Frequently Asked Questions  ABOUT THE Graduate Program in Hospitality Management

What are the foundation requirements?

Foundations are a group of classes that need to be satisfactorily completed before continuing on to the core in the School of Hospitality Management. They can be taken on campus during the daytime hours.

They have 500 level numbers and are cross listed with the corresponding undergraduate courses. Accounting and economics foundations classes are offered by the School of Business.

• BUS 520 is the classroom version in accounting. 
• BUS 528 is the self-study version of accounting. 
• BUS 530 is the classroom version of economics. 
• BUS 538 is the self-study version of economics. 
• BUS 510 is the classroom version of quantitative methods and BUS 518 is the directed study version of quantitative methods.

Foundations can also be taken by certification and correspondence through the American Hotel and Lodging Association.

In addition, the program expects completion of 400 hours of industry work experience for those applicants without an undergraduate major in hospitality management.  For those candidates with a hospitality background, a minimum of one year of full time supervisory or managerial experience is expected as a condition for acceptance.

Do all students need foundations?

Students without an undergraduate degree in hospitality management need the foundation classes.  Those with an undergraduate degree in hospitality management typically need no foundation courses and move directly to the core.

How long will the program take?

The program is part-time evening study.  Most students can finish in two calendar years including thesis defense if no foundation courses are needed.  Students usually take two courses (each semester) that equals six credits.  International students take a three credit (no tuition fee) internship that allows them to work and qualify as full-time students.

Widener University
One Place University
Chester, PA 19013
tel: 610-499-1101
fax: 610-499-1106