Eligibility Requirements
MS Degree
You must already have earned a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university to be eligible for the MS program.
Competitive MS applicants demonstrate a combination of strengths including:
- An exceptional academic record (rigorous curriculum, top 10% of class, no failing grades)
- Research experience
- A competitive GMAT score in excess of 700
- Relevant hospitality experience
- A well-articulated statement of purpose
Note that the MS is designed for students pursuing an academic career in teaching and research. Most MS students subsequently apply to a PhD program. Students pursuing careers as hospitality executives and practitioners should consider the School’s terminal management degree, the Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) program.
Your graduate faculty advisor will decide which courses you should take to complete your MS degree program. If your bachelor's degree is not in hospitality management, your advisor may require some of the core courses of the Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) as part of your program.
PhD Degree
You must already have earned a master's degree from an accredited university to be eligible for the PhD program (with the exception of students who have earned a bachelor's degree in hotel administration from our undergraduate program).
Competitive PhD applicants demonstrate a combination of strengths including:
- A GMAT score of 700 or better
- Top 10% of graduating class in bachelor’s and master’s study with no failing grades. Often prior coursework in statistics, economics, and/or research methods.
- A clearly articulated career objective focused on teaching and research
- Published hospitality papers or articles in relevant journals or trade publications
- Experience in teaching and or research
Once admitted, your committee of graduate faculty members will advise which courses you should take to fulfill your PhD degree program.