Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Hospitality Management Degree in Chattanooga, Clarksville, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, and Nashville.
Are you aiming for a rewarding career in the hospitality industry? Choosing the right Hospitality Management Degree in Tennessee is crucial.
This article explores top degree programs, comparing their specializations, hands-on experiences, and career readiness. Find out which schools offer the best paths to leadership roles in hotel management, event planning, and more.
University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Hospitality and Tourism Management
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers an impressive Hospitality and Tourism Management program through its Department of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management. The university’s mission is to cultivate inclusive and innovative leaders in the hospitality and tourism industries.
Curriculum and Special Programs
- Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees: Options include both bachelor’s and master’s programs focusing on areas such as operations management, revenue management, and strategic planning.
- Hands-on Learning Opportunities: The program integrates real-world experiences through the Rocky Top Institute and the UT Culinary Institute. These initiatives offer students the chance to engage with practical projects and culinary events.
- Community Projects: Programs like Food4Vols and Rural Retail Development Training emphasize community involvement, providing students with the experience of applying their skills in real-world scenarios.
This blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the hospitality industry.
Middle Tennessee State University – Hospitality Management Concentration
The Hospitality Management Concentration at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is a part of their Tourism and Hospitality Management program.
Key Features
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA), ensuring a high standard of education.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers essential subjects such as operations management, revenue management, and strategic planning. Sustainability principles are woven throughout the coursework.
- Practical Experience: Leveraging Nashville’s vibrant hospitality scene, MTSU fosters strong industry partnerships that offer students hands-on learning and leadership opportunities.
MTSU’s focus on sustainability and practical experience through corporate connections positions students for a successful career in hospitality management.
Nashville State Community College – Hospitality Management Associate of Applied Science Degree
Nashville State Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Hospitality Management. This program is designed to provide a robust education with specializations in Food and Beverage Management and Hotel Management.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
- Interactive Learning: Students engage in interactive classes, research projects, and real-world training to develop essential business management skills.
- Flexible Options: With flexible course offerings and credit for prior experience, Nashville State meets the needs of a diverse student population.
Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to take on roles like hotel manager and catering manager.
Southwest Tennessee Community College – Hospitality Management Program
The Hospitality Management program at Southwest Tennessee Community College offers concentrations in Restaurant Management, Hotel Management, and Culinary Arts.
Unique Aspects
- Three Concentrations: These are tailored to meet different career goals within the hospitality industry.
- Hands-On Learning: The program includes hands-on experience through labs and courses held at various campus locations, helping you develop practical skills.
- Career Preparedness: The curriculum is designed to support careers like restaurant ownership, hotel management, and culinary arts.
This program prepares you for entry-level management positions with a focus on practical application.
Belmont University – Hospitality & Tourism Management Program
The Hospitality & Tourism Management Program at Belmont University is part of the Jack C. Massey College of Business, offering both Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees.
Program Highlights
- Broad Curriculum: Courses include accounting, marketing, and lodging management, supplemented by internships and opportunities for minors in related fields.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring rigorous academic standards.
- Accelerated MBA: Offers an accelerated MBA option for hospitality graduates, enhancing professional readiness.
This program integrates business principles with specialized hospitality knowledge, providing a comprehensive education.
Tennessee State University – Hospitality Management Program
Tennessee State University offers a Hospitality Management program that provides flexibility for both full-time and part-time students.
Key Features
- Extensive Curriculum: The 120 credit hour curriculum covers areas such as lodging management, event management, and hospitality marketing.
- Skill Development: Focuses on analytical and managerial skills, preparing you for diverse roles, from hotel management to corporate travel management.
- Supportive Environment: Includes internships, study abroad opportunities, and a supportive faculty to guide your educational journey.
This program prepares students with the essential skills and experiences needed to thrive in the hospitality sector.
University of Memphis – Master of Science in Hospitality Management
The Master of Science in Hospitality Management at the University of Memphis is offered through the Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality & Resort Management.
Program Overview
- Flexible Learning: The 33-credit curriculum includes both on-campus and online coursework, catering to different learning preferences.
- Cost: Tuition is $603 per credit hour for online courses.
- Expert Faculty: The program benefits from industry experts as instructors. Up to 15 transfer credits are accepted, and GRE waivers are available for eligible students.
This program offers advanced theoretical and practical knowledge tailored to the global hospitality market.
University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Hospitality and Tourism Management Major
The Hospitality and Tourism Management major at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is designed for those aiming for middle- and upper-level management roles in hospitality.
Key Elements
- Integrated Business Minor: The curriculum includes a business minor and specialized electives in areas like hotel and resort management and event planning.
- Practical Experience: Requires 300 post-secondary hours of industry-related work, ensuring students gain valuable practical experience.
This program blends academic learning with hands-on experience to prepare you for a successful career in hospitality management.
The University of Tennessee at Martin – Hospitality and Food Service Management Concentration
The Hospitality and Food Service Management Concentration at The University of Tennessee at Martin equips students with the essential skills needed to manage and operate food service operations across diverse settings.
Notable Features
- Affordable Tuition: UT Martin is known for its reasonable tuition fees, ensuring that a high-quality education is accessible.
- High Student Satisfaction: The university boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering personalized learning experiences and high levels of student satisfaction.
- Practical Focus: Emphasizes immediate employability and readiness for advanced studies. The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, essential for real-world applications in the hospitality and food service industries.
This program stands out for providing a practical and friendly learning environment, ensuring students are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue further education.
Austin Peay State University – Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Management with a Concentration in Hospitality Management
Austin Peay State University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Management with a Concentration in Hospitality Management. This program aims to blend broad business principles with specialized hospitality skills.
Program Elements
- Expert Faculty: Guided by faculty holding Ph.D. and Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) designations, ensuring high-quality instruction.
- Research and Presentation: Offers opportunities to present research at conferences, fostering skills in communication and critical analysis.
- Industry Connections: Supports exploration of career pathways with top hospitality brands, providing a bridge between academic learning and professional opportunities.
- Core Courses: Focuses on problem-solving, creative methods, and ethical practices, preparing you for varied roles within the hospitality industry.
This well-rounded program is designed to prepare graduates for success in numerous hospitality management careers.
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – Vision Hospitality Immersion Program
The Vision Hospitality Immersion Program at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga offers students a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to hotel management and operations.
Key Features
- Immersive Experience: A week-long program that covers hotel management, development, event management, and operations through direct exposure.
- Industry Collaboration: Conducted in partnership with Vision Hospitality Group, ensuring real-world relevance and practical insights.
- Hands-On Learning: Includes direct experience at Chattanooga’s top properties and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
- Cost: Open to all UTC students at no cost, including housing, transportation, and materials.
This immersive program offers invaluable practical experience and networking opportunities in the hospitality industry.
East Tennessee State University – Bachelor of Business Administration in Management with a Concentration in Hospitality and Tourism
East Tennessee State University provides a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management with a Concentration in Hospitality and Tourism, tailoring its curriculum to the dynamic needs of the hospitality and tourism sector.
Curriculum Overview
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes hotel and resort management, event planning, and destination marketing.
- Experiential Learning: Emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world experience, crucial for a thorough understanding of industry operations.
- Experienced Faculty: Courses are guided by knowledgeable faculty members, ensuring a high standard of education.
This concentration prepares students for various roles within the hospitality and tourism industries by providing a well-rounded educational foundation.
Walters State Community College – Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business with a Concentration in Hospitality Management
Walters State Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business with a Concentration in Hospitality Management, designed to provide a strong foundation in hospitality management.
Program Highlights
- Diverse Curriculum: Covers subjects such as tourism, event planning, and customer service, ensuring comprehensive training.
- Internships: Includes internships to provide practical industry experience, helping students apply their learning.
- Flexible Learning Options: Offers flexible scheduling, including online course options, to accommodate different student needs.
This program’s practical approach and flexible learning options make it an excellent choice for those pursuing a career in hospitality management.
Tennessee Board of Regents – Hospitality and Tourism Management Technical Certificate
The Technical Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management offered by the Tennessee Board of Regents prepares students for various management roles within the hospitality industry.
Key Features
- Core Curriculum: Includes key courses and real-world experience through internships, ensuring practical knowledge.
- Specializations: Students can choose from areas such as Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, and Tourism Management.
- Certifications: Offers industry-recognized certifications like ServSafe Food Handler, adding value to the credential.
- Articulations: The program is articulated with Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCAT) programs, enhancing transfer opportunities.
This certificate course is a practical, industry-focused option for those looking to quickly enter the hospitality management field.
What to Consider When Choosing a Hospitality Management Degree in Tennessee
Selecting the right Hospitality Management Degree in Tennessee involves several considerations to ensure it aligns with your career goals.
Key Factors to Evaluate
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like ACPHA or ACBSP, which signifies a high educational standard.
- Curriculum Content: Look for programs that offer robust courses covering operations management, event planning, marketing, and financial management.
- Experiential Learning: Programs that incorporate internships or industry projects provide practical experiences that are essential for career readiness.
- Faculty Expertise: Seek programs with experienced faculty who have real-world industry experience.
- Industry Partnerships: Schools with strong ties to the hospitality industry can offer valuable networking opportunities and practical insights.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and available financial aid options to find a program that fits your budget.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a hospitality management degree that best suits your career aspirations and educational needs.
Hospitality Management Degree By State
Conclusion
Exploring the diverse range of Hospitality Management Degree programs in Tennessee can guide you in choosing the right path for a successful career in the hospitality industry. Each program offers unique features and specializations, from practical hands-on training to comprehensive academic curricula. By selecting a program that aligns with your professional goals and interests, you can build a solid foundation and thrive in the dynamic and fast-paced world of hospitality.