OCALA, Fla. (May 28, 2025) — In response to the growing demand for skilled professionals in Florida’s leading industry, the College of Central Florida is launching a new Hospitality and Tourism Management program beginning in Fall 2025.
Designed to support Florida’s rapidly growing tourism industry, the program offers a clear academic pathway starting with the Guest Services Specialist college credit certificate. This entry-level credential equips students for frontline roles such as concierge, guest services associate, or front desk coordinator. The curriculum also includes preparation for industry-recognized certifications like the Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) and ServSafe Food Manager/Handler.
The certificate seamlessly transitions into the Associate in Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management, which expands students’ knowledge in areas such as hospitality principles, hotel management, event and conference planning, tourism marketing and digital media, leadership, and human resource management.
Both the certificate and associate degree programs feature exclusive internship opportunities, professional networking events, and hands-on learning with major industry partners, including the World Equestrian Center.
“One of CF’s key focuses is to provide programs that meet the workforce needs of local businesses and organizations, and we’ve developed this new Hospitality and Tourism Management degree to do just that,” said John Ash, CF dean of business, technology and agricultural sciences. “With an average salary for industry professionals of around $29 an hour and rapid job growth in Marion County, we’re excited to be able to offer local students the opportunity to become part of Florida’s $1.2+ billion tourism industry.”
To learn more about CF’s Hospitality and Tourism program, visit CF.edu/Hospitality.
About the College of Central Florida:
The College of Central Florida is committed to providing a full range of educational programs, offering high-quality, affordable education across three counties and online. CF offers over 170 academic pathways in a variety of fields to prepare students for meaningful careers and successful futures.
Contact CF Manager of Marketing and Public Relations Lisa McGinnes at 352-873-5800, ext. 1565, [email protected] or CF Marketing, Public and Community Relations Director Rachel Cote at 352-873-5800, ext. 1374, [email protected]. The Ocala Campus is located at 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala, Fla. 34474-4415, 352-873-5800. The Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus is located at 3800 S. Lecanto Highway, Lecanto, Fla. 34461-9026, 352-746-6721. The Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus is located at 15390 N.W. Highway 19, Chiefland, Fla. 32626, 352-658-4077. The Hampton Center is located at 1501 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, Fla. 34475-6456, 352-873-5881 and the Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, Fla. 34470-5001, 352-291-4455. For additional information, visit College of Central Florida at www.CF.edu.
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