A new business degree is giving students a direct path into one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing industries.
Launching in fall 2026, East Tennessee State University’s new Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management is designed for students interested in careers connected to tourism, entertainment, events, travel and hospitality leadership.
The degree builds on an area that was already growing quickly at ETSU.
What was previously a concentration within the university’s management program has expanded into a stand-alone, following enrollment that more than doubled in recent years. The move reflects both student interest and the continued growth of Tennessee’s tourism economy.
Why study at ETSU?
Few places are better positioned for a program like this than East Tennessee.
Tourism plays a major role in the region’s economy, particularly in the Smoky Mountains corridor. The degree will be offered at both ETSU’s main campus in Johnson City and at the ETSU Sevierville Center, placing students close to one of the most visited tourism destinations in the country.
What will you learn?
For students, that means learning in a region where hospitality and tourism are not abstract concepts. They are industries that shape local economies, businesses and communities every day.
The program combines business fundamentals with industry-focused coursework designed to prepare students for careers in hospitality management, tourism development, event planning, destination marketing and related fields.
Students in the program will study areas connected to management, customer experience, tourism operations, leadership, and business strategy while also gaining exposure to an industry that relies heavily on communication, problem-solving and adaptability.
The degree also reflects ETSU’s broader commitment to workforce development and regional economic growth.
Hospitality and tourism remain among Tennessee’s largest industries, supporting jobs and businesses across the state. Faculty and university leaders say the program was developed in direct response to both employer demand and student interest.
How do I apply?
Any student interested in applying to ETSU can do so at etsu.edu/apply. Once you begin the application process, you can select your program.
If you have questions about the application process for the BBA in hospitality and tourism management, email admissions@etsu.edu or call (423) 439-4213.
East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.
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300 Burgin Dossett Hall | PO Box 70717
Johnson City, TN 37614
(423) 439-4317
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