Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management and Tourism
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management and Tourism is perfect for students who are passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences and managing travel, tourism, and event operations. This program prepares graduates for careers in hotel management, event planning, tourism development, and food service operations, with expertise in customer service, business strategy, and cultural awareness.
Program Overview
The Hospitality Management and Tourism (HMT) program will prepare you for the specialized knowledge needed within the hospitality industry. The degree will help you become a professional focused on technology and consumer needs within the service industry. The Hospitality Management and Tourism (HMT) bachelor of science program integrates service management principles, marketing techniques, and financial management into a curriculum focused on managing a variety of facilities. Our coursework challenges students to think creatively across marketing, communication, management, and facility operations. Courses provide students with the knowledge and experience they need to understand current trends and applications in the hospitality and tourism industries. HMT students complete hands-on projects focusing on several aspects of hospitality and tourism: destination marketing & management, food & beverage, lodging, attractions, convention and meeting planning, non-profit management and special event coordinating. Come See for yourself yo learn more about this program, campus life, and chat with an advisor, schedule a campus visit. Virtual visits may be necessary in some cases.
Related Careers
The Hospitality Management and Tourism degree will prepare you for careers in domestic or international destinations in the hospitality and tourism industries, such as:
• Amusement park supervisor
• Banquet/catering director
• Concert/festival producer
• Entrepreneur
• Event planner
• Food and service manager
• Hotel operations director
• Park administrator
• Sales director
• Tour director
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management and Tourism program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry, including lodging, food and beverage management, event planning, and tourism development. The curriculum blends business fundamentals with industry-specific knowledge, covering topics such as service operations, hospitality marketing, financial management, and sustainable tourism. Students develop practical and analytical skills through experiential learning and real-world applications in customer service, leadership, and hospitality systems. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
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Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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Live in a community full of others who share your interests in agriculture, food and environment! Community members also gain access to specialized programs that foster relationships, professional growth, and community.
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