The curriculum prepares students to gain competency in industry knowledge, develop intellectual abilities, and foster adaptive and technical leadership skills. In addition, the focus on the growth of individual and group dynamics through critical thinking is emphasized so that students will become leaders, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs and create change in an ever-evolving industry. Graduates pursue a wide range of exciting career opportunities including hotels, resorts, theme parks, cruise lines, casinos, clubs, restaurants, convention centers, tour operators, corporate, public, and private meetings and events, inclusive of the music, festivals, entertainment, fashion, attractions, and many other options. The curriculum is also designed to prepare students to pursue graduate studies in a similar field or business management.
To earn the Bachelor of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management courses must be completed successfully in general education, the major, and related professional and specialized courses. All students take a common core of classes providing them with foundational knowledge within the discipline. Subsequently, students select one of three specializations: Tourism and Hospitality Management, Event Management, or General. An approved 13-week internship is required upon completion of all coursework or the successful completion of the Academic Option (for those who qualify). Both options are included in the 120 credits for the degree. Students that have current or past industry experience (supervisory or entry level but not seasonal employment) will be able to substitute the full-time internship engagement with a choice of five department course electives taken over the course of several semesters. Students interested in the academic option will need to submit the following documents for approval beginning of their junior year: 1) notice of intent form, 2) current resume, and 3) statement that outlines personal and professional goals, along with an overview of how past industry experience has prepared for a desired career position.
