Best Hospitality colleges in Rochester

RIT’s commitment to hands-on education shines in its Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management. The undergrad major – which includes concentrations in food and beverage management, international food marketing and distribution, entertainment and event management, and international hotel and resort management -- requires students to combine 1,200 hours of practical cooperative education experience with classroom theory. The institution maintains corporate connections with the likes of Kraft Foods, Dove Chocolate, Hampton Inns, and The Walt Disney Company, to name just a few. Alumni also are eager to “pay it forward” by taking students under their wings. The campus itself is home to Henry’s Restaurant, a fully-operational fine-dining establishment located on the same floor as the department that enables students to experience what it takes to run all aspects of a business. Students also manage all the logistics and details for RIT’s Puttin’ on the RITz gala and fundraiser, a tradition since 1986. Other highlights include helping with the PGA Championship at Oak Hill Rochester and an annual trip with faculty to the International Hotel, Motel, and Restaurant Show in New York City.