Work Experience

All HTM majors are required to complete 600 hours of work experience in the hospitality and tourism industry prior to graduation. Students fulfill this requirement by completing two work requirement practica: HT-MGT 298i and HT-MGT 298o. Each practicum represents 300 hours of work experience, and each is worth 0.5 credit, for a total of 1.0 credit. During the semester, a student who plans to complete a block of 300 hours should register for either HT-MGT 298i or 298o. If a block of 300 hours is completed during the summer or winter break, the student should register for the practicum during the next regular semester. A student may count up to one-half of the required 600 hours for work done one year prior to enrollment in HTM. Such credit can be obtained in one of the following ways:

* Graduating or transferring from another hospitality program and having completed their work experience requirement;

* Filing the required work experience forms completed by a previous employer; or

* Providing proof of previous work experience (pay stubs, letter from employer, etc.) to the Undergraduate Advisor.

Students are encouraged to pursue a variety of work experiences in our industry. Students should not work all 600 hours in a "tipped" position. Supervisory or management positions are encouraged. Most HTM students work far more than 600 hours during their college years.