18 Best Hospitality Management Certifications For Upskilling In 2025
Hospitality management certifications are beneficial for professionals seeking to advance their careers in the hotel and hospitality industry by gaining specialized skills and knowledge. Certificate programs have the benefit of expert-led coursework as well as networking opportunities with those whose specialization is already within a hospitality career path.
I've summarized the best hospitality management certifications with some notes about who and what each one is best for so you can find the right one for the next step in your career.
Types Of Hospitality Management Certifications (and what they mean)
You may come across different types of hospitality certification lingo, so I’ll try to clear up a few key definitions for you here:
- Bachelor’s Degree - A foundational academic credential that typically takes four years to complete, providing comprehensive knowledge of hospitality management principles, business operations, and customer service skills.
- Master’s Degree - An advanced academic degree that delves deeper into specialized areas of hospitality management, such as leadership, strategy, or international hospitality, often aimed at career advancement or executive roles.
- Degree Program - A structured curriculum offered by universities or colleges that leads to an academic degree, often including theoretical and practical components tailored to hospitality industry demands.
- Certification Course - A focused, shorter-term program designed to equip professionals with specific skills or knowledge in areas like hotel management, event planning, or revenue optimization, often recognized by industry organizations.
I’m focused more on Certification Courses in this article. I find them to be a springboard to a career without the time or financial commitment of a degree program.
Best Hospitality Management Certifications Shortlist
- Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) — Best for supervisory skills in hospitality
- Certified Hospitality Manager (CHM) — Best for managerial roles in the hospitality sector
- Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) — Best for hotel administration expertise
- Hospitality and Tourism Management Certification (HTM) — Best for foundational knowledge in hospitality and tourism
- Certified Hospitality Trainer (CHT) — Best for training professionals in hospitality
- Certified Hospitality Facilities Executive (CHFE) — Best for facilities management in the hospitality industry
- Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) — Best for financial management in hospitality
- Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) — Best for sales expertise in the hospitality industry
- Certified Rooms Division Executive (CRDE) — Best for managing rooms division in hotels
- Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) — Best for educators in the hospitality field
- Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM) — Best for revenue management in hospitality
- Certified Hospitality Housekeeping Executive (CHHE) — Best for housekeeping management in the hospitality sector
- Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) — Best for technology management in the hospitality industry
- Hospitality Leadership Certification — Best for leadership in hospitality
- Certified Hospitality Industry Analytics (CHIA) — Best for data analytics in hospitality
- Advanced Hospitality Revenue Management: Pricing and Demand Strategies — Best for revenue management in hospitality
- Certified Hospitality Department Trainer (CHDT) — Best for departmental training in hospitality
- Certified in Hospitality Business Acumen (CHBA) — Best for business acumen in hospitality
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each one.
Overview Of The Best Hospitality Management Certifications
Below are my detailed summaries of the best hospitality management certifications that made it onto my shortlist.
1. Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) - Best for supervisory skills in hospitality
The Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) is a professional certification tailored for individuals in the hospitality industry aiming to enhance their supervisory capabilities and advance their careers. Acknowledged globally, the CHS designation represents the pinnacle of professionalism for supervisors, providing an opportunity to demonstrate their readiness to assume supervisory roles and effectively lead teams.
This certification equips candidates with essential skills to excel in supervisory positions, offering a pathway for career progression in the hospitality sector.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Development of leadership skills
- Time management techniques
- Effective communication strategies
- Team management
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
Prerequisites:
- Education: An Associate of Arts or Associate of Sciences degree or higher
- Work Experience: Relevant experience in a supervisory role within the hospitality industry
- Exam: Completion of the Supervisory Skill Builders series
- Other Certifications Required: One current supervisory, managerial, department head, or executive certification
Renewability: The certification requires renewal every five years through continuing education or re-examination.
Price: $266.50
Who It's For: The CHS certification is ideal for individuals seeking to validate their supervisory skills in the hospitality industry. Holding this certification showcases a commitment to professional growth and readiness to undertake leadership responsibilities.
2. Certified Hospitality Manager (CHM) - Best for managerial roles in the hospitality sector
The Certified Hospitality Manager (CHM) certification is a program designed to enhance the management and leadership skills of professionals in the hospitality industry. Offered as an online training program, it focuses on building competencies necessary for effective management, fostering team success, and improving operational profitability.
The program includes interactive and media-rich content tailored to the needs of the hospitality sector. This certification is geared towards transforming managers into effective leaders within the industry.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
Focus:
- Hotel operations
- Leadership
- Recruiting
- Financial management
- Revenue management
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration
Who It’s For: The certification is aimed at new and existing managers in the hospitality industry, helping to improve employee engagement, retention, and overall property performance. It signifies the holder's capability to lead effectively and manage operations efficiently.
3. Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) - Best for hotel administration expertise
The Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is a distinguished certification that recognizes exceptional leadership and managerial skills in the hotel industry. Awarded by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), this globally recognized credential validates a manager's advanced knowledge and abilities in hospitality management. The CHA designation is regarded as a premier symbol of professional achievement for lodging executives, providing recognition for expertise and leadership in hotel management.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Hotel management principles
- Leadership skills
- Revenue management
- Customer service
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: At least two years of experience as a hotel general manager or in a comparable executive role
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: $728.50
Who It’s For: The CHA certification is intended for lodging executives who aspire to demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skills in hotel management. It signifies a high level of professional competence and leadership ability in the hospitality industry, opening doors to further career advancement and recognition.
4. Hospitality and Tourism Management Certification (HTM) - Best for foundational knowledge in hospitality and tourism
The Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) certification equips high school students with essential skills for a hospitality career. Covering lodging, food and beverage, events, tourism, marketing, finance, and leadership, it integrates math, career readiness, sustainability, and ethics. The flexible program prepares students for the Hospitality and Tourism Specialist (HTS) credential exam.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Lodging Operations
- Food and Beverage Management
- Event Management
- Tourism and Travel
- Business Fundamentals
Prerequisites:
- Education: High school level
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration
Who It’s For: This certification equips students with fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for pursuing careers in various areas of the hospitality and tourism industries.
5. Certified Hospitality Trainer (CHT) - Best for training professionals in hospitality
The Certified Hospitality Trainer (CHT®) certification recognizes expertise in hospitality training, enhancing career prospects and validating advanced knowledge. It includes a workshop covering training investment, needs assessment, instructional design, and mentoring. Candidates must pass a 150-question exam with a minimum score of 70% to earn the credential.
Issued by: The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
Focus:
- Investment in Training and Development
- Assessing Training Needs
- Instructional Design
- Training Tools, Techniques, and Technology
Prerequisites:
- Education: Degree or equivalent experience in hospitality
- Work Experience: Employed as a property-level training director, corporate-level training executive, or department head at a hospitality company.
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: Holding a current AHLEI supervisor, management, department head, or executive certification
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: 5,000 AED
Who It’s For: The CHT® certification is crucial for hospitality professionals who aim to establish themselves as experts in training, enhancing their career prospects and validating their commitment and advanced knowledge in the field.
6. Certified Hospitality Facilities Executive (CHFE) - Best for facilities management in the hospitality industry
The Certified Hospitality Facilities Executive (CHFE) certification is a distinguished credential offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It is specifically designed for professionals in the hospitality industry who are responsible for managing the facilities to ensure operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
This certification demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards in facility management. It encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the technical and managerial aspects required to oversee the maintenance and engineering departments effectively.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Facilities management
- Engineering operations
- Human resources management
- Continuous professional development
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Minimum of two years of experience in hospitality facility management or a related field.
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: $520
Who It’s For: The CHFE certification is ideal for engineering executives and facilities managers in the hospitality sector. It validates their expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards in facility management, ensuring they are equipped to handle the dynamic challenges of the hospitality industry.
7. Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) - Best for financial management in hospitality
The Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) certification is the only finance-specific certification tailored for the hospitality industry. Administered by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), it provides a centralized online platform that encompasses exam fees, practice exams, review materials, and a digital badge upon successful completion.
Issued by: Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP)
Focus:
- Accounting and financial management
- Financial analysis and reporting
- Hospitality finance operations
- Strategic decision-making in finance
Prerequisites:
- Education: Varies; a degree in finance, accounting, or related field is preferred
- Work Experience: Professional experience in hospitality accounting or finance roles
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 2 years with a requirement of CHAE 60 education points.
Price:
- HFTP Members: $675
- Non-members: $1,075
Who It’s For: This certification is important for finance professionals in the hospitality industry aiming to validate their expertise and gain recognition for their specialized knowledge in hospitality finance management.
8. Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) - Best for sales expertise in the hospitality industry
The Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) certification is a prestigious credential for sales professionals within the hospitality sector. This certification acknowledges the expertise required to excel in hospitality sales, including the ability to effectively market and manage revenue, make sound judgments, and maintain excellent interpersonal relations. As a testament to professionalism and skill, the CHSP ensures that holders are recognized for their comprehensive understanding of hospitality sales principles.
Issued by: American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Hospitality sales principles
- Market analysis
- Relationship building
- Ethical standards
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Minimum of two years of experience in hospitality sales or a related field
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: $390
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for professionals involved in selling guest rooms or meeting spaces within the hospitality industry. It validates their expertise in hospitality sales, showcasing their capability to effectively manage sales operations and maintain high ethical standards.
9. Certified Rooms Division Executive (CRDE) - Best for managing rooms division in hotels
The Certified Rooms Division Executive (CRDE) certification is designed for professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in managing the rooms division within a hotel environment. This certification validates the ability to oversee all aspects of the rooms division, ensuring efficient operations and outstanding guest service. It signifies competence in room management, human resources, financial management, and guest service, alongside a commitment to professional development in the hospitality industry.
Issued by: American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Human Resources Management
- Financial Management
- Rooms Management
- Technology
- Guest Service and Security
Prerequisites:
- Education: No specific educational background required
- Work Experience: Minimum of two years of experience in rooms division management or a related field
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, for 5 years
Price: $520
Who It’s For: This certification is perfect for seasoned room division executives looking to elevate their careers, showcase their expertise, and demonstrate a strong commitment to professional excellence and advancement in the hospitality industry.
10. Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) - Best for educators in the hospitality field
The Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) certification is specifically designed for post-secondary educators in the hospitality field, enhancing their teaching expertise. Tailored for instructors with industry experience but limited formal education training, the program focuses on modern teaching techniques, integrating technology into the classroom, adult learning principles, and effective assessment strategies. The program offers a comprehensive workshop, available both in-person and online, providing educators with the flexibility to refine their skills, adopt innovative teaching methods, and engage with a network of peers for shared growth and development.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Teaching Strategies
- Technology Integration
- Adult Learning Principles
- Assessment Development
- Professional Development
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Educators at all levels, including new teachers, seasoned professors, adjunct instructors, and lecturers
- Exam: Completion of course examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Who It’s For: This certification is vital for hospitality educators aiming to improve their teaching skills and gain professional recognition. It demonstrates a dedication to educational excellence and the ability to apply best practices in hospitality education.
11. Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM) - Best for revenue management in hospitality
The Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM) certification is designed for professionals aiming to master revenue management in the hospitality industry. This prestigious credential equips individuals with advanced skills to optimize revenue streams, craft effective pricing strategies, and execute impactful revenue management practices. Earning the CHRM certification demonstrates a professional's commitment to excellence in revenue management and their ability to drive significant financial success for their organization.
Issued by: AHLEI
Focus:
- Lodging Industry
- Forecasting and Planning
- Strategies and Tactics
- Statistical Analysis
- E-Commerce and Online Distribution
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: At least six months of experience where 50% or more of their duties involve revenue management, forecasting, analyzing inventories, rates, and occupancy
- Exam: Completion of the CHRM examination
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Who It’s For: The CHRM certification is perfect for professionals looking to advance their expertise in revenue management within the hospitality industry. It reflects a dedication to mastering revenue optimization strategies and driving financial success for hospitality organizations.
12. Certified Hospitality Housekeeping Executive (CHHE) - Best for housekeeping management in the hospitality sector
The Certified Hospitality Housekeeping Executive (CHHE) certification is a prestigious credential awarded to professionals in the hospitality industry who demonstrate exemplary leadership and managerial skills within the housekeeping department. This certification acknowledges the expertise required to manage complex housekeeping operations and ensures that individuals are equipped to maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety, and guest satisfaction in a hospitality setting. The CHHE certification is designed to enhance the professional development of individuals by recognizing their commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in housekeeping management.
Issued by: American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Focus:
- Quality assurance
- Operational standards
- Team management
- Human resources in housekeeping
- Safety protocols
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Minimum of two years of experience in a housekeeping management role within the hospitality industry
- Exam: Completion of the CHHE examination required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: $520
Who It’s For: This certification is for housekeeping professionals who aspire to elevate their careers by demonstrating their capacity to lead and manage housekeeping operations efficiently. It signifies a high level of competence and dedication to maintaining industry standards in hospitality housekeeping management.
13. Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) - Best for technology management in the hospitality industry
The Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) certification, offered by HFTP, is a premier credential focused on enhancing the skills and knowledge of professionals in the hospitality sector, enabling them to effectively manage technology solutions. The certification process is facilitated through an online platform that includes exam fees, practice exams, review materials, and a digital badge upon completion.
Issued by: HFTP
Focus:
- Technology Concepts
- Hospitality Systems
- Emerging Technologies
- IT Management
- Strategic Planning
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Professional experience in hospitality technology roles
- Exam: Completion of the CHTP examination required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, requires periodic renewal
Price:
- Members: $675
- Non-members: $1,075
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for professionals looking to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to advancing technology management within the hospitality industry. It signifies a high level of competence in hospitality technology solutions, making it valuable for career advancement.
14. Hospitality Leadership Certification - Best for leadership in hospitality
The Hospitality Leadership Certification from eCornell is an online program designed to equip leaders in the hospitality industry with essential skills to navigate challenges and foster innovation. Offered by Cornell University, it focuses on enhancing leadership capabilities through courses that emphasize strategic thinking, team collaboration, and proactive leadership. Participants are engaged in practical learning experiences such as change management simulations, which are critical for mastering leadership roles within the industry.
The program is structured to provide flexibility, allowing participants to set their own schedules while gaining comprehensive insights into hospitality leadership.
Issued by: Cornell University
Focus:
- Service-focused transformation
- Creating agile enterprises
- The power of experimentation
- Becoming a strategic leader
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Exam: Completion of course assessments
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration
Price: $3,750
Who It’s For: This certification is designed for current and aspiring leaders in the hospitality sector, providing them with the necessary skills to lead effectively and drive innovation. It signifies a commitment to professional growth and a readiness to tackle leadership challenges in the hospitality industry.
15. Certified Hospitality Industry Analytics (CHIA) - Best for data analytics in hospitality
The Certified Hospitality Industry Analytics (CHIA) certification is a highly esteemed credential tailored for hospitality professionals specializing in data-driven decision-making. This certification provides the tools and knowledge needed to analyze and interpret hotel performance metrics, empowering professionals to make strategic business decisions and optimize revenue. Designed for hotel owners, operators, general managers, and revenue managers, the CHIA certification is accessible through a comprehensive online course and exam. With over 40,000 recipients worldwide, it has become a benchmark for excellence in hospitality analytics, enhancing career prospects and earning widespread industry recognition.
Issued by: AAHOA in collaboration with CoStar
Focus:
- Hotel Industry Analytical Foundations
- Hotel Math Fundamentals
- Property Performance Improvement
- Industry Performance Analysis
- Data-Driven Decision Making
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Hotel owners, operators, general managers, revenue managers, sales managers, corporate staff, and hospitality students
- Exam: Completion of the CHIA examination required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration
Price:
- Member: $240
- Non-member: $300
Who It’s For: This certification is valuable for hotel industry professionals looking to enhance their data interpretation and performance analysis skills, thereby improving their strategic business decisions.
16. Advanced Hospitality Revenue Management: Pricing and Demand Strategies - Best for revenue management in hospitality
The Advanced Hospitality Revenue Management: Pricing and Demand Strategies certification from eCornell is a comprehensive online program designed to enhance revenue management skills in the hospitality industry. Developed by expert Dr. Christopher Anderson, the program features five two-week courses on advanced pricing, inventory optimization, and demand manipulation. With a commitment of just three to five hours weekly, participants can earn their certificate in three months. Graduates also gain a year of free access to exclusive Symposium events, providing insights on the latest hospitality trends and strategies.
Issued by: eCornell
Focus:
- Advanced pricing strategies
- Inventory control
- Demand manipulation
- Price sensitivity and pricing decisions
- Segmentation and price optimization
- Displacement and negotiated pricing
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Exam: Completion of assessment required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration
Price: $3,750
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for general managers, revenue managers, and marketing professionals in the hospitality industry seeking to improve their revenue management skills and apply advanced pricing and demand strategies to boost profitability.
17. Certified Hospitality Department Trainer (CHDT) - Best for departmental training in hospitality
The Certified Hospitality Department Trainer (CHDT) certification is designed to enhance the skills of hospitality professionals responsible for training within their departments. This certification is aimed at those who are pivotal in the development and delivery of training programs in hospitality settings. The CHDT equips trainers with the necessary tools and techniques to effectively train staff, ensuring that they can meet the demands of the hospitality industry.
Issued by: American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
Focus:
- Development of training programs
- Effective communication techniques
- Training delivery methods
- Evaluation and feedback processes
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Experience in a hospitality department with responsibilities that include training staff
- Exam: Completion of the CHDT examination required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: $153
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for hospitality professionals who aim to excel in training roles within their departments. It establishes them as competent trainers capable of enhancing team skills and performance, which is crucial for maintaining high standards in hospitality services.
18. Certified in Hospitality Business Acumen (CHBA) - Best for business acumen in hospitality
The Certified in Hospitality Business Acumen (CHBA) certification is a globally recognized online program designed for hospitality professionals to enhance their business acumen across various departments. Through a simulated hotel general manager experience, participants make strategic decisions in pricing, marketing, staffing, and investments over a 12-month business cycle.
The program offers two flexible formats: a five-week instructor-led course with live online meetings or a self-paced option. To earn the certification, recognized in over 40 countries, participants must pass an online exam, gaining practical insights and global acknowledgment.
Issued by: Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI)
Focus:
- Financial analysis
- Lodging metrics
- Effective communication
- Partnership strategies
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Ideal for sales, marketing, revenue optimization, and operations professionals within the hospitality industry
- Exam: Completion of an online exam required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No Expiration
Who It’s For: This certification is essential for hospitality professionals aiming to elevate their business acumen and decision-making skills within the industry. It signifies a comprehensive understanding of business operations, enhancing one's capability to manage various aspects of the hospitality sector effectively.
FAQs about Hospitality Management Certifications
What are hospitality management certifications, and why are they important?
Hospitality management certifications are credentials that verify an individual’s experience and expertise within the hospitality industry. They are important because they can enhance a professional’s qualifications, making them more competitive in the job market. Certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and can lead to career advancement opportunities in various sectors like hotel management, event planning, and restaurant operations.
What types of certifications are available for hospitality managers?
There are numerous certifications available for hospitality managers, including the Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM), Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA), and certifications in specific areas such as event planning and restaurant management. These certifications cater to different aspects of hospitality management and are offered by various professional organizations, providing a structured way to gain specialized knowledge and skills.
How can hospitality certifications benefit my career?
Obtaining a hospitality certification can serve as a stepping stone to advance your career. Certifications often help professionals qualify for higher-level positions in operations, sales management, culinary leadership, and other hospitality sectors. They can also increase job security and open doors to new opportunities by demonstrating a high level of expertise and dedication to the profession.
What is the process for obtaining a hospitality management certification?
The process for obtaining a hospitality management certification typically involves meeting specific educational or work experience requirements, completing a training program, and passing an examination. Different certifications have different prerequisites and processes, so it’s important to research the specific certification you’re interested in and ensure you meet all requirements before applying.
Other Useful Resources
Here are a few other useful resources to check out:
- Best Hospitality Management Books
- List of Hotel Labor Management Software
- Best Hospitality Management Degrees
- Guide To The Top Hospitality Communities
- List Of The Best Hospitality Conferences
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