Hospitality and Tourism Saint Cloud State University

Overview

The Hospitality and Tourism programme at Saint Cloud State University prepares students for leadership roles within one of the world's most dynamic and fastest-growing global industries. This degree focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of managing tour companies, travel services, and international destinations.

Students gain unique insights into the operational requirements of airlines, hotels, and cruise lines while developing expertise in corporate and group travel arrangements. The curriculum is designed to build a professional toolbox encompassing sales, marketing, and convention planning to ensure graduates are ready for the modern workforce.

Why Hospitality and Tourism at Saint Cloud State University?

Saint Cloud State University holds the distinction of being the only institution in Minnesota to offer a four-year bachelor's degree in this specific field. This unique position provides students with a competitive edge in the regional and national job market through specialised academic training and industry-aligned resources.

The institution maintains strong partnerships with over seventy companies and agencies, facilitating high-quality internships that allow students to apply classroom principles in real-world settings. Notable partners include the Walt Disney College Program, Mall of America, and the Minnesota Office of Tourism, providing elite networking opportunities.

Global perspective is a core component of the learning experience, with faculty leading annual educational tours to international locations such as London, Paris, Spain, Italy, and Ghana. These excursions allow students to examine the latest industry issues firsthand while exploring diverse cultural and economic landscapes across several continents.

On-campus development is supported by active student organisations, including the Hospitality and Tourism Club and the International Geographic Honor Society. The annual Travel Career Day further connects students with seasoned professionals, offering direct insight into the evolving demands of the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 19912 per year
• National fee: USD 19912 per year
• Local fee: USD 9386 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Hospitality and Tourism
• Marketing
• Sales
• Travel and Tourism
• Convention Planning
• Destination Management
• Sustainable Tourism Development

Careers with Hospitality and Tourism

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles across the $6 trillion global travel industry, focusing on both management and operational strategy. The programme's strong emphasis on professional networking and practical experience ensures that students are well-positioned for immediate employment upon completion of their studies.

Common career paths for graduates include roles in travel marketing and sales, meeting and convention planning, and group travel coordination. Many alumni also find success in corporate travel management, destination development, and the growing field of sustainable tourism planning within international agencies.

The success of the programme is reflected in its notable alumni, such as the presidents of major hospitality corporations who oversee extensive portfolios of hotels and resorts. Graduates frequently secure positions with airlines, event planning firms, and global tour operators, contributing to the industry's continued expansion.