The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Hospitality and Tourism Leadership program from the University of West Florida (UWF) combines core business management principles with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in managerial and leadership roles in the hospitality and tourism field. A variety of career opportunities are available for graduates, including international restaurant chain manager, resort manager, cruise ship director, travel agency manager, business development manager, director of hotel operations and hospitality manager.
UWF’s online MBA with an emphasis in Hospitality and Tourism Leadership program helps students strengthen their ability to identify, institute and maintain high standards for quality of service, staff and operations. This flexible program is designed for emerging leaders seeking upper-level roles in the growing hospitality and event tourism field.
Career Opportunities for Graduates With an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management
Graduates with an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Leadership have a wide range of promising career options. Below are some of the top career paths available to these professionals, with salary figures as of July 2023:
International Restaurant Chain Manager
Restaurant chain managers oversee the operations of multiple restaurants within an international chain. They ensure consistent quality, profitability and guest satisfaction. Helpful skills in this position include strong leadership and managerial abilities, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, financial acumen, knowledge of international markets and trends, proficiency in operations management and a customer-centric approach to business. Reports place the median annual salary for this position at $92,919, which can vary due to years of experience, location and company size.
Business Development Manager
A business development manager identifies and pursues new business opportunities for a hospitality organization, establishes strategic partnerships, negotiates contracts and fosters client relationships. They conduct market research, develop sales strategies and collaborate with team members. Strong sales and negotiation abilities, business acumen, excellent communication and networking skills, analytical and problem-solving capabilities, knowledge of market trends and the ability to drive revenue growth are key skills for this position. The average base salary for this position is $84,723 per year. Salaries can vary widely due to performance and company size.
Cruise Ship Director
A cruise ship director manages all onboard activities and guest services including dining, entertainment, accommodations and customer satisfaction. Overseeing staff, coordinating with various departments and ensuring compliance with safety regulations are some of the responsibilities of this position. Strong leadership and communication skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced multi-cultural environment, problem-solving abilities and knowledge of the cruise ship industry and its trends are all vital for a successful cruise ship director. Listing indicate the average annual salary for this position is $87,739, but the overall pay depends on the cruise line, ship size and years of experience.
Hospitality Manager
Professionals in this position manage several aspects of hospitality operations, which include event planning, guest services, facility management and food and beverage operations. They ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction, work with staff, implement quality standards and optimize operational efficiency. Hospitality managers need strong leadership and organizational skills, excellent customer service abilities, knowledge of hospitality industry trends and attention to detail. The average salary for hospitality managers is $56,483, but the total can vary depending on experience level, location and company size.
Prepare for Your Career in Hospitality and Tourism Management
With the right skill set, industry knowledge and dedication, graduates of UWF’s online MBA with an emphasis in Hospitality and Tourism Leadership program can pursue successful careers with attractive salary prospects and contribute to the continued growth and success of the hospitality and tourism field.
The program’s curriculum equips graduates with current hospitality and tourism management skills such as those in problem-solving, leadership, operations and analysis. Relevant courses include the Hospitality Financial Analysis & Revenue Optimization course, the Service Experience Marketing for Hospitality Management course, and the Leadership in Hospitality and Tourism course.
Learn more about University of West Florida’s online MBA with an emphasis in Hospitality and Tourism Leadership program.
