Activities of Hospitality Management Program Administrators

While the success of a hospitality management (HM) program often depends on the ability of the program administrator, little is known about these administrators' activities. The purpose of this research was to examine what was important to HM program administrators and to learn how they spent their time. Questionnaires were sent to administrators of 98 universities that grant baccalaureate degrees as part of HM programs; 69 (70%) responded. In response, administrators provided information about themselves and their HM programs and indicated the importance of and the time spent on 15 activities. Results showed that HM program administrators tend to be males who are over age 40 and hold a doctorate degree. Many have more than 10 years of experience as both a practitioner and educator. Administrators rated their most important activities as teaching, conducting public relations, and planning curriculum. Administrators spent a large portion of time teaching and advising students. Results of this research provided insight into the role of an HM program administrator and could help develop a job description for this administrative position.