Information on Master’s Degree Programs in Resort Management
Majors Overview June 10, 2015This article talks about master’s degree programs in resort management and their educational requirements, coursework, and job and wage outlook.
Master’s Programs in Resort Management
Students enrolled in master’s degree programs in resort management are provided with an in-depth knowledge of the legal, social, and economic issues that impact the resort industry. They also learn hospitality management strategies and principles as applicable to all-inclusive facilities for vacationing.
Students take about two years to complete most programs. A dual program is available through some schools wherein a Master of Science (M.S.) in Hospitality Management, along with resort management, is put together with a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.). These programs allow students to develop advanced skills in both business principles and resort management methods.
Educational Requirements
Admission requirements usually request incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school. Schools also require a minimum grade point average, and submission of Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores, letters of recommendation and an essay. Prerequisite courses in some programs may include classes related to the industry of business administration or hospitality; alternatively, some undergraduate courses may have to be completed by applicants for admission.
Coursework
Program coursework may include a non-thesis or thesis track and may cover the relation of marketing, human resources, and financial to the resort industry. Problem-solving, decision-making, and resource management skills may be developed by students through completion of courses such as:
•Operations management
•Financial management
•Economics
•Data analysis
•Human resources
•Information technology
•Strategic planning and marketing
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, an one percent job growth rate has been predicted for lodging managers, including resort managers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The slow growth is attributed to the development of the travel and tourism industry, which may depend on streamlining operations and limiting services at resorts, thereby limiting the necessity of employing many individuals at each resort. In May 2012, lodging managers brought in an average annual wage of $46,810 (BLS).
