An online MBA in Hospitality is the perfect degree for professionals wanting a career in hospitality management. From the skills it will hone to the opportunities it can present, the online MBA delivers with convenience and flexibility without compromising a high-quality education. Here is a quick look at what to expect while pursuing this degree from some of the nation's best programs used as examples.
The Application Process
By design, the MBA is considered a graduate degree for the working professional. Because so many of the concepts dealt with in the classroom center on relevant case studies, instead of just general business theory, an online MBA student can begin to utilize the information on management gathered through a course in real time within the organization he or she is employed by. Many admissions offices are also looking for students who have a strong undergraduate transcript with a solid GPA, an impressive resume, and other resources like letters of recommendation and essays that reveal a work ethic and the ability to communicate effectively. Some application processes culminate in an in-person or online interview as well. The John Massey School of Business at Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers a 36-credit hour online MBA with a Hospitality Marketing specialization. This program's application process includes the submission of transcripts revealing a 3.0 GPA for the last 60 hours of coursework OR a cumulative GPA of 2.5 along with a portfolio "consisting of a letter of application which outlines the applicant's career goals and objectives and how an MBA degree will enhance them; a current resume, three professional letters of recommendation." This program does not feature a GMAT requirement.
The Tuition
An online MBA's tuition rate can vary from very affordable to well into six-digits in price. Like with many investments, the lowest-priced program will not always be the best value. Some programs may be more expensive, but they carry with them characteristics like a higher reputation and solid accreditation that will offer a better education and more impressive resume for future employers. Out of almost 500 online MBA programs from around the country, the median base tuition cost rests around $25,000 with the average tuition coming in around $29,000. With an average tuition rate between $20,000 and $29,999, a 37-credit hour online MBA with a focus in Hospitality is offered through the College of Business and Management at Lynn University. Bolstered by an excellent accreditation through the IACBE, the business school has also been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as offering one of the best online MBAs in the nation.
The Curriculum
Students will often choose a specialization within their MBA experience and the curriculum within the program will reflect this by being divided between foundational courses, core courses, concentration courses, and perhaps a capstone course. Students having the proper academic background will often be able to waive foundational courses allowing for a quicker program completion and lower tuition rate. These courses typically center on the areas of accounting, economics, finance, and leadership. The core courses within an online MBA will consist of leadership development, business dynamics, and finance. An example of one of the best online MBAs available today is delivered by the University of New Hampshire's Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics. This 16-course online MBA with an emphasis in Hospitality Management is divided between 10 core courses and six electives. The Hospitality Management-specific courses for this program include Human Resource Management, Hospitality Operations & Financial Metrics, Hospitality Asset & Financial Management, and Hospitality Revenue Management & Pricing Strategies. Business schools like this one invest much time and effort into offering the very best curriculum plans to distance learners.
These are just some of the highlights to expect when pursuing an online MBA in Hospitality. Certain elements will vary from program to program so it is important to thoroughly research all of the components of an online degree.
