Dual Master's Degree in Hotel Administration & Management Information Systems
Overview
The dual hotel administration/management information systems program is offered by the Harrah College of Hospitality and Lee Business School. It is tailored for individuals aiming for careers in the information technology sector of the hospitality industry. Students learn the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to become pioneering leaders in integrating advanced information technology practices within the hospitality sector. The curriculum highlights the critical role of effective communication by training students to clearly articulate business ideas and analyses in written formats and oral presentations. Furthermore, the program encourages a collaborative, team-oriented atmosphere to enable students to work effectively with diverse teams.
Six Reasons to Get a Dual HOA/MIS Degree at UNLV:
- Participate in a Top-Ranked Program: UNLV's hospitality program is ranked #1 in the U.S. (QS World University Rankings by Subject)
- Take Advantage of an Interdisciplinary Opportunity: Opportunity to combine your interests in hospitality management and computer technology.
- Grow in an Innovative Learning Environment: Learn in an environment that spurs inventive and broad-level thinking.
- Expand Your Network: Double your networking opportunities by working with faculty, professionals, and fellow students in two separate fields.
- Unique Dual Specialty: This unique “dual” specialty gives you an edge over the competition in the job market.
- Double Your Support: Receive advising, career services, and faculty assistance from both the Lee Business School and Harrah College of Hospitality.
The Importance of Technology for the Future of the Hospitality Industry
Management information systems professionals are critical to the success of any hospitality organization, as they are the innovators who help reduce costs, enhance operational efficiencies, and improve services and the customer’s experience. As a student in the dual master of science in management information systems and master of science in hotel administration (MIS/HOA) degree program, you will build unique skill sets to make an impact in this growing sector and gain the leadership tools to move up in your organization.
Faculty
The dual MIS/HOA degree program consists of Harrah College of Hospitality and Lee Business School faculty. These distinguished teachers and researchers are at the top of their respective fields, and their work is regularly published in scholarly journals.
“Strengthening my communication abilities through the Hospitality Management program and data analytics proficiency through the MIS curriculum gives me more confidence to effectively bridge the gap between company executives and technical teams.”Kaiyang Bu '24 - Dual MIS/HOA master's student
Career Options
Undoubtedly, having interdisciplinary knowledge and a broad range of skills will make you more marketable in the workforce. As a dual-graduate degree holder, you’ll demonstrate to future employers how disciplined you are as an employee and how serious you are about your career.
With your dual MIS/HOA degree, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to succeed in a variety of roles, including:
- Business Analyst
- Systems Analyst
- Security Analyst
- It Manager
- Systems Administrator
Admission Requirements
The dual master's in MIS/HOA program is open to graduates from all undergraduate disciplines. Applications are reviewed by the Harrah College of Hospitality and Lee Business School admissions committees; however, you need only submit one application and pay only one application fee. To be considered, applicants must have the following:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution in the United States or an approved equivalent.
- Minimum GPA of 2.75 for the bachelor’s degree or 3.00 for the last 60 credit hours.
- Proof of English proficiency (international students).
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Statement of purpose that describes why you want to join the program and your professional goals relevant to this program.
- Updated resume, which includes academic, professional, and other relevant experience.
- At least one year of full-time management/supervisory experience or three years of cumulative full-time front-line experience in the hospitality industry.
- A GMAT or GRE is not required. However, submitting a GMAT or GRE score in the top 50% of test takers significantly boosts your chances of admission and/or securing a graduate assistantship.
Program Structure
The dual master of science in hotel administration and management information systems degree is designed for those who seek career opportunities in the technology sector of the hospitality industry.
- Requires 48 credit hours (16 courses) with 24 credit hours allocated to the MIS curriculum and 24 credit hours to the HOA curriculum.
- Can be completed in 2.5 to 3 years as a full-time student (with full-time status defined as enrolling in 9 credit hours per semester).
- Offers most evening classes, convenient for working and full-time students.
The core HOA curriculum includes courses in:
- The hospitality industry
- Research methodology
- Human dynamics and organizational leadership
- Legal and ethical human resources management
- Financial management
The core MIS curriculum includes courses in:
- Information systems strategy
- Information systems project management
- Systems analysis, modeling, and design
- Technology and innovation management
- Data management
- Client project
Each respected side of the dual degree includes a culminating capstone.
- Hotel Administration: Thesis or Professional Paper
- Thesis: A substantial work demonstrating the use of research methods and presentation of research results. A total of six credits are required for the thesis. Completion of the thesis requires a successful defense.
- Professional Paper: Professional paper whose contents serve as the focus for the final oral examination.
- Management Information Capstone: Client Project
- Culminating experience for MIS students. Requires the practical application of concepts learned in the program. Reinforcement of client and expectation management, proposal writing, and professional communication.
“The Dual MS program equips students with the skills to be tech-savvy hospitality leaders. Graduates can leverage cutting-edge information technology to solve real-world challenges and enhance the guest experience."-Han-fen Hu, Ph.D., Professor, Graduate Coordinator for IS Programs
Application Deadlines
Fall Term:
Feb. 15 – Priority to be considered for funding
May 1 – International applicants
July 15 – Domestic or permanent resident applicants
Spring Term:
Oct. 1 – International applicants
Nov. 15 – Domestic or permanent resident applicants
Summer Term:
This program does not admit students for the summer term.
Program Advisors Contact
Prospective Student Contact
Harrah College of Hospitality Office of Graduate Programs
UNLV Hospitality Hall, Room 347
702-895-5413
mygradfuture@unlv.edu
Lee Business School
Graduate Student Services
702-895-3655
LEEogss@unlv.edu
Lee Business School
William F. Harrah College of Hospitality
Catalog Information
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