Are you considering a career in tourism but unsure of where to start? Choosing the right school is crucial for your success in this field.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best fit for you. In this article, we will explore what makes a school the best for tourism and share some top schools to consider.
What Makes a School the Best for Tourism?
1. Accreditation: The first thing to look for when choosing a school is accreditation.
Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain standards and has undergone rigorous evaluations by independent organizations. Look for schools that are accredited by recognized bodies such as the Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (CHRIE) or the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA).
2. Curriculum: The curriculum should cover all aspects of tourism, including hospitality management, travel planning, event management, and destination marketing. It should also incorporate practical experience through internships or hands-on projects.
3. Faculty: The faculty should have extensive industry experience and be able to provide students with real-world knowledge and connections.
4. Facilities: Look for schools that have state-of-the-art facilities such as computer labs, simulation rooms, and kitchens.
Top Schools for Tourism
Cornell University – School of Hotel Administration
Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration is consistently ranked as one of the top hospitality programs in the world. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and executive education programs that cover all aspects of hospitality management.
- The curriculum includes courses in hotel operations, foodservice management, revenue management, marketing strategy, and more.
- The faculty includes industry leaders who bring their experience into the classroom.
- The school has partnerships with major hospitality companies such as Marriott and Hilton.
University of Nevada, Las Vegas – William F. Harrah College of Hospitality
The William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is known for its hands-on approach to education. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in hospitality management, event management, and meetings and conventions.
- The curriculum includes courses in hotel operations, gaming management, event planning, and more.
- Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as a casino lab and an event center.
- The school has partnerships with major hospitality companies such as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment.
Florida International University – Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management
The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in hospitality management, beverage management, and tourism management. The school is known for its diversity and global perspective.
- The curriculum includes courses in hotel operations, restaurant management, wine studies, sustainable tourism development, and more.
- The faculty includes industry experts who bring their global experience into the classroom.
- The school has partnerships with major hospitality companies such as Marriott International and Hilton Worldwide.
Conclusion
Choosing the best school for tourism requires careful consideration of accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, and facilities. Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, and Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management are among the top schools to consider. By selecting a reputable school that provides a comprehensive education in tourism, you can set yourself up for a successful career in this exciting field.