University of Delaware - Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management (HRIM)

The Department of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management offers a program leading to a Master of Science in Hospitality Information Management. The goal of the program is first to develop students for successful careers as corporate hospitality information managers, consultants, and hospitality technology systems implementation professionals, and second to offer high-quality, professional-level instruction for current hospitality managers seeking to further their education by applying technology solutions in operational settings. It is also designed to provide students interested in future doctoral work in hospitality and tourism management a sound foundation toward that goal.

Our Master of Science in Hospitality Information Management offers an innovative program that weaves the threads of technology and hospitality together creating a new e-hospitality fabric. Offering both a thesis and non-thesis option students can individualize their education to meet their needs. A core of 36 credit hours insures that students have the necessary knowledge base to succeed. Course work includes 15 credits specific to technology, 12 credits focused on hospitality management issues, 3 credits of research design and methodology, and a thesis or industry project.

The graduate faculty possess diverse academic backgrounds ranging from hospitality information technology, strategic management, financial management, operations management, and technology in education. Their academic background, current research streams combined with previous industry experience creates a stimulating learning environment.

Welcome to the Hospitality Information Management Master of Science program in the Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management at the University of Delaware.

Consistently ranked in the top ten hospitality programs, the Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management (HRIM) is a four year major with a curriculum based in liberal arts, business and specialized courses for the hospitality industry. The HRIM department offers the undergraduate degree on campus as well as at a distance. HRIM also offers a 4+1+1 program, in conjunction with the Lerner College of Business and Economics that enables students to complete their undergraduate work and obtain an MBA in five years of study.

The campus program is limited to 400 students. A selective admissions process, coupled with enrollment limitation, ensures that students learn to network with each other and that the faculty provides the personal attention students need for professional growth and development. For incoming freshman and transfers from other institutions admissions manages the application process. Students indicate their choice of major on the application. For our campus students interested in changing into the Major there is a formal application process.

The on-campus Vita Nova Restaurant and Courtyard by Marriott offer students hands-on experience where they can round out their academic knowledge. Vita Nova is a student-operated laboratory featuring a 60-seat dining room, exhibition, teaching and demonstration kitchens with state of the art video and satellite capabilities. The 126-room Courtyard by Marriott, with high tech conference room featuring wireless computers and video conferencing facilities, offers students valuable experience in sales, marketing, revenue management, front office and housekeeping.

The University of Delaware has a strong commitment to studying abroad and offers a plethora of opportunities. The HRIM department has an agreement with the Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality in Chur Switzerland, as well as opportunities in Hawaii, Jamaica, South Africa and Italy.