If you decide to earn a Bachelor of Arts in food and beverage business management, you’ll probably attend financial, culinary and leadership classes. Many programs involve internships at nearby hospitality businesses. You might also take courses on decision making or entrepreneurship, according to the New England Culinary Institute. The degree prepares learners for jobs at hotels, casinos, eateries and certain government institutions. Here are five jobs you can get with a B.A. in Food and Beverage Business Management.
1. Lodging Manager
This professional oversees the operations of a hotel. Most lodging establishments serve one or more meals, so food and beverage programs can help students get ready for careers in this sector. Lodging managers maintain financial records, supervise staff members and sometimes communicate with guests. They frequently work full time and earn over $50,000 per year. However, managers in this industry may also face considerable stress and long or unpredictable hours. Some small motels hire individuals who haven’t attended college, but any sizable hotel with a restaurant will probably expect a bachelor’s degree.
2. Food Service Manager
This type of supervisor watches over cooks and servers in a dining establishment. If you obtain this job, an employer might also expect you to hire and train workers. Other responsibilities range from updating menus to ordering supplies and maintaining budgets. Food service managers also speak to customers who have complaints. Like lodging supervisors, they usually need to work on holidays and/or weekends. This occupation involves stressful situations, but it usually pays well. These professionals earn a median yearly income of almost $49,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The government predicts that demand for food service managers will slightly increase over the next eight years.
3. Restaurant Owner
Numerous people start their own eateries after completing this degree program. The courses prepare them to develop business plans, supervise employees, create menus and purchase ingredients in bulk. Students also learn how to maximize food safety. Some restaurant owners appreciate the opportunity to meet many different people. They never need to take orders from superiors. On the other hand, these entrepreneurs typically work throughout the weekend and most weekdays. Their incomes fluctuate and don’t include health or dental insurance benefits. Nevertheless, this career can give you the freedom to decide exactly how you want to run a business.
4. Catering Event Coordinator
These specialists work for employers that range from country clubs to universities. Some organizations refer to them as event and catering directors. They must possess public relations skills, understand relevant health regulations and know how to maintain detailed records. Coordinators supervise the catering staff while planning upcoming banquets. These professionals also collaborate with chefs to develop and fine-tune menus. Before a banquet takes place, they help arrange the tables, chairs and decorations. Event coordinators often need to work with apprentices or culinary arts students who perform various tasks while learning about catering.
5. Large-Volume Kitchen Manager
This occupation generally involves less customer service than the above-mentioned careers. These managers work in huge kitchens at hospitals, schools, nursing homes and other institutions. They oversee cooks and ensure that meals meet various guidelines. If you enter this line of work, you’ll also need to manage equipment and supplies. High-volume kitchen managers must conduct inventories, order ingredients and make sure suppliers deliver the correct items. They inspect kitchen equipment to determine when it needs maintenance. This job may not offer much variety, but it usually provides a stable source of income with predictable hours.
These careers differ in many ways, yet they all feature some of the same advantages. People with food and beverage business management degrees perform satisfying work that directly benefits customers. They also appreciate the ability to find suitable jobs in nearly any locale.
See also: 50 Best Culinary Schools in the US 2016
