The field of Hospitality & Tourism offers a dynamic and rewarding career path, attracting students from
around the world. When considering pursuing a degree in this field, it's essential to evaluate various
factors, including university fees, post-study work opportunities, and potential salaries in different
countries. In this article, we will compare four popular study destinations: the USA, Canada, Australia,
and the UK.
University Fees:
1. USA: Tuition fees for Hospitality & Tourism courses in the United States can vary significantly
between universities and programs. On average, international students can expect to pay
between $20,000 and $40,000 per year. However, scholarships and financial aid options are
available to help alleviate some of the costs.
2. Canada: Canadian universities offer competitive tuition rates for international students. On
average, tuition fees range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year for Hospitality & Tourism
programs. Additionally, there are numerous scholarships and funding opportunities available to
assist international students.
3. Australia: Australian universities are known for their high-quality education and vibrant
hospitality industry. Tuition fees for international students typically range from $20,000 to
$40,000 per year, depending on the institution and program. Scholarships and part-time work
opportunities can help offset these costs.
4. UK: Tuition fees for international students in the UK vary depending on the university and
location. On average, expect to pay between £12,000 and £20,000 per year for Hospitality &
Tourism courses. Scholarships and financial aid options are also available.
Post-Study Work Opportunities:
1. USA: The United States offers Optional Practical Training (OPT) for international students,
allowing graduates to work in their field for up to 12 months after completing their studies. In
certain STEM fields, including some aspects of Hospitality & Tourism, this can be extended to 24
months.
2. Canada: Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows international
graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, providing
excellent opportunities for gaining valuable work experience.
3. Australia: Graduates from Australian universities can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa
(subclass 485), which provides up to two to four years of post-study work rights, depending on
the degree obtained.
4. UK: The UK offers the Graduate Route, which allows international graduates to stay and work in
the UK for two years after completing their studies, or three years if they have completed a
Ph.D. This can provide ample time to establish a career in the Hospitality & Tourism sector.
Salary Expectations:
1. USA: Salaries in the USA can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, level of
education, and experience. On average, entry-level positions in the Hospitality & Tourism sector
may offer a starting salary of $30,000 to $45,000 per year.
2. Canada: Graduates in Canada can expect competitive salaries in the Hospitality & Tourism
industry, with entry-level positions offering an average starting salary of $30,000 to $45,000 per
year.
3. Australia: The Australian hospitality sector offers competitive salaries, with entry-level positions
typically starting at $30,000 to $40,000 per year, although this can vary by location.
4. UK: Salaries in the UK's Hospitality & Tourism sector are generally competitive, with entry-level
positions offering starting salaries of £20,000 to £30,000 per year, depending on location and
experience.
In conclusion, choosing to study Hospitality & Tourism courses abroad is a significant decision, and it's
crucial to consider various factors such as university fees, post-study work opportunities, and potential
salaries. Each of these four countries offers unique advantages, so students should weigh their options
carefully to make an informed decision based on their career goals and financial considerations.
Additionally, seeking advice from university advisors and conducting thorough research on specific
programs and institutions can further aid in making the right choice for your future in the Hospitality &
Tourism industry.
USA:
University Fees: As previously mentioned, tuition fees in the United States vary widely.
Prestigious universities like Cornell and NYU may charge higher tuition fees for their renowned
hospitality programs. However, public institutions can offer more affordable options. It's
essential to research scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid programs offered by
universities to ease the financial burden.
Post-Study Work Opportunities: The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows
international graduates to gain practical experience in their field. For STEM graduates, this
period can be extended to 24 months. The USA's diverse hospitality industry provides ample
opportunities to work in various sectors, such as hotels, event management, and travel
agencies.
Salary Expectations: Salary ranges for the hospitality industry can be highly variable. Graduates
from top hospitality programs often command higher starting salaries, potentially reaching
$50,000 or more, especially in major cities. Positions in upscale hotels or restaurant
management tend to offer higher salaries, while entry-level roles may start around $30,000 to
$45,000 annually.
Canada:
University Fees: Canadian universities are known for offering excellent value for money. Tuition
fees for international students are competitive, and there are numerous scholarships available.
Universities like Ryerson and Humber College are renowned for their hospitality programs.
Post-Study Work Opportunities: The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) in Canada
allows international graduates to work in the country for up to three years, providing ample
time to gain valuable experience in the thriving Canadian tourism industry.
Salary Expectations: Entry-level salaries for graduates in the Canadian hospitality industry are
competitive, with positions offering starting salaries similar to those in the USA, ranging from
$30,000 to $45,000 per year.
Australia:
University Fees: Australian universities offer high-quality education and a vibrant hospitality
sector. Tuition fees for international students are moderate, and institutions like Le Cordon Bleu
and Griffith University offer well-regarded hospitality programs.
Post-Study Work Opportunities: The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows
international graduates to work in Australia for two to four years after completing their studies.
This is particularly advantageous for gaining industry experience and potentially applying for
permanent residency.
Salary Expectations: Entry-level positions in Australia's hospitality sector are competitive, with
starting salaries ranging from $30,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location and the
specific role. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne offer higher salaries to compensate for the
higher cost of living.
UK:
University Fees: Tuition fees in the UK can be quite reasonable, particularly when compared to
the USA. Renowned institutions like the University of Surrey and Oxford Brookes University offer
hospitality programs at competitive rates.
Post-Study Work Opportunities: The UK's Graduate Route allows international graduates to
work in the country for two years, providing a valuable opportunity to gain experience in the
vibrant hospitality and tourism industry.
Salary Expectations: Salaries in the UK's hospitality sector are competitive, with starting salaries
for entry-level positions typically ranging from £20,000 to £30,000 per year. High-end
establishments in London may offer higher salaries.
In conclusion, the choice of where to study Hospitality & Tourism courses should align with your
academic and career goals, financial situation, and preferences regarding post-study work opportunities.
All four countries offer excellent education and prospects within the industry, making them attractive
destinations for international students seeking a career in the dynamic world of hospitality and tourism.
