Is a degree in hotel management essential to getting your dream hotel job?

There are many hospitality management jobs that do not require you to have a degree and employers in this industry certainly value experience. Many people start off in the hospitality sector from a young age and gradually work their way up the ladder. In order to asses how useful a hotel management degree is it may be helpful to get an idea of what degrees are available. Here is a short list of degrees related to the hotel and hospitality sector:

• International Hospitality and Tourism Management.

• Hotel Management.

• Tourism and hospitality.

• Hospitality.

• Hotel Catering Management.

• Hotel Services Management.

• International Hotel Management.

• European Hospitality Management.

• International Hospitality.

It is certainly true that a degree in hotel management will provide you with a great qualification. You will learn a lot about the hotel industry and how to run a successful hotel. However, it is evident that there are not many degrees that specifically focus on hotel management. Most of the degrees in this area are geared towards hospitality in general. This is a little frustrating but it is sometimes better to have a broader knowledge and understanding how the hospitality industry works is certainly an advantage.


This debate certainly has good arguments on both sides. However, the best advice I can give is to make a decision on what is best for you. If you ask people in the hospitality industry then you will find that there are hotel managers who have a relevant degree but also other managers who have worked for a few years in the industry before obtaining a managerial position. If you enjoy learning and studying and think that you would be more confident in your abilities if you have studied a degree then doing a hotel management course is the best option. In contrast to this, some people really don't enjoy exams and studying and would much rather gain some hands on, practical experience. The choice is really up to you and you shouldn't let anyone's opinion get in the way of you taking your chosen path.


Hotel manager vacancies are certainly hard to compete for, but if you are determined enough then you will be successful. It is also helpful to be aware of the range of hotel manager jobs available to you. For example there are plenty of hotel catering management and hospitality management jobs available. You could always start off in a slightly more niche area before taking on a general management role. There are also some great hotel management training courses that you can do while you are getting experience in a related role.