Kent State University

What you'll study

This programme combines core business and management subjects with hospitality-specific courses to build operational and leadership skills. You study foundations in accounting, marketing, human resources and finance alongside hospitality concentrations such as hotel operations, food and beverage management, service quality, revenue management and event planning.

• Core business modules: Principles of management, financial and managerial accounting, marketing for services, business law and strategic management.
• Hospitality-focused modules: Front office and housekeeping operations, food and beverage management, lodging management, revenue management and hospitality information systems.
• Service and people skills: Customer service and experience design, leadership in hospitality, human resources for service organisations.
• Practice-led learning: Operational practicum or internship, capstone projects, and case studies that place students in real hospitality contexts.
• Electives and international perspectives: Event management, tourism studies, sustainable hospitality, and optional study abroad or exchange modules to develop global industry understanding.

The degree typically includes an industry placement or internship component so students gain hands-on experience in hotels, restaurants, event venues or related organisations, and a capstone or practicum where they apply business tools to real hospitality challenges.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to a US high school diploma. Typical academic preparation includes study of English and mathematics; many successful applicants present a competitive GPA and evidence of strong communication and customer-service aptitude.

• International applicants: Recognised secondary school completion (for example A-levels, International Baccalaureate or equivalent) with competitive grades. Mature and transfer applicants with relevant work experience are also considered.
• English language: Proof of English proficiency is required for non-native speakers. Typical satisfactory scores include IELTS and TOEFL thresholds commonly used by US universities (applicants should check Kent State’s published minimums for exact scores).
• Transfer and advanced standing: Students with prior college credit or industry certifications may be eligible for transfer credit; prospective students should consult admissions for assessment of previous coursework or experience.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across hospitality, tourism and service industries. Common early-career positions include front office manager, food and beverage supervisor, events coordinator, sales and marketing associate, and revenue or rooms division analyst.

• Progression often leads to senior management posts such as general manager of a hotel or resort, director of operations, director of food and beverage, or corporate roles in hospitality companies.
• Skills gained are also transferable to event and venue management, tourism development, hospitality consulting, sales and business development, and entrepreneurship in food service or boutique accommodation ventures.
• Many graduates build careers with hotel and resort groups, restaurant chains, event management firms, cruise lines and tourism boards, or pursue postgraduate study in business or specialised hospitality fields.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a comprehensive hospitality education that balances academic rigour with practical experience and industry engagement. The university’s location in the Cleveland–Akron region provides access to diverse hospitality employers for internships and placements.

• Industry connections: Strong links with regional and national hospitality employers help secure internships, practicum placements and recruitment opportunities for students.
• Practical learning: The programme emphasises hands-on experience through internships, applied projects and experiential modules that prepare students for operational roles from day one.
• Support and development: Students benefit from business and career services, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in student organisations or networking events focused on hospitality and tourism.