Pennsylvania State University
Penn State's School of Hospitality Management, established in 1937, is one of the three oldest continually operating hospitality management programmes in the United States, based at the university's main campus in University Park, Pennsylvania.
Nearly ninety years of alumni loyalty
The school is home to the Penn State Hotel and Restaurant Society, the oldest academically affiliated alumni association anywhere at Penn State, which has welcomed more than 720 alumni back to campus through its annual Alumni in the Classroom programme since 2006. A dedicated historical marker outside the Mateer Building now commemorates this rich history, a rare honour for an academic hospitality programme.
A curriculum shaped by real industry advisors
An Industry Advisory Board composed of leading hospitality executives works directly with the school on strategic direction, career placement and research, keeping the curriculum genuinely current with industry needs. The programme was rated first in Pennsylvania, third in the United States and twentieth in the world for hospitality and leisure management by the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Studying at Penn State's School of Hospitality Management offers several distinct strengths:
- One of the three oldest hospitality management programmes in the United States, founded in 1937
- Ranked first in Pennsylvania and third in the United States for the subject
- An Industry Advisory Board of senior hospitality executives
- The oldest academically affiliated alumni society at Penn State
- Bachelor's, Master's and PhD study within a single school
A launchpad into global hospitality leadership
Graduates move into hotel, restaurant, senior living and hospitality leadership roles across the United States and internationally, carrying with them the credibility of one of the country's original hospitality programmes. For candidates seeking a hospitality education with deep American academic roots, Penn State offers a distinguished path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is headhunting?
Headhunting is the direct, proactive approach of specific professionals for a specific role, rather than waiting for applications. It is common for senior, scarce or confidential positions. CourtesyMasters has practised headhunting and direct sourcing for hospitality since 1999, always discreetly and with respect for everyone involved.
What is a boutique executive search firm?
A boutique executive search firm is a small, specialised practice that takes on a limited number of assignments with senior attention, in contrast to large, volume-driven firms. CourtesyMasters has worked this way since 1999: a dedicated team, deep hospitality roots and personal involvement from first briefing to final placement. Read more about us.
What is the difference between executive search and recruitment?
Recruitment typically fills open vacancies through advertising and applications. Executive search works the other way around: a consultant proactively identifies and approaches accomplished professionals, including those not actively looking, and guides both sides through a confidential, structured process. CourtesyMasters combines both disciplines, always with a hospitality focus.
What is executive search?
Executive search is a specialised form of recruitment for senior and hard-to-fill positions. Instead of waiting for applications, a search partner proactively identifies, approaches and assesses proven professionals, often confidentially. CourtesyMasters has applied this craft exclusively to hospitality since 1999, through a structured six-step methodology. Discover more about executive search services.
How can I report recruitment fraud or impersonation involving CourtesyMasters?
If you receive a suspicious message or offer that claims to come from CourtesyMasters, please contact us directly before responding. We will confirm whether the communication is genuine and take action to protect you.
Where is CourtesyMasters headquartered?
CourtesyMasters is headquartered in The Hague, The Netherlands, and works internationally from hubs in Madrid, Florence, Rome, London, Monaco and Cannes. See our locations for the full overview.
When was CourtesyMasters founded?
CourtesyMasters was founded in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, in 1999. From Rotterdam to the world: over more than twenty-five years we have grown into an international hospitality search partner built on trust and discretion, working today from our headquarters in The Hague. Read more in our story.