Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
The Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management provides students with a comprehensive foundation to pursue a wide range of career opportunities within the dynamic tourism and hospitality industry. These programs offer a carefully structured curriculum that integrates in-depth theoretical knowledge with practical experience, both of which are crucial for professional success.
A distinctive aspect of both programs is the strong focus on experiential learning. Students are encouraged to participate in hands-on activities both inside and outside the classroom, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings. This practical approach strengthens their professional skills and enhances their competitiveness in the job market. Consequently, graduates are well-equipped to navigate industry challenges and make meaningful contributions from the very start of their careers.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management at Fort Hays State University?
The B.S. and BBA in Tourism and Hospitality Management programs are distinguished by features that enhance the student experience, combining quality, affordability, and opportunity, making the programs an excellent choice for those seeking to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced industry.
Recognizing that financial concerns can be a barrier to higher education, FHSU offers one of the most affordable tuition rates in the country, allowing students to graduate with less debt and greater opportunity. For those eager to enter the workforce quickly, an accelerated option is also available, enabling students to launch their careers sooner and begin making an impact in the industry while maximizing their return on investment. By integrating academic excellence, practical experience, and financial accessibility, the programs provide a strong pathway to success in tourism and hospitality.
Who is this program for?
These programs are specifically designed to be flexible and dynamic, catering to individuals who are motivated to succeed in the vibrant, fast-paced travel and hospitality industry. They are particularly well-suited for those who value meaningful human connections, thrive in culturally diverse environments, and embrace challenges that require creative problem-solving and innovative thinking.
- Aspiring students seeking a bachelor's degree in tourism and hospitality management
- Individuals aiming to gain insights into the hospitality industry
- Enthusiasts of the travel and tourism world who wish to thrive in the field can complete their degree online
- Those wanting to explore diverse aspects of the industry, from hotels to food and beverage to hospitality operations
- Students seeking a degree that provides valuable skills and knowledge that are highly transferable across industries
- Students gain expertise in customer service, communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness, which are essential in today’s globalized economy
- Students interested in pursuing a fulfilling hospitality career with a strong foundation in resort management
Real-World Applications
The programs adopt a proactive approach to equip students with practical, real-world skills applicable to their chosen sectors of the industry. The curriculum combines core business disciplines, such as accounting, marketing, and human resources, with specialized areas, including event management, hotel operations, sustainable tourism, food and beverage management, wine tourism, spas, casinos, revenue management, and more.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University offers a cutting-edge curriculum that integrates the latest industry trends, technologies, and sustainable practices, preparing students for success in the modern workplace. Through internships and strong industry partnerships, students acquire valuable real-world experience. The curriculum also emphasizes cultural awareness and customer service excellence, cultivating adaptability and professionalism. This forward-thinking approach equips graduates to thrive as impactful professionals in a globalized industry.
Hands-on Activities
A key component of the B.S. and BBA in Tourism and Hospitality Management programs is the required internship, which prepares students for real-world experience. This hands-on opportunity enables students to work alongside industry professionals, applying classroom knowledge directly within active tourism and hospitality businesses.
What You’ll Learn:
- Profound understanding of the tourism and hospitality industry and its many career paths
- Develop business skills from marketing, management, accounting, human resources, technology, and more
- Critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills
- Global perspective of the impact tourism has on the economy
- Build professionalism, customer service, and networking talents
- Acquire a vast array of transferable skills
How You’ll Learn:
- Hands-on experience in the classroom
- Required industry internship experience
- Study abroad and domestic externships
- Industry conferences and student organizations
- Acquire knowledge through updated curriculum, guest speakers, and industry projects
The B.S. or BBA in Tourism and Hospitality Management equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in the growing hospitality and tourism industries. The programs combine core business principles with specialized tourism courses, allowing students to tailor their education through electives in areas such as hotel management, event planning, revenue optimization, spas, casinos, food and beverage, wine tourism, and health and wellness tourism.
THM 620: Tourism and Hospitality Management
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the tourism and hospitality industry, covering key professional development and management principles that drive operational success. Students will explore diverse market segments and gain insight into the wide range of opportunities available within this expansive field.
THM 625: International Tourism & Hospitality
This course provides a comprehensive global overview of the tourism and hospitality industry, examining the impact of globalization on the airline, hotel, and food and beverage sectors. It covers international practices in the MICE industry, destination marketing and management, the impact of mass tourism, and the social and demographic characteristics of today’s travelers, including the concept of 'hypermobility.'
THM 632: Sustainable Tourism and Event Management
This course provides an overview of sustainability within the hospitality, tourism, and event industries, exploring its evolving meaning and significance. It covers government policies, sustainable management practices, and the rationale for implementing green initiatives. Students will examine the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impacts of events and tourism, including the effects on land use and conservation. The course also addresses practical strategies for designing sustainable events and offers contemporary critiques for alternative tourism and ongoing sustainability challenges.
Discover the full Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management or Bachelor of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates have access to a wide range of career opportunities across the tourism and hospitality industry, including roles in both operations and corporate offices. The sector offers strong job prospects and stability, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a dynamic and rewarding career.
Event Planner
Event planning is an exciting and rewarding career where graduates create memorable experiences for weddings, conferences, and festivals. They manage every detail, from venue selection to catering, ensuring alignment with the client’s vision. Success in this dynamic field requires strong organization, creativity, and adaptability.
Hotel Manager
Hotel managers lead daily operations, ensuring exceptional guest experience and strong hotel performance. They oversee departments such as the front desk, housekeeping, finance, and marketing. This role requires leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Sports and Hospitality
Careers in sports hospitality extend beyond athletes and coaches, offering roles such as event coordinator, marketing manager, social media manager, suite manager, and hospitality ambassador. These positions allow professionals to combine a passion for sports with dynamic hospitality careers at teams and venues across all levels.
Corporate Executive
Corporate executives lead operations and strategy for hotels, resorts, casinos, and restaurants. They drive revenue growth, manage budgets, lead teams, and maintain high service standards. Success in this role requires strong leadership, financial expertise, and a commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality.
Food and Beverage Director
Food and beverage directors oversee dining operations in hotels, restaurants, and resorts. They manage kitchens, develop menus, and ensure the delivery of high-quality service. Success requires knowledge of culinary arts, customer preferences, and business management.
Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Management
Graduates can excel in managing convention and visitor bureaus by promoting tourism destinations and coordinating events. They collaborate with local businesses and city officials to organize conventions and effectively market their regions.
Cruise Director
A career as a cruise director offers the chance to manage onboard activities and ensure guests have memorable experiences. They plan entertainment and oversee shore excursions, playing a key role in the overall cruise experience.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University provides numerous opportunities for students pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality management. Additionally, students in other degree programs can also increase their marketability by taking tourism and hospitality courses.
- Minor in Tourism & Hospitality Management
- Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Marketing
- Master of Business Administration (Tourism and Hospitality Management)
The B.S. and BBA programs have slightly different focuses within the field of business, though both are designed to prepare students for success in the industry. Each program is available in either fully online or on-campus formats, providing flexibility to meet your needs. To determine which program aligns best with your academic and career goals, consider meeting with a faculty mentor for personalized guidance and support.
The internship consists of 3 credit hours. It enables students to gain practical experience by applying the knowledge and skills they have acquired in hospitality classes. Students are encouraged to seek approved internships that provide challenging experiences to prepare them for future management roles in the field. Your faculty mentor and career services can serve as valuable resources in helping you secure an internship placement.
The programs are designed with flexibility to fit your lifestyle. You can complete the program on a standard four-year schedule or choose our accelerated three-year option to enter the industry sooner. If needed, you can also take just a few courses at a time and progress at your own pace. Regardless of your path, we provide support every step of the way.
Some of the job examples include event planner, national park activities director, restaurant manager, revenue manager, sports management professional, social media marketer, theme park manager, tourism marketer, flight attendant, corporate executive, hotel manager, cruise management specialist, and casino management specialist.
Both operate within the service sector, focusing on delivering high-quality services to customers. Hospitality management focuses on providing services and accommodations for guests. This includes managing hotels, resorts, restaurants, event venues, and other businesses where hospitality services are essential. Professionals in hospitality management are responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring guest satisfaction, managing staff, maintaining facilities, and delivering a positive guest experience.
Tourism management, on the other hand, focuses on the larger aspects of travel and tourism, including destination management, tour operations, travel agencies, and attractions. It encompasses planning, marketing, and coordinating travel experiences. These professionals are involved in planning, developing, and promoting tourism destinations. They work on creating attractive packages, marketing destinations, and ensuring a seamless experience for tourists.
These programs foster networking opportunities through industry connections, guest speakers, internships, engaged alumni, as well as study abroad and domestic travel experiences. Students are also provided and encouraged to participate in industry and community events. These opportunities connect students with potential employers and industry professionals.
Information about the Department of Applied Business Studies
The Department of Applied Business Studies at FHSU is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in business by aligning individual strengths and goals with the evolving needs of the global marketplace. Whether pursuing a degree on-campus or online, students benefit from programs that emphasize practical business knowledge, real-world case studies, and forward-thinking decision-making skills essential for today’s dynamic business environment.
The department offers a diverse range of academic pathways, including business education, marketing, and tourism and hospitality management. Its immersive curriculum, delivered by faculty who remain actively engaged with current industry trends, equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed across a variety of sectors, from local enterprises to international organizations. FHSU graduates are consistently in high demand, reflected in strong job placement rates and a network of successful alumni.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Collegiate DECA: An international organization for students and educators in the fields of business, finance, hospitality, and marketing. It prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs through co-curricular programs that blend classroom learning with real-world experiences and professional networking opportunities.
- Pi Omega Pi - Business Education Club: The National Business Education Teacher Honor Society is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and service within the field of business education. The organization encourages scholarship, leadership, and professional development among students preparing for careers in business teaching.
- Eta Sigma Delta - International Hospitality Management Society: Recognizes hospitality and tourism students for their exceptional academic achievement, service, and professionalism. The organization provides valuable networking opportunities and fosters connections among students, industry executives, educators, and peers.
- THM Travel Club: Supports domestic and international travel experiences for students in tourism and hospitality. Through participation, members gain practical skills in travel planning, budgeting, organization, and fundraising, offering a well-rounded perspective on career opportunities within the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Certificate
- Minor
- Bachelor's
- MBA
- On-Campus
- Online
