FAQ
Frequently asked questions from Master of Science (MS) and doctoral (PhD) degree applicants.
Q: How does the MS degree differ from the MMH degree?
A: The Master of Science (MS) degree is typically linked to the PhD degree, which is a very small and individualized program at the School of Hotel Administration. Selection is extremely competitive.
Students considered for the MS have a clear and solid research focus, typically tied to future PhD study. Those seeking the MS degree have intentions of staying in academia to teach and do research after they graduate.
The Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) degree is a one-year intensive graduate business program, similar to an MBA, but with a focus on hospitality. If you plan to pursue a management-level career in the hospitality industry, you should strongly consider our MMH degree as the best way to meet your educational and long-term professional goals.
The MMH is offered both at Cornell and at the Cornell-Nanyang Institute for Hospitality Management (CNI), where students spend six months in Singapore and six months on Cornell's Ithaca campus. The MMH is a 12 month program beginning and ending in May of each year.
Q: What tests are required to apply for the MS or PhD degree programs?
A: We require a GMAT score and do not accept the GRE. GMAT scores are valid for up to five years. International students are required to take the TOEFL exam. TOEFL scores are valid for up to two years.
Students who have studied at a university in a country whose official language is English for two or more years are not required to take the TOEFL exam, but are welcome to submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate their English proficiency.
Q: What is the deadline to apply for the MS or PhD degree programs?
A: Applications should be complete by February 1 of the year in which you plan to enroll. We will contact competitive applicants via email to complete an admissions interview in March.
Q: What kind of financial aid is available for MS or PhD students?
A: MS students can find financial aid by contacting the Fellowships and Financial Aid Office through Cornell's Graduate School. Fellowships covering the cost of tuition and a taxable stipend may be awarded to PhD students on a case-by-case basis.
Q: What resources do you offer for international students?
A: Cornell's International Students and Scholars Office assists current students with a variety of services from immigration issues to campus life.
Q: What information can you send me about the MS or PhD degree programs?
A: Since the MS and PhD degrees are research-based, the Center for Hospitality Research is the best resource for you to learn more about the latest research topics of our graduate faculty.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to e-mail (mmh@cornell.edu) or call us (607.255.6376) for more information.
Q: How many MS and PhD students are admitted each year?
A: Admission is extremely selective and is based on both the strength of the applicant and the availability of faculty to work with new students. Rarely are more than 2-3 MS and PhD students admitted in a particular year. It is fairly common that no (0) students are selected in a particular admission cycle. MS and PhD students are only admitted for fall semester – this is no spring semester admission.
Q: What makes a PhD applicant competitive?
A: A competitive PhD applicant typically has an exceptional academic record including research experience, a competitive GMAT score in excess of 700, relevant hospitality and/or teaching experience, a well-articulated statement of purpose, and often has published hospitality papers or articles in relevant journals or trade publications.