From shaping unforgettable guest experiences to advancing the future of global travel and tourism, Rosen College continues to stand out as a leader in education that strengthens the industries at the heart of hospitality.
For six consecutive years, the Rosen College of Hospitality Management ranks No. 1 in the nation for Hospitality and Tourism Management Programs, according to ShanghaiRanking’s 2025 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects. Rosen College also ranks No. 2 globally, a two placement rise from 2024.
As interest in travel, entertainment and tourism continues to climb worldwide, the demand for professionals who understand how to manage destinations, design experiences and lead hospitality organizations has never been higher. Rosen College has proven, once again, it produces highly qualified graduates and impactful research to meet this demand.
“Our global and national rankings reflect the work of an extraordinary community,” Rosen College Dean Cynthia Mejia says. “Our faculty, staff and students are deeply committed to advancing hospitality and tourism education, and their dedication elevates our academic programs and supports an industry that continues to grow in scale and complexity.”
Preparing Students with Industry for Industry
The hospitality and tourism sector remains one of America’s most dynamic employers. Federal projections show that the U.S. leisure and hospitality industry will add more than 822,000 new jobs between 2023 and 2033. This means the sector will account for nearly one in every eight new jobs created nationwide over the next decade, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Central Florida remains at the center of this growth the nation’s most visited destination (2024, Visit Orlando), allowing Rosen College to deliver hands-on, applied learning education that is difficult for other programs to compete with. Orlando specifically serves as a living classroom for Rosen College students, including the new Universal Epic Universe theme park at Universal Orlando Resort.
Every Rosen College student has direct access to major employers by completing three internships that immerse them in real operations and prepare them to navigate the demands of an industry defined by pace, scale and innovation. Many graduates now serve in leadership roles at organizations such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Destinations & Experiences, Marriott, and Loews Hotels, among many others.
Research Insights that Inspire Innovation
Mordor Intelligence estimates the U.S. hospitality market projected to surpass $313 billion by 2030. And with EHL Insights anticipating global travel and tourism expected to grow at an average annual rate of 5.8% through 2032, research that anticipates shifts in the industry has never been more vital. Rosen College’s faculty research global tourism and hospitality trends, focusing on competitiveness, destination resilience, lodging analytics, sustainability and traveler behavior. Their work, published in leading journals, guides industry leaders through changing guest expectations, economic pressures and technological shifts — bridging research and practice to prepare for future challenges
“Our faculty research is at the heart of Rosen College’s success,” says Rosen College Associate Dean for Research Manuel Rivera. “They create insights that inspire innovation in hospitality and tourism, helping our graduates and industry partners shape exceptional experiences for guests worldwide.”
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