Meredith College will launch a new undergraduate program in hospitality management in 2018-19.

The new major is a collaboration between Meredith’s AACSB accredited business program and its ACEND accredited nutrition program.

“Hospitality management is a natural addition to Meredith’s offerings,” said President Jo Allen. “Our students are known for their work-readiness, communication skills, and attention to detail. These are three key qualities for the hospitality industry.”

The hospitality field is a half-trillion-dollar industry that continues to grow. Recent labor statistics show increasing hospitality management career opportunities that require a bachelor’s degree.

Meredith’s location in North Carolina’s capital, with plentiful opportunities for internships and employment, will benefit students planning to work in this field. Jobs in hotel management, travel and tourism management, restaurant management, event planning, and more are open to those with hospitality degrees.

Students earning a Bachelor of Science in hospitality management will be able to select from three concentration options: culinary management; hotel and lodging management; or event planning.

All students will take courses in business and nutrition, core hospitality courses including Principles of Hospitality Management, Hospitality Marketing & Sales, and Strategic Hospitality Management, along with specialized courses in their chosen concentration.

“With this new program, Meredith is leveraging the strong business and nutrition programs we already have,” said Kristie Ogilvie, dean of the School of Business. “Students in this program will chose from three solid disciplines, and will gain specialized knowledge along with a foundation in business and nutrition.”

Minors will also be available in hospitality management and event planning, both of which pair well with a variety of majors offered at Meredith.

Prospective students who are interested in learning more about the new program in hospitality management may contact Mary Jane Lenard, Associate Dean and Department Head, School of Business, at (919) 760-8488 or lenardmj@meredith.edu.