CSU San Marcos Announces Innovative New Hospitality Certificate Program

    SAN MARCOS, CA, August 06, 2015 /24-7PressRelease/ -- With perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and world famous attractions like the San Diego Zoo, tourism has long been a big business in San Diego County. Leisure and hospitality are some of the hottest industries in the area; for example, from April to May 2015, this sector gained 4,900 new jobs in San Diego County, with accommodations and food services providing the biggest boost.

In order to help both those currently employed in hospitality and jobseekers looking to gain a stronger foothold in this thriving field, CSUSM Extended Learning will begin offering a professional certificate in the Business of Hospitality this fall. Comprised of seven courses that incorporate both customer-facing and managerial aspects of the hospitality business, the certificate offers both existing and future employees the chance to obtain a better understanding of the "big picture" beyond specific roles or job descriptions.

Tony Chartrand, SPHR, SHR-SCP, Vice President of HR/Talent Management for Pechanga Resort & Casino notes, "CSUSM's Professional Certificate in the Business of Hospitality program is well-timed to address Southern California's growing demand for knowledgeable industry practitioners. Those interested in pursuing a career in hospitality or fine-tuning their skills to achieve a competitive advantage will be well served to participate in this program." Chartrand is a member of CSUSM's Hospitality Advisory Council, which includes professionals from top destinations and attractions throughout San Diego County. In addition to helping ensure that course content reflects industry best practices, Advisory Council members are hosting classes on-site at locations such as the Cape Rey Resort, Sheraton Resort Carlsbad, and the Omni La Costa.

CSUSM's Professional Certificate in the Business of Hospitality is approved for the Workforce Investment and Opportunity Act (WIAO), making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their marketability, transition to a new field, or further a career in hospitality. Incorporating both a big picture perspective of the industry with exposure to the wide range of specialties, this certificate positions students to excel in the field of hospitality here in San Diego and around the world. To learn more about the hospitality program, call 760-750-4004 or visit www.csusm.edu/el/certificateprograms/hospitality/index.html.

About CSUSM Extended Learning
As the academic outreach arm of Cal State San Marcos, Extended Learning is a leading provider of professional and continuing education in North San Diego and Southwest Riverside Counties. Offering degree programs in fields such as biotechnology, as well as both academic credit and noncredit professional enrichment courses, Extended Learning helps individuals and organizations achieve their educational and training goals. For more information about Extended Learning at CSUSM please visit http://www.csusm.edu/el/.

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