Restaurant, Hotel, and Tourism
Launch Your Hospitality Journey
Hospitality is one of the largest and most dynamic industries in the world, an industry built on creating memorable experiences and connecting people across cultures and communities.
Our program prepares students not only with strong academic knowledge but also with hands-on, real-world learning that opens doors to diverse and exciting career paths. Whether your passion lies in Hotel and Lodging (hotels, Airbnb inns, bed & breakfasts, campsites, vacation homes, senior living facilities), Food and Beverage (restaurants, catering, nightlife, bars), Wellness and Sustainability (spas, athletic clubs, fitness centers, commercial recreation, e-tourism), Private Clubs, Cruise Lines, Gaming and Entertainment, Theme and Amusement Parks, or the fast-growing world of MICE(Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events), our program equips you with the skills and experiences to thrive.
This is more than a degree: it鈥檚 a launchpad to a global career where your creativity, leadership, and passion can shape the future of hospitality.
Major courses include:
- Accounting in Hospitality
- Career Advancement for Hospitality Professionals
- Food and Culture
- Hospitality Internship
- Hotel & Lodging Operations
- Introduction to Hospitality
- Marketing for Hospitality and Tourism
- MICE & Event Planning
- Principles of Tourism
- Restaurant Operations
Transforming Passion into Expertise
Our program goes beyond traditional learning by offering an Alternate Business Minor designed to elevate students鈥 leadership, management, and operational skills in the dynamic world of hospitality. This powerful combination not only deepens their business acumen but also equips them to thrive and lead in a competitive global industry.
Housed within Patton College of Education, the program features a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen laboratory and demonstration classroom where students gain hands-on experience in food and beverage operations, catering, and event management. Beyond the classroom, strong partnerships with leading hotels, restaurants, and hospitality enterprises bring learning to life through immersive study tours, real-world service opportunities, and one-on-one mentorship from industry professionals.
Student life is equally enriching. From student organizations and professional conferences to field trips exploring renowned hospitality destinations, every experience is designed to spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and prepare students for meaningful careers in hospitality and tourism.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program are well-prepared to launch successful careers in the dynamic restaurant, hotel, and tourism industry. Equipped with strong customer service, problem-solving, and management skills, they are ready to take on leadership responsibilities from day one. Many graduates begin their careers in entry-level or mid-level management positions with leading international hotel and restaurant companies, university and school dining services, event planning and catering firms, and tourism-focused organizations.
The program also provides an excellent foundation for continued growth and advancement. Graduates who pursue a master鈥檚 degree often find it easier to move into senior management and executive roles, gaining specialized expertise to shape the future of the hospitality and tourism profession.
Honors Programs and Scholarships
Honors Program
Scholarships
- Lee Cibrowski Scholarship
- Mark and Patricia McClintick Endowment
- Beulah Sellers-Davis Scholarship
- Shirley Slater Scholarship
Turning Knowledge into Experience: 鈥淔rom Grain to Glass鈥 Event
As part of the catering course, the 鈥淔rom Grain to Glass鈥 event highlighted students鈥 ability to apply classroom learning to a real-world setting, showcasing their skills in every aspect of event execution鈥攆rom menu planning to logistical coordination.
View the for detailed requirements and curriculum.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Sandy Chen
Professor & Program Coordinator
The Restaurant, Hotel, and Tourism (RHT) Program & E-Hospitality Management Program
Patton Hall 202W