Not in Chattanooga? Check out our lists of Hospitality Management Degree in Clarksville, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, Nashville, and across Tennessee.
Thinking about a career in hospitality management but unsure where to study?
Chattanooga, TN, offers some excellent programs.
This article highlights the top Hospitality Management Degree options in Chattanooga, each aimed at providing the skills and experience needed to succeed in this dynamic industry.
Discover what each program offers and find the best fit for your goals.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Gary W. Rollins College of Business – Vision Hospitality Immersion Program
The Vision Hospitality Immersion Program, offered by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Gary W. Rollins College of Business, provides an exceptional pathway to understanding the hotel industry.
What You’ll Experience:
- Operations Insight: Delve into the daily operations of prestigious hotel brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and InterContinental.
- Event Management: Learn the intricacies of planning and executing large-scale events and conferences.
- Food and Beverage Management: Understand the backend operations of food service, from fine dining restaurants to large-scale banquet facilities.
- Construction and Development: Gain perspectives on the complexities involved in constructing and developing hospitality properties.
Structured as a week-long program, it offers a thorough overview, ensuring you come away with practical skills. You will engage with experts and work on projects that align with your career interests, which is invaluable for networking.
What sets this program apart is its inclusivity – open to all UTC students regardless of their major and offered at no cost. This opportunity is bolstered by full coverage of related expenses like housing and transportation.
After completing the program, you earn a certificate that can significantly boost your résumé. Additionally, the option to enroll in MGT 4999 provides further depth into the hospitality industry.
Note: The Spring 2020 session was canceled due to COVID-19 policies.
Chattanooga State Community College – Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management
The Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Chattanooga State Community College is another excellent choice for pursuing a career in hospitality. This program is designed to prepare you for various managerial positions in the fast-evolving culinary, lodging, and tourism sectors.
Program Highlights:
- Culinary Arts: Learn the skills needed to excel in the kitchen, from basic knife skills to advanced culinary techniques.
- Food and Beverage Management: Become proficient in the management aspects of restaurants and other foodservice establishments.
- Hotel Management: Gain knowledge in managing hotel operations, from front desk operations to guest services.
- Tourism: Dive into the tourism sector, focusing on aspects such as marketing, tour operations, and destination management.
The curriculum emphasizes practical skills that are indispensable in the hospitality industry. Key courses focus on foundational knowledge while supplementing your education with real-world experience through internships and hands-on projects.
Prospective students should carefully review the specific requirements for each concentration to ensure they meet their career aspirations. Tuition details and financial aid options are available on the college’s website, helping you plan your educational journey without breaking the bank.
Tennessee Board of Regents – A.A.S. Degree in Hospitality Management
The A.A.S. Degree in Hospitality Management offered by the Tennessee Board of Regents provides specializations in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism Management, and Culinary Arts. This program is an ideal fit for those who wish to gain foundational expertise in various hospitality roles.
Specialization Areas:
- Food and Beverage Management: Understand the nuances of running food and beverage operations efficiently.
- Hotel Management: Learn to manage lodging facilities, from small inns to large hotel chains.
- Tourism Management: Gain skills necessary to thrive in the tourism industry, including destination marketing and tour operation.
- Culinary Arts: Master culinary techniques and management practices in professional kitchens.
The curriculum consists of core courses such as Introduction to Hospitality Management and Supervision in the Hospitality Industry, which provide a solid foundation for your career.
Key Features:
- Internships and Experiential Learning: These are critical components, giving you practical experience in real-world settings.
- Certifications: Additional certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler certification enhance job readiness and industry compliance.
The program follows a non-discrimination policy, ensuring an inclusive learning environment for all students.
Middle Tennessee State University – Hospitality Management Concentration within the Tourism and Hospitality Management Program
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) stands out with its Hospitality Management concentration within the Tourism and Hospitality Management program, aimed at equipping you for leadership in the hospitality field.
Core Curriculum:
- Guest Services: Master the art of delivering exceptional service to guests.
- Operations and Revenue Management: Learn the financial and managerial aspects essential for successful hospitality operations.
- Food and Beverage Management: Get hands-on experience in managing F&B operations, crucial for restaurants and hotels alike.
- Strategic Planning: Develop planning skills to effectively manage hospitality ventures.
The program is accredited, ensuring that it meets high educational standards. Practical experience is a key component, with internships and practicums forming part of the curriculum. MTSU’s strong connections with the corporate sector in Nashville create excellent networking and employment opportunities.
Career Prospects:
Graduates can look forward to a variety of roles in lodging, food and beverage, and tourism marketing. As MTSU promotes the development of passionate leaders, you will be well-prepared to contribute positively to the hospitality industry.
By exploring these top-rated programs, you can make an informed decision about pursuing a Hospitality Management Degree in Chattanooga TN. Each program offers unique strengths and prepares you for a successful career in the dynamic field of hospitality.
Tennessee Board of Regents – A.A.S. Degree in Hospitality Management
The A.A.S. Degree in Hospitality Management offered by the Tennessee Board of Regents is tailored to prepare you for a variety of roles in the hospitality industry. Specializing in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism Management, and Culinary Arts, this program equips you with the know-how and practical skills essential for success.
Specialization Insights:
- Food and Beverage Management: Learn about efficient food and beverage operations, including cost control, quality assurance, and customer service.
- Hotel Management: Focus on managing hotel operations, such as front desk procedures, housekeeping, and guest services.
- Tourism Management: Explore the dynamics of the tourism sector, including marketing, tour operations, and travel planning.
- Culinary Arts: Gain expertise in culinary techniques and kitchen management, preparing you for professional chef positions.
Key Components:
- Core Courses: Foundational courses like Introduction to Hospitality Management and Supervision in the Hospitality Industry.
- Real-world Experience: Internships and experiential learning to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings.
- Certifications: Enhance your employability with certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler.
The program promotes fairness and inclusivity, adhering to a non-discrimination policy, ensuring a supportive learning atmosphere for all students.
Learn more about the Tennessee Board of Regents – A.A.S. Degree in Hospitality Management
Middle Tennessee State University – Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies with a concentration in Organizational Leadership
The Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies with a concentration in Organizational Leadership at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is perfect for those looking to advance their careers in hospitality management. This program is particularly beneficial for students transferring from Chattanooga State Community College with an A.A.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management, allowing them to transfer up to 60 credit hours.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible Learning: Online courses that offer flexibility for working adults.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses cover administration, organizational systems, and team relations with a focus on human resource management, public relations, and cultural diversity.
- Capstone Project: A final project that integrates the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program.
Graduates from this program are well-prepared for leadership roles in business and communication management, offering a pathway to further career advancement.
Tips for Choosing the Best Hospitality Management Degree Program in Chattanooga
Choosing the right Hospitality Management Degree program in Chattanooga is crucial for your future success. Consider the following factors to make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited, which guarantees it meets high educational standards.
- Curriculum: Review the curriculum for comprehensive coverage of key areas like guest services, operations, and food and beverage management.
- Internship Opportunities: Look for programs that offer internships or practicum experiences to gain practical industry exposure.
- Industry Connections: Choose programs with strong ties to the industry, which can facilitate networking and employment opportunities.
- Faculty Credentials: Investigate the qualifications and industry experience of the faculty members.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Assess the program’s tuition costs and available financial aid options to manage affordability.
- Support Services: Consider the availability of support services such as career counseling, academic advising, and job placement assistance.
- Career Placement Rates: Research the program’s success in placing graduates in relevant jobs.
Take advantage of campus visits and speak with alumni to gain additional insights. These steps ensure that the program you choose aligns with your career goals and educational needs.
Conclusion
Choosing a Hospitality Management Degree in Chattanooga TN can set you on a path to a rewarding career in the hospitality industry. Each program mentioned offers unique strengths tailored to different aspects of hospitality management. Whether you’re looking to gain practical experience, advance your current career, or explore various facets of the industry, Chattanooga offers excellent programs to meet your aspirations.
Take the next step in your career by exploring these programs further and finding the one that best suits your professional goals and educational needs.