A hospitality management associate degree offers a strong foundation for careers in one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing industries. With flexible study options, real-world training, and industry-recognized certifications, graduates are prepared to thrive in roles focused on customer service, operations, and leadership.
This degree is also a gateway to further study in bachelor’s programs in hospitality, tourism, or business.
Overview of the Degree
An Associate Degree in Hospitality Management prepares students to work in hotels, restaurants, resorts, event venues, cruise lines, and tourism agencies. This degree typically requires 60 to 65 credit hours and takes about 18 to 24 months to complete when studying full-time.
Programs are available in online, hybrid, and on-campus formats, offering flexible learning options.
What You Will Study
Students study core topics such as hospitality operations, customer service, marketing, event planning, and financial management. Common courses include:
- Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism
- Restaurant and Food Service Management
- Hotel and Lodging Operations
- Hospitality Law and Ethics
- Event Planning and Catering
- Financial Accounting for Hospitality
- Technology in Hospitality Operations
Programs often include internships or externships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world hospitality environments.
Program Costs
Most programs range from $7,000 to $20,000 for the full degree. For example:
- Miami Dade College lists a tuition cost of approximately $7,093 for in-state students (source).
- University of Cincinnati Online offers its 61-credit program for an estimated total of $17,000 to $18,000 (source).
- Bryant & Stratton College and Monroe University both offer online programs with financial aid and flexible payment plans (source, source).
Additional costs may include textbooks, uniforms for culinary or service training, exam fees for certifications, and internship travel expenses.
Admissions Requirements
Typical admissions requirements for an associate degree in hospitality management include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application form
- Personal statement or essay
- Transcripts from previous schools
- Interview (at some institutions)
Some programs, such as those at Monroe University, require a pre-admissions interview and a personal essay. International students may also need to submit evaluated transcripts through a NACES member service.
Certifications and Hands-On Training
Many programs prepare students for professional certifications such as:
- ServSafe® Manager from the National Restaurant Association
- Certified Guestroom Attendant and Certified Front Desk Representative from the AHLEI
Hands-on training is often built into the curriculum. For example, students at Monroe University complete internships at The Dining Lab or The Pastry Kiosk. Valencia College and Seminole State College partner with top employers like Disney, Hilton, and Marriott for real-world training.
Career Outlook
Graduates can enter roles such as:
- Assistant Hotel Manager
- Event Coordinator
- Concierge Agent
- Restaurant Supervisor
- Travel Consultant
- Front Desk Supervisor
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the leisure and hospitality sector is expected to contribute one in eight new jobs between 2023 and 2033. Salaries vary by role and region, but entry-level management positions typically range from $35,000 to $50,000 annually.
Top Schools
For those passionate about travel, food service, hotel operations, and tourism, an associate degree in hospitality management is a fast and practical way to launch a rewarding career. Whether you’re looking for flexible online learning or hands-on training in bustling hospitality hubs, schools across the country offer dynamic programs tailored to meet the needs of today’s growing service industry.
Below, we highlight a diverse group of colleges—each offering a unique blend of curriculum, career preparation, and industry-focused learning environments—to help you find the right fit for your educational and professional goals.
| School | Location | Program Name | Credits | Format | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bryant & Stratton College | Akron, OH | AAS in Hospitality Management | 60 | On-Campus & Online | Strong business foundation; Covers HR, finance, operations; Flexible online option |
| Keiser University | Clearwater, FL | AA in Hospitality | 60 | On-Campus | Includes externships; Financial and facilities training; Real-world experience |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | AS in Hospitality & Tourism Management | 60 | On-Campus | ServSafe certification included; Focus on management and human relations |
| Tidewater Community College | Norfolk, VA | AAS in Hospitality Management | 65 | On-Campus & Online | Strong regional job connections; Emphasis on cost control and marketing |
| City Tech (CUNY) | Brooklyn, NY | AAS in Hospitality Management | 60 | On-Campus | Includes field visits; Liberal arts foundation; Emphasis on global workplace skills |
| Monroe University | Bronx, NY | AAS in Hospitality Management | 60 | Online | Accelerated 18-month path; Try-before-you-commit option; Internship required |
| City Colleges of Chicago | Chicago, IL | AAS in Hospitality Management | 60 | On-Campus | Built-in Basic and Advanced Certificates in Culinary Arts; Career support available |
| Montgomery County Community College | Blue Bell, PA | AAS in Tourism & Hospitality Management | 60–61 | On-Campus | Project-based learning; Articulation agreements with top universities |
| University of Cincinnati (UC Online) | Cincinnati, OH | AAB in Hospitality Management | 61 | Online | Fully asynchronous; Industry certifications like ServSafe available |
| Moorpark College | Moorpark, CA | AS-T in Hospitality Management | Varies | Online | Short 12-week terms; ManageFirst certifications; Stackable credentials |
Bryant & Stratton College
https://www.bryantstratton.edu/degrees/hospitality/aas-hospitality-management/
Akron, OH
Program Overview
Bryant & Stratton College offers a Hospitality Management Associate Degree designed for students passionate about the food service, tourism, event planning, and hospitality industries. The program can be completed in under two years and requires 60 credit hours. Students gain a solid foundation in business management alongside specialized hospitality training, covering human resources, marketing, sales, finance, and essential operational principles. The program is available both on-campus and online, offering flexibility without sacrificing the quality of education or credit value.
Curriculum and Career Outcomes
The curriculum prepares graduates for various roles within hotels, sports venues, casinos, travel and tourism, and the food and beverage sector. Students develop leadership, service, and management skills crucial for the industry. Outcomes include the ability to apply hospitality planning and operations knowledge, utilize industry-standard technology tools, and navigate ethical and legal considerations. Graduates are also well-positioned to continue their education in hospitality or management fields.
Keiser University
https://www.keiseruniversity.edu/associate-arts-hotel-resort-operations/
Clearwater, FL
Program Overview
Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Hospitality prepares students for a wide range of careers in hotel, resort, and tourism management. The 60-credit program emphasizes key competencies such as sales, financial management, facilities maintenance, housekeeping, and general accounting specific to the hospitality industry. Students gain hands-on experience through externships, allowing them to solidify their skills in real-world environments while translating theoretical knowledge into practice.
Curriculum and Career Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser’s program will master operational and leadership skills necessary for the dynamic hospitality environment. They will be able to research and analyze hospitality trends, present information effectively, and demonstrate strong decision-making abilities. The program places a strong focus on adapting to changing work environments and provides the financial and accounting skills critical to succeeding in the industry, making graduates competitive for a range of hospitality management positions.
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)
https://www.fscj.edu/academics/programs/as/2214
Jacksonville, FL
Program Overview
Florida State College at Jacksonville offers an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, comprising 60 credits and designed for those aspiring to leadership roles in the hospitality industry. The program focuses on communication, management, and human relations skills vital for the second-largest industry in Florida. Students receive a well-rounded education and have access to certifications like the ServSafe Manager certification, enhancing employability upon graduation.
Curriculum and Career Outcomes
FSCJ’s program prepares students for roles such as hotel manager, front desk supervisor, and operations manager by covering key areas like food and beverage management, guest interactions, and basic accounting. Additional costs such as uniforms and tools are required for food production courses. Graduates are recognized with industry-respected certifications and gain a strong foundation in business operations, customer service, and personnel management, ready to meet the growing demands of the hospitality sector.
Tidewater Community College
https://www.tcc.edu/programs/hospitality-management/
Norfolk, VA
Program Overview
Tidewater Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management can be completed in four semesters and requires 65 credits. Offered both at the Norfolk campus and online, the program trains students to meet the demands of the growing tourism industry in Hampton Roads. With a curriculum focused on supervisory management, accounting, communications, cost control, and marketing, students develop a comprehensive business background necessary for hospitality success.
Curriculum and Career Outcomes
TCC’s program provides students with the leadership and operational skills essential for a thriving career in hospitality. Graduates are equipped to take on supervisory roles in hotels, restaurants, event management companies, and other tourism-related businesses. With strong local employment opportunities and a curriculum rooted in real-world business practices, students are well-prepared to immediately enter the workforce or advance their careers within the dynamic hospitality field.
City Tech (CUNY)
https://www.citytech.cuny.edu/hospitality/hospitality-management-aas.aspx
Brooklyn, NY
Program Overview
City Tech’s Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Hospitality Management program provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation for careers in the hospitality industry. Students complete 60 credits covering operational skills, communication, collaboration, ethical reasoning, and social responsibility, alongside a core of liberal arts and science courses. Graduates are prepared for flexible career development in a global industry. Transfer students from other City Tech programs must meet a 2.5 GPA requirement and be CUNY proficient. Transfer credits are evaluated individually. Annual costs beyond tuition average around $1,775, covering textbooks, supplies, uniforms, professional memberships, and field visits.
Career Outcomes and Learning Environment
Students graduating from City Tech’s Hospitality Management program gain the skills necessary to work across various operational areas of hospitality and are encouraged to value lifelong learning and civic engagement. The program emphasizes both analytical and social skills critical for success in global workplaces. Graduates are well-positioned to enter management roles in hotels, restaurants, tourism, and event planning, with a solid liberal arts foundation enhancing their career flexibility. Professional attire and toolkits are required, reinforcing the real-world expectations of the industry.
Monroe University (CINY)
Program Overview
Monroe University’s online Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Hospitality Management is designed for flexibility, allowing students to complete the program in less than 18 months across four semesters. Students learn from industry professionals in New York City and cover topics like restaurant and hotel management, event planning, and travel and tourism. The 60-credit program includes a required internship to ensure hands-on experience. Tuition is designed to be affordable, and financial aid opportunities are available. Students may also try two courses over a 7½-week term to test the online learning experience before fully committing.
Career Outcomes and Learning Environment
Graduates from Monroe’s program are prepared for dynamic roles such as assistant hotel manager, restaurant manager, travel coordinator, or concierge. The curriculum builds both customer-facing and behind-the-scenes management skills, with career services and internship opportunities integrated into the education. Monroe encourages AAS graduates to continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree to enhance leadership potential. Thanks to the strong career focus and flexibility of online learning, students can balance their education with other life commitments while gaining the skills needed to thrive in the fast-growing hospitality sector.
City Colleges of Chicago
https://catalog.ccc.edu/academic-program-requirements/hospitality-management-aas/
Chicago, IL
Program Overview
City Colleges of Chicago offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Hospitality Management designed to build strong management skills for careers in hotels, event planning, food and beverage management, and guest services. Students follow a pathway that also includes earning a Basic Certificate (BC) in Culinary Arts and an Advanced Certificate (AC) along the way to completing their AAS. The program totals 60 credit hours and incorporates coursework in communication, diversity, and hospitality operations. It is structured for flexibility, with course substitutions possible in some areas to meet individual student needs.
Career Outcomes and Learning Environment
Graduates are prepared for roles such as guest service agents, hotel managers, event planners, and food and beverage directors. Students can explore detailed information about job outlooks, salaries, and required education through Career Services support. With a strong focus on applied skills and diverse career paths, City Colleges of Chicago helps students gain the qualifications necessary for immediate employment in the hospitality sector or further academic advancement.
Montgomery County Community College (Montco)
https://www.mc3.edu/degrees-and-programs/programs/culinary-and-hospitality/hospitality-management
Blue Bell, PA
Program Overview
Montgomery County Community College’s Tourism and Hospitality Management AAS program offers a 60–61 credit curriculum that combines project-based learning, internships, and innovative coursework. Students receive hands-on training in areas such as hotel operations, marketing, and spa resort management. The program prepares students for both direct workforce entry and transfer opportunities, with seamless articulation agreements with institutions like Temple University, Gwynedd Mercy University, and Florida International University.
Career Outcomes and Learning Environment
Graduates are equipped with skills in guest service excellence, operational efficiency, technology, sustainability practices, and ethical leadership. The program encourages critical decision-making and the development of a professional career portfolio. Students are prepared for careers in convention bureaus, destination management companies, restaurants, parks, casinos, hotels, and resorts. With strong academic support and practical experiences, Montco positions its graduates as future leaders in the tourism and hospitality industries.
University of Cincinnati (UC Online)
https://online.uc.edu/associate-programs/aab-hospitality-management/
Cincinnati, OH
Program Overview
The University of Cincinnati offers an online Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Hospitality Management program that can be completed in approximately 18 months. The 61-credit curriculum is fully online, flexible, and asynchronous, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments. Students engage in real-world learning through professional internships and receive personalized career counseling. UC Online offers three start dates per year (spring, summer, and fall) and easy transfer credit options for incoming students.
Career Outcomes and Learning Environment
Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles across the hospitality and tourism industries, including hotel management, event planning, food and beverage safety management, and tourism marketing. Students also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications such as ServSafe® and certifications from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. With projected job growth in the hospitality sector and a focus on professional development, UC Online prepares students for a vibrant career path in a rapidly expanding industry.
Moorpark College
https://www.moorparkcollege.edu/departments/academic/hospitality
Moorpark, CA
Program Overview
Moorpark College’s fully online Hospitality program offers an Associate Degree for Transfer, an Associate of Science for Transfer, and Certificates of Achievement, allowing students flexibility in achieving their educational and career goals. Courses are structured in short 12-week semesters and a 6-week summer term to accommodate busy schedules. Students can earn National Restaurant Association ManageFirst certifications in courses like Hospitality Cost Controls and Introduction to Food & Beverage Management.
Career Outcomes and Learning Environment
Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in resort management, restaurant management, catering, event planning, concierge services, marketing, and hospitality finance roles. Moorpark’s strong industry partnerships provide pathways to internships and employment. The program emphasizes real-world, practical learning with dynamic and engaging online courses, helping students advance their skills and career prospects in the ever-growing hospitality industry.
Paying Off the Degree
When considering a hospitality management associate degree, it’s important to weigh the cost of education against potential career earnings. Let’s assume the average tuition for the programs featured is approximately $15,000. According to national data, the average starting salary for graduates in hospitality and tourism management is about $38,000 per year.
Here’s how long it would take to repay a $15,000 student loan depending on the percentage of your salary you dedicate to repayment annually:
- 5% of salary ($1,900/year): 7.9 years
- 10% of salary ($3,800/year): 3.9 years
- 15% of salary ($5,700/year): 2.6 years
- 20% of salary ($7,600/year): 2 years
These figures assume no interest or loan fees for simplicity, but they offer a useful comparison. As you can see, even a modest commitment can make student loan repayment manageable—especially when entering a growing field like hospitality, where opportunities for advancement and salary increases are strong.