Introduction

If you aspire to establish a career in the hospitality sector and have a penchant for management, you might consider pursuing an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM).

But what precisely is hotel management? It entails the supervision and administration of different elements of the hotel and hospitality industry. Essentially, it involves managing the operations of hotels, resorts, motels, and similar entities to ensure maximum customer satisfaction while boosting business profitability.

Hotel management comprehends of a diverse array of activities, including Food and Beverage Management, Front Office Operations, Housekeeping, Financial Management, Sales, Marketing, Event Management, Accommodation Management, and more. These varied functions work together to ensure seamless operations, exceptional guest experiences, and overall business success within the hospitality industry.

BHM Course Overview

The Bachelors in Hotel Management (BHM) is an undergraduate degree of four years of span and further divided into eight semesters.The BHM program equips students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage the administrative functions of hotels and support their service departments. This course emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical applications, covering various facets of the hotel industry.

To be eligible for this degree, a student should have secured atleast 50% in 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board or equivalent with english as a mandatory subject.

Curriculum

Lets see the curriculum structure of the course:

The curriculum for a Bachelor in Hotel Management (BHM) program in India typically spans three to four years and is divided into semesters. The program usually includes both core and elective subjects, along with practical training and internships. Here’s a general outline of the semester-wise curriculum, including core and elective subjects:

Year 1

Semester 1

 

• • • • Hospitality EnglishCore Subjects:
        
        • • Front Office Operations
        • • Food and Beverage Service
        • • Foundation Course in Management
        • • Food Production
        • • Communication SkillsIntroduction to Hospitality

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Basic Food Production Lab
    • • Front Office Lab

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Introduction to Computers

Semester 2

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Housekeeping Operations
    • • Food and Beverage Management
    • • Hotel Law and Ethics
    • • Principles of Management
    • • Introduction to Accounting
    • • Hospitality Mathematics

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Advanced Food Production Lab
    • • Housekeeping Lab

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Environmental Studies

Year 2

Semester 3

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Advanced Food and Beverage Service
    • • Front Office Management
    • • Food Production Operations
    • • Human Resource Management
    • • Marketing for Hospitality
    • • Nutrition and Dietetics

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Food Production and Service Lab
    • • Front Office and Housekeeping Lab

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Basic French or another foreign language

Semester 4

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Hotel Financial Management
    • • Event Management
    • • Strategic Management
    • • Business Communication
    • • Tourism Management
    • • Research Methodology

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Advanced Front Office Lab
    • • Event Management Lab

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Personality Development and Soft Skills

Year 3

Semester 5

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Food and Beverage Management
    • • International Cuisine
    • • Hotel Operations Management
    • • E-Hospitality
    • • Quality Management in Hospitality
    • • Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Hospitality

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Advanced Food Production Lab
    • • Restaurant and Bar Management Lab

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Hotel and Tourism Law

Semester 6

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Strategic Management in Hospitality
    • • Facilities Management
    • • Hospitality Project Management
    • • Advanced Hotel Operations
    • • Sustainable Hospitality
    • • Internship/Practical Training

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Industry Internship (usually a significant component of this semester)

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Advanced Foreign Language Course

Year 4 (if applicable)

Semester 7

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Advanced Topics in Hospitality Management
    • • Innovation and Change Management
    • • Research Project or Dissertation
    • • Hospitality Consultancy

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Specialized Training or Project Work

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Advanced Marketing in Hospitality

Semester 8

 

• • Core Subjects:
    

     

    • • Strategic Leadership in Hospitality
    • • Business Development in Hospitality
    • • Industry Internship (if not completed in the previous semester)
    • • Final Project/Dissertation Presentation

• • Practical:
    

     

    • • Final Industry Internship or Capstone Project

• • Elective:
    

     

    • • Specialized Elective Based on Student’s Career Goals

Core vs. Elective Subjects

 

• • Core Subjects: These are mandatory courses that provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for a career in hotel management. They cover essential aspects of hospitality management, including food production, front office operations, housekeeping, finance, marketing, and human resources.

• • Elective Subjects: These courses allow students to explore specific areas of interest within the hospitality field. Electives might include advanced foreign languages, specialized marketing techniques, hotel and tourism law, or courses related to entrepreneurship and sustainable practices.

Practical Training

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the curriculum emphasizes practical training through lab work, industry internships, and project work. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing the skills required in real-world hospitality settings.

Please note that the exact curriculum can vary depending on the institution, so it’s important to check with the specific college or university for their detailed program structure.

Course fees structure

A Bachelor of Hotel Management can be pursued through three different pathways: a certificate course, a diploma course, or an undergraduate degree. Each of these options holds its own value and significance within the hospitality industry. The duration and fees associated with these courses vary accordingly.

Let’s understand the differences between these educational paths-

Type of Course	Fees	Duration	Average Salary	About
Undergraduate degree	INR 3-10 L	3-4 Years	INR 2- 6 LPA	It is a full-time program and more reputed than other two and mostly led by industry experts.
Diploma	INR 10,000 – 5,000,00	3 months- 3 years	INR 5-10 LPA	These courses can either be full-time or part-time. Working students prefers this mostly.
Certificate	INR 8,000 – 10,000	Less than or equal to a year	INR 2-3 LPA	Thses courses are mostly online with less practical experience and mostly for beginners who want to have knowledge in hospitality industry.

Admission Procedure

For admission to Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM), there are two options: one is merit-based, and the other is through entrance examinations. In addition to government exams, some well-established private hotel groups also conduct their own entrance tests for admission to their affiliated universities or colleges.

National Level Entrance Examination for BHM:

If you aspire to pursue a Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) degree in India, you should consider several national-level entrance examinations. These exams are designed to select candidates for various esteemed hotel management institutes across the country.

 

1. 1. NCHM JEE (National Council for Hotel Management Joint Entrance Examination):

It is conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) for qualified students to get admission to B.Sc in Hospitality and Hotel Administration programs at NCHMCT affiliated institutes.

Eligibility: Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent with English as a subject.

Exam Pattern: The test consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering:

 

• • Numerical Ability and Analytical Aptitude

• • Reasoning and Logical Deduction

• • General Knowledge & Current Affairs

• • English Language

• • Aptitude for Service Sector

 

2. 2. IIHM eCHAT (International Institute of Hotel Management Electronic Common Hospitality Admission Test): It is conducted byInternational Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM).

Eligibility: Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent.

Exam Pattern: The online test includes sections on:

 

• • Language Comprehension

• • Mathematical Skills

• • Data Analysis and Interpretation

• • Intelligence and Critical Reasoning

• • Awareness of Socio-Economic Environment

• • General Knowledge

 

3. 3. AIMA UGAT (All India Management Association Undergraduate Aptitude Test) – BHM: It is conducted by All India Management Association (AIMA) with the aim to get admission to undergraduate programs in management, including BHM, at participating institutes

Eligibility: Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent.

Exam Pattern: The test includes:

 

• • English Language

• • Numerical and Data Analysis

• • Reasoning and Intelligence

• • General Knowledge

 

4. 4. AIHMCT WAT (Army Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology Written Admission Test): It is conducted by Army Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology with the purpose to get admission to BHM programs at AIHMCT, Banglore

Eligibility: Children of eligible serving Army personnel, ex-Army personnel, and war widows. Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent with English as one of the subjects.

Exam Pattern:This online test includes following subjects:

 

• • English Language

• • General Knowledge

• • Hospitality and Tourism

• • Reasoning and Logical Deduction

• • Scientific Aptitude and Numerical Ability.

State- Level Entrance Examination for BHM:

Besides national-level entrance exams, various states in India also hold their own entrance examinations for admission to Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) programs.             

Although the eligibility criteria for these exams are similar across most states, requiring candidates to have scored at least 45% in their 10+2 examinations with English as a compulsory subject.

The exam pattern consists of Multiple Choice Questions in subjects listed below:

 

• • Reasoning(Verbal and Airthnetic) and logical deduction

• • Awareness

• • Scientific aptitude

• • General Knowledge

• • English Language

• • Numerical Ability

Some of the popular or the most preferable choice of the BHM aspirants are the following:

 

1. 1. MAH BHMCT CET (Maharashtra Bachelor of Hotel Management and Catering Technology Common Entrance Test), conducted by State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra.

1. 1. UPSEE BHMCT (Uttar Pradesh State Entrance Examination for BHMCT), Conducted by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU).

1. 1. WBJEE HM (West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination for Hotel Management, conducted By West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board (WBJEEB)

1. 1. Karnataka PGCET (Post Graduate Common Entrance Test) for Hotel Management, conducted by Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA).

1. 1. TANCET (Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test) for Hotel Management, conducted by Anna University.

1. 1. TS ICET (Telangana State Integrated Common Entrance Test) for Hotel Management, conducted by Kakatiya University on behalf of Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TSCHE).

Top Colleges to get Admission to Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) Programs

In India, several esteemed institutions offer a Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) program. Here are some of the best colleges for pursuing a BHM, categorized by merit-based and entrance exam-based admission:

Merit – based Colleges:

 

• • Institute of Hotel Management, Catering & Nutrition (IHM Pusa), New Delhi

• • Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Mumbai

• • Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Kolkata

• • Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal

• • Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Bengaluru

Entrance Exams – Based Colleges:

 

• • Notable IHMs under NCHMCT:
    

     

    • • IHM Pusa, New Delhi
    • • IHM Mumbai
    • • IHM Kolkata
    • • IHM Bengaluru
    • • IHM Chennai

• • Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Hotel Management, Pune

• • Amity School of Hospitality, Noida

• • Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD), Delhi

• • Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), Delhi

• • Suryadatta Institute of Hotel Management & Travel Tourism, Pune

• • Pearl Academy, Jaipur

Merit-Based Institutions like IHM Pusa, IHM Mumbai, IHM Kolkata, WGSHA, and IHM Bengaluru offer excellent programs with merit-based admissions playing a role alongside entrance exams.

Entrance Exam-Based Colleges like those under NCHMCT, Bharati Vidyapeeth, Amity School of Hospitality, and Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development are well-regarded for their entrance exams and specialized programs.

Each of these institutions has its own strengths, so it’s essential to research and choose based on your career goals, preferences, and eligibility criteria, in addition to infrastructure and industry connections.

A student should also consider the awards and certifications received by the college or university for its educational programs, related activities, and placement services. Assess the strength and quality of the placements they provide, as these factors reflect the institution’s overall excellence and effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

What Will Student Learn During their Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) Programe?

Students will develop their skills and potential over the four years of earning their undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM). They will encounter numerous practical experiences throughout their semesters, particularly in their final semester when they specialize in their chosen area of focus.

Students participate in various training programs and internships that provide industry exposure. These experiences help them establish professional connections and gain invaluable experience for their future careers.

Let’s explore some of the skills you will acquire, which you can apply to tackle the challenges you will encounter in the future in hospitality management.

 

• • Managing Hospitality with proficiency: Utilize your extensive understanding of hotels, tourism, and the hospitality sector, combined with your specialized skills, to address and resolve intricate hotel management challenges.

 

• • Problem Evaluation:You will efficiently recognize, define, review relevant literature, and assess complex  issues within the hospitality sector, drawing well-supported conclusions based on management principles.

 

• • Efficiency in communication:To communicate effectively, it is essential for student to exhibit proficiency in both professional written and verbal communication, as well as a strong grasp of relevant technology.

 

• • Responsibility towards Society and Environmnent: You will be able to develop design elements or processes that address the necessary requirements while considering public health and safety, cultural and socioeconomic factors, and environmental impacts, as well as detailed issues related to hospitality.

 

• • Project Management and Finance: Graduates will step into the hotel industry as leaders and managers, equipped with a strategic mindset for business.

 

• • Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Students will be able to showcase strategies and practices that foster creativity and encourage them to engage in innovative endeavors.

In addition to the aforementioned skills, you will also practice various ethical principles that will deepen your commitment to professional ethics and responsibilities, thereby enhancing your personal development. You will gain familiarity with modern tools and equipment, learning to manage their use while understanding their limitations. Hotel management is a multidisciplinary field where the successful coordination of numerous activities is essential. Thus, a Bachelor in Hotel Management equips you with the leadership and managerial qualities needed to excel in this dynamic industry.

Scope and Job Prospects for Bachelor in Hotel Management (BHM)

After completing a Bachelor in Hotel Management (BHM) in India, graduates have a wide range of job opportunities across various sectors of the hospitality industry. Here are some potential career paths:

Hotel Management Careers

Hotel Manager: look after daily operations, coordinate staff, and ensure an exceptional guest experience.

Front Office Manager: Manage guest check-ins and check-outs, handle reservations, and resolve guest inquiries.

Housekeeping Manager: Supervise housekeeping staff, uphold cleanliness standards, and manage room supplies.

Food and Beverage Management

Restaurant Manager: Oversee restaurant operations, lead staff, and maintain high standards of food quality and service.

Food and Beverage Director: Design and execute food and beverage strategies, manage budgets, and ensure quality control.

Bar Manager: Supervise bar operations, manage stock, and curate cocktail menus.

Event and Catering Management

Event Planner: Organize and coordinate events such as weddings, conferences, and corporate functions.

Catering Manager: Oversee catering services, design menus, and liaise with clients to ensure successful events.

Sales and Marketing

Sales Manager: Create and implement sales strategies to attract guests and clients.

Marketing Manager: Develop marketing campaigns, manage social media channels, and promote hotel or restaurant services.

Tourism and Travel

Tour Operator: Design and manage travel itineraries, handle bookings, and offer customer support.

Travel Consultant: Assist clients with travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations, and tours.

Cruise Line Industry

Cruise Director: Oversee onboard activities, entertainment, and guest services on cruise ships.

Shipboard Manager: Manage various ship departments, including dining, housekeeping, and guest services.

Healthcare and Wellness

Spa Manager: Manage spa operations, lead staff, and ensure guest satisfaction in wellness facilities.

Health and Wellness Coordinator: Develop and oversee wellness programs and services for guests.

Education and Training

Hospitality Instructor: Teach courses related to hotel management and hospitality at educational institutions.

Training Manager: Design and deliver training programs for hospitality staff.

Consulting and Entrepreneurship

Hospitality Consultant: Offer expert advice to hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses to enhance operations and profitability.

Entrepreneur: Establish and manage your own hospitality-related business, such as a boutique hotel, restaurant, or event planning service.

Government and Public Sector

Tourism Officer: Collaborate with government agencies to promote tourism and manage public tourism initiatives.

Public Relations Manager: Handle public and media relations for hospitality establishments or tourism boards.

Emerging Opportunities

Sustainable Hospitality Manager: Implement eco-friendly practices and sustainability initiatives within hospitality operations.

Technology Integration Specialist: Utilize technology solutions and software to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency.

The rapidly expanding hospitality industry in India presents a broad spectrum of career opportunities for graduates holding a Bachelor in Hotel Management.

Accreditations and Affiliations

When selecting a college for pursuing a Bachelor in Hotel Management (BHM) in India, it’s important to consider various accreditations and affiliations to ensure the quality and recognition of the program. Here are key accreditations and affiliations to look for:

1. National Board of Accreditation (NBA)

 

• • Purpose: NBA accreditation ensures that the program meets high-quality standards in education.

• • Significance: Accredited programs are evaluated on various parameters such as curriculum, faculty, infrastructure, and industry relevance.

2. National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)

 

• • Purpose: NAAC assesses and accredits institutions of higher education in India.

• • Significance: NAAC accreditation indicates that the institution adheres to quality education standards and offers a robust academic environment.

3. International Accreditation Bodies

 

• • Examples:
    

     

    • • American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI): Provides global recognition and standards for hospitality education.
    • • The International Centre of Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism Management (ICEHTM): Recognizes institutions that meet international standards.

• • Significance: International accreditations add global recognition to the program and can enhance career opportunities abroad.

4. Affiliations with Industry Bodies

 

• • Examples:
    

     

    • • Hotel Management and Catering Technology (HMCT) Associations: Look for affiliations with industry associations like the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) or Indian Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA).

• • Significance: These affiliations often indicate strong industry connections, practical training opportunities, and relevance in industry practices.

5. Government Recognition

 

• • Purpose: Ensure that the college is recognized by relevant governmental education bodies.

• • Significance: Government recognition guarantees that the program is officially approved and adheres to educational standards set by national authorities.

6. University Affiliations

 

• • Examples:
    

     

    • • Affiliation with Recognized Universities: Ensure the college is affiliated with a recognized university that offers a Bachelor in Hotel Management.

• • Significance: University affiliations ensure that the degree awarded is recognized and valued within the academic and professional community.

7. Industry Partnerships

 

• • Purpose: Look for colleges with strong partnerships with hospitality industry leaders.

• • Significance: Partnerships with major hotels and hospitality chains often provide students with valuable internship and placement opportunities, enhancing practical learning.

8. Alumni Network

 

• • Purpose: Evaluate the strength and reach of the institution’s alumni network.

• • Significance: A strong alumni network can provide insights into the program’s quality and potential career support after graduation.

9. Program-specific Accreditations

 

• • Examples:
    

     

    • • Specialized Accreditations for Hospitality Programs: Check if the program has specific accreditations related to hospitality education.

• • Significance: These accreditations ensure that the program meets specialized standards in hospitality management.

When choosing a college for a Bachelor in Hotel Management (BHM), look for accreditations from NBA, NAAC, and relevant international bodies, as well as affiliations with industry associations, government recognition, and strong university partnerships. These credentials ensure that the program is of high quality, recognized both nationally and internationally, and provides valuable industry connections and opportunities.