Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This programme combines hospitality operations, business fundamentals and international perspectives to build practical and strategic capability. Teaching mixes classroom theory, applied workshops, industry-standard simulations and a supervised work placement.

• Core hospitality operations – front office, housekeeping, food and beverage service and culinary fundamentals to understand day-to-day operations.
• Management and strategy – hospitality management, organisational behaviour, leadership, and strategic planning for service businesses.
• Business fundamentals – accounting, finance for hospitality, marketing, revenue management and business law.
• Events and tourism – event planning and operations, tourism principles, destination management and sustainable practices.
• Service innovation and customer experience – service design, quality management, digital channels and hospitality technology.
• Research and professional practice – research methods, industry project or capstone that integrates learning through a real-world brief.
• Work-integrated learning – a substantial supervised placement or internship in the hospitality industry to develop professional skills and networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have university entrance from their secondary school or an equivalent qualification. Mature applicants with relevant work experience are considered. International applicants must demonstrate competence in English through an approved test or an equivalent qualification.

Selection may consider academic records, a statement of interest and, in some cases, interview or evidence of industry experience where spaces are limited.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across hospitality, events and tourism sectors, both in New Zealand and internationally. Typical career destinations include:

• Hotel operations manager, front office manager or duty manager
• Food and beverage manager or restaurant operations manager
• Events manager, conference and banqueting coordinator
• Revenue manager, sales and marketing executive or reservations manager
• Resort and tourism operations manager, attractions or guest services manager
• Entrepreneurship in hospitality (small hotels, cafés, catering and boutique operators) and consultancy roles

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is located in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city and a major international tourism gateway, offering excellent access to industry employers and a vibrant service sector. The university emphasises applied learning, with modern training facilities, simulation labs and structured industry placements that help students develop job-ready skills.

Students benefit from AUT’s international connections, multidisciplinary teaching teams and career support services, which support transitions into management roles across hotels, events and tourism organisations worldwide.