All students seeking a bachelors or masters degree from a college or university in tourism and hospitality management must complete prerequisite courses before being admitted into the program. Prerequisites provide a general educational background in mathematics, economics, writing, computer science and business courses -- all skills necessary to be successful in the industry. Introduction courses provide a broad overview of the industry. The University of Massachusetts Amherst hospitality and tourism program requires students to take Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Management where students learn the "scope, components, development, and future of the hospitality industry." All degree programs have similar courses.
A degree in tourism and hospitality management requires a number of core courses supplemented by electives. Core courses include food management, accounting, information technology, cost control, marketing and leadership. Florida International University's bachelor of science in hospitality management requires 42 credit hours (14 classes) of core courses. Electives give students an opportunity to specialize in specific areas of tourism and hospitality management. UMass Amherst gives students the opportunity to concentrate in casino, club, lodging, food and beverage and event management.
One of the most exciting ways to gain education and experience in the tourism and hospitality industry is to study abroad, especially if you intend on pursuing a career overseas. Students studying abroad can experience a different culture, learn a language and pad resumes. The Australian School of Tourism & Hospitality Management, located in Perth, offers certificates, bachelors and advanced degrees. Many colleges and universities provide some type of study abroad program where you can gain skills in almost any region of the world. For example, UMass Amherst offers students an opportunity to study and work in Switzerland.
The tourism and hospitality industry relies heavily on promotion from within because work experience is the only true way to gain the practical knowledge to be successful. Colleges and universities typically have internships as part of a program's curriculum. Temple University students must take two internship courses -- one each during their junior and senior year. These combine for 780 hours of work experience, allowing students to graduate job-ready.