University of Nevada - Las Vegas
The William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas began life as the Department of Hotel Administration in 1967, becoming a standalone college in 1969, and today sits barely a mile and a half from the Las Vegas Strip, arguably the most concentrated hospitality laboratory on earth.
Named for a gaming and hospitality pioneer
The college takes its name from William F. Harrah, founder of Harrah's Entertainment, who built one of the defining hospitality and gaming companies of the twentieth century after starting with almost nothing. That entrepreneurial, guest first spirit runs through the college's programmes, which extend well beyond traditional hotel administration into restaurants, entertainment, meetings and events, golf and gaming.
Ranked the best in the United States
According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the Harrah College of Hospitality holds the highest ranked hospitality and leisure management programme in the United States and one of the very best worldwide. Since 1974, the college has run UNLVino, an annual wine and food event that has grown into three separate concepts and continues to generate scholarships for students today.
Studying at the Harrah College of Hospitality brings together several distinct strengths:
- The highest ranked hospitality and leisure management programme in the United States
- A location minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, a living hospitality classroom
- Direct access to internships and jobs with major global hospitality brands
- A fifty year legacy in hospitality education, marked by the annual UNLVino event
- A 15,000 strong alumni network with half based outside Las Vegas
A launchpad into hotel, gaming and entertainment leadership
Graduates move into hotel, casino, restaurant, entertainment and events leadership roles across the world, carrying with them direct exposure to one of the most intense hospitality markets on the planet. For candidates seeking a hospitality education shaped by the realities of a genuine 24 hour hospitality city, UNLV offers a uniquely well placed 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.