Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This program combines advanced business studies with hospitality-specific subjects to build capabilities in leadership, commercial management and operational excellence for hotels and resorts. Teaching emphasises applied learning, contemporary industry practices and sustainability in hotel operations.

• Leadership and Strategic Management – leadership theory and practice for hospitality organisations, change management and strategic decision-making.
• Hotel Operations and Service Excellence – advanced management of rooms, food and beverage, guest services and quality assurance systems.
• Revenue Management and Commercial Strategy – pricing, distribution, demand forecasting and channel management for maximising hotel revenue and profitability.
• Hospitality Marketing and Digital Strategy – brand management, customer relationship strategies and digital marketing for hospitality businesses.
• Financial Management for Hospitality – budgeting, financial analysis, capital investment appraisal and performance measurement tailored to hotel operations.
• Global Hospitality Context – international industry trends, cross-cultural management and global market considerations for hotel chains and independent properties.
• Sustainable and Responsible Hospitality – environmental and social governance in hotel development and operations, with a focus on practical sustainability initiatives.
• Research Methods and Industry Project/Capstone – applied research skills and a major industry-linked project or capstone that addresses a real business challenge in the hotel sector.

The degree is typically delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, simulations, industry workshops and workplace-based projects. Optional internships or industry placements may be available to provide applied experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally expected to hold a recognised bachelor degree in hospitality, business or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience combined with relevant prior study. Mid-career professionals without a hospitality undergraduate degree may be considered on the basis of substantial industry experience and demonstrated managerial capability.

International applicants must meet Southern Cross University's English language requirements, typically evidenced by an approved test result or equivalent qualification. The university also accepts prior learning and professional experience for admission and for credit transfer on a case-by-case basis; applicants should consult the faculty for individual assessment and recognition of prior learning (RPL).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for senior and executive roles in the global hotel and resort industry, and for leadership positions in related hospitality and tourism enterprises. Typical career paths include:

• Hotel General Manager or Cluster General Manager
• Operations Manager (Rooms, Food & Beverage, Guest Services)
• Revenue Manager or Commercial Director
• Sales and Marketing Director or Digital Marketing Manager
• Development Manager, Asset Manager or Hospitality Consultant
• Entrepreneurship and hotel ownership/management of boutique properties

Graduates can work with international hotel chains, boutique hotels, resorts, management companies, consulting firms and investment groups that focus on hospitality assets.

Why study at Southern Cross University

• Industry-informed curriculum – the program is designed with a practical focus and input from hospitality employers to ensure graduates have current commercial and leadership skills.
• Applied learning and industry engagement – opportunities for workplace-based projects, industry placements and guest lectures from senior hotel executives.
• Flexible delivery – study options include on-campus and blended/online modes to accommodate working professionals across Southern Cross University's regional campuses and learning platforms.
• Regional and international perspective – Southern Cross has strong links with the tourism and hospitality sectors in regional Australia and the Asia–Pacific, offering a relevant global outlook for hotel leadership.
• Supportive learning environment – small class sizes, personalised academic support and access to research centres with expertise in tourism, sustainability and hospitality management.