Tourism and Hospitality
Do you enjoy creating a fun experience for people of all ages? Do you enjoy travel? Then a career in the tourism and hospitality industry might be for you.
Career Pathways
The tourism and hospitality field has four career pathways:
- Lodging: Individuals who work in hotels, motels, hostels and other places of lodging, from housekeepers to hotel managers.
- Food and Beverage Service: Individuals who work in restaurants or other businesses that serve food and drinks, such as catering companies.
- Recreation, Attractions and Amusements: Individuals who work in venues that offer entertainment, from a theme park to a sports arena.
- Travel and Tourism: Individuals who facilitate an enjoyable travel experience, such as planning trips or giving tours.
Meta-Major: Business
Want to pursue a management track in the hospitality industry? Check out the business meta-major at your local state college. A meta-major is a collection of associate degree programs aligned to a general career area, such as business. Because all programs under the meta-major have common courses, you can pursue a relevant course of study before deciding on a specific degree program.
Education-Career-Income Connection
Jobs in the hospitality industry require a high school diploma and job training. An associate's or bachelor's degree can help you advance in the hospitality industry.
| Training, Certificate or Associate's Degree | Bachelor's Degree | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Servers | $22,160 | Chef | $48,460 |
| Amusement Attendant | $22,260 | Hotel Manager | $53,390 |
| Restaurant Cook | $22,330 | Food Service Manager | $54,240 |
| Animal Trainer | $29,290 | ||
| Concierge | $30,400 | ||
| Travel Agent | $38,700 | ||