Not in Little Rock? Check out our lists of Hospitality Management Degree in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Springdale, and across Arkansas.
Wondering which Hospitality Management Degree in Little Rock, AR, is right for you?
This guide highlights top programs, accreditation details, and career opportunities, so you can make an informed decision.
Whether you’re aiming for hotel management or event planning, you’ll find a fit among these leading local institutions.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College – Hospitality Management Degree Program
The University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College offers a distinguished ACPHA accredited Hospitality Management Degree Program. The curriculum excels in providing extensive education on lodging, tourism, food service, and business management practices.
Studying here, you will be ready to step into middle management roles in varied hospitality sectors including:
- Lodging: Hotels, resorts, and conference centers.
- Food Service: Restaurants and theme parks.
- Tourism: Travel-related operations.
Did you know that the leisure and hospitality industry in Arkansas is projected to grow by 22.1% over the next five years? This program, consisting of 60 credit hours, merges general education (15 hours) with degree-specific courses (45 hours), plus six hours of electives.
Degree features include:
- Certificates of Proficiency: Options with a focus on hospitality and tourism, or restaurant operations.
- Technical Certificate: Prepares individuals for entry-level management positions.
The program can be completed online or on-campus, giving you the flexibility to learn on your terms. Graduates earn a certificate as a “Certified Hospitality Graduate” from ACPHA, empowering you for a thriving career in hospitality management.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College – Hospitality Management Program
Explore hands-on opportunities at the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute (CAHMI) at the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College. The institute offers top-tier academic programs in culinary arts, baking and pastry, hospitality management, and dietary management.
Program highlights:
- Industry-standard credentials and hands-on experience.
- Dining services: Le Culinaire and La Patisserie for real-world practice.
- Community education classes: Enhance your culinary skills beyond the degree program.
The institute’s accreditation by ACPHA and ACFEF ensures quality education and training, preparing you to excel. Reach out to CAHMI Director Jan Lewandowski at jlewandowski@uaptc.edu or (501) 812-2744 for detailed program information.
Arkansas Tech University – Hospitality Administration: Lodging Management Bachelor’s Degree
The Hospitality Administration – Lodging Management Bachelor’s Degree at Arkansas Tech University prepares you for an exciting career in hotels, resorts, and private clubs. The curriculum includes:
- Event planning: Engage in organizing and executing events.
- Financial analysis: Build essential skills for managing hospitality businesses.
- Hospitality games and projects: Practical experiences such as redesigning hospitality facilities.
Residents of bordering states benefit from in-state tuition, making it financially accessible. The program’s 100% pass rate on ServSafe exams reflects its dedication to quality education. Graduates frequently secure positions in notable organizations.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College – Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Offering a multitude of hospitality programs, UA – Pulaski Technical College’s Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management is designed to ensure your success. The curriculum blends food preparation, dietary management, and entrepreneurship.
Key program features:
- Accreditation: Recognized by the Higher Learning Commission.
- Hands-on experience: Internships and practical training are integral.
- Access and support: Conveniently located in North Little Rock with experienced faculty and financial aid options.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff – Hospitality and Tourism Management Program
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff provides a well-rounded Hospitality and Tourism Management program within the School of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Human Sciences. The curriculum focuses on experiential learning, supported by strong industry partnerships.
Career paths include:
- Food Service/Restaurant Management
- Human Development
- Merchandising
- Food Science
Dr. Marilyn Bailey, the Interim Chair, is available for inquiries at (870) 575-8817. The program’s blend of academic rigor and practical relevance equips you for a dynamic hospitality career.
These programs offer comprehensive education and real-world training, preparing you to thrive in the vibrant hospitality sector of Little Rock, AR. Explore these opportunities to find the perfect fit for your career aspirations.
The University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College (UA-PTC) – Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Hospitality Management
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Hospitality Management at the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College merges lodging, tourism, food service, and business management into a comprehensive education. Accredited by ACPHA, this 60-credit hour program offers flexibility with both online and on-campus options.
Key Highlights Include:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: General education core, hospitality-specific courses, and directed electives focused on culinary and hospitality operations.
- Graduation Certificate: Earn a Certified Hospitality Graduate certificate, enhancing your credentials in the job market.
- Industry Trends: Emphasis on sustainability and technology use in hospitality, ensuring you stay current with industry trends.
Graduates are well-prepared for middle management roles, and the program’s structure makes it ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their careers. However, to attain higher management roles, you may need additional education.
University of Arkansas-Pulaski Tech – Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
The Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management at UA-Pulaski Tech showcases a robust curriculum covering essential areas such as food and beverage management, hotel operations, and event planning.
Program Benefits:
- Accreditation: ACPHA ensures academic and operational excellence.
- Hands-on Learning: Intense focus on internships and practical training.
- Employment Rate: Impressive 90% employment rate within 90 days of graduation.
Faculty members are industry veterans, providing mentorship you can rely on. The program’s location in Little Rock opens doors to a vibrant hospitality sector with ample employment opportunities.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock – Bachelor of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
For students with an AAS in Hospitality Management, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Hospitality Management at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers a natural progression. This program emphasizes advanced courses, preparing you for leadership roles in the hospitality industry.
Features:
- Core Courses: Includes business, foodservice sanitation, hospitality management, and electives like baking and food production.
- General Education: Courses in chemistry, management, marketing, and human resources.
- 120 Credit Hours: Comprehensive education covering upper-level courses.
This pathway is perfect for advancing your career, combining academic knowledge with practical skills essential for senior roles in hospitality management.
How to Choose the Best Hospitality Management Degree Program
Selecting the right hospitality management program is crucial for your career. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by ACPHA or ACFEF to ensure quality education and industry recognition.
- Curriculum: Ensure the program covers essential topics like lodging, food service, tourism, and business management.
- Industry Connections: Choose programs with strong industry partnerships and opportunities for networking and mentorship.
- Internships: Practical experience through internships is vital for real-world skills.
- Career Support: Opt for programs offering robust career services, including job placement assistance.
- Course Delivery: Consider the flexibility of course delivery—online, on-campus, or hybrid options.
- Financial Aid: Investigate the availability of financial aid or scholarships.
- Further Education Pathways: Look for programs that offer opportunities to stack credentials, like progressing toward an MBA or MS in Hospitality Administration.
- Success Rates: Research program success rates and alumni outcomes to gauge potential career prospects.
Conclusion
As you explore hospitality management programs in Little Rock, AR, consider the unique features, accreditation, and career opportunities each offers. Whether starting your journey or seeking to advance your career, these programs provide the education and real-world experience necessary for success in the dynamic hospitality industry.
Explore these programs in more detail and take the next step in your hospitality career by reaching out to the institutions directly or visiting their websites for more information.