Online Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management — Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a background in hospitality to qualify for admission?

  A hospitality background is strongly encouraged for this program, however applicants from related industries will be considered. All applicants must have a minimum of three to five years of full-time professional experience and managerial experience preferred.

• How do online classes work? Do I have to be at my computer at a specific time?

  You can access and work on your coursework at any time — you just need to complete your assignments according to the schedule posted by your professor. Interaction with your instructor and peers is a major component of our classes. As an online student at Purdue University, you’ll log into a virtual classroom interface that includes areas for assignments, discussion boards, e-mail, and more. Just like in a traditional classroom, you’ll complete coursework and exams and interact with your instructor and classmates, but it will all be online.

• Do I have to complete a thesis?

  No, a thesis is not required for this program.

• Is financial aid available?

  Financial aid is available. For more information, please call 877-497-5851 to speak with an admissions advisor.

• Is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) required for this program?

  The GRE or GMAT are not required for this program, but recommended for students that performed below a 3.0 GPA at the baccalaureate level. Please discuss requirements with your admissions advisor.

• How many total credits are required?

  A total of 34 credit hours are required to complete the online MS in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Purdue University.

• Is an in-person residency required?

  No, Purdue University does not require an on-site residency. That means you can earn the MS in Hospitality and Tourism Management degree from anywhere in the United States or around the world without temporarily relocating to complete your degree.

• Does this program prepare me for a PhD program?

  This program facilitates opportunities for professionals working in areas related to hospitality and tourism business. It is NOT intended to provide preparation for PhD level academic study at Purdue.

• What is the frequency of starts for this program?

  Purdue University offers three starts per year for this program, Spring (January), Summer (April/May), and Fall (August).

• Can I visit campus?

  Yes. Students are always encouraged to visit campus and experience all that Purdue has to offer. For visitor information, visit www.purdue.edu/visit.

• What are the technical requirements for the program?

  Using the online learning interface and system successfully requires you to have certain software and hardware. Be sure your equipment meets the minimum requirements, listed below.

  Minimum Hardware Requirements

  • 700 MHZ Pentium III Processor computer, with sound card and speakers
  • 256 MB RAM
  • 20 GB free hard drive space
  • CD-ROM drive
  • 56k modem, or higher (such as cable modem or DSL), for broadband access

  Recommended Software

  • Windows XP or later / Mac OS X
  • MS Office 2000 or later (MS Office includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
  • Internet Service Provider (ISP)
  • Internet access
  • E-mail account
  • Internet Explorer 6.x(PC), Netscape 7.2 (PC), or later, or Mozilla Firefox (PC/Mac)
  • Safari 1.2 or higher (Mac)
  • High-speed, broadband connection

  Utilities

  • Acrobat Reader 7.0 or later (free download)
  • Virus Protection Software: McAfee/Norton Antivirus or similar software

  Plug-ins

  • Java, Shockwave, or Flash Plug-in (latest version)

  Mac System Requirements

  • 500 MHZ iMac or iBook 63 or faster (minimum)