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Hotel Management Courses in USA

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The hospitality industry contributes $11.1 trillion to the global economy, representing 10% of global GDP.

Hospitality management courses will focus on key areas such as hotel operations and event planning, preparing you for careers in fields like resort operations. With renowned institutions like Cornell University, the USA offers exposure to the latest trends in the industry, which is essential for standing out in a competitive job market.

The hospitality industry is growing rapidly, with an estimated 449 million people expected to be employed by 2034, making up 12.2% of the global workforce. Pursuing a hotel management course in USA will prepare you for the workforce and also give you access to industry innovations. This blog will cover the top programs, guiding you on how to study in the USA and make an informed decision for your educational journey.

Hotel Management Courses in USA: Overview

Hotel management courses equip students with the knowledge to oversee hotel operations, guest services, and hospitality management. With a growth rate of 5.8%, the industry opens up job roles like operations manager and food and beverage director, in sectors like tourism, travel, and hospitality services. 

Here’s a brief overview of hotel management courses in USA.

Parameter Details
Duration  3 months to 4 years
Main Intakes 
Course Level 
  • Master of Management in Hospitality
  • MS in Hospitality Management
  • BS in Hospitality Management
  • BA in Hospitality Business
  • BAS in Hospitality Management
Top Universities 
Average Annual Tuition Fee $17,949 - $69,870 (INR 15.5L - INR 60.3L)
Entrance Exams Required
  • TOEFL: 80 - 100
  • IELTS: 6.5 - 7.0
  • Duolingo English Test: 105 - 120
Eligibility Criteria
  • Bachelors Degree: A completed degree in hospitality or related stream.
  • Work Experience: Some programs require 1-2 years of relevant work experience. 
Career Opportunities
  • Revenue Manager
  • Hotel Manager
  • Event Manager
  • Sales Manager
  • Catering Manager
Popular Specializations 
  • Casino and Resort Management
  • Hospitality Entrepreneurship
  • Culture and Cuisine
  • Health and Wellness Hospitality
  • Tourism and Destination Marketing

Now, let’s explore the benefits of studying hotel management courses in USA.

Why Pursue Hotel Management Courses in USA?

Hotel revenue in the US is expected to reach $114.74 billion this year, with the hotel industry projected to see a 12% job growth over the next five years. Studying a course in the US will equip you to benefit from this positive growth and stay updated with the latest industry trends.

Here are the other benefits of pursuing Hotel Management Courses in USA.

  • Access to Modern Facilities

Leading universities like Michigan State University offer state-of-the-art hotel management labs and simulation facilities, giving you exposure to real-world scenarios.

  • Industry Partnerships

Universities in the USA have partnerships with major hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. It provides you with opportunities for internships that can lead to job placements.

  • Exposure to Global Trends

Studying in the USA allows you to gain insights into global hospitality trends, with courses that cover emerging topics like sustainability and technology integration in hotel management.

  • Diverse Career Opportunities

With the USA being the largest hospitality market globally, a hotel management degree opens up career paths in luxury resorts, event planning, and tourism agencies.

  • Leadership and Entrepreneurial Skills

Programs in the USA, such as those at University of Houston, emphasize leadership and entrepreneurship, preparing you to take on managerial roles.

  • Strong Job Demand

With the hotel industry expected to grow by 12%, graduates of U.S. hotel management programs are in high demand in sectors like wellness tourism.

After exploring the benefits of studying Hotel Management courses in USA, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities For Hotel Management Courses in USA

Understanding the best universities and colleges in the USA for hospitality can help you plan your journey more effectively, including budgeting and fulfilling minimum requirements. 

Institutions like Boston University are considered among the best due to their strong academic programs and industry connections. They offer both undergraduate and masters degrees in the hospitality sector.

Here are the top universities offering hotel management courses in USA.

University Program Annual Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
Cornell University Master of Management in Hospitality $34,190 (INR 29.5L) per semester

18 months + internship

Deadline:

15 June 2025 (Closed)

University of Nevada, Las Vegas BS in Hospitality Management $28,387 (INR 24.5L) 

4 years

Deadline

1 October 2025 (Spring)

Boston University Master of Management in Hospitality $69,870 (INR 60.3L)

2 years

Deadline:

15 November 2025 (Spring)

Pennsylvania State University BS in Hospitality Management $22,498 (INR 19.4L) per semester

4 years

Deadline:

1 November 2025 (Fall & Summer)

University of Houston MS in Hospitality Management $24,608 (INR 21.2L) per semester

2 years

Deadline:

1 October 2025 (Spring)

Michigan State University  BA in Hospitality Business $43,502 (INR 37.5L)

4 years

Deadline:

1 November 2025 (Fall)

University of South Carolina BS in Hospitality Management $17,949 (INR 15.5L)

4 years

Deadline:

1 August 2025 (Summer 2026)

Apart from top universities, there are other alternative options to consider. Let’s explore them.

Popular Universities for Hotel Management Courses in USA

Alternative universities to top institutions not only expand your study options but also broaden your specialization. Institutes like Ohio University are competitive and serve as strong alternatives to top universities.

Below are the popular universities offering hotel management courses in USA.

University Program Annual Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
Metropolitan State University of Denver BS in Hotel Management Major $956.50 (INR 82.6K) per credit

4 years

Deadline:

1 July 2025 (Fall)

University of California, Irvine ACP International Tourism & Hotel Management INR 11.6L 

3 months

Deadline

September 2025

Ohio University BAS in Hospitality Management $24,838 (INR 21.4L)

4 years

Deadline:

1 November 2025 (Spring)

George Washington University

MS in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management

 

$1,500 (INR 1.2L) per credit

1.5 - 2.5 years

Deadline:

1 June 2025 (Closed)

University of Missouri BS in Hospitality Management $36,374-$40,154 (INR 31.4 - INR 34.6L)

4 years

Deadline:

15 November 2025

After exploring universities to study hotel management courses in USA, let’s take a look at the eligibility requirements for students.

Eligibility Criteria for Hotel Management Courses in USA

Admission to hotel management programs is competitive due to the growing demand for job roles like operations manager and revenue manager. Typically, you’ll need to meet academic requirements such as a minimum GPA and submit a statement of purpose. Some universities, like Cornell, also require GRE or GMAT scores. 

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS. Once you receive your admission confirmation, you’ll need to apply for a student visa.

Below are the eligibility requirements to study hotel management courses in USA.

Criteria  Sub-Criteria Details 
Academic Requirements Educational Qualification
  • A high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs.
  • A bachelor's degree in a relevant field for master's programs.
GPA Score Typically, a GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.
Academic Transcripts Official documents showing all completed courses and grades from your previous degree.
Standardized Tests GRE 300 - 320 (if asked)
GMAT 550 - 600 (if asked)
SAT Not typically required
ACT Not typically required
English Language Proficiency IELTS 6.5 - 7.0
TOEFL 80 - 100
Duolingo English Test 105 - 120
Visa requirements Passport Must be valid for the duration of your studies.
Letter of Acceptance Confirmation of selection from a recognized university in the USA.
Proof of Funds Bank statements to prove you have sufficient financial resources. 
Academic Transcripts Official documents from previous courses and grades.
Visa Application Form Completed DS-160 form for the F-1 visa.
Visa Fee $535 (INR 46.1K), including MRV and SEVIS fees or F-1 visa.
Miscellaneous  Statement of Purpose A well-written SOP explaining your goals and motivation.
Letter of Recommendation Typically, 2-3 letters from professors or employers.
Resume/CV Current resume/CV with details of education and experience.
Work Experience  Relevant experience is preferred but not always mandatory.

Now that you’ve seen the eligibility requirements for hotel management courses in the USA, let’s check out the complete process to guide your journey.

Application Process for Hotel Management Courses in USA

The top 10 best schools for hospitality management have an average acceptance rate of 47.5%, indicating a moderately competitive process. Generally, you will need to apply through the university portal and submit documents like academic transcripts

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency levels through tests like TOEFL. Once your admission is confirmed, you can apply for a student visa for USA.

Here are the steps involved in the application process for a Hotel Management course in USA.

  • Step 1: Submit Admission Application: Complete the online application for your chosen university.
  • Step 2: Submit Additional Documents: Provide the required documents, including:
    • Academic transcripts (high school or undergraduate degree)
    • Letters of recommendation 
    • Statement of purpose or personal statement
    • Standardized Test Scores (GRE or GMAT)
    • English Language Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo) 
  • Step 3: Attend Interview: Some universities, like Cornell, may require an interview as part of the selection process. Be prepared to discuss your academic background, motivation, and career goals.
  • Step 4: Check Application Status: Regularly check your application portal for updates or requests for additional documents.
  • Step 5: Apply for Student Visa: After receiving your admission offer, apply for an F-1 student visa by submitting the following:
    • I-20 form (issued by the university)
    • Proof of financial support
    • Valid passport
    • Visa application form and fee payment

Next, let’s discuss the subjects you’ll be studying in hotel management courses in USA.

Curriculum Details for Hotel Management Courses in USA

The curriculum is diverse and flexible, covering core subjects like restaurant management and event planning. You can also specialize in areas such as sustainable tourism or hospitality marketing, which will help you secure roles like catering manager.

In addition, you can gain practical experience through internships with global hotel chains like Wyndham Hotels, and participate in co-op programs offering real-world exposure to hotel operations.

Here is the curriculum for hotel management courses in the USA.

Course Type Programs
Core Subjects
  • Hospitality Accounting and Finance
  • Hotel Operations 
  • Hospitality Marketing
  • Restaurant Management
  • Human Resources in Hospitality
  • Food and Beverage Management
  • Strategic Management in Hospitality
  • Event and Conference Management
Electives or Specialization
  • Luxury Hotel Management
  • Sustainable Hospitality
  • Casino and Resort Management
  • Hospitality Entrepreneurship
  • Revenue Management
  • Culture and Cuisine
Other Offerings
  • Internship: Gain hands-on experience with industry leaders like Four Seasons or Marriott in hotel operations and event planning.
  • Co-op program: Get real-world exposure at global hotel chains like Ritz-Carlton, where you’ll work alongside experienced professionals.

Now, let’s explore the costs involved in studying for a hotel management course in the USA.

Cost of Pursuing Hotel Management Courses in USA

The cost of studying will help you understand your expenses and plan your budget, including scholarships. The major cost is tuition fees, which amount to $17,949 - $69,870 (INR 15.5L - INR 60.3L). 

Apart from that, you’ll need to spend $12,000 - $14,400 (INR 10.3L - INR 12.4L) annually for decent living expenses.

Here is the cost of living in US for Indian students and other expenses for hotel management courses in USA.

Purpose Yearly/Monthly Expenses (USD) Yearly/Monthly Expenses (INR)
Tuition Fees $17,949 - $69,870 per year INR 15.5L - INR 60.3L
Housing  $300 - $600 INR 25.8K - INR 51.7K
Food  $250 - $600 INR 21.5K - INR 51.7K
Books & Course Material $285 per year INR 24.5K
Transport  $45 - $100 INR 3.8K - INR 8.6K
Health Insurance $1,500 - $2,500 INR 1.2L - INR 2.1L
Miscellaneous Cost $216 INR 18.6K

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Students can explore scholarship options to reduce the financial cost of studying hotel management courses in USA. Let’s discuss this in detail.

Hotel Management Courses in USA: Scholarships for Students

Each year, $46 billion is spent on scholarships to support both merit-based and need-based students studying in the USA. Scholarships can cover anywhere from 20% to 100% of your tuition fees and can also help manage your living expenses while studying.

Below is a breakdown of the scholarships available for students.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are targeted at students from a particular university who are either meritorious or in need of financial support. Hotel management students, for example, can apply for the Guy Fieri Foundation Scholarship offered by the University of Nevada, which provides financial aid of up to $10,000 (INR 8.6L).

Here are some internal scholarships to study in USA for Indian students.

Scholarship  Type  Details 

Guy Fieri Foundation Scholarship

(University of Nevada)

Merit-based 

Eligibility: Freshmen from Nevada High School interested in the food and beverages industry.

Benefits: Financial aid of up to $10,000 (INR 8.6L)

The School of Hospitality Business Scholarship 

(Michigan State University)

Merit-based 

Eligibility: Full‐time students in The School of Hospitality Business

Benefits: Financial grant of around $2,000 (INR 1.7L)

International Honors Scholarship 

(University of Missouri)

Merit-based 

Eligibility: International freshmen applying with SAT/ACT score. 

Benefits: Financial award of $20,000 (INR 17.2L)

Students can also apply for external scholarships, which are available to those studying in the United States.

External Scholarships

External scholarships are primarily offered by governments, foundations, and corporate funding. Hotel management students in the USA can apply for the Fulbright scholarship, which covers the full cost of studying in the USA.

Here are some external scholarships for students.

Scholarship  Type  Details 
American Express Scholarship Merit-based 

Eligibility: Undergraduate student studying hospitality management in the US.

Benefits: Financial award between $500 - $2,000 (INR 43.2K - INR 1.7L)

Nehru - Fulbright Scholarship Merit-based 

Eligibility: Indian bachelor's degree holders, minimum 55% marks, and at least three years of work experience.

Benefits: Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance

The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans Merit-based 

Eligibility: Immigrants and children of immigrants pursuing graduate school in the U.S.

Benefits: Financial grant of  $90,000 (INR 77.3L) over two years, covering tuition and living expenses

Ecolab Scholarship Merit-based

Eligibility: Undergraduate student studying hospitality management in US.

Benefits: Financial award between $1,000 - $2,000 (INR 86.5K - INR 1.7L)

Now that you’ve explored financial aid options through scholarships, let’s take a look at career opportunities after graduation.

Job Opportunities After Hotel Management Courses in USA

The average salary is $44,648 (INR 38.6L), with top earners making more than $75K (INR 64.8L), making it one of the highest paying jobs in the USA. A hotel management course teaches you skills like leadership and interpersonal communication, opening up job roles such as revenue manager.

Here are the job opportunities after hotel management courses in the USA.

Job Role  Average Annual Salary (USD) Average Annual Salary (INR)
Hotel Manager $64,887 INR 56.1L 
Event Manager $65,936 INR 57L
Operations Manager $78,460 INR 67.8L
Catering Manager $71,968 INR 62.2L
Revenue Manager $97,366 INR 84.2L

SourceIndeed

Next, let’s check out the top companies hiring graduates from hotel management courses in USA.

Top Recruiters Hiring Hotel Management Graduates

The US is home to top hospitality companies like Accor and Wyndham. Graduates can be well-placed to be hired by companies like InterContinental and Mandarin Oriental, for roles such as sales manager or catering director.

Here are the top recruiters hiring hospitality management graduates.

Top Recruiter Job Role Average Annual Salary
Hyatt Hotels Revenue Manager $110,668 (INR 95.7L)
Accord Hotels Sales Manager $108,000 (INR 93.4L)
Marriott International Marketing Manager $103,000 (INR 89L)
Radisson Hotels Food and Beverages Manager $61,355 (INR 53L)
Ritz-Carlton Hotels Event Manager $78,000 (INR 67.4L)

SourceIndeed, Glassdoor

Now, let’s see how you can benefit from upGrad’s assistance in studying hotel management courses in USA.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Hotel Management Courses in USA?

Studying hotel management courses abroad can be challenging, especially with the complicated application procedures and financial planning. upGrad simplifies the entire experience by providing expert guidance, ensuring your journey is made easy.

Here’s how upGrad can assist you.

  • Personalized Mentorship: upGrad offers guidance to help you make informed decisions about your education and career.
  • Visa Assistance: Get support with visa paperwork, making the process smoother and more manageable.
  • Scholarship Support: upGrad helps you explore available scholarships, easing the financial burden of studying abroad.
  • IELTS/TOEFL Preparation: Receive focused training for English proficiency tests to increase your chances of success.
  • Career Counseling: upGrad offers continuous career support, including resume evaluations and job readiness advice.

Unsure how to start your journey to study abroad? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts to receive personalized guidance on application process, standardized tests, and financial assistance for a successful experience!

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2 results found

Hotel Management Major, B.S.

Metropolitan State University of Denver, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 8.76L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

ACP International Tourism & Hotel Management

University of California Irvine (Division of Continuing Education), USA

  • DURATION
    3 Months
  • FEES
    INR 11.60L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

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