AS-HSTR - AS in Hospitality and Tourism

The Associate of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management prepares students for dynamic careers in hotels, resorts, restaurants, event management, food and beverage operations, and tourism organizations. This program blends customer service excellence with operational, financial, and managerial skills essential for success in one of the worlds largest and fastest-growing industries.

Students begin with an overview of the field in Introduction to Hospitality Management (HFT1000) and deepen their understanding of hospitality sectors through specialized courses such as Hotel and Resort Operations (HFT1250), Front Office Management (HFT1410), and Tourism Destination Management (HFT2102). These courses introduce students to the structure of hospitality organizations, guest service systems, departmental functions, and global tourism trends.

Food and beverage competencies are developed in Food Service Sanitation Management (FOS2201), Dining Room Management & Service (FSS1250C), Food and Beverage Management (FSS2251), and Catering, Banquet and Event Management (FSS2284C). Students gain practical experience in service techniques, menu planning, event operations, and sanitation principles that ensure safe and high-quality guest experiences.

Students also explore essential management and business functions within the industry. Marketing and Sales in the Hospitality Industry (HFT1500) and Hospitality Industry Financial Accounting (HFT2401) provide insight into revenue generation, marketing strategies, budgeting, and financial reporting. Hospitality Law (HFT2600) introduces legal concepts related to liability, contracts, employment, and regulatory compliance. Courses like Human Relations in Hospitality (HFT2225) and Customer Service (MNA1161) strengthen interpersonal and communication skills critical for creating memorable guest experiences and leading diverse teams.

The program culminates in a practical learning experience through the Hospitality Internship (HFT2942), where students apply industry knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional networks, and demonstrate readiness for entry-level employment.

Graduates of the A.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management are prepared for a variety of roles, including front office supervisor, event coordinator, food and beverage assistant manager, guest services representative, catering assistant, tourism services specialist, and other entry-level positions across the hospitality and tourism sectors. Students may also continue their education in bachelors degree programs to further advance in hospitality leadership and management roles.

Career Outlook ‚ A.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management

Entry-level and early-career opportunities for graduates include roles such as:

· Front Office Supervisor or Guest Services Representative

· Event or Banquet Coordinator

· Food and Beverage Supervisor or Assistant Manager

· Catering or Conference Services Assistant

· Hotel or Resort Operations Assistant

· Tourism and Visitor Services Specialist

· Concierge, Activities Coordinator, or Guest Relations Associate

As graduates gain experience, they may advance into roles such as department manager, sales and marketing coordinator, event manager, operations manager, or hospitality training and development specialist.