Kent State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core management and hospitality-specific subjects to prepare students for leadership in service organisations. Typical modules cover strategic management, hospitality finance and revenue management, marketing for services, operations and quality management, human resource management for hospitality, and legal and ethical issues in the industry. Research methods and statistics are included to support evidence-based decision-making, and students commonly complete a capstone project, applied practicum or thesis that addresses a real-world hospitality challenge.

Electives allow specialisation in areas such as lodging operations, food and beverage management, event and meeting management, distribution and e-commerce, and sustainability in hospitality. Coursework emphasises applied learning, case analysis, industry best practice and development of managerial competencies such as leadership, financial analysis, strategic planning and customer experience design.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in any discipline. A background in hospitality, business or management is advantageous but not always required. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a current CV or résumé, a personal statement outlining career goals and reasons for postgraduate study, and one or more academic or professional references.

Graduate test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT) may be requested selectively or waived depending on the applicant’s academic record and work experience. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior study in English. Relevant professional experience—particularly supervisory or managerial roles in hospitality—strengthens an application, especially for candidates seeking accelerated progression to senior positions.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of leadership and specialist roles across the hospitality and service sectors. Typical positions include hotel or resort management, operations director, food and beverage director, revenue or revenue optimisation manager, event and conference manager, corporate roles in hospitality firms (such as development, operations or marketing), and consulting. Some graduates move into related areas such as tourism, venue management, or hospitality technology firms, while others pursue doctoral study or academic careers.

The programme is designed to build transferable skills—strategic thinking, financial literacy, people management and data-informed decision-making—that are valued by multinational hotel groups, independent operators, event companies and hospitality suppliers.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a hospitality programme embedded within a university known for applied learning and strong industry engagement. Students benefit from faculty with a blend of academic and practical hospitality experience, opportunities for hands-on projects and internships with regional and national employers, and professional networking through industry partnerships and events.

The curriculum emphasises applied research and managerial skill development, preparing graduates to respond to contemporary industry challenges such as digital distribution, revenue management and sustainability. Support services such as career development, employer engagement and alumni networks help students secure practical experience and launch their careers in the hospitality sector.