Hospitality Management Degree in Allentown PA

Not in Allentown? Check out our lists of Hospitality Management Degree in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and across Pennsylvania.

Ever wondered which hospitality management degree in Allentown, PA, will truly set you up for success?

We’ve got you covered. This article highlights the top programs that equip you with the skills and experience needed for a thriving career in the hospitality industry.

No fluff—just the essential information to help you make an informed decision.

Cedar Crest College – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Tourism and Hospitality Management

Cedar Crest College offers an exceptional Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Tourism and Hospitality Management. Located in Allentown, PA, this program addresses the dynamic needs of the hospitality and tourism industries—sectors that are among the fastest-growing globally.

What You Will Learn

At Cedar Crest College, you will gain a well-rounded education that covers various aspects of hospitality management:

Key Components of Tourism and Hospitality: Learn to identify and describe the major elements that comprise these industries.
Success Factors: Gain insights into what makes travel, destinations, accommodations, dining experiences, excursions, and theme parks successful.
Operations and Infrastructure Management: Understand how to plan and manage infrastructure, facilities, and capacity to ensure successful operations.

Flexibility and Additional Opportunities

The program is incredibly flexible, also available as a minor to complement other fields of study. This opens more career opportunities for graduates, making them highly marketable in the job market.

For more information, visit Cedar Crest’s official program page.

East Stroudsburg University – Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management Bachelor of Science Degree Program

East Stroudsburg University (ESU) offers an accredited Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management (HRTM) Bachelor of Science degree program. While not directly in Allentown, it’s a nearby excellent choice for those serious about a career in hospitality management.

Concentration Options

ESU offers three distinct concentrations within the HRTM program:

Hotel Management: Focuses on skills needed for managing lodging facilities.
Restaurant Management: Covers various aspects of running successful food and beverage operations.
Tourism Management: Equips you with the knowledge needed to excel in the tourism sector.

Key Features

This program stands out with several impressive features:

Retention and Employment Rates: With a 94% retention rate from freshman to sophomore year and 95% employment in the field within 90 days of graduation, the program is clearly effective.
Qualified Faculty: Professors here combine academic excellence with professional industry experience.
Specialized Facilities: Access facilities like Stony Acres recreation area, a student-run restaurant, and advanced technology for practical learning experiences.

Networking and Additional Opportunities

ESU emphasizes networking through guest speakers, alumni presentations, and industry-focused clubs. Such opportunities are instrumental in building your professional circle even before you graduate.

For more information, visit the official ESU program page.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospitality Management Degree in Allentown, PA

Choosing the right hospitality management degree can be a key decision in shaping your future career. By understanding what to look for, you can identify a program that aligns with your goals and interests.

Curriculum

Diverse Topics: Ensure the program covers a range of essential topics including operations, infrastructure management, marketing, and financial management.
Real-World Learning: Look for courses that include internships and hands-on projects. Practical experience is crucial for mastering the complexities of the hospitality industry.

Faculty Expertise

Academic and Industry Experience: Research the qualifications of the faculty. A robust mix of academic credentials and industry experience provides a well-rounded education.

Facilities and Resources

Advanced Technology Labs: Check if the college offers state-of-the-art facilities that enhance learning, such as simulation software and operational training facilities like restaurants or hotels.
Hands-On Experience: Facilities that offer practical training provide invaluable experience.

Accreditation

Program Quality: Accredited programs often meet high academic and industry standards, making the degree more valuable in the job market.

Retention and Job Placement Rates

Program Success: High retention rates and strong post-graduation job placement statistics indicate the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

Financial Considerations

Tuition Costs and Financial Aid: Consider the overall cost of the program. Look for available scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to ease the financial burden.

School Reputation

Industry Standing: The reputation of the school and its program in the hospitality industry can impact employability. Research feedback from alumni and current students.

Networking Opportunities

Industry Connections: Programs that facilitate access to industry events, guest lectures, and active student organizations can help build your professional network.

Internship Opportunities

Partnerships with Businesses: Schools with strong partnerships with local or regional businesses offer practical training opportunities that may lead to job offers post-graduation.

Summary and Next Steps

Summarizing the key aspects of each program is crucial as it provides a clear comparison.

Cedar Crest College

Program Focus: A well-rounded curriculum that includes operations and infrastructure management, applicable as a minor.
Link for More Information: Discover more about the Cedar Crest College hospitality program.

East Stroudsburg University

Program Focus: Specialized concentrations in hotel, restaurant, and tourism management, with high retention and job placement rates.
Link for More Information: Learn more about the East Stroudsburg University hospitality program.

Next Steps

Here are steps you can take to make an informed decision:

Visit Campuses: Schedule visits to tour the facilities and experience the campus environment.
Talk to Program Advisors: Speak with advisors to get detailed information about the curriculum and support services.
Reach Out to Current Students and Alumni: They can provide firsthand insights into the program’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Explore Financial Aid Options: Look into scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages offered by the institution.

By considering these factors and taking these steps, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right hospitality management degree in Allentown, PA that aligns with your career aspirations.