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College of Education and Professional Studies

Tourism Management

Bachelor of Science | Major

Tourism Management Specialization

Understand the environmental, social, and cultural impacts of tourism with a Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management degree.

At CWU, you will develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the tourism industry. Our program encourages entrepreneurial thinking, and you will have the chance to develop innovative tourism initiatives, explore emerging trends, and shape the future of the industry. Whether you envision yourself as a destination expert or a trailblazer in the global tourism industry, together, we will create a future where tourism preserves and shares what makes each destination unique.

Communication Leadership Problem Solving

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Carla Jellum

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What You'll Study

Academic Catalog | Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management

 

Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management Core 

  • HRM 381 - Management of Human Resources
  • HTE 201 - Introduction to Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management
  • HTE 230 - Program and Event Budgeting
  • HTE 303 - Hospitality Leadership
  • HTE 373D - Convention and Meeting Management
  • HTE 419 - Applied Research and Evaluation
  • HTE 420 - Program Promotion, Sales and Advertising
  • HTE 484 - Hospitality Law, Negotiation, and Risk Management
  • HTE 487 - HTE Capstone
  • HTE 492 - Senior Practicum

Tourism Management Specialization

  • HTE 273 - Airline Operations
  • HTE 310 - Customer Service Operations
  • HTE 337 - Tour and Interpretive Program Development
  • HTE 386 - International Travel
  • HTE 355 - Sustainable Tourism
  • HTE 371 - Tourism Essentials
  • HTE 393N - Destination Marketing

Department-Approved Electives

  • GEOG 208 - Our Human World
  • GEOG 308 - Cultural Geography
  • HTE 272 - Lodging Operations I
  • HTE 284 - Global Culinary Arts
  • HTE 292 - Practicum
  • HTE 330 - Sustainable Resources for Tourism
  • HTE 331 - Sustainable Events: Best Practices
  • HTE 361 - Hospitality Technology
  • HTE 378 - Rural and Agritourism Development
  • HTE 379 - Cruise Line Industry
  • HTE 452 - Regional Wine Tourism
  • MKT 360 - Principles of Marketing
  • MKT 376 - Foundations of Digital Marketing
  • WINE 303 - Major Wine Regions of the World
  • WINE 332 - Social Media Theory and Practice in the Wine Industry

HTE 386 – International Travel

In this course, you’ll learn how to design itineraries, market international destinations, and navigate travel logistics, from passports and health regulations to visitor experiences and destination management.

Versatile Skill Set

Acquire skills in communication, problem-solving, and sustainability, preparing you for leadership roles in various sectors of the tourism industry.

Study Abroad

Broaden your cultural and business understanding by studying tourism management in an international setting, offering a competitive edge in the global tourism market.

Expert Faculty

Benefit from experienced faculty members who have worked in tourism and hospitality management, providing industry insights and mentorship.

Apply

Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.

Financial Aid

Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.

Student Life

Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.

Visit

The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself. 

Growing

Industry

According to O*Net, tourism is a Bright Outlook occupation, meaning it’s expected to grow rapidly in the coming years with high demand for skilled professionals.

Connected

to Community

Engage in real-world event planning through CWU’s connection to local festivals, conventions, and community events, allowing you to apply classroom theory to practice.

Career

Benefits

Careers in tourism offer the excitement of travel, a dynamic work environment, and the chance to positively impact local economies and ecosystems.

Professional Associations

Connecting with professional organizations is a great way to explore career pathways, stay informed about industry trends, and build valuable networks within the field.

The following national associations provide resources, professional development, and insights related to hospitality, tourism, and event management careers.

Data provided by O*NET and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Successful Fields

Tour Operator

Destination Manager

Recreation Manager

Cruise/Airline Hospitality Services

Sales and Marketing in Tourism

Commitment to a Sustainable World

Central Washington University is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. Many CWU programs embed sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.

CWU is nationally recognized for this work through the AASHE STARS Gold rating, reflecting our dedication to transparency, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement.

Sustainability courses include:

  • HTE 309 Facility Planning, Maintenance and Safety
  • HTE 371 Tourism Essentials
  • HTE 330 Sustainable Resources for Tourism
  • HTE 331 Sustainable Events: Best Practices
  • HTE 355 Sustainable Tourism

Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.