Hospitality and Tourism Management, Associate of Applied Science
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Hospitality and Tourism Management degree will give students a competitive advantage in the leisure and tourism labor market. Students will receive a solid foundation in essential business skills such as human resources, accounting, business operations, law, marketing, sales, ethics, safety and sanitation, cost controls, and leadership. Food service and tourism industry-specific classes will round out the curriculum. Using specific electives students can choose to focus their studies with a selection of supportive courses. In addition to formal instruction, cooperative education internships are an integral part of the program and allow for on-the-job experiences related to the student’s career objectives.
Graduation Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 90 credit hours with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. All courses must be completed with a grade of 'C' or better. Twenty-four (24) credits must be completed at Southwestern before the degree is awarded.
Courses that are developmental in nature, (designed to prepare students for college transfer courses), are not applicable to this degree.
Complete the graduation application process one term prior to the term of completion (e.g., spring term graduates must apply during winter term)
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- Function in an entry-level through mid-level management position within the hospitality field.
- Demonstrate critical thinking in a business environment
- Identify the various components and career opportunities of the hospitality and tourism industry
- Apply adaptive managerial, supervisory and leadership practices in a variety of situations
- Operate in a context of legal, ethical, and service modes as practiced in the industry.
- Oversee and execute basic skills involving food preparation, and tourism operations.