Tourism and Resort Management
The Tourism and Resort Management program immerses students in the rewarding and fast-growing tourism industry. North Carolina is the 9th most visited state in the country, and the High Country alone is home to multiple resorts and tourist attractions. Through this program, students will prepare to become leaders in the constantly evolving service industry.
The Tourism and Resort Management program immerses students in the rewarding and fast-growing tourism industry. North Carolina is the 9th most visited state in the country, and the High Country alone is home to multiple resorts and tourist attractions. Through this program, students will prepare to become leaders in the constantly evolving service industry.
Ready to get started?
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN TOURISM AND RESORT MANAGEMENT
Next Start: August 2025
Application Deadline: Roling applications
Ready to get started?
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN TOURISM AND RESORT MANAGEMENT
Next Start: August 2025
Application Deadline: Roling applications
Why get your degree at Lees-McRae College?
Lees-McRae is a small school in a mountain community where you will get personalized support as you utilize our local industry connections for hands-on learning in tourism and resort management. This program features collaborative opportunities through existing partnerships with area resorts and private communities.
You can also choose to specialize by adding a distinctive minor like Ski Industry Business and Instruction or Outdoor Recreation Management. These additional technical skills will boost your resume and help you stand out to future employers.
What You'll Study
This program covers everything you need to know for working in a tourism-focused business, including human resources, club management, marketing, event and venue management, food and beverage management, finance, legal concerns, and resort leadership. In addition, you can choose from several business courses like statistics, economics, and accounting.
Each of these courses will challenge you to develop your leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills as you learn about the complexities of tourism and resort management both nationally and internationally.


Beyond the Classroom
The High Country is full of tourism and resort businesses that are eager to employ students, including Beech Mountain Resort, Sugar Mountain Resort, Elk River Club, Grandfather Golf and Country Club, Linville Ridge Country Club, and more. Not only will students receive vital real-world experience, but these businesses often offer generous tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance to student employees.
Outcomes and Careers
Upon graduation from the Lees-McRae Tourism and Resort Management program, students are prepared to pursue a variety of careers relating to tourism and hospitality. Our rigorous and comprehensive business courses ensure students have the leadership and management skills they need to excel in any professional setting.
- Event and Conference Planning
- Destination Marketing and Management
- Hotel and Lodging Management
- Food and Beverage Operations
- International Resort Operations
- Private Club Management
- Public and Private Tourism Sectors
- Sales and Marketing
- Sustainability and Eco-Tourism
- Hospitality Technology and Innovation
- Entrepreneurship