May 20, 2026  
Ohio University 2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
Ohio University 2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Restaurant, Hotel, and Tourism Major (B.S.)


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Major code BS6367

Patton College of Education  
Recreation, Sport Pedagogy and Consumer Sciences  
Patton Hall 202W
Athens, OH 45701
Phone: 740.593.4400
education@ohio.edu
hospitality@ohio.edu
www.ohio.edu/education/recreation-sport-pedagogy-consumer-sciences

Sandy C. Chen, Program Coordinator
chens5@ohio.ed

Program Overview

Hospitality is one of the largest and most dynamic industries in the world, an industry built on creating memorable experiences and connecting people across cultures and communities.

Our program prepares students not only with strong academic knowledge but also with hands-on, real-world learning that opens doors to diverse and exciting career paths. Whether your passion lies in Hotel and Lodging (hotels, Airbnb inns, bed & breakfasts, campsites, vacation homes, senior living facilities), Food and Beverage (restaurants, catering, nightlife, bars), Wellness and Sustainability (spas, athletic clubs, fitness centers, commercial recreation, e-tourism), Private Clubs, Cruise Lines, Gaming and Entertainment, Theme and Amusement Parks, or the fast-growing world of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events), our program equips you with the skills and experiences to thrive.

This is more than a degree: it’s a launchpad to a global career where your creativity, leadership, and passion can shape the future of hospitality.

Program Standards

To remain active in this program, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Maintain an overall GPA of 2.0 (C) or better in all hours attempted at Ohio University.
  2. Earn at least a 2.0 (C) or better in each course listed under Major Requirements.
  3. Successfully earn at least a 2.0 (C) or better in all required RHT courses by the end of the third enrollment in each course. Other schools and departments may also limit the number of times you may retake a course.

Admissions Information

Freshman/First-Year Admission

No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Change of Program Policy

No requirements beyond University admission requirements. For more information on the process to change your major, please reach out to the Office of Student Affairs located on the 1st floor of Patton Hall in Room 102. The main office can be reached at 740.593.4400.

External Transfer Admission

No requirements beyond University admission requirements. For more information on the process to transfer into the program, please reach out to the Office of Student Affairs located on the 1st floor of Patton Hall in Room 102. The main office can be reached at 740.593.4400.

Opportunities Upon Graduation

Graduates of the program are well-prepared to launch successful careers in the dynamic restaurant, hotel, and tourism industry. Equipped with strong customer service, problem-solving, and management skills, they are ready to take on leadership responsibilities from day one. Many graduates begin their careers in entry-level or mid-level management positions with leading international hotel and restaurant companies, university and school dining services, event planning and catering firms, and tourism-focused organizations.

The program also provides an excellent foundation for continued growth and advancement. Graduates who pursue a master’s degree often find it easier to move into senior management and executive roles, gaining specialized expertise to shape the future of the hospitality and tourism profession.

Requirements

University-wide Graduation Requirements


Ohio University requires completion of a minimum of 120 semester hours for conferral of a bachelor’s degree. However, the Restaurant, Hotel, and Tourism major requires completion of a minimum of 123 semester hours. For more information on the minimum hours requirement and other university-wide requirements, please review the Graduation Requirements – University-wide  page.

Department Level Requirements for the Department of Recreation, Sport Pedagogy and Consumer Sciences


The Department of Recreation, Sport Pedagogy and Consumer Sciences has no particular entry or graduation requirements beyond those of the College and the University. However, requirements differ considerably from program to program. Consult with your advisor to ensure proper fulfillment of those requirements.

Complete one of the following courses:


 

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