B.S. in Hospitality Management and Dietetics

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management and Dietetics at Kansas State University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic fields of hospitality industries and nutritional sciences. This multidisciplinary degree combines foundational coursework in hospitality principles, food service management, and culinary arts with in-depth studies in dietetics, human nutrition, and community health. Students will gain practical skills in customer service, food safety, facility management, and culinary techniques, alongside scientific knowledge about human nutrition, dietary planning, and behavioral health. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, cooperative education, and hands-on projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates will be equipped to pursue certification as dietitians or registered nutritionists, or to advance in hospitality-related roles such as hotel and resort management, event planning, or food service operations. The curriculum is designed to foster leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills essential for the fast-paced environments of hospitality and health sciences. Kansas State University’s strong industry partnerships and dedicated faculty provide a supportive learning environment and numerous networking opportunities. Graduates of this program are prepared to contribute meaningfully to improving community health and hospitality services, addressing global challenges related to food security, nutrition, and sustainable hospitality practices. With a focus on research, ethical practice, and innovation, this degree aims to develop well-rounded professionals capable of making a positive impact in diverse settings across the healthcare, foodservice, and tourism sectors.

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Dietetics Administration at Kansas State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic fields of hospitality management and dietetics. This interdisciplinary degree offers a combination of coursework in business administration, hospitality, nutrition, and dietetics, providing students with a well-rounded education that integrates practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The program emphasizes leadership development, nutritional science, foodservice management, and customer relations, equipping students to excel in diverse professional environments such as hotels, resorts, healthcare facilities, schools, and foodservice companies.

Students enrolled in this program will engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers key areas including foodservice operations, menu planning, nutrition assessment, community nutrition, and dietetics principles. The coursework also promotes understanding of regulatory standards, food safety protocols, and sustainable practices, crucial for responsible management in foodservice industries. In addition to classroom instruction, students benefit from hands-on learning experiences through internships, cooperative education opportunities, and collaborations with industry partners, ensuring they gain real-world exposure and practical competencies.

The program incorporates leadership and communication skills development, preparing graduates to effectively manage teams, communicate with diverse clientele, and lead initiatives in hospitality and nutrition settings. Ethical practices and cultural competency are also emphasized, aligning students' professional development with contemporary industry standards. To facilitate career advancement, the program offers advising and mentorship programs, as well as access to a vast network of alumni and industry contacts.

Graduates of the Hospitality and Dietetics Administration program at Kansas State University are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors including foodservice management, dietary consulting, wellness program coordination, and hospitality administration. Many students choose to continue their education by pursuing advanced degrees or professional certifications to enhance their career prospects. Overall, this program aims to develop competent, ethical, and innovative professionals who can meet the evolving demands of the hospitality and dietetics industries both locally and globally.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Dietetics Administration at Kansas State University:

Applicants must meet the general admission requirements of Kansas State University, including submission of official transcripts, standardized test scores (ACT or SAT), and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Prospective students are encouraged to have a strong academic background in high school coursework, including mathematics, biology, and social sciences.

The program requires completion of a total of approximately 120 credit hours over four years, which includes foundational general education courses, major-specific coursework, experiential learning, and internships. Core coursework includes classes in hospitality operations, food service management, nutrition science, food safety, hospitality law, and business principles. Students must also complete prerequisites such as microeconomics, accounting, and communication skills.

A significant component of the program consists of practical training through internships and cooperative education experiences, allowing students to gain real-world industry exposure. These internships are typically undertaken during the summer or semester breaks and are coordinated through the university’s career services and industry partnerships.

Students specializing in Dietetics Administration must complete supervised practice hours in clinical, community, and foodservice settings as part of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). This prepares students for the registered dietitian credential exam.

Senior students are required to complete a capstone project or comprehensive exam to demonstrate proficiency in hospitality and dietetics principles. Additionally, maintaining a minimum GPA (often around 2.75-3.0) is required for progression through the program and to qualify for graduation.

All students must adhere to the university’s academic integrity policies and complete any required health and safety trainings. For those pursuing dietetics, successful completion of the coursework and supervised practice hours enables eligibility to apply for the dietetics registration exam, a professional requirement for practice in the field.

Foreign students must meet the university’s language proficiency requirements, typically demonstrated through TOEFL or IELTS scores. They may also need to participate in orientation programs and meet specified visa conditions.

In summary, the program combines coursework, practical experience, and industry engagement to prepare graduates for careers in hospitality management and dietetics administration. Specific course sequences and internship opportunities are outlined in the curriculum guide provided by Kansas State University’s College of Health and Human Sciences.

The Hospitality and Dietetics Administration program at Kansas State University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students enrolled in this program can benefit from various types of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Scholarships are available based on merit, need, or a combination of both, and students are encouraged to apply early to secure funding. The university provides specific scholarships for students pursuing degrees in hospitality management and dietetics, which may include both departmental and private donor-funded awards. Grants are typically need-based and may be awarded through federal or state programs, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students are advised to complete the FAFSA annually to determine their eligibility for federal work-study programs, which allow students to earn money while gaining work experience related to their field of study. Additionally, students can explore institutional loans, which offer favorable interest rates and repayment options compared to private loans. Kansas State University also promotes part-time employment opportunities on campus, enabling students to offset educational expenses while balancing their academic commitments. For international students or those from underrepresented backgrounds, the university offers specialized financial assistance programs and scholarships to promote diversity and inclusion within the program. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including private scholarships from industry organizations or professional associations related to hospitality and dietetics. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and resources to help students navigate the application process and identify all potential funding sources. It is essential for students to meet specific deadlines and maintain satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible for financial aid benefits. By combining various funding mechanisms, students in the Hospitality and Dietetics Administration program at Kansas State University can effectively finance their education and focus on achieving their career goals in the dynamic fields of hospitality management and dietetics.

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the dynamic hospitality industry. The program emphasizes core knowledge in hotel and restaurant operations, tourism management, culinary arts, and event planning, combined with coursework in business principles such as accounting, marketing, and human resource management. Students gain practical experience through internships, cooperative education, and project-based learning, which help them develop real-world skills and professional networks. The curriculum is tailored to address current trends in hospitality, including sustainable practices, technology integration, and guest experience enhancement. Kansas State University’s facility includes state-of-the-art training kitchens, simulation labs, and dedicated hospitality spaces that support hands-on learning. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in hotel management, restaurant ownership, event planning, tourism development, and related fields. The university’s regional industry connections facilitate internship and employment opportunities across diverse segments of the hospitality sector. The program also offers opportunities for specialization or minors in areas such as food service management or tourism development. Faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars, committed to mentoring students and contributing to research advancements in hospitality sciences. The program encourages student involvement in student chapters of industry associations, leadership activities, and local community projects. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded, innovative, and ethical hospitality professionals ready to meet industry demands and excel in a global hospitality environment.