Boston University School of Hospitality Administration’s Master of Science in Hospitality Management (MSHM) is a two-year, full-time graduate program designed for students seeking either academic research training or advanced industry-focused skills in hospitality analytics and leadership.
Apply to the MSHM
Application Requirements
The Master of Science in Hospitality Management is currently designated by US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as a STEM-eligible degree program. International students in F-1 student status may be able to apply for a 24-month extension of their 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) employment authorization. More information about STEM OPT eligibility is available from the BU International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).
MS in Hospitality Management Program Highlights
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: Full-time, in-person
- Two Track Options: Thesis or Non-Thesis
- Faculty Mentorship: Paired with a faculty member for research guidance
- Funding: All admitted students receive a $14,000 scholarship with additonal funding available!
A Flexible, Research-Focused Degree
The MSHM offers two distinct tracks to meet your academic or professional goals:
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Thesis Track – Designed for students interested in pursuing a PhD or a teaching career in academia. This research-intensive track culminates in a master’s thesis and emphasizes academic theory, research methodology, and scholarly writing.
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Non-Thesis Track – Ideal for students aiming to build advanced research and analytics skills for leadership roles in the hospitality industry. This track includes a research-based professional paper and a graduate internship.
Both tracks share a strong foundation in hospitality research, data analysis, and strategic decision-making, preparing students to make meaningful contributions in academia or the industry.
Specialize in Analytics and Research – The Core of the MSHM Program
The STEM-designated MSHM is suited to individuals with varying levels of hospitality experience—from seasoned professionals to recent graduates.
Whether your goal is to pursue doctoral-level study or take on leadership roles in analytics, strategy, or innovation, the program emphasizes real-world application through hands-on projects, dynamic discussions, and personalized faculty mentorship.
The addition of a non-thesis track expands flexibility and career pathways in areas such as revenue management, experience design, asset management, and marketing analytics.
A Research-Focused Curriculum
The Master of Science in Hospitality Management program curriculum consists of 44 credits (13 courses) and can be completed over the course of two years.
Students are exposed to a range of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Students on the thesis track complete a traditional master’s thesis. Those on the non-thesis track complete a research-based professional paper and a graduate internship focused on analytics and applied learning. Areas of study include, but are not limited to:
- Finance
- Operations
- People Strategies
- Marketing
- Experience Design
- Real Estate
- Senior Living
All students engage in research methodology and statistical analysis under faculty supervision and learn how to present their work for both academic and industry audiences.
Distinguished Faculty Mentors at SHA
MS students are paired with an SHA research faculty member in their first semester. This mentor will guide them through research planning and course selection, aligned with their academic or professional goals.
SHA faculty bring expertise in marketing, finance, leadership, entrepreneurship, analytics, and more. As mentors, they help foster critical thinking, encourage new ideas, and support students in becoming thought leaders in hospitality.
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Apostolos Ampountolas
Assistant Professor of Hospitality Finance; Chair of Graduate Programs
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Yunmei Bai
Assistant Professor of Revenue Management
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Shashan Bao
Assistant Professor of Leadership and Organizational Psychology
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Richard Currie
Assistant Professor of Organizational Psychology
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Sean Jung
Assistant Professor of Hospitality Analytics
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Makarand Mody
Associate Professor of Hospitality Marketing; Director, Research; Chair of Undergraduate Programs
Apply to SHA’s MS in Hospitality Management Program!
Whether your goal is to pursue a PhD or lead analytics-driven innovation in the hospitality industry, the MSHM program offers the flexibility and rigor to support your path. Contact our admissions team to learn more about this program here!