Hospitality Management Degree in Hawaii

Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our list of Hospitality Management Degree in Honolulu.

Looking to break into the hospitality industry in a tropical paradise?

A Hospitality Management Degree in Hawaii might be your gateway.

We’ll explore top programs, key benefits, and what sets them apart, ensuring you find the best fit for your career aspirations.

University of Hawaii at Manoa – Hospitality Management Degree Program

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a Hospitality Management Degree designed to prepare you for a successful career in the hospitality industry. This program focuses on applying business management principles within the context of hospitality.

Key Features:

  • Specialized Courses: Topics include guest service management, food and beverage operations, event planning, and sustainable tourism practices.
  • Hands-On Experience: The university’s prime location allows you to gain practical experience through internships with local hotels, resorts, and tourism organizations.
  • Expert Faculty: Industry-experienced professors bring valuable insights into the classroom.
  • Specialization Options: Tailor your education with specializations in hotel management, restaurant management, or event management.

Career Prospects: Graduates pursue roles in hotel management, event planning, restaurant management, tourism development, and hospitality consulting.

University of Hawaii-West Oahu – Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality and Tourism

Explore the University of Hawaii-West Oahu and their Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality and Tourism. This program is structured to equip you with the necessary skills for managing hospitality and tourism businesses effectively.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers various hospitality sectors, including hotels, restaurants, airlines, travel agencies, and events.
  • Flexibility: Offers both in-person and distance learning modes.
  • Real-World Experience: Opportunities for internships with elite establishments like Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina and Hilton Hampton Inn & Suites in Kapolei.
  • Ethical and Cultural Insight: Emphasizes ethical considerations and cultural sensitivity, essential for a global career.

Career Prospects: Graduates find employment in hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, service agencies, and can continue into leadership roles.

Hawaii Pacific University – Hospitality and Tourism Management Concentration

At Hawaii Pacific University, the Hospitality and Tourism Management concentration within the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program offers you an appealing learning environment in a premier tourist destination.

Key Features:

  • Local Tourism Hub: Hawaii’s significant tourist footfall offers a practical context for your studies.
  • Professional Connections: Strong ties with major hotels and travel providers facilitate internships and career placements.
  • Global Perspective: Cultural diversity at HPU fosters a broad understanding crucial for international roles.
  • Skal Scholarship: Financial aid dedicated to aspiring hospitality professionals.

Career Prospects: Prepares you for leadership roles in the global hospitality and tourism sector.

Hawai’i Community College – Hospitality and Tourism Program

The Hospitality and Tourism program at Hawai’i Community College – Pālamanui is designed to train you for entry-level and supervisory roles in the hospitality field, addressing the industry’s growing demand for skilled workers.

Key Features:

  • Open Access Policy: Inclusive enrollment opportunities without language barriers.
  • Industry-Driven Curriculum: Regular updates by a Program Advisory Council ensure relevance.
  • Various Credentials: Options include a Certificate of Achievement, Certificate of Competence, and an Associate in Applied Science degree.
  • Practical Skills: Emphasis on communication, self-management, and industry-specific knowledge.

Career Prospects: Ideal for immediate employment in hotels and hospitality organizations in Hawaii.

University of Hawaii Maui College – Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Hospitality and Tourism

The Hospitality and Tourism Program at the University of Hawaii Maui College offers an accredited Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree, providing a solid foundation for leadership roles in the hospitality industry.

Key Features:

  • Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA).
  • Cultural Emphasis: Includes Hawaiian culture, multicultural awareness, sustainability, and ethical decision-making.
  • Certifications: Options for a Certificate of Competence or Certificate of Achievement.
  • Practical Experience: Internship opportunities.

Career Prospects: Prepares you for leadership roles with high job placement rates and opportunities for international internships.

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa – School of Travel Industry Management

The School of Travel Industry Management (TIM) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is a top-tier institution for hospitality, tourism, and transportation management education.

Key Features:

  • Collaborative Opportunities: Partnerships with local, national, and international businesses.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes management science and multidisciplinary courses.
  • Noteworthy Accreditations: AACSB accredited and listed in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges.
  • Practical Learning: Internships, student clubs, and global tourism studies.

Career Prospects: Prepares you for diverse management roles in hospitality and tourism.

Kapiolani Community College – Advanced Professional Certificate in Hospitality Operations Management

Kapiolani Community College provides an Advanced Professional Certificate in Hospitality Operations Management, ideal if you seek advanced knowledge beyond an Associate in Science degree.

Key Features:

  • Specializations: Options in Hospitality Operations Management and Travel and Tourism Operations Management.
  • Cultural Values: Emphasizes the fundamental ALOHA value in teaching.
  • Continued Education: Pathways to further studies, such as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Hospitality Operations Management.
  • Immediate Employment: Practical training for direct entry into the hospitality workforce.

Career Prospects: Preps you for advanced roles while making further education accessible.

By choosing a Hospitality Management Degree in Hawaii, you align your career with the vibrant, ever-growing tourism industry. The programs listed above are designed to enhance your skills and open doors to numerous hospitality and tourism opportunities. Explore their offerings to find the perfect fit for your career aspirations.

Brigham Young University – Hawaii Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management

Brigham Young University – Hawaii offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. This program requires 58-69 credit hours, providing a strong foundation in various hospitality and tourism fields.

Key Features:

  • Course Structure: Divided into business foundation, HTM foundation, and HTM core courses, covering everything from business statistics and financial computing to customer experience optimization and event management.
  • Career Preparedness: Focuses on productivity, innovation, customer service, professionalism, and responsible stewardship.
  • Culinary Specialization: Optional certificate available by completing elective courses in culinary arts and gastronomy.
  • Internships: Hands-on experience through mandatory internships arranged via Career Services.

Career Prospects: Positions in hotels, resorts, food service operations, and tourism development agencies.

University of Hawaii Maui College – Hospitality & Tourism Program

The University of Hawaii Maui College offers an accredited Hospitality & Tourism program, preparing students with essential knowledge in hospitality operations and management skills.

Key Features:

  • Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA).
  • Diverse Curriculum: Topics include housekeeping, food and beverage operations, hospitality marketing, and event management.
  • Practical Experience: Local and international internship opportunities enhance real-world readiness.
  • Job Placement: High job placement rate, demonstrating the effectiveness of the program.

Career Prospects: Leadership roles in hospitality and tourism with strong industry connections and real-world training.

Leeward Community College – Certificate of Competence in Hospitality and Tourism

Leeward Community College provides a Certificate of Competence in Hospitality and Tourism, focusing on foundational skills for various hospitality sectors.

Key Features:

  • Flexible Programs: Options to complete certificates or degrees in one to four semesters.
  • Foundational Skills: Emphasizes communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills essential for career advancement.
  • Affordability: Comparatively low tuition and fees make it an accessible option.
  • Experienced Faculty: Real-world knowledge brought into the classroom enhances the learning experience.

Career Prospects: Entry-level roles in lodging, with certificates applicable toward an Associate in Science (AS) degree in Management.

Kaua‘i Community College – Hospitality and Tourism (HOST) Program

Kaua‘i Community College offers an extensive Hospitality and Tourism (HOST) program with diversified options.

Key Features:

  • Articulation Agreement: Supports seamless transfers through the University of Hawai‘i System and transitions to a Bachelor’s in Business via UH West O‘ahu.
  • Cultural Emphasis: Focus on Hawaiian values and sustainability.
  • Hands-On Training: Practical experience through internships.
  • Flexible Credentials: Options include Associate in Applied Science (AAS), Certificate of Achievement (CA), or Certificate of Competence (CO).

Career Prospects: A range of roles in hospitality and tourism, backed by cultural awareness and sustainable practices.

University of Hawaii at Hilo – Hospitality Management Degree Program

University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a Hospitality Management degree program featuring paid internships and practical training at renowned establishments.

Key Features:

  • Internships: Opportunities at premier places like Four Seasons Hotel, Hilton, and more.
  • Applied Learning: Emphasis on practical experience across various domains, including Human Resources, Sales, Marketing, and Tourism Management.
  • Student Support: Extensive support services including financial aid, housing, advising, and employment.
  • Community Ethos: Adopts a student-centered approach reflecting mutual support and knowledge sharing.

Career Prospects: Diverse career paths within hospitality, enhanced by comprehensive support services and hands-on experience.

How to Choose the Best Hospitality Management Degree in Hawaii

Choosing the best Hospitality Management degree in Hawaii involves several key considerations to ensure the program aligns with your goals.

  1. Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies like the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA). An accredited program assures educational quality and industry relevance.
  2. Curriculum: Assess whether the curriculum includes essential areas such as guest services, food and beverage operations, event planning, and sustainable tourism practices. Interdisciplinary courses in business, marketing, and accounting provide a well-rounded education.
  3. Faculty Expertise: Programs with experienced professionals can bring valuable industry insights into the classroom, enriching your learning experience.
  4. Practical Opportunities: Look for programs offering internships, partnerships with local and global tourism organizations, and hands-on projects. Real-world experience is invaluable for applying theoretical knowledge and building industry connections.
  5. Campus Resources: Consider the available resources such as libraries, research centers, and career services that can support your academic journey and professional development.
  6. Location: Proximity to major tourist destinations can provide more internship and networking opportunities, enhancing your practical experience.
  7. Financial Considerations: Evaluate both tuition and living costs. Some programs offer scholarships and financial aid to help ease the financial burden.

Research each program thoroughly, consult with admissions counselors, and consider speaking with current students to gain a deeper understanding of what they offer and how well they align with your career aspirations.

Hospitality Management Degree By State

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California
Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia
Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa
Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland
Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri
Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey
New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio
Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina
South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont
Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Make Your Hospitality Management Career Dreams a Reality

Hawaii offers a diverse array of exceptional Hospitality Management programs, each tailored to various aspects of the industry. Whether you are interested in a business-focused approach, cultural emphasis, or hands-on experience, these programs are designed to enhance your skills and open doors to numerous career opportunities.

Embark on your journey by visiting the respective campus websites, scheduling tours, and consulting with faculty or current students. Your dream career in hospitality management is within reach—choose the program that best aligns with your career aspirations and preferences and turn your ambitions into reality.

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