How do I Choose the Best Program in Hotel and Restaurant Management?

Choosing the best hotel and restaurant management program requires identifying your preferences regarding program content, structure, and location. Degree types, specialization topics, and program reputation are all important factors to consider. Identifying your ideal job in the industry at the outset will assist in choosing a program that gives you adequate preparation. If program and transportation costs are an issue, the availability of online classes, lower tuition, and financial assistance will be important.

When deciding between hotel and restaurant management programs, consider your specific area of interest in the industry. If your goal is to have international options in the field, choose a program that offers courses in cross-cultural communication and international business. Large hotel management training should have a strong focus on event management and community engagement. Managing a hotel in a resort area will require study of advanced classes in travel and tourism. If you want to work as a restaurant manager for a large chain of hotels, the ideal program will offer advanced courses in food systems management.

The degree offerings in the field of hotel and restaurant management range from an associate’s degree to a doctorate. When deciding on an ideal program, choose a school that allows you to complete your ultimate academic goal. If you want to earn a doctorate in hotel and restaurant management, you might choose a university that offers a PhD program so that all courses of study at each degree level will count toward your ultimate degree. When planning to complete each degree level at a different university, research various programs to ensure that all credit hours and degrees are transferable.

Reputation and structure of the hotel and restaurant management program are also important considerations. A reputable university will generally have connections in the industry that may assist your summer job search and career planning upon graduation. Universities with career counseling offices, campus placement events, and job fairs will be an asset when you are ready to work in the field. Whether the degree program is structured on a quarterly or semester basis may also be an important factor. If accustomed to a longer semester system, for example, you might find that a quarterly system moves too quickly.

Choosing the best program in hotel and restaurant management also requires assessing costs and geographic location. You might prefer low tuition schools located in less expensive cities. Universities offering grants and extensive financial aid guidance will help to ease financial stress. The option of online classes may also be appealing if you must work part-time or full-time and want to save on transportation costs and time.