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Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Industry

5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
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Ernest P. Boger D.Mgt

Looking for a career that will never grow old? Looking for a job you can perform anywhere in the world? Looking for a daily business work environment of natural beauty, fun, entertainment, service, and creativity? Then, look no further than the Hospitality/Tourism Industry. This is a specialized "service industry" and just happens to be the world’s largest. The U.S. Travel Association reports that in 2018, travelers spent nearly $1.1 trillion in the U.S.—generating $171 billion in tax revenues for federal, state and local governments. This is just the United States! Worldwide figures will easily double that and more.

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Looking for a career that will never grow old? Looking for a job you can perform anywhere in the world? Looking for a daily business work environment of natural beauty, fun, entertainment, service, and creativity? Then, look no further than the Hospitality/Tourism Industry. This is a specialized "service industry" and just happens to be the world’s largest. The U.S. Travel Association reports that in 2018, travelers spent nearly $1.1 trillion in the U.S.—generating $171 billion in tax revenues for federal, state and local governments. This is just the United States! Worldwide figures will easily double that and more.

This course will significantly expand your knowledge horizons with respect to the Hospitality/Tourism industry and start you along the academic pathway necessary to get your share of this enormous and extremely delicious career pie. Some specific job areas are event planning, food service, hotel/resort operations, human resources, tourism management, tour operations, and travel industry marketing. Enjoy!

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Engage in meaningful hospitality/tourism industry conversation, using appropriate professional language
  • Discuss the broad variety of exciting hospitality/tourism industry careers
  • Locate and explore the treasure of resources available for further study
  • The course will enable learners to:

Syllabus

Week 0 – Getting Started
Course Information
Getting Help & Guidelines
Course Completion
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the Hospitality/Tourism industry, which is standard in the hospitality and tourism industry
Teaches a broad variety of exciting Hospitality/tourism industry careers, which helps learners start their journey in the hospitality and tourism industry
Provides access to resources for further study, which helps learners continue their education in hospitality and tourism
Taught by Ernest P. Boger D.Mgt, who are recognized for their work in hospitality and tourism
Examines the Hospitality/Tourism industry, which is highly relevant to hospitality and tourism

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Reviews summary

Broad introduction to hospitality and tourism

According to learners, this course provides a solid and comprehensive overview of the vast hospitality and tourism industry. Students report it is particularly useful for exploring the wide array of career opportunities within the sector, touching upon areas like food service, lodging, and travel. Many found the course helpful in building a foundational understanding and learning relevant industry jargon. While the course is highly recommended for beginners seeking an introduction, some with prior experience noted its introductory nature might not provide deep dives into specific complex topics. Overall, it is seen as a valuable starting point for those considering a career in the field.
Best suited for newcomers to the field.
"This course is perfect for someone with absolutely no prior knowledge."
"It's definitely an introductory course, covering the basics well but not going into great depth."
"If you're new to hospitality, this provides a good starting point."
Offers links for continued learning.
"The additional resources provided for further study were a great bonus."
"I liked that they pointed me towards places to find more information."
"Having links to explore topics deeper was very useful."
Introduces key professional language.
"I appreciated learning the specific jargon used in the industry."
"The module on cracking the code of industry language was very helpful."
"It made me feel more confident engaging in industry conversations."
Helpful for identifying job opportunities.
"This course was excellent for exploring the different career paths available."
"It really helped me understand the potential jobs I could pursue."
"Learning about various roles like lodging, food service, and tourism management was very insightful."
Provides a broad look at the industry.
"This course provided a great overview of the hospitality and tourism industry."
"I gained a broad understanding of the different areas within this sector."
"It covered all the essential aspects to give me a solid foundation."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Industry with these activities:
Attend a hospitality industry trade show or conference
Get a first-hand look at the latest trends, innovations, and products in the hospitality industry.
Show steps
  • Research upcoming hospitality industry events in your area or online.
  • Register for the event and make travel arrangements if necessary.
  • Attend the event, take notes, and connect with professionals in the field.
Show all one activities

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Industry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Travel Agent
Travel Agents help plan and book trips for individuals and groups. In this role, you would use your knowledge of the Hospitality and Tourism industry to create memorable experiences for travelers. This course can provide you with the foundational knowledge to build your career path in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Travel Agent
Tour Operator
Tour Operators organize and lead tours for groups of travelers. You would be responsible for developing itineraries, arranging transportation and accommodations, and providing guidance to tourists. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course will give you the knowledge and skills to be a successful Tour Operator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tour Operator
Hotel Manager
Hotel Managers oversee the operations of hotels and other lodging establishments. You would be responsible for managing staff, ensuring guest satisfaction, and maximizing revenue. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as lodging sector and operations, which will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed as a Hotel Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hotel Manager
Restaurant Manager
Restaurant Managers oversee the operations of restaurants and other food service establishments. You would be responsible for managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, and maximizing revenue. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as food service sector and operations, which will provide you with the knowledge and skills to excel as a Restaurant Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Restaurant Manager
Event Planner
Event Planners organize and manage events such as weddings, conferences, and parties. You would be responsible for planning the event, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers event planning topics, which will give you a solid foundation for a career in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Event Planner
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns for businesses and organizations. You would be responsible for developing marketing strategies, creating marketing materials, and managing marketing budgets. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers tourism industry marketing, which will provide you with the knowledge and skills to be a successful Marketing Manager in this sector.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers develop and execute sales strategies for businesses and organizations. You would be responsible for developing sales strategies, managing sales teams, and closing deals. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers tourism management and marketing, which will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed as a Sales Manager in this industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers manage the public relations for businesses and organizations. You would be responsible for developing and executing public relations campaigns, managing media relations, and protecting the reputation of the organization. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as tourism management and event planning, which will provide you with foundational knowledge for a career in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers oversee the human resources functions of businesses and organizations. You would be responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and developing employees. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as human resources management, which will provide you with the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager
Financial Manager
Financial Managers oversee the financial operations of businesses and organizations. You would be responsible for developing and executing financial plans, managing budgets, and ensuring financial compliance. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as business finance, which will give you the foundational knowledge to succeed as a Financial Manager in this industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Manager
Operations Manager
Operations Managers oversee the operations of businesses and organizations. You would be responsible for developing and executing operational plans, managing staff, and ensuring efficient operations. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as operations management, which will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects. You would be responsible for developing project plans, managing project teams, and ensuring project success. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as project management, which will provide you with the foundational knowledge to succeed as a Project Manager in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analysts conduct market research to identify and analyze customer needs and trends. You would be responsible for developing and executing market research plans, collecting and analyzing data, and providing insights to businesses. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as tourism management and marketing, which will give you a foundation for a career in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. You would be responsible for identifying and analyzing business problems, developing and implementing solutions, and measuring the results. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as business analysis, which will provide you with the foundational knowledge to succeed as a Business Analyst in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and patterns. You would be responsible for developing and executing data analysis plans, collecting and analyzing data, and providing insights to businesses. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry course covers topics such as business intelligence, which will give you the foundational knowledge to succeed as a Data Analyst in this industry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Industry.
Cover image
Hospitality Management
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the hospitality industry and its various sectors, including hotels, restaurants, and tourism. It covers topics such as operations, marketing, finance, and human resources.
Hotel Accommodation Management (Hospitality...
Paperback
$$
Hospitality Management: A Brief Introduction
Kindle Edition
$$$
The SAGE Handbook of Hospitality Management
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Key Concepts in Hospitality Management (SAGE Key...
Paperback Bunko
Check Price
Cover image
Tourism
Save
This textbook examines the theoretical and practical aspects of tourism management. It covers topics such as destination planning, marketing, and sustainability.
Tourism
Paperback
$$$
Rural Tourism and Enterprise: Management, Marketing...
Paperback
$$
Contemporary Marketing Management for Tourism and...
Hardcover
$$$$
Research Themes for Tourism
Hardcover
$$$
[(Tourism: The Key Concepts )] [Author: Peter...
Unknown Binding
$$$
Events Management (CABI Tourism Texts) (2010-12-02)
Paperback
$$$$
Tourism: The Key Concepts (Routledge Key Guides)
Kindle Edition
$$
Events Management (Tourism Studies)
Kindle Edition
$$$
Tourism, 2nd Edition
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Eiffel
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the tourism industry, from its history and development to its current trends and challenges.
Eiffel: The Genius Who Reinvented Himself
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Consumer Behaviour in Tourism
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of marketing in the tourism and hospitality industry, covering topics such as market research,segmentation, and marketing communications.
Consumer Behaviour in Tourism
Paperback
$$$
Consumer Behaviour in Tourism
Kindle Edition
$$$
Consumer Behaviour In Tourism
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Professional Chef
Save
This cookbook provides a comprehensive overview of culinary techniques and recipes, from basic to advanced.
The Professional Chef
Hardcover
$$$
The Professional Chef
Hardcover
$$$
The Professional Pastry Chef: Fundamentals of...
Kindle Edition
$$$
The Professional Chef & Creating Your Culinary...
Hardcover
$$$$
Instructors Manual to Accompany The Professional...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Marketing for Hospitality and Tourism
Save
This textbook examines the business side of the hospitality industry, covering topics such as financial management, marketing, and strategic planning.
Marketing for Hospitality and Tourism
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Event Planning and Management
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the event management profession, from planning and budgeting to marketing and evaluation.
Event Planning and Management: Principles, Planning...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
The China Study: Revised and Expanded Edition
Save
This textbook examines the strategic management of hospitality businesses, covering topics such as market analysis, competitive advantage, and growth strategies.
AMERICAN WEST BOOKS The China Study Revised...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Practical Housekeeping. A Careful Compilation of...
Save
This practical guide provides detailed instructions on the various aspects of hotel housekeeping, from cleaning and maintenance to linen management and guest relations.
Practical Housekeeping. A Careful Compilation of...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Management
Save
This textbook provides an overview of human resources management in the hospitality industry, covering topics such as recruitment, training, and performance management.
Management
Paperback
Check
Management
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Event Planning
Save
This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to plan and execute successful events, from small gatherings to large-scale conferences.
The Business of Event Planning: Behind-the-Scenes...
Hardcover
$$
Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide To Successful...
Kindle Edition
$$
Event Planning : The Ultimate Guide to Successful...
Hardcover
$$
Marketing Your Event Planning Business: A Creative...
Hardcover
$$
Confessions of an Event Planner: Case Studies from...
Kindle Edition
$$
Event Planning Ethics and Etiquette: A Principled...
Hardcover
$$
Time Management for Event Planners: Expert...
Kindle Edition
$$
By Judy Allen Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide To...
Unknown Binding
$$$
Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide to Successful...
Hardcover
$$$

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Course image
Rating
5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Effort
1 to 2 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institutions
University System of Maryland
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Instructor
Ernest P. Boger D.Mgt
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the Hospitality/Tourism industry, which is standard in the hospitality and tourism industry
Teaches a broad variety of exciting Hospitality/tourism industry careers, which helps learners start their journey in the hospitality and tourism industry
Provides access to resources for further study, which helps learners continue their education in hospitality and tourism
Taught by Ernest P. Boger D.Mgt, who are recognized for their work in hospitality and tourism
Examines the Hospitality/Tourism industry, which is highly relevant to hospitality and tourism
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