Hospitality Business Management (M.S.)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Delaware

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Hospitality Business Management at the University of Delaware prepares students to become effective leaders and strategic decision-makers in the global hospitality and tourism industries. The programme combines hospitality management, financial analysis, customer experience, revenue management, and business strategy, helping students strengthen their operational and analytical abilities while preparing for advanced managerial roles in hotels, restaurants, resorts, and other hospitality organisations.

Curriculum Structure

The programme offers two study options: a one-year, 30-credit non-thesis track focused on practical business and management skills, and a two-year, 39-credit thesis track designed for students interested in research and potential doctoral studies. The curriculum combines hospitality-specific subjects with business management, financial analysis, statistical research, and practical industry experience.

Hospitality Foundations and Customer Experience: Students develop an understanding of the hospitality industry through Hospitality Industry Foundations (HOSP 801) and Customer Experience Management (HOSP 802). These subjects explore hospitality operations, service quality, customer expectations, and strategies for creating positive experiences across hotels, restaurants, and tourism businesses.

Strategic and Financial Management: Students strengthen their managerial and financial knowledge through Managing People, Teams and Organizations (BUAD 870), Strategic Hospitality Management (HOSP 803), and Hospitality Financial Management (HOSP 804). These courses focus on leadership, organisational behaviour, business planning, financial decision-making, and the development of competitive strategies for hospitality organisations.

Advanced Hospitality Operations and Analytics: Students explore specialised areas through Advanced Restaurant Management (HOSP 845), Advanced Lodging Practicum (HOSP 864), and Revenue Management in Hospitality (HOSP 887). They also develop analytical and research capabilities through Statistical Research Methods (STAT 608) and Projects and Valuations in Hospitality (HOSP 842), learning to evaluate business performance, manage hospitality assets, and make evidence-based decisions.

Note: The university offers different course requirements for the thesis and non-thesis options. The curriculum above summarises the published course structure rather than assigning modules to specific academic years.

Focus Areas

Hospitality business management, strategic hospitality management, hotel and lodging management, restaurant management, customer experience management, hospitality financial management, revenue management, hospitality operations, business analytics, statistical research methods, hospitality marketing, human resource management, project planning, hospitality technology, asset valuation, and organisational leadership.

Learning Outcomes

Develop leadership and managerial skills for hospitality and tourism organisations.
Understand the operational and strategic requirements of hotels, restaurants, resorts, and other hospitality businesses.
Apply financial management principles to evaluate business performance and support financial decision-making.
Develop strategies to improve customer satisfaction and overall service quality.
Analyse hospitality industry trends and identify opportunities for business growth.
Apply revenue management techniques to improve pricing strategies, occupancy, and profitability.
Evaluate hospitality projects, investments, and business assets using appropriate analytical methods.
Strengthen research, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities through practical projects.
Manage teams and organisational resources effectively in a competitive hospitality environment.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics is accredited by AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). This internationally recognised accreditation reflects the college's commitment to academic quality, faculty excellence, relevant business education, and continuous improvement. The programme combines business management principles with specialised hospitality education and practical industry experience.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

National Ranking: The M.S. in Hospitality Business Management was ranked No. 5 among the top 10 hospitality master's programmes in the United States by College Factual in 2023. This is a historical ranking.
Industry Opportunities: Graduates can pursue opportunities in hotels, resorts, restaurants, tourism organisations, hospitality consulting firms, and hospitality technology companies.
Potential Career Roles: Hospitality Operations Manager, Hotel General Manager, Revenue Manager, Restaurant Manager, Hospitality Financial Analyst, Guest Experience Manager, Hospitality Marketing Manager, Lodging Operations Director, Hospitality Business Consultant, and Tourism Development Manager.
Practical Industry Experience: Students benefit from the Marriott Center for Tourism and Hospitality and Vita Nova, the university's student-operated gourmet restaurant. The programme also highlights a six-week hotel practicum that provides exposure to the operations and management strategies of a full-service hotel.
Further Academic Progression: Students choosing the thesis option can develop research capabilities and prepare for further academic studies, including a Ph.D. in hospitality and tourism management

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Delaware, the MS in Hospitality Business Management program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for success in the dynamic hospitality industry. Students engage in practical learning through various facilities and tools that enhance their understanding of real-world applications. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, which is crucial for developing the skills needed to excel in hospitality management.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Internships: Students have access to a robust internship program, connecting them with leading hospitality organizations for real-world experience.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program features dedicated spaces such as the Hospitality Business Management labs, equipped with the latest technology and tools for simulations and training.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills that are vital in the hospitality sector.
- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to various hospitality venues, providing insights into operations and management practices in different settings.
- Digital Tools: The program incorporates industry-standard software, including property management systems and revenue management tools, to prepare students for the technological demands of the industry.
- Research Opportunities: Students can engage in research projects through the university’s hospitality research institutes, contributing to advancements in the field.
- Networking Events: The program hosts various networking events and guest lectures, allowing students to connect with industry professionals and alumni.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also significantly boost your employability in the competitive hospitality landscape.

Choosing the MS in Hospitality Business Management at the University of Delaware means you’re not just learning in a classroom; you’re preparing for a successful career through practical, hands-on experiences.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Hospitality Business Management at the University of Delaware prepares graduates for a dynamic career in the hospitality industry, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various roles. Graduates often find themselves in positions such as Hotel Manager, Event Planner, Restaurant Operations Manager, or Hospitality Consultant. The program not only emphasizes practical experience but also fosters a strong network within the industry, enhancing career prospects.

Here’s how the University of Delaware supports your journey toward a successful career in hospitality:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $60,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The program has strong ties with leading hospitality organizations, including Marriott and Hilton, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to hold leadership positions in top hospitality firms, showcasing the effectiveness of the program in preparing students for success.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Hospitality Business Management, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management or related fields, which can open doors to academic positions or advanced research roles. Additionally, you could consider specialized certifications in areas like event management or hotel administration to further enhance your expertise and career opportunities.

The University of Delaware is committed to your success, and the MS in Hospitality Business Management is a fantastic step toward a rewarding career in this vibrant industry.