UT San Antonio has launched a task force to develop recommendations on the creation of a School of Hospitality by Fall 2027.

Building on the success of the university’s Hospitality and Events Management program, this Academic Affairs initiative seeks to expand workforce-aligned educational opportunities, experiential learning and career pathways for students while supporting the continued growth of San Antonio’s hospitality, tourism and events industry.

Facilitated by University College, the task force includes members from across the university, as well as external partners, including representatives from Visit San Antonio, St. Philip’s College, Austin Community College, San Antonio Hotel and Lodging Association, Texas Restaurant Association and leaders from the city’s hospitality industry.

The task force will spend the coming months evaluating academic programs, industry needs and partnership opportunities before presenting recommendations for the proposed school.

“At UT San Antonio, we are committed to creating academic programs that prepare our students for meaningful careers while responding to the growing workforce needs of our area and beyond,” said Heather Shipley, provost and senior executive vice president for academic affairs. “The hospitality industry is essential to the economic success of our city and establishing a School of Hospitality reflects our commitment to student success, workforce development and partnerships that benefit both our students and our community.”

According to the most recent San Antonio hospitality economic impact report, the city’s hospitality industry generated a record $23.4 billion in economic impact in 2024, attracted 36.8 million visitors and supported more than 150,000 jobs. These industry strengths provide a unique environment for students to get direct experience in the field, build their professional networks and prepare them for jobs within hospitality, tourism and events management.

Building on success

Known for incubating innovative academic programs before they evolve into standalone degrees, University College launched the Hospitality & Events Management track within the Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies, welcoming its first cohort in Fall 2023.

Since its launch, the program has developed partnerships across the hospitality, food service and events industries, creating experiential learning opportunities for students. From internships with leading hospitality organizations to participation in national conferences, behind-the-scenes hospitality tours and major event experiences, the program is preparing students to enter the workforce career-ready with practical knowledge and professional connections.

Building on that momentum, the college has proposed a standalone Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Events Management, which would begin enrolling students in Fall 2027, pending final university, UT System and state approvals.

“Our Hospitality & Events Management program has demonstrated strong momentum, and now is the time to think boldly about what hospitality education can become at UT San Antonio,” said  Jianwei Niu, dean of University College. “San Antonio provides an ideal environment for this work, offering students direct access to one of the nation’s most dynamic hospitality and tourism industries.”

“As we develop this vision, experiential learning will remain at the center of our efforts, ensuring students can apply what they learn through internships, industry partnerships, events and other hands-on experiences that prepare them for successful careers.”