The Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management (HSSHM) at Auburn University is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of leaders in the global hospitality and tourism industries. Our goal is to be recognized as the premier hospitality management program in the nation, distinguished by our commitment to service excellence and the enhancement of others' lives.
Our innovative educational approach integrates rigorous theoretical knowledge with practical experience in the state-of-the-art Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center (RCSC). Students engage in laboratory sessions across a variety of cutting-edge facilities within the RCSC, including the ultra luxury Laurel Hotel and Spa, where they gain invaluable experience in luxury hotel operations; Thrive Coffee Shop, which offers insights into the intricacies of specialty coffee and retail management; the acclaimed 1856 Teaching Restaurant, where fine dining meets educational excellence; and three fully-equipped culinary laboratory kitchens that provide a comprehensive environment for mastering culinary arts and kitchen management. These immersive experiences are complemented by a carefully scaffolded curriculum that promotes student learning and development, guiding students from the acquisition of fundamental skills and knowledge to the mastery of supervisory and managerial competencies. This combination creates a rich and immersive learning environment designed to prepare students for the complexities of the real world.
Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA), our program is one of only 70 four-year programs worldwide to earn this prestigious recognition. Our graduates are highly sought after by industry leaders, reflecting the program’s emphasis on hard work, hands-on learning, and a deep commitment to social and ethical responsibility.
Our dedication to these principles is evident in our impressive outcomes: a 82.1% retention rate for the 2022/23 academic year and an 82.1% employment rate within 90 days of graduation.
If you are ready to embark on a challenging and fulfilling career in this dynamic field, we invite you to explore our website and discover how the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management at Auburn University can support you in achieving your professional goals.
Since August 2011, the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management (HOSP) has held professional accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA) for its educational quality and for upholding nationally recognized standards in the hospitality profession. In addition to ensuring a high-quality educational experience through a process of continuous improvement, the ACPHA accreditation allows for a greater emphasis on hospitality management and business training while providing core foundational knowledge of the field. Upon graduation, students will earn an ACPHA accredited Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, a distinction held by only approximately 30 four-year hospitality programs worldwide.
| Academic Years | 2020 – 2021 | 2021 – 2022 | 2022 – 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Students | 261 | 300 | 374 |
| Number of Graduates | 40 | 70 | 71 |
| Student/Faculty Ratio | 15:1 | 30:1 | 34:1 |
| Retention Rate % – Freshmen to Sophomore (for all Programs) | 65.9% | 77.3% | 82.1% |
| % Students employed in the hospitality industry or a related field within 90 days after graduation |
81.5% | 90% | 82.1% |
| % Students continuing their education within 90 days after graduation |
3.7% | 2.5% | 1.5% |
| Total Professional Placement and Continuing Education Rate |
85.2% | 92.5% | 83.6% |
The Auburn University Culinary Science program is one of six educational programs in the nation certified by the World Association of Chefs Societies. The Worldchefs Recognition of Quality Culinary Education is the only international certification program that evaluates culinary education. Only 106 institutions in the world have met or exceeded the Worldchefs Education Committee’s global standards for quality culinary education. With this certification, culinary students can be assessed for professional certifications that recognize their individual skills. In addition, this certification provides a platform for culinary students to be internationally visible and connected with potential international employers.
