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Purdue University's main campus delivers the highest hospitality management graduate earnings at $45,082, nearly double the income of similar programs across Indiana's 11 schools. The state's $17,000 cost gap between public and private options creates stark choices for students entering a field where major employers like Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway drive significant tourism revenue. Indiana University-Kokomo offers the most affordable path at just $6,276 net cost, while acceptance rates above 70% at most institutions make admission accessible. Public universities dominate the lower-cost options, with six of the seven cheapest programs housed at state institutions.
11
Programs
$6,276 – $23,069
Net Price Range
$34,932
Avg. Program Earnings
56.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Hospitality Administration/Management Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,276 $8,179 44.7% 85.8%
2 $8,463 $8,419 44.0% 72.8%
3 $11,408 $10,449 53.9% 82.9%
4 $11,513 $9,254 32.5% 80.7%
5 $13,945 $9,992 83.1% 52.7%
6 $14,989 $16,480 69.1% 71.8%
7 $15,898 $10,758 63.3% 69.0%
8 $16,767 $8,216 37.2%
9 $18,406 $30,034 69.9% 84.6%
10 $18,748 $36,136 55.8% 76.1%
11 $23,069 $31,168 66.3% 86.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive earnings gap between hospitality programs in Indiana?

Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn $45,082 compared to $26,739 at Purdue Northwest, a $18,343 difference that reflects program reputation and alumni networks. The main campus also achieves an 83.1% graduation rate, suggesting stronger student support and career placement services.

How much can students save by choosing public over private hospitality programs?

Public universities average around $10,000 in net costs while private institutions range from $16,767 to $23,069. Indiana University-Kokomo's $6,276 net cost represents the biggest savings, coming in $17,000 less than Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion's $23,069.

Is the 21st Century Scholars program available for hospitality students?

Yes, qualifying Indiana residents receive full tuition coverage at public universities through this state program. This benefit makes schools like Purdue Fort Wayne and Ball State University even more affordable, reducing out-of-pocket costs to primarily room and board expenses.

Where do Indiana hospitality graduates typically find employment?

Indianapolis tourism infrastructure creates substantial job opportunities, from Lucas Oil Stadium events to Indianapolis 500 hospitality services. The state's manufacturing sector also generates corporate hospitality needs, with major employers like Eli Lilly requiring event management and guest services professionals.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.