The hospitality industry, encompassing sectors such as hotels, restaurants, event planning and tourism, plays a critical role in the global economy. This multifaceted industry generates significant revenue, creates millions of jobs, and supports various other sectors like transportation, retail and entertainment.
Innovations such as digital booking platforms, sustainable tourism practices and personalized guest experiences are transforming how hospitality businesses operate, demanding a workforce that is not only proficient in traditional management but also adept in new-age strategies.
A business masters degree with a focus on hospitality equips students with the advanced knowledge and leadership skills required to excel in this dynamic field. And we’ve compiled an editorial list of 10 of the best options, to help you make a more informed decision.
These programs offer a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, covering areas such as financial management, marketing, operations, human resources and strategic planning – specifically tailored to the hospitality sector.
Students gain insights into the latest industry trends, such as eco-friendly hospitality practices, the integration of AI and machine learning in customer service, and the impact of global events on tourism patterns.
EHL is widely regarded as the leading hospitality management school globally. The Master of Science in Global Hospitality Business is structured to provide a global perspective with studies in Switzerland, Hong Kong and the United States. Courses cover advanced topics in hospitality management, finance, marketing, and innovation. EHL has strong partnerships with leading hospitality companies, offering numerous networking and internship opportunities. It also has state-of-the-art campus facilities, including training restaurants and a hotel.
View School ProfileCornell’s School of Hotel Administration is renowned for its excellence in hospitality education. The Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) blends business management with hospitality-specific courses such as real estate, service operations and marketing. The program has an extensive alumni network and strong ties with top hospitality firms, ensuring valuable internship and career opportunities. There are also opportunities for international experiences and a diverse student body.
View School ProfileESCP is one of the oldest and most prestigious business schools in the world. It runs the MSc in Hospitality and Tourism Management, which offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes strategic management, marketing and finance within the context of hospitality and tourism. The program is taught across ESCP’s Paris and Madrid campuses. Strong industry partnerships providing excellent internship and career opportunities. And there’s a diverse student body, international faculty and opportunities for global internships and projects.
View School ProfileLes Roches is known for its practical approach to hospitality education. It offers the Master in International Hotel Management, with plenty of hands-on learning through internships and real-world projects. Courses cover hotel operations, revenue management and leadership. There are strong links with global hospitality brands, helping students find internships and land job placements. There’s a modern campus with simulation rooms and industry-standard training facilities as well.
View School ProfileLocated in Las Vegas, a global hub for hospitality, this school is providing unique industry insights. The Master of Hospitality Administration (MHA) combines academic rigor with practical knowledge. Focus areas include hospitality management, gaming and conventions. There are strong connections with Las Vegas hospitality giants and opportunities for internships and networking. And the school offers both online and on-campus study options.
View School ProfileProgram: MEADA is recognized for its strategic and innovative approach to hospitality management education. And the school’s Master in Tourism and Hospitality Management focuses on strategic management, marketing and innovation in the hospitality and tourism sectors. It includes hands-on learning experiences and strong links with the European hospitality and tourism industry to boot. There are also opportunities for international internships and a diverse student cohort too.
View School ProfileThis is a leading institution in Asia for hospitality and tourism management, offering an MSc in International Hospitality Management. The program provides a strategic and global perspective on hospitality management, integrating the latest industry trends and technologies. The school has strong partnerships with major hospitality companies in Asia and globally, plus an extensive international network and opportunities for global exposure.
View School ProfileESSEC’s MSc in Hospitality Management program is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong industry ties. It combines academic coursework with practical industry exposure. Focus areas include strategic management, marketing and finance. ESSEC has an extensive network with leading hospitality companies and opportunities for internships and job placements. There’s a strong international focus with a diverse student body and global study options.
View School ProfileOxford Brookes is known for its comprehensive approach to hospitality education. Its MSc in International Hospitality, Events and Tourism focuses on sustainability, innovation and strategic management in hospitality, events and tourism. Includes practical projects and internships. The business school has strong links with the UK and international hospitality industry, with robust career services and mentorship programs as well.
View School ProfileMasters students at SDA Bocconi, a top Italian business school, can take a specialization in tourism. SDA Bocconi is one of the leading business schools in Europe and the course focuses on economics and management within the tourism and hospitality sectors. It offers a combination of academic rigor and practical experience, along with strong partnerships with leading companies in tourism and hospitality. There are opportunities for international study and internships too.
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