Hospitality and Tourism

Turn your passion for creating unforgettable experiences, working with people, exploring the world into a global career. Explore NAU’s hands-on, industry-driven Hospitality and Tourism programs.

Hospitality and Tourism is the business of creating memorable experiences. Whether you’re managing a resort, planning a conference, or launching your own travel venture, NAU prepares you with leadership, customer service, and business skills for success in a global industry.

N A U's H R M students get hands-on experience at the Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona.

What is Hospitality and Tourism?

Hospitality and Tourism is the intersection of service, business, and global culture. Make people feel at home, anywhere in the world. You’ll learn how to lead teams, design guest experiences, and manage operations, preparing to thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.

What you'll study

NAU’s nationally ranked program blends classroom learning with real-world application. Guided by industry professionals, you’ll study:

  • Hotel and restaurant operations
  • Event planning and management
  • Tourism and travel trends
  • Guest service and experience design
  • Hospitality marketing and sales
  • Business management and leadership

Hands-on learning is at the core of Hospitality and Tourism degrees through internships, student-run operations, and partnerships with major hospitality brands.

Career possibilities

This fast-paced industry offers global opportunities in hotels, resorts, event planning, food and beverage management, cruise lines, tourism boards, and beyond. Whether you dream of managing luxury experiences or launching your own hospitality venture, your NAU degree will help get you there. Graduates with degrees in Hospitality and Tourism pursue job titles like:

  • Food and beverage director
  • Hotel general manager
  • Event planner
  • Front desk supervisor
  • Concierge
  • Chef
  • Travel agent

Hospitality and Tourism offered at NAU

Prepare to lead in one of the world’s most exciting industries. Learn more about NAU’s degrees in Hospitality and Tourism.

FAQs: Hospitality and Tourism degrees

What makes NAU’s Hospitality programs unique?

NAU’s Hotel and Restaurant Management program is consistently ranked among the nation’s best. You’ll learn from faculty with industry experience and connect with global brands through internships, mentoring, and recruitment.

Are there opportunities to study abroad with this field?

Yes! Many students gain global experience through study abroad programs and international internships with hospitality and tourism companies.

Do I need to be super outgoing and extroverted to succeed in this field?

No. While people skills help, success in hospitality also comes from organization, planning, and creative problem-solving, skills that support from behind the scenes, too.

Is this a business degree?

Yes. Hospitality is a service-based business. You’ll study finance, operations, human resources, and strategy, preparing for leadership roles in the industry.

Will I get real-world experience before I graduate?

Absolutely. From managing events to working in on-campus dining operations to completing internships with top companies, you’ll graduate with hands-on experience.