Degree Overview: Associate of Science (A.S.) in Casino Business Operations
Majors Overview June 12, 2013In this article, you will learn about the associate degree program in casino business operations, as well as receive information on salary, career prospects, courses, and requirements to make an informed decision about your education.
Associate of Science (A.S.) in Casino Business Operations
Students enrolled in an Associate of Science in Casino Business Operations program are provided with the operational, technical and managerial experience needed in order to seek an entry-level job within the casino industry. Strong organizational, analytical and communication skills are acquired by students enrolled in casino programs; schools offer some of these programs as specializations within programs related to hospitality and restaurant management, in addition to business operations programs. The majority of programs allow students to acquire real-life experience through participation in an internship program in real casino environments. Community colleges and technical schools usually offer these two-year programs with admission criteria requiring applicants to hold a general educational (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Students who are enrolled in the casino business operations associate degree program is expected to fulfill basic educational requirements along with core courses, such as public relations, marketing, and the business side of casino management. Other program course topics may include the following:
•Gaming legal issues
•Casino operations
•Casino loss prevention
•Social and gaming policy
•Accounting
Salary Information and Employment Outlook
From 2008 to 2018, employment within the gaming industry is expected to grow by fourteen percent, which is higher than the national average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov). There is a projected increase of twelve percent for gaming managers. These numbers are due to more states legalizing a particular type of gaming and growing popularity of casinos. During May 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that gaming managers average annual salary was $66,960.
Certification and Continuing Education Information
Students should consider furthering their education or immediately obtain entry-level employment at casinos upon completion of the casino business operations associate degree program. It is usually not required that gaming managers hold an associate or bachelor degree, but most employers do prefer degrees, according to the BLS. Bachelor degree programs in casino and hospitality management will help graduates obtain additional management and business skills needed to help them manage casinos.
According to the BLS, individuals who work in the gaming industry should have licensure provided by a specific agency, whether it is a state control commission or board. The majority of states have their own age requirements and regulations, so graduates are required to check with their state’s casino board to determine what it is.