Education in hospitality and tourism management exposes students to industry-specific knowledge, trends, and best practices. This knowledge includes understanding consumer behaviour, market dynamics, sustainable practices, technological advancements, and cultural sensitivity. By staying abreast of industry developments, graduates can make informed decisions and drive innovation within their organizations.
The hospitality and tourism industry is dynamic and constantly evolving to meet changing customer preferences, technological advancements, and industry trends. Effective education instils a culture of continuous learning among professionals. Graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to adapt to emerging trends, embrace new technologies, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Many of these programs incorporate practical components such as internships, industry projects, and experiential learning opportunities. These hands-on experiences allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. They hone their problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills, making them more effective professionals upon graduation.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore has incorporated these components in its hospitality and tourism management program. The university has been providing hospitality management education of the highest standards with its Hospitality and Tourism Management Department.
It was founded in 1977 as Hospitality and Restaurant Management (HRM) originally, but changed to Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) in 2014, as a strategic move to reflect the department’s plan to broaden its course offerings to include every sector of the hospitality industry. The HTM Department also has The PGA Golf Management Program, which was established in 2007, with the first cohort arriving on campus in 2008 – it is the only HBCU to have an accredited PGM Program. To date, there are over 70 alumni that are Class ‘A’ PGA Members and are working all over the world.
Covering All the Bases of Educational Diversity
The Hospitality and Tourism Management department is one of the departments in the School of Business and Technology. The Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management is the only hospitality program authorized in the 13-school University of Maryland system. The PGA program is unique in the sense that the students in the PGA Golf Management major in Hospitality and Tourism Management, which gives the students an advantage over the other PGA Golf Management schools.
The department requires all HTM and PGA students to take a hospitality technology course taught by a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in hospitality technology. New trends and technologies are introduced to the class through assignments and lab exercises.
Students also receive training in the IC3 Digital Literacy Global Standard 6 (GS6), the latest version of the IC3 Digital Literacy program, measuring knowledge of fundamental concepts and essential components, working knowledge of each of the seven skill groups, and validating an advanced understanding of digital literacy which indicates that the candidate has the technical foundation needed to advance successfully along their educational and employment paths and support the development of more specialized technological skills.
Utopian Resources to Ensure Better Education
The PGA Golf Management Program, through Departmental support, has purchased the following equipment TrackMan Simulator, Swing Catalyst, Big Tilt Putting System and an Edge Golf Club Fitting System.
Each piece of equipment has a specific use throughout the PGA Curriculum and is the most relevant equipment the technology used in the golf industry. The TrackMan Simulator uses Doppler radar to evaluate golfers’ swings, which is particularly valuable in Teaching Methodology Courses.
The Swing Catalyst is utilized for instructional analysis of a golfer’s rational and verticle forces and can help students identify inefficiencies in the golf swing, as well as be utilized in teaching courses. The Big Tilt will assist with putting the performance of a golfer.
PGA Students will learn to use the Big Tilt in the Teaching Courses to guide their speed and directional control while practicing putting. Additionally, students will utilize the Tour Edge Fitting System in their Work Experience Activities throughout the PGA Curriculum to prepare for a career as a golf professional.
Providing Competitive Advantage in the Labour Market
Students interested in culinary benefit from Food Production, American and International Cuisine courses. The business-oriented student will benefit from Cost Control, Financial Analysis for the Hospitality Industry, and Resorts and Hotel Operations.
Travel and Tourism students benefit from Culinary Tourism, Literary Tourism, and Eco-Tourism courses. Event Management students benefit from Events Planning and Management, Meetings and Conventions, and Festival and Special Events taught by instructors who have planned, organized, coordinated, controlled and evaluated events from pre-event to post-event. These seasoned professors have managed their owned businesses and worked in companies like Walt Disney, Hyatt and Marriott Hotels, and other organizations.
Success Stories of Maryland
Maryland’s notable student, Eric Mason, recently accepted a position at the number one Resort in the state of Delaware as the Director of Golf. This will position him as becoming the next General Manager of the resort- which he credits his hospitality education for acquiring the skills and knowledge for his current position.
Another student, Jordan Evans, has accepted a Management-in-Training job with Walt Disney World Resort, Kylah Cheeves accepted a position with Marriott in Dallas, Texas, and D’Ayanna Fuller in Grey Wolf Lodge.
Sustaining in the Rapidly Changing Landscape
The students receive a broad base education covering the essential areas. The department helps students build skills to succeed in the areas they want to focus on and apply their learning to real-world experiences.
The HTM Program has partnerships with Walt Disney World resort, Hyatt Hotels, Marriott Hotels, Zardico, Grey Wolf Lodge, Atlas Restaurants, Explore Charleston, and many more organizations for internships and job opportunities upon graduation. Its partnership with American Hotel and Lodging Foundation provides scholarships for students on a yearly basis. It is also a partner of the PGA of America and its elected officers. The networking opportunities are tremendously rewarding for the students.
Diverse Perspective
One effective method of providing diverse perspectives and experiences is to apply student learning to real-world topics. Students take field trips, attend conferences and industry trade shows, and the department invites industry professionals into the Professional Development classrooms for career presentations and advice.
The employers discussed, and others have provided opportunities for students to find internships. These partnerships have been very successful. The PGA Golf Management Program required 16 months of internships. It yields 100 percent internship and job placement among the current and graduating students.
The department is working on issues in diversity, equity, inclusion, social justice, and a fully integrated online learning platform.
Students are required to take TMGT 306 Eco Tourism, which is a study of purposeful travel to natural habitats to create an understanding of the cultural and natural history pertaining to the environment. The course emphasizes the philosophy of not altering the ecosystem while producing economic benefits to local people and governments that encourage the preservation of the inherent resources of the environment locally and elsewhere.
Ensuring a Rewarding and Memorable Educational Journey
The Office of Human Resources at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore warmly welcomes the new arrival, expressing sincere wishes that their tenure at the institution has been both enjoyable and enlightening. The office has made it clear that their primary purpose has been to provide assistance not only in matters related to employment but also in various other aspects aimed at ensuring a rewarding and memorable educational journey for the individual.
The message has stressed that UMES students have the opportunity to engage in campus employment through various avenues, with particular attention given to the Student Workship Program. The newcomers are encouraged to explore the information provided to gain a solid understanding of how the Student Workshop Program has contributed to their educational experience and the necessary steps to secure employment within this program. Furthermore, the website has been mentioned as a resource for information regarding off-campus employment options.
The Office of Human Resources at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore has placed a strong emphasis on the satisfaction of the individual, assuring them that each staff member has been dedicated to their well-being. They have extended an open invitation to visit their physical office for any questions or concerns that might arise after browsing their website.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore eagerly anticipates meeting newcomers and discussing how they can offer assistance in securing on-campus employment.
Cultivating an Inclusive Environment
Student Engagement at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is deeply committed to providing a rich array of opportunities to its students. These encompass educational, cultural, social, recreational, and leadership experiences that contribute to the holistic growth of individuals.
In pursuit of this commitment, Student Engagement tirelessly develops and implements strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs of the university community. The overarching goal is to cultivate an inclusive environment that not only supports academic endeavors but also plays a crucial role in enhancing student retention and graduation rates.
Student Engagement envisions its role as an extension of the educational process, actively seeking to expand the horizons for students to explore and nurture their unique skills and talents. This vision is realized through the promotion of personal development via active participation in leadership experiences, engagement in student organizations, involvement in university-sponsored activities, and contribution to community service initiatives. These opportunities collectively prepare students for success in a competitive global society.
The Office of Student Engagement serves as a hub for the multitude of opportunities available to UMES students. These encompass a wide spectrum, including leadership roles for students, participation in Greek life, membership in various clubs and organizations, engagement in community service projects, support for commuter students, involvement in intramural sports and recreational activities, and attendance at numerous cultural and social events tailored to the student community.
It is emphasized that the college years encompass not only academic growth but also social development. Joining a student organization is highlighted as a particularly valuable avenue for students to reap a multitude of benefits. These advantages include forging new friendships, honing leadership skills, mastering teamwork, setting and achieving personal goals, sharing one’s time and talents with the community, and, of course, enjoying the inherent fun and fulfillment that comes with active participation. As students embark on their journey at UMES and begin to seize these opportunities, they are encouraged to recognize that the more deeply they engage, the more enriching and meaningful their college experience will become.
Student Engagement, at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, is dedicated to providing a wide range of educational, cultural, social, recreational, and leadership opportunities to its students.
In alignment with its mission, the department continuously develops and implements strategies that cater to the diverse needs of the university community. These initiatives are designed to create an environment that not only supports students during their academic journey but also contributes to higher retention and graduation rates.
As a pivotal component of the overall educational process, Student Engagement envisions enhancing the avenues for students to explore their unique skills and talents. By actively encouraging personal growth through participation in leadership experiences, involvement in student organizations, engagement in university activities, and participation in community service projects, the department aims to equip students with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive global society.
The Office of Student Engagement serves as the central hub for various opportunities available to students at UMES. These encompass a wide array of options, such as student leadership roles, participation in Greek life, membership in clubs and organizations, engagement in community service initiatives, support for commuter students, opportunities in intramural sports and recreation, and participation in numerous cultural and social events specifically designed for students.
It is emphasized that the college years are not just about academic growth but also about social development. Joining a student organization is highlighted as a valuable pathway for students to reap numerous benefits. These advantages include forming new friendships, honing leadership skills, collaborating effectively within a team, setting and achieving personal goals, contributing time and talents to various causes, and, of course, having a great deal of fun along the way. As students begin to explore the opportunities presented at UMES, they are encouraged to recognize that the more they get involved, the richer and more meaningful their college experience will become.
