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Degree Title

Bachelor of Science

Spring 2025 Start Date:

January 6, 2025

Summer A 2025 Start Date:

May 5, 2025

Overview

The Bacardi Center of Excellence is a dynamic learning partnership between Bacardi North America and FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. The vision of this partnership is to inspire and educate the hospitality community on spirits and beyond. To do so, the Bacardi Center of Excellence created a spirits management major exclusively for FIU, available completely online.

This Bacardi Spirits Management Major is available for students who want to pursue a career in the beverage industry. The focus of the program is on the foundations of spirits, the art and science of fine spirits, operational dynamics, marketing, law, and beverage entrepreneurship. Students will be prepared for employment opportunities with international spirit brands, national distributors, beverage marketing agencies, and fill operational positions with hotels, resorts, restaurant groups, and the duty-free segment (cruise ships, airlines and the Caribbean market).   

Take the next step.

At FIU, you’ll learn from faculty members with strong academic credentials, excellent teaching skills and extensive executive-level industry experience. We’ve designed our online undergraduate degree programs with all the support you need to thrive as a student. With 24/7 access to interactive technology, real-time feedback from faculty and the one-on-one guidance of a dedication success coach, we’re with you every step of the way.

2024 ranking by TOPUNIVERSITIES.COM that states it is #6 Best Hospitality Management Program in the U.S. 2024 ranking by TOPUNIVERSITIES.COM that states it is #31 Best Hospitality Management Program in the world.

  • Why Apply?

    The curriculum for this fully online program blends academic instruction with hands-on experience, including at the prestigious South Beach Wine and Food Festival, which benefits FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. For graduation, each student must have worked a minimum of 1,000 hours in the industry and completed an advanced internship of an additional 300 hours.

    The program offers a comprehensive set of core requirements and practical experiences that provide a solid foundation in business management, finance, logistics, accounting, operations and more, preparing you to excel and lead in the biggest industry in the world.

     

    Partnerships

    The Chaplin School, in partnership with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, supports the annual production of the Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capitol One (SOBEWFF®). The event, which is the largest of its kind in the U.S., generates experiential learning opportunities for as many as 1,200 FIU students each year. Additionally, the Chaplin School has developed many other long-standing relationships with major global hospitality and tourism corporations such as Sandals Resorts, Carnival Corporation & PLC (funder of the Carnival Gold Scholars and the Carnival Student Center on our BBC campus) and Marriott International (namesake for the school’s Marriott Tianjin China Program). The school also has partnerships with some well-known names like the Fontainebleau Miami Beach which hosts the world renowned nightclub, LIV® and food and beverage producers such as Bacardi USA, and Badia Spices.

    Jobs in Spirits Management include those in:

    •     International Spirit Brands 

    •     Beverage Distribution

    •     Hotel or Resort Beverage Management

    •     Duty Free Market – Cruise Ships, Airlines, & Caribbean Market 

    •     Bar or Nightclub Management

    •     Beverage Sales & Marketing

    •     Specialty areas such as Distilling, Mega Events/Festivals & Brand Ambassador

  • Courses

    Tasting Policy 

    Minimum age is 18 years old: Some course activities are accomplished through the tasting, but not the consumption or imbibing, of various alcoholic beverages.  At all times, the alcoholic beverage will be in the possession and control of instructional personnel.  Each enrolled students must execute a Beverage Class Tasting Waiver and Agreement which requires each enrolled student to consent and indemnify the State of Florida and Florida International University Board of Trustees. 

     

    A total of 120 credits are required for the degree, including 60 program credits and 60 credits to meet University Core Curriculum and lower division requirements. Within the program, the 60 credits include 36 Hospitality Core credits, 12 Concentration Credits and 12 Elective credits.

     

    Hospitality Pre-Core Courses

    The following lower divisional, pre-core courses are to be taken before starting hospitality core courses. Some courses can also be used to meet UCC (University Core Curriculum) requirements:

     

    Microeconomics ECO 2023 

    This course provides an introduction to the theory and practices of contemporary microeconomics. The course will begin with a discussion on how agents deal with the fundamental problem of scarcity. The discussion will then turn to the basic concepts and tools used in microeconomic analysis.

    OR

    Macroeconomics ECO 2013

    Introduction to economic analysis of the overall economy: national income accounting, unemployment, inflation, monetary and fiscal policies, budget deficits and debt, long-run growth. 

    Public Speaking SPC 2608

    This course will take an academic approach to speech communication. The course will examine the basic elements of research, construction and delivery of original public presentation. By understanding what components go into a good speech, an individual will look more confident in their presentation.

    Pathways to Success I HFT 1070

    Designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of academic policies, procedures and requirements for matriculation and graduation from the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Must be taken first semester.

    Pathways to Success II HFT 3072

    This course exposes students to all career services offered by CSHTM. Students will review career/education goals in line with strengths, skills and values and will leverage all career services. Must be taken after 60 earned credits.

    Intro to Hospitality and Tourism Management HFT 1000

    A survey course providing an overview of the industry, its history, problems, and general operating procedures. Operating executives from the fields of hotel, restaurant, foodservice, travel, and tourism will be featured periodically. 

    Human Resource Management for the Hospitality Industry HFT 2220

    An in-depth study of human resources management in hospitality industry designed to improve and advance student’s skills through understanding of both hourly and management human resource policies, practices and procedures. 

    Accounting for the Hospitality Industry HFT 2401

    Introduction to the principles of accounting as they apply to the hospitality industry. Required for students who have not satisfactorily completed introductory accounting courses.

    Hospitality Information Technology HFT 2441

    Covers computer applications in the hospitality industry including information technology specific to hotel and restaurant accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Course includes hands-on laboratory assignments with a Hotel Property Management System and a Restaurant POS/back-office.

     

    Hospitality Core Requirements

    Introductory Commercial Food Production FSS 3230C

    Study of basic and intermediate commercial food production management skills required in menu design. The knowledge will be applied in the production of appetizers, salads, main course items and desserts.  

    Advanced Food Production Management FSS 4234C

    A course in advanced food production and service techniques to provide the student with realistic productions, services and managerial experience. Staffing, merchandising and cost control procedures are integral parts of the course.

    Pre-requisite: FSS 3230C

    *Alternative course option available with Academic Advisor Approval

    Dining Services Management HFT 3263

    Analysis of principal operating problems facing managers in the restaurant industry. Various control systems necessary for profitability and quality are examined.

    Lodging Operations Control HFT 3453

    Focuses on controlling expenses and revenues of a full-service lodging operation using qualitative and quantitative techniques. Based on using the uniform system of accounts for the lodging industry.  

    Hospitality Marketing Strategy HFT 3503

    Examines marketing principles, theories and concepts and the use of management principles and techniques of analysis, planning, implementation and control to maximize marketing effectiveness in hospitality organizations. Stresses marketing of services. This is a Global Learning Course.

    Hospitality Industry Law HFT 3603 

    Introduction to hotel, motel, and restaurant law emphasizing risk management and security. Students learn about the fundamental laws, rules, and regulations applicable to the hospitality industry through a case study approach. This is a Global Learning Course.

    Hospitality Facilities Environmental Systems HFT 4323

    A comprehensive survey of engineering, maintenance, and efficiency controls in hotels, restaurants, and institutions. Emphasizes the importance of Operations Facilities Engineering Management and the environment. This is a Global Learning Course. 

    Hospitality Analytics and Revenue Management HFT 4413

    Detailed study of methods used in serving and tracking guest history and yield management in the hospitality industry. Demonstrates state-of-the-art technology and concepts. 

    Financial Analysis in the Hospitality Industry HFT 4464

    Facilitates understanding and use of financial analysis in the hospitality industry. Topics include decision-making based on ratio analysis, leverage, financing sources and other financial issues. 

    Prerequisite: HFT 2401.

    Management Accounting for the Hospitality Industry HFT 4474

    Advanced study of the decision-making process involved in the hospitality industry. Emphasis on budgeting, pricing decisions, cost-volume-profit analysis and capital budgeting. 

    Prerequisite: HFT2401

    Advanced Internship for Hospitality and Tourism HFT 4945

    Hospitality/tourism work experience to provide exposure to management and training functions, job rotation tasks and/or projects not previously performed. Minimum 300 hours/ten weeks field experience. 

    Pre-requisites: Documented completion of 500 hospitality related work hours of which must be completed while enrolled at FIU. Permission of an advisor.

     

    Senior Seminar in Hospitality Management HFT 4294

    Student groups identify and research a major problem of a hospitality enterprise. Discussions will focus on problems and solutions. Final report required. 

    Can only be taken the semester you graduate.

     

    Additional Requirements

    Hospitality Electives - 24 Credits 

    Electives can be chosen from any 3000/4000 level HFT or FSS course. If desired, students may choose courses in any concentration to meet 12 of the 24 required elective credits.

     

    Spirits Management Concentration Courses

    Bacardi Spirits Management Major - The Spirits Management Major consists of four (4) main spirit management courses in addition to the other requirements of the Bachelor's degree program that will prepare learners for fulfilling careers in spirits and beverage management. Two additional electives are recommended.

     

    HFT 3861       Spirits Fundamentals    

    Required  Provides a comprehensive review of the beverage industry including the history of alcohol, the development of the beverage industry in the U.S. and a review of beverages with an emphasis on Spirits. 

    Minimum age is 18 years old 

     

    HFT 3613       Beverage Management Law   

    Required An introduction course into alcoholic beverage law. The learner will be introduced to the fundamental laws, rules and regulations applicable to the alcoholic beverage industry in the State of Florida, key national and international markets. The learner is familiarized to methods of enforcement of laws, rules and regulations; the principles that control licensing and permitting within the industry; and municipal code violation enforcement.

     

    HFT 4064       Beverage Entrepreneurship (BEVpreneur)

    Required The learning will evaluate and analysis beverage business models. Apply written and financial skills to create and analysis a strategic business plan. The learner will gain advanced knowledge of business writing, financial modeling, leadership methods, presentation skills, negotiation methods, laws, regulations, and legal concepts that govern the beverage industry, licensing, compliance, and responsibility. Completion of a beverage ‘start-up’ strategic growth plan that will teach learners essential organizational, business modeling, financial structuring, distribution channels, communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills.

     

    HFT 3811       Beverage Marketing & Distribution 

    Required This course will explore the complex world of beverage sales, marketing and distribution, including brand management, legal issues, and the roles of producers, importers, wholesalers, retailers, duty free and hospitality outlets. 

    The learner will identify and analyze the key industry segments, targeting, and positioning of the alcoholic beverage industry with emphasis on the suppliers, retailers, duty free segment, and on-premise accounts to understand product assortment and pricing models.

     

    Track within the Hospitality Management Degree: Bacardi Spirits Management

     

    Course Number

    Course Name

    Credits

    HFT 3861 - Required

    Beverage Fundamentals

    3

    HFT 3613 - Required

    Beverage Management Law

    3

    HFT 4064 - Required

    Beverage Entrepreneurship

    3

    HFT 3811 - Elective

    Beverage Marketing & Distribution

    3

     

  • Requirements

    To ensure every student’s success, we have certain admissions requirements for each of our programs. To help you through the application process, our enrollment advisors are here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.


     

    FIU Admission Requirements

    Applications are accepted for Spring, Fall and Summer terms.

     

    Steps to Apply

    First Year Students

    Please submit the following:

    • Online application
    • $30 application fee.
    • Official SAT, ACT and/or CLT scores.
    • Official high school transcripts.

    Transfer Students

    Please submit the following:

    • Online application
    • $30 application fee.
    • Official college transcripts.
    • If you have less than 60 transferable college credits, you must also submit official high school transcripts and SAT, ACT and/or CLT scores in addition to any transcripts from postsecondary schools to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

     

    Returning Students

    Returning students must meet the current university and degree-specific requirements to be admitted. FIU has policies for students who left FIU, please click here for more details.

       Please submit the following:

    • Online application
    • $30 application fee
    • Updated official transcripts

    International Students

    In addition to the above requirements, international applicants should submit:

    • Official English Language Proficiency exam scores (TOEFL or IELTS).
    • Official translations of any transcripts, if not in English.
    • If you have less than 60 transferrable college credits, you must also submit official high school transcripts with translation.

     

    Program Admission Requirements

    A total of 120 credit hours are required for the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management.

    Applicants to the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management must submit an Undergraduate Application for admission to the University and must follow the regular University admissions procedures described in the FIU Undergraduate Admissions website (click "How to Apply"). Applicants must be eligible for admission to the University before being accepted to the School.

     

    •     A minimum TOEFL score of 500 written or
    •     Or 63 ibT or IELTS of 5.0 overall is required for international applicants.

     

    Any student who has completed two years of college (60 transferable semester hours) may apply for admission as a transfer student to the upper division program.  A minimum 2.0 GPA is required for transfer students. Students with a GPA lower than 2.0 may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. Admissions will review your official transcripts for transfer credits upon submission of your application. Domestic students may enroll on either a full-time or a part-time basis; International students must enroll full-time (at least 12 credits per semester). Students with less than 60 transfer credits are subject to freshman admission criteria.

    All students are required to meet the University’s core curriculum requirements prior to graduation. It is not necessary to have been previously enrolled in a hotel, restaurant or tourism program. The curriculum will provide the specialized professional education to equip the student for a career in hospitality and tourism management. Students with training in liberal arts, business, education, or technology, for example, are qualified to enroll in the program.

    A maximum of 60 lower division undergraduate semester credits may be transferred from a junior or community college program. More credits may be transferred from a related upper-division program at a four-year institution.

    Undergraduate applicants are advised to respect the Admissions Deadlines of the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

     

    Admission Documents

    To complete the online undergraduate programs admissions form, select your program from the application form . You may complete the online application and submit it, even before taking any entrance exams. All supporting admission documents may be sent to:

    
Florida International University

    
Office of Undergraduate Admissions


    P.O. Box 659003


    Miami, FL 33265-9003


    USA



     

    FIU also accepts transcripts electronically via:

     

    •     Faster (All FL public institutions)
    •     Naviance (Typically used by private high schools)

    •     SMART/Joint Service Transcript – Military records

     

    *Meeting the university minimum requirements does not guarantee admission

  • Tuition and Aid

    We’re thrilled that you’re considering online education and want you to know exactly what to expect for tuition and fees. Education is an investment in your future. Use the following student tuition and fees calculator to determine your costs.

  • Top Faculty

    Cristina Moguel

    Adjunct Professor and founding Program Coordinator of the Bacardi Center of Excellence at FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, Cristina Moguel, leads courses in Advanced Food & Beverage Operations, Leadership & Entrepreneurship (with David Grutman & Groot Hospitality), and a study abroad course on the Origin of Coffee in Costa Rica. A distinguished FIU alumna and founder of the Student Guilds, Cristina has 17+ years in the industry. She's excelled in roles from General Manager to Bar Manager, with a reputation for quality, presentation, and innovation in the restaurant and bar industry.

    Nathan Dodge

    Associate Teaching Professor at FIU's Chaplin School and founding Bacardi Center of Excellence faculty member, Nathan Dodge, MBA, started his hospitality journey in 1995 with Alamo Rent-A-Car. Holding a BS and MBA from Lynn University, his career spans facilities management and marketing, including a stint with Bureau Veritas. He co-hosts the podcast "2 Barstools and a Knife," teaches various hospitality courses, and leads international study programs. An FIU Faculty Senate officer, Dodge's greatest joy is travel, shared with his wife Dawn, influencing his educational approach.

    Gabe Urrutia

    Gabe Urrutia brings two decades of hospitality expertise to his professor role at FIU's Chaplin School. An accomplished trainer and cocktail menu designer, he's a former St. Germain and Dekuyper Challenge competitor, with an FIU degree and an MBA in Marketing. His career includes key positions with Anheuser Busch, Grey Goose, Bacardi USA, and Jordan Vineyard & Winery. An author and podcast host, Urrutia is a recognized industry tastemaker and will teach Beverage Marketing & Distribution at FIU's Bacardi Center of Excellence.

fiuonline.fiu.edu

120 Credits Required

fiuonline.fiu.edu

235.57 Per Credit Hour (In-State) + Fees

fiuonline.fiu.edu

648.87 Per Credit Hour (Out-of-State) + Fees

* Total tuition and fees are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Undergraduate Student Application Deadlines

  • Fully Online Degree

  • Every online student is paired with a success coach

  • Program starts: Fall, Spring, Summer

  • Become part of an exceptional community and make the most of your education. Join the Honors College.

  • This program grants you access to Career Engage and associated scholarships.

  • #1 Best Online Bachelor's Degree for Hospitality Management, BestColleges.com, 2019-2020

  • #9 Best Hospitality Management Degrees Online, GuidetoOnlineSchools.com, 2020

  • #1 Best Programs for Online Hotel Management Degrees, AffordableCollegesOnline.org, 2020

  • #1 Best Colleges for Hospitality Management in Florida, CollegeFactual.com, 2020

  • Chaplin School ranked in top 50 worldwide, QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2019

  • #1 Hospitality Management Bachelor’s Degree Online Programs, BestHospitalityDegrees.com, 2018

  • #2 Best Online Bachelor's Programs, CollegeChoice.net, 2017

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