% $12,350 $87,100INNo
3 Augusta University 493.00% $10,590 $62,800GAYes
4 Utah Valley University 442.00% $13,956 $75,700UTNo
5 Frostburg State University 400.00% $16,740 $83,700MDYes
6 California State University, Dominguez Hills 385.00% $16,986 $82,400CAYes
7 Grambling State University 372.00% $8,460 $39,900LANo
8 Purdue University Fort Wayne 362.00% $16,756 $77,400INYes
9 University of West Florida 359.00% $12,460 $57,200FLYes
10 Florida Gulf Coast University 345.00% $13,428 $59,700FLYes
11 Southeast Missouri State University 330.00% $13,804 $59,400MOYes
12 Texas Woman's University 300.00% $20,000 $79,925TXYes
13 Oklahoma State University 280.00% $19,295 $73,300OKYes
14 Kennesaw State University 279.00% $19,000 $72,000GAYes
15 University of Hawaii at Manoa 278.00% $21,288 $80,400HINo
16 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 270.00% $17,745 $65,600TXYes
17 University of Southern Mississippi 264.00% $17,131 $62,300MSNo
18 Appalachian State University 262.00% $17,463 $63,285NCYes
19 Central Michigan University 246.00% $27,300 $94,350MIYes
19 Michigan State University 246.00% $34,564 $119,539MIYes
21 University of Massachusetts Amherst 231.00% $33,622 $111,227MAYes
22 Western Carolina University 216.00% $13,967 $44,100NCYes
23 University of Alaska Anchorage 210.00% $22,161 $68,700AKYes
24 Washington State University 199.00% $32,328 $96,500WAYes
25 Delaware State University 196.00% $15,625 $46,300DEYes
26 Coastal Carolina University 184.00% $18,460 $52,500SCYes
27 The University of North Carolina at Greensboro 180.00% $25,000 $70,100NCYes
28 Southern Illinois University Carbondale 171.00% $21,972 $59,600ILYes
29 Montclair State University 167.00% $34,669 $92,400NJYes
30 Georgia State University 156.00% $36,522 $93,600GAYes
31 West Virginia University 155.00% $24,273 $61,847WVYes
32 College of Charleston 149.00% $28,204 $70,314SCYes
33 San Jose State University 131.00% $39,270 $90,800CAYes
34 Sacred Heart University 118.00% $35,840 $78,300CTNo
35 Florida Atlantic University 117.00% $36,000 $78,220FLYes
36 Nova Southeastern University 105.00% $44,351 $90,756FLYes
36 University of Delaware 105.00% $39,954 $82,000DEYes
38 Nichols College 95.00% $28,440 $55,392MAYes
39 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 91.00% $62,000 $118,300VAYes
40 California State University, San Bernardino 84.00% $41,500 $76,200CAYes
41 California State University, Fullerton 83.00% $44,550 $81,500CAYes
42 University of Louisiana at Lafayette 64.00% $31,281 $51,200LAYes
43 University of New Hampshire 62.00% $41,182 $66,667NHYes
44 DePaul University 59.00% $53,952 $86,000ILYes
45 Stockton University 44.00% $33,012 $47,700NJNo
46 Belmont University 19.00% $69,207 $82,200TNNo
47 University of San Francisco 4.00% $79,200 $82,500CAYes
48 The George Washington University 3.00% $113,090 $115,951DCNo

ROI for MBA Programs

  • Average: 186%
  • Lowest: -40%
  • Highest: 615%

10 Highest ROI for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  1. Georgia Southern University - 615.00%
  2. Purdue University Northwest - 605.00%
  3. Augusta University - 493.00%
  4. Utah Valley University - 442.00%
  5. Frostburg State University - 400.00%
  6. California State University, Dominguez Hills - 385.00%
  7. Grambling State University - 372.00%
  8. Purdue University Fort Wayne - 362.00%
  9. University of West Florida - 359.00%
  10. Florida Gulf Coast University - 345.00%

10 Lowest ROI for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  1. The George Washington University - 3.00%
  2. University of San Francisco - 4.00%
  3. Belmont University - 19.00%
  4. Stockton University - 44.00%
  5. DePaul University - 59.00%
  6. University of New Hampshire - 62.00%
  7. University of Louisiana at Lafayette - 64.00%
  8. California State University, Fullerton - 83.00%
  9. California State University, San Bernardino - 84.00%
  10. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - 91.00%

What is the Average GMAT Score Needed for an MBA Program in Hospitality Management?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized examination used by MBA schools to assess their applicant pool. The test is strategically designed to measure an applicant’s analytical, verbal, writing and mathematical skills. The GMAT is used as a predictor of success in MBA programs and tests one’s ability to successfully handle the advanced quantitative and qualitative study of business and management.

Even though some B-Schools may not require a GMAT Scores, there’s a good chance that a highly-competitive MBA program does require the GMAT. With that being said, average GMAT Scores for in-person MBA programs in Hospitality Management is 544 with a highest of 707 and the lowest of 420

The average GMAT score needed for a Hospitality Management MBA program from an institution is between 420 from Nichols College to 707 from Cornell University. The average GMAT scores for Hospitality Management MBA programs is 544.

It’s important to note that not all MBA programs require a GMAT Score for admissions, but most reputable programs do. With that being said, if you have your eye on a list of competitive programs, it’s best to boost your GMAT Score accordingly. Outside of a solid GMAT Score, B-School admissions departments look at a candidate’s undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, CV, and personal statement. A strong undergraduate performance may offset a sub-part GMAT Score. The average GMAT Score for on-campus MBA programs in Hospitality Management is a 544.38 compared to an average MBA program score of 544.38. It is recommended that each B-School applicant take a GMAT diagnostic test in order to determine whether or not further study and/or a prep course is needed to boost your score.

Average GMAT Score for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  • Average: 544
  • Lowest: 420
  • Highest: 707

10 Lowest GMAT for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  1. Nova Southeastern University - 450
  2. Nichols College - 450
  3. Stockton University - 454
  4. DePaul University - 455
  5. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - 463
  6. West Virginia University - 463
  7. Western Carolina University - 470
  8. Augusta University - 481
  9. Coastal Carolina University - 482
  10. Kennesaw State University - 484

10 Highest GMAT for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

  1. Cornell University - 707
  2. Michigan State University - 680
  3. The George Washington University - 669
  4. University of Southern Mississippi - 660
  5. University of Massachusetts Amherst - 638
  6. University of Delaware - 634
  7. Georgia State University - 630
  8. University of San Francisco - 617
  9. Oklahoma State University - 617
  10. Georgia Southern University - 610

No GMAT or GRE: Best MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

More than 233 AACSB accredited MBA programs do not require their applicants to take GMAT exam. Many well-known programs such as the University of Michigan and the University of California, Los Angeles no longer require the exam. If you are unsure where you would like to take your program, then you should take the GMAT sooner rather than later so you don’t lose time meeting the score requirement of a program.

Alumni from Schools Offering an MBA in Hospitality Management

There are pros and cons when considering the size of your MBA in Accounting program. Larger, more diverse student populations, may lend itself to greater networking and job placement opportunities; whereas smaller programs may provide for more meaningful interactions with fellow classmates.

The importance of networking, whether it’s by way of campus job fairs, student organization members, or faculty mentorship, should not be understated when considering an MBA program. The average MBA enrollment size has a direct impact on your studies, your job prospects, your ability to define your career goals and after graduation connections.

Every B-School has a strategy behind their enrollment sizes. If a prospective B-Student is looking for networking opportunities, wants to attend job fairs, and plans on joining student organizations, B-School enrollment size plays an important role in the decision making process. For the B-Student interested in the smaller cohort-style classroom experience and thrive with face-to-face collaboration with their professors, a manageable enrollment size is the preferred option.

For Hospitality Management MBA programs, the range for full-time enrollment is between 6 and 1,188. For part-time enrollment, the range is between : 2.00 and : 1,470.00.

Average Enrollment for MBA Programs Offering an MBA in Hospitality Management

10 MBA Programs with the Highest Enrollment (Alumni)

  1. Cornell University - 1,188
  2. Central Michigan University - 999
  3. Georgia State University - 998
  4. Washington State University - 826
  5. The George Washington University - 712
  6. Pace University - 685
  7. Sacred Heart University - 585
  8. Michigan State University - 577
  9. Oklahoma State University - 422
  10. California State University, Fullerton - 335

10 MBA Programs with the Smallest Enrollment (Alumni)

  1. DePaul University - 6
  2. Kennesaw State University - 30
  3. University of Alaska Anchorage - 30
  4. University of Delaware - 38
  5. Delaware State University - 42
  6. Frostburg State University - 43
  7. University of West Florida - 45
  8. University of Massachusetts Amherst - 46
  9. Purdue University Fort Wayne - 49
  10. Southern Illinois University Carbondale - 52

Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

For most students, their professors are the first exposure to the business world. They are normally practitioners in the field and have successful risen to the top of their respective careers. B-School Hospitality Management Professors can guide you toward a specific concentration, provide the latest industry trends, and put you on the right track, career-wise. The Student/Faculty ratio is important to those interested in building a lasting relationship with their professor. To use them as a networking opportunity and an advisor.

Top 10 Concentrations Available from Schools Also Offering an Degree in Hospitality Management?

Highly competitive B-Schools recruit part-time and full-time professors that are both academic and industry influencers. They are the subject matter experts in their respective concentrations. To meet the diverse needs of Hospitality Management businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 47 MBA concentrations including:

  • Hospitality Management: 51
  • Accounting: 50
  • Management: 48
  • General Business: 48
  • Finance: 48
  • Marketing: 47
  • Corporate Finance: 47
  • Entrepreneurship: 34
  • Data Analytics: 34
  • Information Systems: 32

Here are the top schools offering the widest variety of concentrations to choose from:

The Importance of MBA Accreditation for MBA Programs

The importance of accreditation can’t be underestimated. For many, knowing your school is accredited by the AACSB and regionally accredited by the US Department of Education is enough assurance that you will receive a quality education, where credits are more likely to transfer, and you will be qualified for loans, grants, and scholarships.

AACSB accreditation is considered to be the gold standard in business school credentialing. Established to promote high-quality business education in the U.S., AACSB members developed a stringent accreditation process. Members are held accountable for following an established business education framework set forth by the AACSB. With that comes MBA degrees conferrals that are widely recognized by Fortune 500 companies. This results in lucrative job opportunities.

MBA Program Options Available for Hospitality Management MBA Programs

Options for earning your Hospitality Management MBA have never been more flexible. Hospitality Management MBA programs have become adept at offering effective alternatives for you to earn your MBA, no matter your life situation or schedule.

There are 52 Hospitality Management accredited MBA programs. 1 private and 41 public schools offering Hospitality Management MBA programs.

Number of Award Earned for MBA Programs Offering an Hospitality Management Degree

The ranking of MBA programs is certainly not an exact science and plenty of subjective reasoning and biases come into play. We offer insights into ranking as another way to evaluate a potential MBA program.

Of the 52 accredited MBA programs offered in Hospitality Management, 43 of them have been recognized by at least one distinguished publication MBAGuide, PQ, US News, Forbes, BW, FT and Economist garnering an award as one of the best MBA programs in the country.

Publications and the number of awards granted for an MBA degree in Hospitality Management :

  • MBAGuide: 43
  • US News: 5
  • Forbes: 3
  • BW: 4
  • FT: 3
  • Economist: 3

How We Rank the Best MBA Programs in Hospitality Management

MBAGuide.org employs a comprehensive ranking methodology that combines quantitative data (80% of the score) with qualitative assessments (20%) to evaluate MBA programs. The quantitative component considers factors such as student-faculty ratio, tuition, enrollment, and post-graduation salaries, while the qualitative aspect incorporates editorial ratings and school reputation, providing a well-rounded view of each program’s quality and value.

Best MBA Programs by Concentration: Online and In-Person

Best MBA Programs in Hospitality Management - MBAGuide.org

What Is the Career Outlook for Hospitality Managers

Employment of hospitality managers is projected to grow 6% through 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Expected growth in tourism and travel will be the driving force behind the growth of Hospitality Managers. Those with an MBA degree will have ample opportunity to go from middle- to executive level positions, whether it’s working in a casino, a resort, corporate restaurant chain or managing a high-end hotel chain.

Those who have real-world experience by way of internship/externship and also have the MBA credential will differentiate themselves from fellow applicants new to the industry. The most reputable MBA programs will have coursework in both international business and hospitality. AACSB-accredited programs understand the importance of globalization and will tailor their curriculums accordingly.

Average Salaries for Hospitality Management MBAs

The median annual wage for hospitality managers is $51,840. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,870 and the highest 10% earned more than $96,570. Those with an MBA in Hospitality will have the greatest opportunity to secure leadership positions in some of the most coveted positions.

What Can I Do With an MBA in Hospitality Management

Graduates with an MBA in Hospitality may seek higher-level positions within global organizations that require international business experience. In the highly competitive hospitality and tourism industry, professionals are needed to manage all functions of a hospitality business (operations, finance, marketing, HR, purchasing and buying). They are also responsible for the recruitment and training of all staff members. From Group Sales Managers to Revenue Managers, the Hospitality industry has an ever-growing list of career paths for MBA graduates.

General managers oversee the department operations of a hospitality business including housekeeping, HR, concierge, marketing and sales, purchasing, security, maintenance, recreational facilities, and other activities. The most effective GM’s have the people-skill to motivate and lead teams and the quantitative skills to analyze the financial health of the business.

Revenue managers are concerned with protecting the company’s bottom line. They are the financial wizards making sound decisions based on profits and losses. A revenue manager works closely with bookkeepers, accountants, and buyers to ensure that expenses are limited and profits are plentiful.

Front-office managers whether it’s training the concierge desk or managing the incoming reservations, front-office managers are responsible for employees that greet hospitality patrons. Most Front-office managers are customer service specialists knowledgeable on how to treat guests as loyal patrons. Most of their day-to-day is spent interacting with guests, training new employees, and handling billing via a centralized customer relationship system.

Convention service managers special events, conferences, and business meetings are usually organized through a convention service manager. They deal with the corporate side of event planning and usually have to coordinate with hospitality staff to ensure smooth operations. These managers are responsible for billing, booking, and organizing large corporate venues.

Find Online MBA Programs Now Accepting Applicants

Is an MBA in Hospitality Management for Me

Hospitality Managers come from all walks of life. If you love working with people and are a natural problem-solver, an MBA in Hospitality might be the right fit. If you choose the Hospitality concentration, you will receive a world-class business education applicable to industries outside of the Hospitality if you decide to change your career down the line.

SectorDescription
The Career AdvancerThis is the hospitality manager already thriving in the industry and looking to build upon their work experience. They’ve noticed that most of the executives have their MBA and handle a lot of the back-end financials of the organization. An MBA in Hospitality or a more specialized Master’s in Hospitality would further develop their leadership skills and delivery a credential that sets them apart as an experienced manager.
EntrepreneurThis is the restaurateur, event planner, buyer, or lodge owner that wants to run a successful enterprise. They have a business plan ready-to-go and now they need to learn all functions of business in order to take their incredible idea to the next level. This could also be the small restaurant owner who wants to expand their operations or build a franchise of similar restaurants throughout a particular territory.
Career SwitcherThis is someone who might have work in retail, finance, real estate, education, or marketing that wants to switch careers. This is the person who’s decided to follow their passion and pursue a career in hospitality. They’re usually customer-centric employees who love rolling up their sleeves and working with people.
Family-Owned BusinessIf you’re ready to take over the family business and want to keep it successful, an MBA in Hospitality will give you the business tools needed to run the operations. If you want to take the family business to the next level and learn the latest cutting-edge technology, an MBA in Hospitality is a great choice.
Career StarterIf you’re a recent college graduate and you see yourself managing a hotel, restaurant, or high-end resort, this is the logical next step.
Academic ResearcherWhether you want to pursue the MMH degree or an MBA in Hospitality, a graduate degree in hospitality is the credential needed to apply to Ph.D. programs and start conducting research in the industry. Most terminal degree programs require 3+ years of working in the field alongside a Master’s in Hospitality degree. This will position yourself as an academic researcher and the potential to have your extensive knowledge in the field published.

Typical Classes for Hospitality Management MBAs

  • Hospitality – This MBA course uses the case study methodology to examine different segments of hospitality (resorts, casinos, airlines, restaurants, lodges, and hotels). The course is designed to introduce students to the complexities of managing the operations of a hospitality business.
  • Food Service Operations – This is a graduate-level course that introduces the managerial problems and decision-making process a hospitality manager undergoes in order to become an effective leader. Topics are specific to the hospitality industry and cover forecasting, decision trees, quality control, decision support systems, and real-time problem solving. This course is taught using the case study methodology and students will be able to use real-world examples to learn Food Service Operations.
  • Hospitality & Organizational – This MBA course examines the managerial process of hiring, training, and motivated staff employed in the hospitality industry. Whether it’s how to lead teams effectively, motivate personnel, or design new policies around employment expectations, the Hospitality & Organizational course teaches students how to build systems around performance.
  • High Performance Hospitality – This is a continuation of the MBA-level Hospitality & Organizational course and explores how to effectively motivate teams to reach company-wide goals. From managing sales teams, building marketing campaigns, or running the front desk operations, this course teaches B-students how to implement systematic performance plans to motivate employees to reach their optimal potential.
  • International Business – This course explores hospitality as a global enterprise. The course is designed to introduce students to the opportunities available in the global hospitality industry and how to manage employees from different cultures. Using the case study methodology, topics include social responsibility in the hospitality industry, ethical decision making, managing diverse teams, and globalization of economic conditions.
  • People & Systems in Organizations – Whether it’s creating a comprehensive Human Resource Strategy for new employees or evaluating different information systems, this MBA-level course examines how different internal systems help managers make sound decisions. This course emphasis information systems as a means of evaluating performance, assisting in the decision-making process, and providing optimal customer service to hospitality patrons.

Campus vs. Online MBA in Hospitality Management Programs

Hospitality employers value work experience. This is especially true if you plan on managing a high-end restaurant chain, a luxury hotel brand, or well-established lodging facility. There are plenty of hospitality managers that have worked their way up through the ranks and have no formal education. They have extensive on-the-job training which some employers value over classroom experience. Whether you choose a traditional on-campus MBA in Hospitality or an Online MBA program, it’s important to work in the industry.

An on-campus MBA in Hospitality allows you to interact with like-minded hospitality professionals and will provide ample opportunity to network with professionals already in the industry. On-campus programs will most likely have recruiting events and a career opportunities department to help assist in your job search. You can certainly build relationships with an online community; but most likely, they will be students from all over the world; therefore, it may be a bit more difficult to secure employment via an eLearning platform.

If you plan on completing your MBA in Hospitality online, be sure to ask your B-School about internship/externship/job placement opportunities for Online MBA students. Here is a quick snapshot of the Pros/Cons of online vs. campus-based learning:

  • The Pros of online learning include lower overhead cost which includes online textbooks, dormitory expenses, and commuting cost. The convenience and flexibility of choosing your own times for learning, and the comfort of learning in your own home.
  • The Cons of online learning include limited social interaction, computer, and software issues as well as the cost of high-speed Internet, often requires the student be self-motivated and disciplined progress through the program.
  • The pros of campus-based learning include face-to-face and in-person interaction with instructors and fellow students, regularly scheduled class hours, use of the school’s library, athletic facilities, and laboratories.
  • The cons of campus-based learning include the requirement to travel to classes, lack of time flexibility, and housing costs.

One of the benefits to online learning as it relates to tuition cost is that a number of schools offer free textbooks online and include these texts in the price of tuition.

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