CSUSM Extended Learning Helps Students Prepare for Careers in San Diego's Thriving Hospitality Industry

    SAN MARCOS, CA, January 05, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- From Legoland to the San Diego Zoo, the sunny beaches to the nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego is a top vacation destination. According to figures from the San Diego Tourism Authority and the Employment Development Department, nearly 34 million people visit the county each year. It's no surprise that hospitality is the third largest industry in San Diego County, with more than 173,000 employees. With that number expected to grow, the Professional Certificate in the Business of Hospitality from CSU San Marcos Extended Learning presents those looking to enter the field or accelerate their careers with an excellent opportunity.

The Professional Certificate in the Business of Hospitality takes a holistic approach, covering every area of the industry so that no matter the individual student's career path, he or she can have a strong grasp of how the different facets of hospitality fit together. The coursework gives students a rich understanding of front- and back-of-house operations; helps develop their decision-making and problem-solving skills; and fosters an appreciation for the importance of service leadership.

Chris Draper, General Manager of the Sheraton Carlsbad, notes the ongoing need for such talent. "Every year we head out into the employment arenas in search of applicable candidates who have an understanding of, passion for, and drive to work with the demands our industry can present," Draper notes. Adds Tony Chartrand SPHR, SHRM-SCP, VP of HR and Talent Management for Pechanga Resort and Casino, "Any graduate of this certificate program would have a definite edge in employment as they would have been exposed to an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at Hospitality."

The Professional Certificate program is comprised of seven courses, each of which lasts four weeks. Enrollment is currently open for this semester, with classes beginning on February 3, 2016. With classes taught by industry professionals held on-site at destinations throughout the county, the program will help hospitality workers in a wide variety of roles to understand the "big picture" in this thriving field. To learn more or to enroll, call 760-750-4004, or visit http://www.csusm.edu/el/certificateprograms/hospitality/hospitalitybiz.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, such as a specialized accelerated MBA degree, 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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