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	$18,620	Hotel Manager	$51,010
Amusement Attendant	$18,770	Chef	$51,010
Restaurant Cook	$23,360	Food Service Manager	$58,720
Animal Trainer	$24,810
Concierge	$24,810
Travel Agent	$32,080