Hotel, Casino and Resort Management

Is Hotel, Casino and Resort Management For Me?

Career Overview

Hotel, casino and resort managers, often referred to as lodging or hospitality managers, oversee daily operations for a variety of tourism establishments. The job duties of a hospitality manager often include sales, customer service, marketing and public relations, maintenance and security, as well as hiring, training and scheduling staff. Depending on the size of a hotel, casino or resort, managers may also oversee information technology and financial practices. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs are available in hotel, casino and resort management.

Employment Information

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment for all lodging managers was expected to grow by only one percent over the 2012-2022 decade (www.bls.gov). This is due, in part, to expense cutbacks across the tourism industry and establishments hiring fewer managers. The BLS also reports that qualified professionals should see the best opportunities at upscale hotels. As of May 2013, the average annual salary for a lodging manager was $55,810.

How Can I Become a Hotel, Casino or Resort Manager?

Education

If you're interested in entering this field, pursuing a bachelor's degree in hospitality management may be a good place to start. According to the BLS, many larger hotels and resorts look for job applicants who hold at least a bachelor's degree in hospitality management. As a bachelor's program student, you'll take courses in food production, operations control, hospitality law, labor and cost control, human resource management and hotel marketing.

Depending on your specific career goals and interests, you might earn your bachelor's degree in a related field, such as business management. If you already hold a bachelor's degree, completing a master's program could lead to additional career opportunities. You might consider enrolling in a 2-year hotel and resort management master's program.

In some cases, relevant professional experience combined with a certificate or associate's degree can prepare you for work as a hotel or resort manager. Many schools offer certificate programs in casino management and hotel management. These programs usually consist of 12-35 credit hours and can be completed in 1-2 semesters. Hospitality management associate's programs usually require two years of study and include courses in food and beverage management, financial evaluation and the tourism industry.