With tourism surging across Montana—attracting $5 billion in visitor spending and supporting thousands of jobs—Montana State University (MSU) is stepping up with new, dynamic educational programs tailored to fuel the state’s hospitality industry growth.
Meeting Tourism’s Growing Demand: New Education Pathways
1. One-Year Certificate in Hospitality (Gallatin College MSU)
Starting this August, Gallatin College MSU introduces a 30-credit Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) in Hospitality. Students gain foundational training in business communication, culinary arts, and hotel management—all crafted to align with Montana’s tourism landscape. Supported by a $1 million grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, the program offers a seamless 1+3 pathway for students to continue into a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management.
2. Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (MSU Bozeman): Hospitality Business & Sustainable Hospitality Tracks
At the four-year level, MSU’s hospitality degree offers two specialized paths:
- Hospitality Business: Grounded in business fundamentals—ranging from revenue and operations management to customer experience and event planning—it equips students for leadership roles in lodging, events, and restaurant management.
- Sustainable Hospitality: Embedded in the College of Education, Health & Human Development, this track emphasizes ethical, community-centric, and environmentally responsible practices. Students gain experience from labs to farms, focusing on sustainable food systems and social impact.
Real-World Immersion: MSU to Feature an On-Campus Marriott Campus Hotel
To elevate experiential learning, MSU plans a campus hotel, operated under a Marriott franchise and developed via a long-term partnership with Cross Harbor Capital and Lone Mountain Land Co. This facility—strategically located near academic buildings—will serve dual purposes:
- Provide students in hospitality and culinary programs with accessible, hands-on work experience.
- Host guests attending university cultural events and conferences, boosting campus visibility.
From Classroom to Career: Internships & Career Support
MSU ensures industry alignment through:
- Extensive internship placements with local hotels, resorts, ranches, restaurants, and spas (e.g., Yellowstone Club, SpringHill Suites, Sage Lodge).
- High first-year graduate employment rates—over 96% employed or pursuing further education—with career coaching, resume prep, and networking via the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success.
Why It Matters for Montana’s Future
- Growing Economic Potential: With over 12.6 million visitors each year, tourism fuels Montana’s economy—making professional management key to sustainable expansion.
- Addressing Workforce Needs: State forecasts anticipate annual openings through 2031 for over 2,000 cooks, 150 bakers, and 60 head chefs.
- Program Scalability: Existing programs have reached maximum capacity, but with the new hotel and certificate program, MSU can attract more students and industry engagement.
Summary Table
| Program | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Certificate in Hospitality (CAS) | One-year entry point with business & culinary fundamentals |
| B.S. in Hospitality | Two tracks: Hospitality Business or Sustainable Hospitality |
| Campus Hotel (Marriott) | Hands-on training facility for students, events, and interns |
| Industry Integration | Internships and career coaching; first-year graduate success |
| Economic Alignment | Supports Montana’s tourism employment needs and growth |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why launch both a certificate and bachelor’s degree?
The certificate offers fast access to the workforce, while the bachelor’s provides deeper expertise and leadership preparation—together catering to a broad range of learners.
Q: What makes the sustainable track unique?
It blends hospitality with environmental stewardship and community focus—critical values for modern, responsible tourism.
Q: How will the campus hotel benefit students?
Students gain everyday experience in front desk, dining, operations, and event hosting—boosting real-world readiness.
Q: What job prospects await graduates?
With thousands of hospitality roles opening annually, graduates enjoy strong employment prospects and starting salaries averaging around $52,000.
Q: Does MSU offer ongoing support after graduation?
Yes. Career coaching, professional workshops, and networking events through the Allen Yarnell Center help students stay career-ready.
Final Thought
MSU’s business-driven hospitality offerings signal a strategic leap forward for Montana. By blending sustainability, hands-on learning, and robust industry ties—including on-campus infrastructure—the university is building the skilled workforce the state’s booming tourism sector needs.
Sources Montana State University
