Hospitality Business Management

The mission of the program adheres to the mission of the University, that is, to examine the ultimate meaning of life, your place in the world, and your responsibility to others. Accordingly, graduates of this program will leave Thomas More with the critical thinking and ethical leadership skills that are fostered by our liberal arts core. Through the many classes in history, literature, philosophy, theology and the sciences students develop the skills to communicate clearly verbally and through writing, as well as make ethical decisions, and examine situations from more than one point of view.

Most of the students in this program are also athletes and the department offers evening and one-day-a-week classes for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, which provide the flexibility to schedule courses around sports and other commitments.

Classes involve case studies, practical assignments, and group discussions that relate to current trends within the industry.  There will be many  opportunities for students to write papers, make presentations, and solve problems as well as work in groups. Most importantly, students will engage with local businesses and supporters of the University to develop a network that serves each student’s interest long after graduation.

The director of the program, ​Ryan Maloney, Ph.D., began as a faculty member at Thomas More University in 2023. He holds a master’s degree of hospitality administration and a doctorate in hospitality management. He developed and teaches undergraduate courses in hotel management, food and beverage management, revenue management, and more.  Before joining the faculty, he worked for hospitality staples such as The Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, Delaware North and The Walt Disney World Resort.

Every student who graduates from the hospitality business management program is required to complete an internship. This is the first step in the process of starting a career in the industry. Students choose if they want to work with a local, regional, or national brand. Students may decide to work in a specific industry they know they want to pursue after graduation, or perhaps they will want to broaden their horizons.  Regardless of the reason, students find that gaining this experience is invaluable as they move from college student to full time professional.

There are no special requirements for admission. Once you are admitted to the University, you can start right away into the hospitality business management courses in your first year.

There are no specific scholarships available for this program. However, this program is part of the Robert W Plaster College of Business which does have a several scholarships available. Students who are interested should check with the Robert W. Plaster College of Business for opportunities that exist. There are also work-study opportunities on campus available for students.