As global demand for skilled professionals in tourism and hospitality continues to grow, competition among academic programs has intensified. In response, UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management has positioned itself as a leader in the field of hospitality and tourism education, combining innovative research, strong industry partnerships and a comprehensive curriculum to prepare the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Reflecting this commitment to excellence, Rosen College advanced to No. 4 globally in the 2024 ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects for hospitality and tourism management, further solidifying its international reputation. This recognition also marks Rosen College’s fifth consecutive year as the No. 1 hospitality program in the United States, underscoring its dedication to shaping the future of hospitality education.
“Rising to fourth globally and holding our top U.S. ranking for five consecutive years is a powerful testament to our community’s commitment to excellence and innovation in hospitality and tourism education,” says Dean Cynthia Mejia. “This accomplishment reflects the hard work and vision of our faculty, staff and students, who continually push the boundaries of what’s possible in our field. It’s this drive that not only strengthens our global reputation but also shapes the future of our industry by preparing leaders ready to make a meaningful impact worldwide.”
Preparing Talent for a Growing Industry
Florida’s tourism industry remains a powerhouse, drawing 34.2 million visitors in the second quarter of 2024 — a 1.7% increase from the previous year and part of an annual trend that sees more than 137 million visitors to the state, according to Visit Orlando. With tourism contributing a record $125 billion annually to Florida’s economy, the demand for skilled professionals to support this sector is critical. Nationally, the need for hospitality managers and leaders is projected to grow rapidly; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 10% increase in employment for lodging managers between 2023 and 2033, significantly outpacing average job growth across other fields. This expansion reflects both the resilience of the industry and its demand for professionals equipped to lead in diverse roles across hospitality, tourism, and event management.
Rosen College’s programs are designed to meet these industry needs, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers. Undergraduate degree programs include entertainment management, event management, hospitality management, lifestyle community management, lodging and restaurant management, and theme park and attraction management. In addition to undergraduate programs, Rosen College offers master’s programs and Florida’s only Ph.D. program in hospitality management, positioning graduates for advanced roles across the industry.
With a curriculum requiring students to complete at least three internship courses, Rosen College emphasizes practical experience, making its graduates career-ready and equipped to excel in high-demand management roles. Rosen alumni have gone on to lead initiatives at top organizations and contribute to projects that shape the industry, highlighting the broad and influential career paths available to its graduates. Top employers include Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Destinations & Experiences, Marriott, Entertainment Technology Partners and Loews Hotels Universal Orlando Resort.
Research and Innovation Driving Industry Advancement
In 2024, Rosen College faculty have advanced their research into emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve operational efficiency and enhance guest experiences, reinforcing the college’s commitment to industry-leading innovation. Building on this focus, their work also addresses global challenges by developing strategies to boost the resilience of tourist destinations and exploring tourism’s broader role in fostering economic and social development. Through the Rosen Research Review (RRR), the college highlights these impactful studies, connecting academic insights with industry needs. The RRR serves as a bridge between research and practice, showcasing pioneering work that informs sustainable practices and drives positive change across the global hospitality sector. By collaborating with international organizations, Rosen College faculty extend these insights worldwide, sharing sustainable practices that contribute to meaningful, lasting change in the industry.
“This ranking underscores our faculty’s dedication to research excellence and Rosen College’s commitment to supporting their work,” says Assistant Dean for Research Manuel Rivera. “Our efforts in research not only deepen academic knowledge but also drive meaningful partnerships with industry, positioning our students and faculty as leaders in hospitality innovation.”
About the Rankings
The ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects evaluates universities across various disciplines, including hospitality and tourism management, by measuring research output, publication quality, international collaboration, and academic recognition. Rosen College’s consistent top placement reflects its excellence in these areas and reinforces its role as a leader in global hospitality education. The 2024 ranking highlights Rosen College’s dedication to setting new standards, combining academic rigor, industry-focused research, and hands-on experience to equip students with the skills needed to drive innovation and shape the future of the hospitality industry worldwide.
To learn more about Rosen College’s impactful research and its contributions to advancing the global tourism industry, visit this webpage.
