Ever wondered which school in Omaha, NE offers the best hospitality management degree?
This blog post reviews the top programs in the city, highlighting their unique features and benefits. Whether you are looking for hands-on experience, strong industry connections, or flexible learning options, we cover the essentials to help you make an informed choice for your career in hospitality.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln – Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management Degree Program
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) offers a Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management (HRTM) degree that equips students for a career in the global hospitality industry. This program includes:
- Event Management: Learn to plan, execute, and evaluate events of various types and sizes.
- Tourism: Gain insights into tourism management, including destination marketing and tourism economics.
- Food and Beverage Management: Understand the dynamics of food service operations and beverage management.
- Lodging: Explore the principles of hotel and resort management.
- Private Club Management: Delve into the specialized field of private club operations.
- Human Resources Management: Focus on managing personnel in hospitality settings.
Learning and Development Opportunities
Students benefit from:
- Field Trips: Participate in hands-on experiences, including national food and equipment shows.
- Internships: Secure valuable experience through internships with leading organizations.
- Study-Abroad Opportunities: Gain a global perspective by studying in different countries.
Faculty Expertise and Resources
UNL’s program is supported by:
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from industry professionals who bring real-world knowledge into the classroom.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Enhance your learning with access to top-notch labs and equipment.
This program fosters skills needed for success in a competitive and ever-evolving industry, combining academic learning with practical experiences.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln – Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln aims to prepare future leaders through its Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management (HRTM) program. With specializations in Club Management, Event Management, Food and Beverage, Human Resources, Lodging, and Tourism, students have the flexibility to tailor their education.
Key Program Features
- Classroom and Experiential Learning: Balance theoretical knowledge with practical application.
- Internships: Opportunities with prestigious organizations like Walt Disney World enhance real-life skills.
- Industry-Specific Conferences: Attend events like the National Restaurant Association Show to network and learn.
Advantages and Considerations
- Pros: Strong industry connections, flexible curriculum, and supportive network for internships and job placements.
- Considerations: Assess tuition costs, specific requirements, and if the Lincoln, NE location fits your preferences.
By combining real-world experiences with academic learning, UNL’s HRTM program helps students excel in the hospitality industry.
Metropolitan Community College – Culinary Arts & Management
Metropolitan Community College (MCC) in Omaha, NE, features a Culinary and Hospitality program with two tracks: Culinary Arts & Management and Hospitality & Restaurant Leadership. The Associate in Applied Science offers options in Baking & Pastry and Culinary Arts, alongside Certificates of Achievement.
Strengths of the Program
- Hands-On Approach: Practice in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Accreditation: Recognized by the American Culinary Federation, ensuring high professional standards.
Unique Opportunities
- Continuing Education: Enhance skills through chef-led travel experiences.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from renowned chefs and industry leaders.
- Modern Facilities: Benefit from culinary theatres and professional kitchens.
Students can expect practical training that prepares them for successful careers in the hospitality industry.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln – Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management Major
The Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln prepares students for managerial roles. The emphasis spans Club Management, Event Management, Food and Beverage, Human Resources, Lodging, and Tourism.
Key Program Features
- Prestigious Internships: Opportunities to intern at The Masters Tournament and Walt Disney World.
- Networking: Access advisory boards and attend industry conferences, such as the EuroCHRIE Conference.
Courses and Learning Environment
- Courses: Topics like Introduction to Hospitality Management and Guest Service Management.
- Scarlet Hotel Training: Realistic environment for practical learning.
Career Paths
Graduates find roles as events and entertainment assistants, sales and marketing coordinators, and human resources managers. They also receive personalized academic advising and career coaching.
This program provides a comprehensive foundation to embark on a successful hospitality career, blending theoretical instruction with practical experience.
Southeast Community College – Hospitality Management Program
The Hospitality Management Program at Southeast Community College (SCC) offers an immersive educational journey over four full-time terms. Students can choose from three focus areas: Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, and Culinary Communications, all of which emphasize hands-on experience.
Key Features of the Program
- Real-World Experience: Gain practical skills in environments like Course Restaurant, a working classroom where students practice what they learn.
- National Certifications: Achieve a diploma from the National Restaurant Association Hospitality Education Foundation and certification from the American Culinary Federation.
- Career Paths: Open opportunities in various roles, including Chef, Line Cook, Dining Supervisor, and Executive Pastry Chef.
- Accreditation and Compliance: Accredited by The American Culinary Federation Accrediting Commission and adheres to Nebraska’s educational guidelines.
Program Costs and Requirements
- Estimated Cost: Varies by certification level, ensuring accessibility for many students.
- Special Requirements: Students must obtain a Food Handlers permit.
SCC’s Culinary/Hospitality program offers flexible start dates and robust support for real-life experiences, providing a solid foundation for those aspiring to enter the hospitality industry.
Bellevue University – Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management
Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, crafted for those who seek managerial roles in the hospitality sector. Delivered in a fully online format, the accelerated cohort program allows you to study one course at a time alongside a consistent group of peers.
Unique Program Components
- Innovation Capstone Project: Develop and propose new products or services, fostering creativity and innovation.
- Curriculum: Covers vital topics like new media marketing, financial skills for managers, and talent management.
- Professional Networking: Build a strong professional network through the cohort system, enhancing collaborative learning.
Practical and Flexible Learning
- Admission Requirements: Designed for those with an associate degree or equivalent credits.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring high standards.
- Tuition: $449 per credit hour for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic years.
Bellevue’s program stands out for its practical approach, flexible online format, and strong focus on enhancing managerial skills, making it ideal for professionals aiming for leadership roles in hospitality.
What to Look For in a Hospitality Management Degree Program
When selecting a [Hospitality Management Program in Omaha, NE], this guide will help you prioritize essential factors to ensure a fulfilling educational and professional experience:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by reputable bodies such as the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA) or the American Culinary Federation (ACF). This accreditation is a marker of quality education and industry recognition.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Look for a curriculum that spans diverse areas like event management, food and beverage operations, lodging, human resources, and marketing. Programs with a mix of theoretical and practical learning can provide balanced training.
- Internships: Programs offering internships with well-known organizations allow you to gain real-world experience and make valuable industry connections.
- Industry Connections: Strong partnerships with the industry can offer networking opportunities, guest lectures, seminars, and job placement support. Conferences and trade shows can provide additional learning avenues.
- Advanced Resources and Facilities: Access to professional kitchens, simulation labs, and culinary theatres can provide a realistic training environment. Some programs also offer study-abroad opportunities which add a global perspective.
- Flexible Learning Options: For working professionals, part-time, evening, online, or accelerated learning options can help balance work, life, and education effectively.
- Experienced Faculty: Programs featuring faculty with significant industry experience can offer deeper insights and practical knowledge.
Evaluating these factors will help you choose a hospitality management program that aligns with your career goals.
Concluding Thoughts on Hospitality Management Degrees in Omaha NE
Choosing the right hospitality management degree program in Omaha, NE is a critical step in shaping your future career. Evaluate each program based on accreditation, curriculum, internships, industry connections, resources, flexibility, and faculty expertise.
By considering these elements, you can select a program that not only meets your educational needs but also positions you for success in the dynamic and rewarding field of hospitality. Whether you prefer a hands-on approach like Metropolitan Community College’s program, the managerial focus of Bellevue University, or the well-rounded options at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Southeast Community College, Omaha offers excellent choices.
For more detailed information, feel free to visit these programs’ official websites linked within the article.