Top 10 Master’s In Hospitality Management Online in 2024

Are you passionate about creating lasting memories for others? Do you dream of taking the lead in hotels, restaurants, or events? If so, then a master’s in hospitality management online can be your key to success.

These flexible programs provide the skills to follow many paths in this varied field. Take the first step toward a job you’ll love! Read on to explore our top online master’s in hospitality management degrees!

Article Navigation: Online Master’s in Hospitality Management Specializations  | Can I Get a Hospitality Management Degree Online? | Top 10 Online Hospitality Management Programs | Choosing the Right Degree: Should You Get a Master’s in Hospitality Management? | Accreditation, Certifications and Licensing | Is an Online Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management Worth It? | Get Started Today!

Online Master’s in Hospitality Management Specializations

Hospitality management degrees offer many areas of focus. You can choose from traditional areas like hotel, restaurant, or event management. However, new fields like spa and resort management are great choices, too. Here are some focus of the areas you can explore with this degree.

Core Concentrations

• Hotel Management focuses on the smooth operation of hotels. This includes guest services, housekeeping, and front desk operations, for example.
• Restaurant Management includes menu planning, kitchen management, staff training, and running a profitable establishment.
• Event Management deals with planning, organizing, and executing successful events. It requires planning, strong communication, and the ability to manage logistics and budgets effectively.

Specialized Concentrations

• Luxury Hospitality takes the hotel experience beyond basic needs. Get ready to focus on personal service and creating high-end experiences.
• Sustainable Hospitality aims to minimize environmental impact while maintaining guest satisfaction and profit.
• Spa and Resort Management monitors the operations of spas and resorts. This includes guest services, spa treatments, activities, and ensuring a relaxing experience for guests.
• Meeting and Convention Management plans and manages large-scale events such as meetings, conventions, and conferences. These pros work with clients to fulfill their needs and ensure a smooth event.

Can I Get a Hospitality Management Degree Online?

The field of hospitality is more dynamic than ever, and pursuing a degree can open doors to many career paths. But what if traditional on-campus learning doesn’t fit your lifestyle? The good news is that an online master’s in hospitality management offers a simple alternative that caters to a variety of needs.

To begin with, programs provide unmatched flexibility. In other words, workers can upskill or change careers without leaving their current jobs. Next, students living in remote areas can access top-tier education without moving. Finally, these programs often offer self-paced learning, so you can study on your own time.

Another key point is that compared to on-campus programs, online degrees can cost less. You won’t have expenses like dorms, travel, and potentially even on-campus dining. Not to mention, online programs often have lower tuition fees.

On the positive side, applying to programs offered by schools across the country expands your options and can connect you with a program that aligns with your interests.

All in all, online hospitality management degrees offer a valuable path to achieving your academic goals and pursuing a fulfilling career in this industry.

Top 10 Online Hospitality Management Programs

Ready to go to the next level in your career? Here is a list of the 10 best hospitality master’s degrees.

1. APUS

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $14,025

   American Public University (APUS) offers a Master of Business Administration in Event Planning and Management. This specialized MBA teaches students how to manage events. In addition to being 100% online, you can transfer up to 15 credits of the 33 required credits.

   To qualify for this program, you will need an accredited bachelor’s degree. Courses for this program not only start monthly, but also take as little as 8 weeks to finish.

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   Master of Business Administration / Event Planning & Management

    

2. Liberty University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $25,425

   Liberty University offers a Master of Business Administration in Tourism Management. With a strong business base, this is one of the best hospitality master’s programs. During this fully online program, you’ll learn how to manage tourism-related businesses and destinations. It has a total of 45 credits, and up to 50% of the credits can be transferred from your previous university or college.

   To qualify for this program, you will need an accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA, official college transcripts, and must complete the undergrad business prerequisites. Then, you can work as a hotel consultant, resort manager, or senior hotel manager.

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   Master of Business Administration / Tourism Management

    

3. Lynn University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, IACBE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $27,200

   As far as hospitality management master’s programs online go, Lynn University’s MBA in Hospitality Management is a solid choice. In its 37 credits, this program will teach you how to manage any hospitality business.

   To enroll in this program, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, and a resume. You can enroll in either the fall, spring, or summer. and can complete this degree within a year. Afterward, you’ll be ready for roles like hotel revenue manager, hospitality brand manager, or even hotel manager. Lynn University is one of the best hospitality management schools, and its College of Business and Management is accredited by IACBE.

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   Master of Business Administration / Hospitality Management

    

4. Purdue University

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State): $26,055
   Tuition (Out-of-State): $28,690

   Purdue University offers a Master of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management. This degree can be completed entirely online and will teach you how to become a skilled manager in the hospitality industry. It has a total of 34 credits and can be completed within two years. It also ranks as one of the best master’s programs in hospitality management.

   To qualify for this program, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA, a professional resume, official transcripts and three letters of recommendation. In addition, this program requires 3 to 5 years of work experience. You can enroll in either the summer or fall. Once you’ve graduated, you’ll be ready for leadership in hotels, restaurants, and food service organizations.

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   Master of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management

    

5. Johnson & Wales University

   Accreditation: NECHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $27,786

   Johnson & Wales University’s Master of Science in Hospitality Management degree is for students who want to advance their careers in the industry. Students can complete this program 100% online within two years. What’s more, you can apply for this program year-round. It has a total of 33 credits, made up of 3 credits of foundation courses, 21 credits of core courses, and 9 credits of electives.

   To begin with, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, two recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. This hospitality graduate degree will prepare you for a leadership position in any facet of the industry.

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   Master of Science in Hospitality Management

    

6. Lasell University/h4>
   Accreditation: ACBSP, AHLEI
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $23,364

   Lasell University’s Master of Science in Management / Hospitality & Event Management degree prepares you to effectively manage and lead in the hospitality and event management industries. This online program can be completed in 1 to 2 years. Its 36 credit-hours are composed of 21 credits of core courses, 9 credits of concentration courses, and 6 credits worth of electives.

   This program requires a bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, a personal statement, and a resume. Once you finish this online degree in hospitality, you can work as an event, restaurant, or hotel manager. A renowned business school, Lasell is accredited by the ACBSP, as well as the AHLEI.

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   Master of Science in Management / Hospitality & Event Management

    

7. University of Central Florida

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State): $10,824
   Tuition (Out-of-State): $38,016

   Get access to the world’s leading hospitality college through UCF Online. The online MS in hospitality and tourism management deepens your knowledge and hones practical skills to become a leader in strategic marketing, financial analysis, and problem-solving. This program also allows you to choose either a thesis or non-thesis option. Hands-on learning prepares you to step forward as a hospitality leader. Totaling 33 credit-hours, it can be completed in 2 years. Lastly, students can begin in either fall, spring, or summer semesters.

   This program does not require a GRE. However, a bachelor’s degree and official transcripts are required. After the completion of this hospitality management master’s degree, graduates will be ready for leadership roles in hotels, restaurants or convention centers.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management

    

8. University of Houston

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State): $10,020
   Tuition (Out-of-State): $25,620

   The Executive Master in Hospitality Management program is specifically designed for those already working in the field. In fact, it’s intent is to grow better leaders through interactive learning and hands-on projects.

   The flexible program not only works with busy schedules, but also encourages companies to create custom programs for mid-to-senior-level leaders. This online degree has a total of 30 credit hours and can be completed within 1 to 2 years.

   To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, a resume, a statement of intent, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.

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   Executive Master in Hospitality Management

    

9. The University of Alabama

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $13,200

   The University of Alabama’s online master’s in hospitality management will teach you everything you need to know to become a successful manager in the industry. The school has a long-standing reputation in the field. As a matter of fact, its alumni work worldwide in all facets of the industry. It has a total of 30 credits, and you can pick between a thesis or non-thesis track.

   Besides its flexibility, the program stands as one of the most affordable programs for both in-state and out-of-state students.

   To qualify for this program, you will need a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA, three letters of recommendation, as well as a statement of purpose. You can enroll in either the fall, spring, or summer.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Hospitality Management

    

10. San Diego State University

    Accreditation: WSCUC
    Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $30,510

    San Diego State University offers both a Master of Science in Meeting & Event Management, as well as a Master of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management. These hospitality degrees online have a total of eight courses each, and can be completed within two years. While they can be completed mostly online, students will need to spend two weeks on San Diego State University’s campus.

    To apply for these hospitality master’s programs, you will need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, and experience in the hospitality industry. The Master of Science in Meeting & Event Management will help get you a job in areas like meeting planning, third-party planning, and group sales. On the other hand, the master’s degree in hospitality and tourism management online will help prepare you to become a director, general manager, or CEO in hospitality.

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    Master of Science in Meeting & Event Management
    Master of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management

     

Should You Get an Online Master’s in Hospitality Management?

It’s important to pick the right degree level, depending on your career goals, if you’re looking to get a job in hospitality management. There are currently three main types of online hospitality programs that you can pick from. You can choose between pursuing a bachelor’s, graduate certificate, or master’s degree in hospitality management.

Online Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management

Bachelor's online hospitality programs are for students who want to improve their management skills, and further their education in hospitality management. This degree has a focus on theories, as well as practical experience in the form of internships. There are several specializations that you can choose from, such as hospitality business administration, luxury brand management, and event management. This type of degree will help students prepare for a career in restaurant management, casino operations, or cruise lines. It generally takes around 4 years to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Online Graduate Certificate in Hospitality Management

A graduate certificate in hospitality management is perfect for professionals who already have experience but want to specialize further, to increase their skills, and to further their careers. It’s designed to help them focus on specific areas within the hospitality field, such as revenue management, hotel management, event management, luxury hospitality, or sustainable hospitality.

Investing in a graduate certificate in hospitality management will also increase your chances of a higher-paying career and getting into specialized roles. Generally, it takes around 6 to 12 months to complete this type of program. Some of the credits earned from a graduate certificate in hospitality management can also be transferred toward a master's degree in hospitality management.

Online Master’s in Hospitality Management

Hospitality management graduate programs are especially valuable for those who want to advance their careers in the industry. They dive deeper into strategy, marketing, managing staff, and curating experiences. In short, this degree will teach you how to make better decisions as a hospitality manager.

There are several specializations that you can pick from with a hospitality graduate degree, such as specializations in tourism management, event management, or hospitality marketing. After the completion of this degree, you will be able to get a career as a hotel revenue manager, hospitality brand manager, or hotel manager. It will typically take around 1 to 2 years to complete this program if you’re doing it full-time, but longer if you’re only doing it part-time.

Accreditation, Certifications, and Licensing in Hospitality MAnagement

As you explore the hospitality industry, understanding the role of accreditation, certifications, and licensing is crucial. These are all important checkpoints to consider on the path to a career in this field.

Accreditation

Think of college accreditation as a seal of approval for the entire institution, ensuring it meets basic standards of educational quality. Organizations like the SACSCOC or HLC grant accreditation.

On the other hand, programmatic accreditation focuses specifically on academic programs. For hospitality management degrees, accreditation comes from the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA). Earning this accreditation means the program meets industry standards and prepares graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in hospitality.

Keep in mind that while ACPHA accreditation is respectable, it’s not required. However, no matter what degree or level or education you’re pursuing, you should always make sure that the school is accredited. Get Educated’s database contains only accredited schools, so you can feel confident when choosing any program from our site.

Common Hospitality Certifications

Earning a certification can be a way to showcase your expertise in the hospitality industry. Here’s a look at some of the top certifications and their issuing agencies:

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) offers the Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) designation. It shows broad hospitality knowledge in leadership, finance, marketing, and operation. It requires an associate degree, two years of experience, and passing an exam.

The Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, offered by the Events Industry Council, proves mastery in the field of meeting and event management. You must have 3 years of full-time work in the industry or 2 years of experience and a degree in Event Management or Hospitality. It also requires passing a rigorous exam and continuing education.

Awarded by Destinations International, in partnership with ADMEI, the Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP) credential shows expertise in the field of destination management. This shows you’ve learned how to build supplier relationships, craft engaging tours, and possess in-depth local knowledge. To become a DMCP, you must have 3 years of relevant work experience. Otherwise, you’ll need a degree and 2 years in the field. You’ll also need to pass the exam, in either case.

Licensing in the Hospitality Industry

Licensing in the hospitality industry can be complex, since requirements vary across different states and even between different types of businesses. While some states might require specific licenses to operate hotels or restaurants, others might focus on food safety certifications for food handlers.

The specific licenses you need will depend on factors like your location, the type of business you run, and the services you offer. It’s crucial to research the licensing requirements in your specific state and area to be sure you comply with all relevant regulations.

Is an Online Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management Worth It?

Earning a master’s degree in hospitality management is definitely worth it. This degree opens the doors to many exciting careers.

While a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management can earn you entry-level and mid-level positions, a master’s degree elevates your career potential by qualifying you for leadership roles with greater responsibility and higher earning potential. In short, these top jobs often involve strategic decision-making, complex problem-solving, and leading large teams.

Examples include Director of Revenue Management, who utilizes data analysis and strategies to optimize hotel pricing and maximize profitability. The average salary for this position is $139,577. However, candidates with experience can expect to earn as much as $250k.

Another coveted position is Hotel Director of Operations, overseeing all aspects of a hotel’s day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth functionality and guest satisfaction. This position pays an average $119,110 per year. However,

Additionally, a master’s degree in hospitality manangement can open doors to specialized fields like Director of Spa and Wellness or Executive Chef. These pros lead teams and set the vision for their specific fields. Spa Directors can expect an average salary of $86,734, with higher salaries ranging up to $129,000. Similarly, executive chef salaries average $94,815. On the other hand, top earners can make around $123k.

These roles require a deeper understanding of the industry, advanced leadership skills, and the ability to navigate complex business environments.

Get Started Today!

The world of hospitality offers diverse career paths, and an online master’s degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to navigate them. Whether you aspire to lead a hotel, manage a restaurant, or orchestrate unforgettable events, this flexible and enriching program empowers you to reach your full potential. Take the first step towards your dream career in this dynamic industry – explore online master’s in hospitality management programs today!