Best Tourism Degrees

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on October 18, 2023

By some measures, tourism may already be the world’s largest industry, with annual revenue approaching $500 billion.” – peopleandplanet.net

An online Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management or a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management and Tourism provides a major step in getting a foot in the door to this massively growing industry and once inside, people have extensive career options.

A hospitality management degree online program provides students the business skills and cultural education necessary to run travel agencies, organize cultural attractions, operate a food service business, plan meetings as well as large conventions and events, facilitate operations at hotels, theme parks, casinos and resorts, promote tourism, and arrange individual, group, or corporate trips and tours around the world.

A hospitality management online degree allows students to work in sectors such as food service operations, visitor bureaus and conventions, recreational business, tourism development agencies, hotels, resorts, theme parks, international travel and tourism agencies, airlines, and casinos. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 8% employment growth for hotel meeting planners from 2022 to 2032, and a average salary of $52,560 a year.

Hospitality management online degree programs vary widely across the universities and colleges. Tourism and hospitality degree programs offer bachelor and master degrees in many different concentrations and specializations, such as tourism, hospitality, travel, recreation, and event/meeting management.

Programs in the field offer courses such as tourism and hospitality marketing, food service management, brand management, travel law, international travel, hospitality and tourism management, sustainability in hospitality and tourism, operational management, corporate finance, and economics of travel and tourism.

taj mahalTo earn a tourism degree students usually take required general business courses and decide on a program track in areas such as hospitality management, tourism management, or a related field. In most tourism degree programs students take all required courses as well as electives, complete an internship, and finalize their studies with a comprehensive capstone course which includes a practicum and/or research paper.

Best Tourism Degree

Programs

2023


The Best Schools

Tourism Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Rankings Methodology
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Add up to three schools to compare

The schools are listed in alphabetical order. The list includes mainly bachelor degree programs and a few master degree programs.

The Best Tourism Degree Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1

Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix

  • Phoenix, AZ
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix offers 25 bachelor's degrees across in-person and online learning modalities. The school's bachelor's in tourism program prepares students for the field's demands through rigorous study. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to a tourism-specific career or further studies in the subject.

Degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Students seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility. Financial aid enables student success, with 98% of all students receiving aid and 58% of all enrollees graduating.

Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 82%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,710

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,800

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200

57%

Online Enrollment

$10,710

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

85%

Retention Rate

$28,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
11,420
Institution Type
Public
#2

Brigham Young University-Hawaii

  • Laie, HI
  • 4 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

Brigham Young University-Hawaii, boasting a main campus in Laie, offers 66 bachelor's degrees across in-person and online learning modalities. The school's bachelor's in hospitality and tourism management program equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. After the program, students can apply their knowledge to a tourism career or graduate studies.

Learners can receive guidance throughout their studies through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.

Brigham Young University-Hawaii at a Glance:

Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 97%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,720

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,720

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,600

21%

Online Enrollment

$5,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

61%

Retention Rate

$5,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
3,096
Institution Type
Private
#3

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Miami-based Florida International University supports both in-person and online learning across 78 bachelor's degrees. The school's bachelor of arts in global sustainable tourism prepares students for the demands of a tourism career through rigorous study, relevant coursework, and other learning opportunities. Graduates can also pivot to a master's program.

Undergraduate students benefit from institutional support throughout their studies in numerous areas. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree. The typical undergraduate receives an average of $8,958 in financial aid.

Florida International University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 58%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,721

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,529

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,500

68%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,721

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

89%

Retention Rate

$16,529

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
Institution Type
Public
#4

George Mason University

  • Fairfax, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

George Mason University, a leader in hybrid education, offers 70 bachelor's programs, three of which are available online. The online bachelor's in tourism and events management program connects students with industry-relevant knowledge and skillsets needed to succeed in the field. The program prepares enrollees for their postgraduate path, whether they pursue a tourism-specific career or graduate studies.

Degree candidates can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree. The college reports that enrollees receive $6,524 in financial aid, on average.

George Mason University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 87%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,060

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $32,520

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,000

33%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,060

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

86%

Retention Rate

$32,520

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
37,863
Institution Type
Public
#5

Indiana University-Bloomington

  • Bloomington, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Learners seeking flexible study can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs at Indiana University-Bloomington. The school's bachelor of science in recreation equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. The program prepares students for the demands of a field or for graduate studies in the tourism market.

Students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Enrollees can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. The college reports that 84% of all learners receive some form of financial aid, with $11,645 being the average award package.

Indiana University-Bloomington at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 78%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,575

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $35,140

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,200

19%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,575

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

90%

Retention Rate

$35,140

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
#6

Johnson & Wales University-Online

  • Providence, RI
  • 4 year
  • Online
  • Accredited

A leader in hybrid education, Johnson & Wales University-Online supports 16 bachelor's degrees, all of which are available online. Students seeking the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the tourism field can enroll in the school's online bachelor of science in tourism and hospitality management program. Graduates can pursue careers or postgraduate study relevant to the hospitality management field.

The college connects students with institutional resources throughout their studies. Learners can connect with the Office of Financial Aid to explore funding opportunities such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.

Johnson & Wales University-Online at a Glance:

Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 41%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,365

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,365

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,400

N/A

Online Enrollment

$13,365

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

25%

Retention Rate

$13,365

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
1,752
Institution Type
Private
#7

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students looking for flexible study in dual modalities can choose from one of New York University's 137 bachelor's degrees. The bachelor of science in hotel and tourism management is an impressive online program, equipping enrollees with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the tourism market. Graduates can pursue industry-relevant careers or go on to study at the graduate level.

The institution connects students with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Learners seeking to defray degree costs can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility.

New York University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 16%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $50,684

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $50,684

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $55,900

10%

Online Enrollment

$50,684

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

94%

Retention Rate

$50,684

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
52,885
Institution Type
Private
#8

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Purdue University-Main Campus, a leader in hybrid education, offers 145 bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in hospitality and tourism management is one of many robust programs, equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge. Graduates can move into a career or further educational pursuits.

Students can benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. The institution reports that 65% of all enrollees receive aid, with an average financial aid package being $9,883.

Purdue University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 60%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,208

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,010

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $49,000

22%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,208

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

91%

Retention Rate

$28,010

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
#9

Rochester Institute of Technology

  • Rochester, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Rochester Institute of Technology, a leader in hybrid education, offers 85 bachelor's programs, three of which are available online. The school's bachelor of science in hospitality and tourism management equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers or postgraduate study relevant to the tourism field.

Throughout their studies, degree candidates can access institutional resources centering geared toward student success. Dedicated financial aid counselors can help learners understand their available education funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.

Rochester Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 71%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $44,049

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $44,049

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $50,600

18%

Online Enrollment

$44,049

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

88%

Retention Rate

$44,049

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
16,254
Institution Type
Private
#10

Temple University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Temple University boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 137 bachelor's programs. One option includes the bachelor of science in tourism and hospitality management. After the program, students can pursue a hospitality management-specific career or graduate studies.

Learners can benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree. The average student receives a financial aid award package of $8,964.

Temple University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 60%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $16,080

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,992

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200

21%

Online Enrollment

$16,080

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

89%

Retention Rate

$28,992

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
38,794
Institution Type
Public
#11

Texas A&M University-College Station

  • College Station, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

A leader in hybrid education, Texas A&M University-College Station supports 112 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in recreation, park, and tourism sciences. The program equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. The program also prepares enrollees for the discipline needed to complete graduate studies.

The college connects learners with institutional resources throughout their studies. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree. Students receive an average of $10,115 in financial aid.

Texas A&M University-College Station at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 58%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,941

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $34,190

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $53,600

14%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,941

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$34,190

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
68,726
Institution Type
Public
#12

University of Hawaii-West Oahu

  • Kapolei, HI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

A leader in hybrid education, University of Hawaii-West Oahu offers six bachelor's degrees, three of which are available online. The school's bachelor of arts in business administration with a concentration in hospitality and tourism is an ideal choice for students seeking to advance in a tourism-related career. After the program, students can apply their knowledge to a career or graduate studies.

Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering around student success. Prospective applicants can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine eligibility, and apply for student loans. Financial aid enables student success, with 73% of all enrollees receiving aid and 28% of all degree-seekers graduating.

University of Hawaii-West Oahu at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 84%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,344

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,304

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,300

71%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,344

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

76%

Retention Rate

$20,304

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
3,049
Institution Type
Public
#13

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

  • Amherst, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Massachusetts-Amherst provides 84 bachelor's degrees in dual modalities. The school's bachelor's in hospitality and tourism management is an ideal choice for students seeking to advance in the field. Graduates can pursue a tourism-related career or further their education.

Students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Learners seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility. The college's undergraduate cohort receives an average of $7,894 in financial aid award package, per person.

University of Massachusetts-Amherst at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 64%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,791

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $35,112

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,200

15%

Online Enrollment

$15,791

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

91%

Retention Rate

$35,112

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
31,350
Institution Type
Public
#14

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

  • Durham, NH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus  supports both in-person and online learning across 86 bachelor's degrees. The school offers a bachelor's in tourism management which, through a robust education, equips students with the skills needed to succeed in the field. The program also prepares students for the discipline needed to complete graduate studies.

The college supports enrollees through many institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine eligibility, and apply for student loans. Financial aid enables student success, with 90% of all enrollees receiving aid and 76% of all students graduating.

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 84%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,520

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $32,050

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,900

16%

Online Enrollment

$15,520

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

86%

Retention Rate

$32,050

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
14,788
Institution Type
Public
#15

University of Southern Maine

  • Portland, ME
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Southern Maine, a leader in hybrid education, offers 66 bachelor's programs, six of which are available online. The school's bachelor's in tourism and hospitality equips students with the skills needed to succeed in the field. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to a tourism-specific career or further studies in the subject.

Degree candidates benefit from institutional support throughout their studies. Dedicated financial aid counselors can help learners understand their available education funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Financial aid enables student success, with 97% of all learners receiving aid and 40% of all enrollees graduating.

University of Southern Maine at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 4-year or above

Admission Rate: 81%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,868

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,692

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,600

40%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,868

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

69%

Retention Rate

$20,692

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
8,429
Institution Type
Public