The Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management is a four-year program that prepares individuals for careers in the Hospitality/Hotel and Restaurant industry. This program follows a competency-based training approach to develop graduates who have global competitiveness, professional competence, moral integrity, and social responsibility towards national progress.The Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management program aims to cultivate students’ expertise and leadership abilities for roles in hospitality enterprises. It emphasizes intellectual growth, communication skills, ethical awareness, and societal values appreciation. Additionally, it provides professional knowledge of the hospitality industry. The program strives to equip aspiring hoteliers and entrepreneurs with up-to-date technical and managerial skills required for utilizing e-commerce application software in hotel operations as well as travel institutions that are related. (Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, copyright 2000-2006)
The BSHRM: Culinary Arts course offers various fields of study. These include small business management, butchery, international cuisine, and financial management. In addition, the course covers topics such as entrepreneurship, franchising, and fishmonger. The Hospitality industry aspect of the course focuses on providing lodging and dining services. It also includes details on hotel and restaurant management and operation. Quality service is emphasized in providing guests with accommodations and food. The Tourism component of the course aims to fulfill clients’ travel needs. This includes foreign language and personality development courses. Both local and international tours are offered. (BS in Hotel and Restaurant Management in the Philippines, copyright 2010-2012)
The popularity of the course HRM among incoming college students in the Philippines is increasing every year. This indicates a growing interest in the course and has resulted in its recognition as one of the top courses to be taken. Lito B. Soriano, president of LBS-E Recruitment and executive director of the Federated Associations of Manpower Exporters Inc., states that data from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) reveals that over 120,000 HRM graduates are produced annually. However, Soriano notes that many of these graduates require additional skill training to become eligible for employment both locally and internationally (Oversupply of Unemployable Graduates, 2010).
Labor Undersecretary Rosalinda Baldoz has confirmed that HRM is one of the courses with the highest number of graduates in recent years. She explains that many HRM graduates aspire to work overseas but struggle to find employment due to a lack of required experience by foreign employers. Officials from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) believe that the oversupply of nurses and professionals, including HRM graduates, is a result of students’ increasing desire to pursue opportunities abroad. CHED-Cordillera Administrative Director Ramon Santiago has noted that Hotel and Restaurant Management is a popular choice among students in the region, as it offers better chances of securing an overseas job after graduation.
Despite the popularity and demand for certain courses, finding job opportunities in foreign countries is not necessarily easy. The chances of employment abroad are influenced by factors such as a decrease in job vacancies and the qualifications of graduates. Unemployment among professionals has increased due to colleges and universities introducing new programs each year without ensuring the quality of education provided to students because of the high demand for these courses. Consequently, this situation results in either unemployment or underemployment. (Source: CHED explains oversupply of nurses and others, 2011)
According to Debra Wheatman, president of Careers Done Write, the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously is crucial when working in a management role in the hotel or restaurant industry. Additionally, outstanding customer service skills and the ability to motivate staff are important qualities for success. Engaging customers and generating new business through social skills is a significant aspect of this position. It is also essential to possess knowledge in increasing sales and driving profits. Interacting with a diverse and dynamic group of individuals from various backgrounds is inevitable in this role. Advancement opportunities exist; however, note that this is not a typical 9-5 job and may require weekend work and extended hours.
Academic training is crucial, but experience serves as the most effective teacher in this domain. To truly comprehend the expectations essential for success and become well-rounded, it is advisable to work in the industry at an early stage. This will provide a taste of the requirements needed for a managerial position in a restaurant or hotel. The amalgamation of practical business knowledge and classroom experiences will enhance your skills and minimize the learning curve when securing a full-time position. First-hand experiences are unparalleled in aiding one’s comprehension of expectations.
Practical Training is crucial for gaining experience in hotel and restaurant management. Consider working as a server or bartender to gain knowledge of front of house operations and customer service. Additionally, it will be beneficial to spend time in the kitchen to understand the behind-the-scenes aspects. This will provide insight into the importance of timeliness and enhance your understanding of running a smooth kitchen operation. If working in a hotel, try a front desk position to gain comprehensive customer service experience. This role involves troubleshooting and will help develop problem resolution skills (Finding Careers in Hotel and Restaurant Management, 2011).
Due to the increase in tourism, many people are choosing a successful career in hotel restaurant management. In cities around the world, there is a growing demand for skilled managers as businesses thrive in previously vacant areas. Training plays a vital role in establishing a strong hotel restaurant management career because of the significant responsibilities involved. Managers must not only fulfill their own duties but also have the ability to motivate and inspire their employees. This is crucial because the smooth operation of a restaurant or hotel heavily relies on consistent performance from its staff.
To pursue a profitable career in hotel restaurant management, there are two main options: on-the-job training within a restaurant or hotel, or enrolling in a specialized school. On-the-job training allows for gradual advancement but may lack comprehensive training in areas such as accounting and purchasing. However, reputable specialized schools offer tailored programs and job placement assistance for this career.
Graduates of BS in Hotel and Restaurant Management have various career options. These include roles such as Food and Beverage Director, Restaurant Operations Manager, Leisure and Recreation Consultant, Restaurant or Hotel Owner, Front Office Staff and Manager, Cruise Line Staff, Independent Caterer, Housekeeper, Chef, Food Service Consultant, and Academian (BS in Hotel and Restaurant Management in the Philippines, copyright 2010-2012).
HRM graduates have various career options in the hospitality industry, including restaurant management, hotelier roles, and entrepreneurship. Unemployment is typically attributed to insufficient skills and experience, which employers prioritize as essential qualifications. Hence, HRM students should partake in training programs to acquire the required experience. Ultimately, it is crucial to secure a job that aligns with one’s knowledge and abilities for both success and enjoyment in their chosen career.
