Mapúa University, a centennial institution renowned for offering diverse and technologically advanced academic programs, has officially launched its School of Tourism, Hospitality and Management (STHM). This strategic expansion is set to revolutionize the industry by empowering future professionals with an innovative, technology-infused curriculum, directly supporting the Philippines’ national tourism agenda and addressing the sector’s projected post-pandemic growth. This also opens doors to opportunities both locally and internationally.
The STHM now proudly offers degrees in Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management and Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. These programs are carefully crafted to meet the escalating demands of a global industry poised for significant growth in the coming years.
“With a deep-rooted expertise in innovation and technology, Mapúa University established the School of Tourism, Hospitality and Management to strategically grow our globally competitive academic portfolio and further solidify our position as a world-class innovative educational institution dedicated to shaping future-ready professionals,” stated Dr. Lora Lee F. Reboton, Dean of the Mapúa University STHM. “This initiative also supports the national agenda, which recognizes tourism as a vital engine for the Philippine economy. By providing high-quality, relevant education, we can help meet the evolving demands of this dynamic sector while preparing students for lucrative careers anchored in operational efficiency and providing excellent service.”
Beyond its strong heritage in engineering education, Mapúa University’s commitment to cutting-edge technological innovations extends throughout its diverse academic offerings, with STHM at the forefront.
“Innovation is at the core of STHM’s mission, especially through the integration of technology and digital transformation,” Reboton explained. “We achieve this by first empowering our students with robust appreciation for digital literacy and its practical applications to education. Our courses will be delivered using advanced technological platforms to enhance learning experiences, giving students a modern, real-time perspective on tourism and hospitality. This means students will navigate diverse and interactive learning environments, preparing them to be tech-savvy leaders in the industry.”
A cornerstone of STHM’s distinctive approach is its deep integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), preparing its students and graduates for the modern workplace and for global competitiveness.
“Technology is deeply embedded in Mapúa’s DNA, and this extends to our new STHM programs,” the Dean shared. “Both the B.S. Hospitality Management and B.S. Tourism Management curricula will be infused with AI and other cutting-edge advancements in specific courses. This integration is meticulously designed to foster innovation in product development and enhance the efficient delivery of services, preparing our students for the future of the industry.” She added that the goals of AI integration in Mapúa education are to streamline processes, make knowledge even more accessible, and optimize systems organization.
According to Reboton, students can look forward to an exciting and forward-thinking academic experience. At Mapúa University, learners can expect AI-enhanced learning environments, the use of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), complemented by wearable technology, and gamification to make learning interactive and engaging.
Beyond the classroom, STHM students will gain invaluable real-world experience through strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Seda Hotels and transformative international immersion opportunities in Europe, Australia, North America, and Asia.
Mapúa University’s launch of STHM marks a significant leap forward in hospitality education, aligning academic rigor with technological innovation to build a workforce ready to redefine the global tourism landscape.
To find out more on how you can be a future-ready professional in tourism and hospitality, visit www.mapua.edu.ph.