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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

INTRODUCTION
This programme aims to provide individuals in the hospitality industry with advanced knowledge, research
skills, and other abilities to effectively handle emerging issues and complex management problems. It aims
to deliver up-to-date leadership and management services in a sector that faces both local and international
challenges. Additionally, the programme strives to offer training that serves as a basis for research in the
discipline and aims to develop a deeper understanding of hospitality, sustainability, research, and service to
humanity principles within the hospitality sector. It also provides a pathway for addressing sustainability
practices and theories for the industry.

PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES
1. Demonstrate enhanced specialized knowledge and skills in hospitality management.
2. Apply skills that would enable others have deeper understanding of issues in the hospitality industry.
3. Demonstrate the latest management and leadership practices in the hospitality industry.
4. Research, disseminate knowledge, displaying academic ethics in research.
5. Apply methodologies and knowledge to address fundamental issues and (or) problems in the
hospitality industry.

RATIONALE
In a globalized economy, the hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive sectors.
Organizations increasingly demand highly skilled managers and leaders who can drive growth, ensure
service excellence, innovate using new technologies, and promote sustainable practices. This MSc
programme addresses these needs by developing critical thinking, research skills, and managerial
competencies essential for success in senior positions across the industry. Additionally, it supports national
and regional economic growth by enhancing the quality and professionalism of hospitality services.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Qualifications:
• A holder of a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management;
• Upper Second-Class Honours or a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a scale of
4.00;
• Lower Second-Class Honours or a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.50 on a scale of
4.00 with additional relevant training, evidence of research capability either through research,
paper presentations or peer reviewed publications and relevant working experience.
• Relevant Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality related disciplines.
Regulations on Credit Accumulation and Transfer in a Programme

1. Credit Accumulation
Regulations on credit accumulation, including possible pathways, shall be in line with the provisions of
Universities Regulations, Universities Standards and Guidelines, and general national trends.
2. Credit Transfer
A candidate may be allowed to transfer credits from part or all of the coursework requirements if the senate
is satisfied that the candidate has completed and passed the prescribed courses(s) at the undergraduate level
from accredited institutions and programs recognized by the senate. Any course considered for credit
transfer must have been completed at an equivalent level and in an equivalent institution, with a minimum
grade of 50%.
3. Guidelines for Transfer of Credit/ Exemptions
A candidate may be exempted from degree level courses if the Senate is satisfied that the candidate has
completed a similar course at the Diploma level from a recognized institution. The general rules governing
credit transfers and exemptions will apply. In addition, the following rules apply:

  1. Must meet the requirements for admission to the Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism, or
    Related Programme.
  2. Must obtain and submit an official transcript from the previous university/college indicating
    academic status, courses offered, credits units completed, and grades obtained.
  3. Will be allowed to transfer/exempt credits earned from the courses described, but only up to
    49%.
  4. If permitted to transfer/exempt, he/she will not be permitted to transfer units in courses in
    which he/she received a pass mark of less than 50%.
  5. All applications must be accompanied by recommendations from the institution from which he
    or she is transferring.
  6. The school will evaluate the application and make recommendations to the Senate.

MODE AND STRUCTURE OF DELIVERY
• Face-to-face, Blended, and Online

PROGRAMME DURATION
The duration and structure of the programme will be similar for both regular and ODeL students. The
programme comprises two (2) academic years equivalent to 30 credit hours of core units and 1,850 lecture
hours of thesis

CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS

1. Course Distribution Table

Number Credit Hours Lecture Hours Mode of Delivery
University Common Units N/A N/A N/A
Core Course Units – Year 1 10 30 390 Blended
Electives – Year 1 1 3 39 Blended
Thesis – Year 2 1,850 Blended
Total 11 33 2,240

2. Common Courses of the Institution, Core Courses of the Programme, Specialisation Area Courses, and Electives

Unit Code Unit Title Type of Course Lecture Hours
HTM800 Research Methods in Hospitality and Tourism Core 39
HTM801 Technology and Information Systems for Hospitality Management Core 39
HTM802 Advanced Statistics in Hospitality and Tourism Core 39
HTM803 Seminar, Academic Writing and Publications Core 39
HTM804 Strategic Management for the Global Hospitality Core 39
HTM805 Human Capital Management for the Hospitality Industry Core 39
HTM806 Quality Service Management in Hospitality Industry Core 39
HTM807 Hospitality Control and Decision Accounting Core 39
HTM808 Sustainable Hospitality Operations Management Core 39
HTM809 Global Hospitality Innovations and Brand Management Core 39
HTM811 Hospitality Law Elective 39
HTM812 Thesis Core 1,850

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND POTENTIAL EMPLOYMENT SECTORS

Graduates of a Master of Science in Hospitality Management program are well-equipped for a wide range
of leadership, strategic, and specialized roles across the global hospitality, tourism, and service sectors.
Career paths include:
1. Hotel and Resort Management
• General Manager
• Rooms Division Manager
• Revenue Manager
• Director of Operations
• Guest Experience Manager
2. Food and Beverage Management
• Food and Beverage Director
• Restaurant Manager
• Catering and Events Manager
• Culinary Operations Manager
3. Event Management
• Event Planning Director
• Conference and Convention Services Manager
• Corporate Events Manager
4. Hospitality Marketing and Sales
• Sales and Marketing Director
• Digital Marketing Specialist for Hospitality Brands
• Customer Relationship Manager

5. Revenue Management and Analytics
o Revenue Optimization Analyst
o Data Analyst for Hospitality Businesses

o Pricing Strategy Manager
6. Luxury and Lifestyle Management
o Luxury Brand Manager (Hotels, Resorts, Cruises)
o Guest Relations Director for Luxury Properties
7. Real Estate and Asset Management in Hospitality
o Hospitality Asset Manager
o Hotel Development Analyst
o Property Investment Consultant
8. Consulting and Entrepreneurship
o Hospitality Management Consultant
o Startup Founder (Boutique Hotels, Tech Solutions for Hospitality)
o Service Innovation Consultant
9. Academic and Research Roles
o Lecturer or Assistant Professor in Hospitality Management
o Researcher in Hospitality Trends, Sustainability, or Innovation
o Doctoral (PhD) studies leading to advanced academic careers
10. Corporate Training and Human Resources
o Learning and Development Manager
o Talent Acquisition Specialist for Hospitality Groups
o Organizational Development Consultant
11. Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
o Sustainability Manager for Hospitality Operations
o CSR Program Manager in Tourism and Travel Companies
Key Advantages of Master of Science in Hospitality Management
ï‚· Global career mobility
ï‚· Access to leadership and executive tracks
ï‚· Flexibility to work in diverse environments, from multinational chains to boutique enterprises

TUITION AND FEE STRUCTURE
Full Time; Fees ksh.267,000= Non East Africans ksh.333,750 p.a

WHY CHOOSE THIS PROGRAMME AT KU
a) Strong Reputation in Hospitality and Tourism Education
KU is recognized nationally, regionally, and globally as a leader in hospitality, tourism, and service industry
education. Its programs are well-respected for producing graduates with strong professional, managerial,
and research skills tailored to the needs of the dynamic hospitality sector.
b) Comprehensive and Industry-Relevant MSc Curriculum

The MSc in Hospitality Management at KU combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical
application. The curriculum is carefully designed to address current industry challenges, including strategic
management, sustainable hospitality practices, service quality enhancement, and technological innovation.
c) Knowledgeable Faculty and Research Expertise
KU boasts a team of highly qualified faculty members with deep academic, research, and industry
experience. Students benefit from mentorship by scholars who are actively involved in hospitality research,
consultancy, and policy development.
d) Emphasis on Research and Innovation
The MSc program at KU provides strong training in research methodologies, empowering students to
contribute innovative solutions to hospitality challenges. Graduates are prepared not only for leadership
roles but also for careers in research, consultancy, or further academic study (such as a PhD).
e) Strategic Industry Partnerships and Internship Opportunities
KU maintains active partnerships with leading hotels, resorts, tourism organizations, and hospitality groups,
both locally and internationally. These linkages provide students with access to valuable internship, research,
and employment opportunities.
f) Global Perspective with Local Relevance
The program at ³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ is uniquely positioned to blend global best practices in hospitality
management with an understanding of regional and local contexts, making its graduates highly adaptable
and competitive globally.
g) Support for Career Development and Networking
KU provides students with career support services, including workshops, seminars, and networking
opportunities with industry professionals, alumni, and corporate partners. This support enhances graduates’
employability and professional growth.
h) Affordability and Value for Money
Compared to international institutions offering similar qualifications, KU provides a high-quality education
at a much more affordable cost, making it an excellent choice

Year I

Year II

Semester I Core Units Semester II Core Units
  • HTM800: Research Methods in Hospitality and Tourism
  • HTM801: Technology and Information Systems for Hospitality Management

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  • HTM804: Strategic Management for the Global Hospitality
  • HTM805: Human Capital Management for the Hospitality Industry
  • HTM808: Sustainable Hospitality Operations Management

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Semester I Core Units Semester II Core Units
  • HTM802: Advanced Statistics in Hospitality and Tourism
  • HTM806: Quality Service Management in Hospitality Industry
  • HTM807: Hospitality Control and Decision Accounting
  • HTM809: Global Hospitality Innovations and Brand Management
  • HTM812: Thesis
  • HTM803: Seminar, Academic Writing and Publications
  • HTM811: Hospitality Law
  • HTM812: Thesis