Master of Science & PhD Programs in Hotel Administration

The Cornell Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration’s highly competitive Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in Hotel Administration are research-focused degrees designed for students interested in pursuing careers teaching hospitality management in a university setting and conducting groundbreaking research in the field. Students who pursue the hospitality Master of Science typically continue on to a PhD program.

Both degrees are highly individualized and allow hospitality students to acquire broad-based knowledge of hotel and restaurant management, become proficient in research methodology, and develop the teaching and administrative skills needed to thrive in an academic environment.

Students in both programs major in Hotel Administration and may choose to specialize in one of the academic disciplines offered within the school, or any of the graduate fields supported throughout the university.


Gizem Kilic

"Cornell is my dream school. I have known about SHA [Nolan School] since I was an undergrad in Turkey. The school's reputation precedes it."

Gizem Kilic, PhD Student

Master of Science/PhD in Hotel Administration Academics

The faculty at the Cornell Nolan School provide a rigorous academic and research curriculum to prepare students pursuing a Master of Science or PhD degree in hospitality for a career in academia.

Learn more about academics

Tuition Information & Financing

The Nolan School takes pride in supporting graduate students with financial aid. Learn about these financing opportunities for students pursuing a Master of Science or PhD in hotel administration, and see if you are eligible for one of our competitive funding packages.

Learn more about tuition and financing.

Apply to the Master of Science or PhD Programs in Hotel Administration

Start your online application today for the Master of Science (MS) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs in hotel administration offered through the Cornell University Graduate School.

Learn more about how to apply.

Eligibility for the Master of Science or PhD programs in Hotel Administration

Cornell’s master and doctorate programs in hospitality are highly competitive and rigorous. Learn the eligibility requirements for both the MS and PhD hospitality programs at the Nolan School, as well as some characteristics of a successful candidate to see if you should apply.

Learn more about program eligibility.