Hospitality and Events Management, BS
About the Program
Discover the expansive world of opportunities with our dynamic Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Events Management (HEM) program at the University of North Alabama!
UNA’s HEM program’s unique curriculum inspires critical thinking while developing problem-solving skills through creativity in team-based environments, provides a strong foundation, and builds communication skills that empower you to shape your future in the industry. Small class sizes are taught by experienced international faculty with wide-ranging global industry experience, while career-defining internships foster strong relationships with industry professionals, guiding you toward a successful and rewarding career amid an ever-changing global economy.
UNA also offers numerous Study Abroad courses. We understand that life is full of exciting opportunities, and we support pursuing all your interests while exploring your options using the open electives in this program.
Whether you’re a fresh-faced student on-campus or a working professional seeking to add to your career credentials on your schedule through our online modality, our HEM program provides the precise learning model necessary to enter this exciting field.
Time to Complete
4 years
Modality Offered
On Campus/Online
Credentials
Bachelor Degree
Why the University of North Alabama?
With its small class sizes, experiential learning opportunities, and access to our enthusiastic, expert faculty who invest in your academic journey, UNA is uniquely positioned as a leader in academic excellence within the South and beyond.
Internships
Our program provides students with the opportunity to meet potential employers through visiting guest speakers and field trips. Internships are designed to give students the experience companies look for when hiring new employees and start growing a network of industry connections that will provide them with more opportunities throughout their careers.
These connections have allowed our past students to participate in internships with many of the leading companies in our industry, such as those listed below.
- Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
- Marriott Hotels
- Residence Inn by Marriott
- Yedla Management
- Vacasa Vacation Home and Rentals
- Southern Sky Aviation
- Omni Hotels & Resorts
- Compass Group
Curriculum
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General Education Component | ||
| Area I (Written Composition) | 6 | |
| Area II (Humanities and Fine Arts) | 12 | |
| Area III (Natural Sciences and Mathematics) | 11 | |
| Area IV (History, Social and Behavioral Sciences) | 12 | |
| Area V Additional Requirements | ||
| HEM 125 | Managing Technology in Hospitality | 3 |
| HEM 102 | Introduction to the Hospitality Industry | 3 |
| HEM 200 | Tourism Planning and Development | 3 |
| HEM 202 | Lodging Systems | 3 |
| HEM 204 | Managing Hospitality Human Resources | 3 |
| CAM 112 | Food Safety and Sanitation | 3 |
| Elective | 2-3 | |
| Major Core Requirements | ||
| HEM 203 | Sustainability in Hotel, Restaurant, and Event Operations | 3 |
| HEM 302 | Security and Risk Management | 3 |
| HEM 305 | Resort Operations Management | 3 |
| HEM 306 | Conventions, Meetings and Trade Show Management II | 3 |
| CAM 335 | Event Planning | 3 |
| HEM 307 | Club Management | 3 |
| HEM 308 | Food and Beverage Operations Management | 3 |
| HEM 402 | Lodging Management | 3 |
| HEM 403 | Hospitality Law | 3 |
| HEM 404 | Hospitality Organizational Management | 3 |
| HEM 405 | Gaming and Casino Operations Management | 3 |
| HEM 406 | Property Management | 3 |
| HEM 407 | Senior Living Operations Management | 3 |
| CAM 430 | Food and Beverage Cost Control | 3 |
| or CAM 400 | Hospitality Facilities Mgt | |
| or CAM 455 | Quantity Food Production | |
| or CAM 426 | Adv. Pastries and Desserts | |
| CAM 465W | Hospitality Senior Project | 3 |
| or FASH 341W | Textiles and Materials | |
| CAM 327 | Internship I | 3 |
| CAM 427 | Internship II | 3 |
| Elective Hours at the 300/400 level | 9 | |
| A minor is not required for this major. | ||
| Total Hours | 121-122 | |
What can I do with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Events Management?
As a graduate with a bachelor’s in Hospitality and Events Management from UNA, many opportunities await you. Our deeply invested faculty confidently empowers you in your learned skillsets while providing personalized recommendations for diverse career paths in the following fields.
Do you enjoy travel? The hotel industry can provide a dynamic and rewarding career path in the thriving global hospitality industry. Hotel managers oversee operations, provide exceptional guest experiences, and unlock exciting personal and professional growth opportunities. More than 187,000 hotels globally employ more than 10 million workers, allowing you to work anywhere globally. Furthermore, the hotel industry offers employee perks that make travel to exotic locations much more affordable.
Some of the job titles UNA graduates may qualify for include:
Do you love entertaining and creating memorable, fun experiences? Whether you want to plan weddings, celebrations, corporate events, conventions and conferences, concerts, festivals, or fundraisers, the world of Events Management offers diverse and exciting career paths with competitive starting salaries and benefits packages. Event planners can work for hotels, resorts, convention centers, private clubs, destination management companies, and even Fortune 500 companies. Some of the job titles UNA graduates may qualify for include:
- Event Director
- Wedding Planner
- Event Planner
- Event Sales Professional
- Banquet Manager
- Banquet Captain
- Kitchen Manager
The food and beverage industry has changed dramatically over the past few decades. Whether you are interested in fine dining, franchising, or launching your concept, the restaurant industry has something for everyone. This industry employs over 15 million people, and over 50% of businesses are understaffed. The need for skilled employees continues to be strong. Some of the job titles UNA graduates may qualify for include:
- Entrepreneur
- Franchise Owner
- Management
- General Manager
- Dining Room Manager
- Kitchen Manager
- Shift Leader