School of Business to launch new hospitality management degree this fall

Liberty University’s Department of Sport, Event, and Tourism Management in the School of Business will launch the new Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management degree program this fall, with curriculum that will equip students to assume management positions in the growing hospitality industry.

The expanding industry, which includes event planning, lodging, guest services, food services, and more, is one of the largest employment sectors in the United States, with an annual economic activity exceeding $1 trillion.

“Sometimes we think these are the ‘party planners,’” said Dr. Laura Hatfield, an associate professor and department chair. “But in order to really plan and execute exceptional events, it takes professional and academic training, so we are providing that with our program.”

The courses will meet all specifications and guidelines of the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality (ACPHA).

The 120-hour residential program includes core major classes such as Principles of Food Service Operations (HMGT 300), Legal and Ethical Issues in Hospitality (HMGT 305), Principles of Tourism Management (TOUR 300), and many others.

“We are very eager to get a wide range of students enrolled in these classes. We think this program will really take off,” Hatfield said. “Often, people don’t realize how difficult hospitality management is until something goes wrong. … But a well-trained person — someone who has the academic knowledge, the professional preparation, and internship experience — understands how to address and deal with some of those challenges and provide really meaningful experiences by carefully crafting each detail.”

Given the wide range of job opportunities within hospitality management, students are encouraged to pursue internships that correspond with their preferences.

Students can fulfill their 400-hour internship either on campus, including with Sodexo, Liberty’s dining services provider, the university’s Conference and Event Center, or off campus at resorts, hotels, and cruise ships, or performing event planning for an organization.

“There are so many opportunities in this field,” said Dr. Phillip Blosser, the program director. “It makes a lot of sense for Liberty to launch something like this. … This is an industry that’s built around servant leadership. Looking out for the good of others and loving our neighbors is part of our calling, but hospitality management can be our vocation as well.”

Liberty students in other degree programs who are interested in gaining these skills can take hospitality management classes as electives.

“Our students will be prepared from an academic perspective as well as a practical and real-world perspective,” Hatfield said. “And that will translate across all four of the hospitality management areas.”

“There are many very exciting and rewarding careers in the hospitality industry,” she added. “We look forward to working with Liberty students to as they pursue God’s calling on their lives.”