What can you do with a hospitality degree?
A guide to careers 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!
Start your hospitality major journey with our hospitality services administration program, where hands-on experience at our on-campus Marriott Hotel sets you apart in the fast-paced hospitality industry.
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 and marketing, but you’ll also have the flexibility to explore specific areas like:
- Hotel and resort management: Learn how to manage accommodations, guest services, housekeeping and maintenance.
- Event planning: Discover the ins and outs of organizing corporate events and conferences.
- Food and beverage management: Explore the business side of restaurants, catering, menu planning 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
- Leadership: You’ll learn how to guide and inspire teams 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, financial planning and creating business forecasts 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 and create memorable experiences to help foster guest loyalty.
Preparing for a hospitality major
If you’re still in high school and thinking about majoring in hospitality, there are a few ways to prepare. Take business, communication and marketing classes to build foundational knowledge. Volunteering or working in customer service roles, such as restaurants, hotels, resorts or event planning can provide valuable hands-on experience.
Additionally, practicing leadership skills by participating in school clubs or student government, or by playing a team sport can help you develop the ability to work well with others and manage responsibilities effectively.
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, marketing strategies, staff and guest experiences in hotels and resorts.
- Restaurant Manager: Manage dining establishments and finances, coordinate staff and ensure customer satisfaction.
- Event Manager: Plan and execute corporate events, weddings and special occasions.
- Resort or Cruise Director: Schedule, create and manage entertainment programs and activities.
- Catering Manager: Oversee menu creation and food service operations for events and corporate functions.
Non-traditional jobs
- Travel Consultant: Plan and organize vacations, business trips and group tours based on client needs.
- Human Resources Manager: Recruit and train employees in hospitality businesses.
- Sales and Marketing Manager: Promote hotels, resorts or restaurants to attract customers and increase both brand awareness and revenue.
- Entrepreneur: Start your own hospitality-related business, such as a catering company or event planning service.
- Luxury Brand Manager: Promote the image of high-end hospitality brands through 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 salaries for key hospitality careers:
- Hotel Manager: $55,841 per year.
- Restaurant Manager: $47,905 per year.
- Event Planner: $55,203 per year.
- Catering Manager: $62,363 per year.
- Luxury Hospitality Manager: $64,068 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 and meet people from all over the world.
Tips for success
- Gain hands-on experience: Internships 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 or group projects to enhance your management abilities.
- Network: 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 in a positive way.
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.