The online resort operations and hospitality management bachelor’s degree emphasis and certificate program at Boise State University were awarded funding through a three-year Workforce Development Council grant. The resort operations and hospitality management certificate program is also eligible for funding through Idaho Launch.
Grant Funding to Support Idaho Students
In response to the growing demand for skilled managerial professionals within Idaho’s resort and hospitality industry, Boise State created the online resort operations and hospitality management bachelor’s degree emphasis and certificate programs. Leisure and Hospitality jobs in Idaho grew 7.5% in 2021 with 6,100 jobs and are expected to add another 5,900 jobs by 2023 (U.S. Department of Labor). In addition to labor projections, the resort operations and hospitality management program was developed in response to requests by Idaho resort and hospitality industry employers for programs to develop their workforce.
The three-year Workforce Development Council grant through the Idaho Department of Labor aims to facilitate the content development, training modules and start-up of the resort operations and hospitality management programs. The Workforce Development Training Fund’s goal is to assist employers in developing skilled workers, serve multiple employers statewide and increase the economic mobility of Idahoans through training. The three-year funding will allow the program to develop and expand before moving into a self-sustaining online program model.
Financial Resources for Education and Training
Idaho Launch is a state resource designed to match employee skills with employer needs and research short-term training opportunities to fill gaps in the workforce. Boise State Online’s Certificate in Resort Operations and Hospitality Management will be included in the short-term training opportunities eligible for Idaho Launch funding, up to $7,500. The funding includes both employees sponsored by an organization and individual Idahoans interested in the industry. Employers who provide educational assistance for tuition and books through an authorized educational assistance program can receive federal tax incentives of up to $5,250 each year.
The online delivery of the bachelor’s degree and certificate option increases opportunities for individuals who live in more rural areas of Idaho and has the potential to improve the resort and hospitality industry’s workforce. The programs have already received support from six industry partners, with one providing a $5,000 cash match.
Online Programs to Support Idaho’s Workforce
Each piece of the program equips students for the workforce, combining academic skills with experiential learning opportunities via internships. Initial courses prepare students for the day-to-day operations of a business. Advanced coursework allows students to engage in management-level planning, leading and problem-solving.
The addition of the online resort operations and hospitality management program bachelor’s degree track and certificate program opens doors to increased career opportunities and economic growth to all Idahoans, as well as expanded access to higher education across Idaho.
Learn more about the resort operations and hospitality management programs