Overview

Established in 1998, the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM) has a distinguished tradition preparing leaders in the sport, recreation, event, tourism and hospitality industries. Our innovative approach to experiential learning combined with our location in the heart of Philadelphia fosters transformational education experiences and prepares students for the "experience economy." This comprehensive experience within the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management enables students to have a superior fundamental education and exposure to working professionals, internships, and personalized internship and job placement services. As a result, students are given a competitive advantage in a job market projected to double in the next decade.

STHM's Department of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management offers two undergraduate major programs, three undergraduate certificates, and two undergraduate minors:

• BS in Sport and Entertainment Management
• BS in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management
• Esports Certificate
• Event and Entertainment Management Certificate
• Event and Entertainment Management Minor
• Sport Management Certificate
• Sport Management Minor

The focus of the undergraduate programs is to provide a broad educational foundation and to prepare students for entry into the sport, entertainment, event, tourism and hospitality management occupations at the professional level.

The Sport and Entertainment Management program prepares students interested in sport careers in the private/commercial sector, public recreation and park agencies, professional sports, interscholastic/intercollegiate athletics, youth sport agencies, nonprofit sport organizations, campus recreation services, armed forces, and corporate/industrial settings.

The Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management program prepares students for entry to mid-level positions in tourism, hospitality and event management. The program prepares students to work in a variety of settings including convention and visitors' bureaus, destination management organizations, conference centers, event management organizations, mega events, resorts, casinos, hotels, theme parks, theaters and clubs.

All programs consist of coursework in the University's General Education (GenEd) program, the Fox School of Business and Management, STHM's major course requirements, and two supervised field experiences / internships.

STHM also offers a Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies in Sport, Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management, which offers transfer students with 40 or more transferred credits the opportunity to pursue coursework in the fields of sport, tourism, hospitality and event management with a flexible pathway that takes into consideration their past coursework and existing work in the fields.

Admissions

If you are applying for admission to Temple University as a freshman or a transfer student and wish to major in one of the above programs, you should select the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management as your school/college. Then choose your major as your curriculum. Submit the required materials to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Once you apply, you will receive an AccessNet Username and Password to check your application status online on the Student TUportal System.

Information regarding the admissions process should be directed to the School's Enrollment Management team at asksthm@temple.edu.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Information regarding financial aid and scholarships is available from the Office of Student Financial Services. For additional information pertaining to specific scholarships within the School's disciplines, refer to the Center for Student Services. 

Honors Community

Students admitted to the University Honors Program are by default part of the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management's Honors Community. Students participate in pre-approved Fox School of Business and Management Honors courses and work with their STHM faculty to create honors versions of courses within the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management.

Student Association Information

Professional development begins with membership to associations/organizations for all School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management students. We encourage our students to consider joining one of the below listed groups during their academic tenure in STHM. More information about each STHM Student Professional Organization (SPO) is available on Owl Connect.

Undergraduate Student Professional Organizations

Event Planning Association (EPA)

The Event Planning Association of STHM plans and engages all SPOs in social, bonding and informational activities, to ensure that the students are networking throughout STHM to help better their future careers.

Society of Minorities in Sport (SMS)

SMS is a professional organization that seeks to bring together undergraduate students in the community of sport who are underrepresented in the area of sport, leisure and entertainment management. SMS empowers people to proactively advocate and encourage diverse experiences and opportunities that we as students bring together while working with professionals in the industry. Through conversations with minorities in leadership, as well as the facilitation of networking opportunities, SMS looks to expose students to a variety of learning and volunteer opportunities across our industry. From working with the Best Buddies initiative on their annual Friendship Walk, to programs with professors about the lack of representation among sports journalists, the experiences SMS provides for students help build awareness of issues facing minorities in sport. SMS believes in creating open and respectable environments to discuss issues within sport. SMS wants to ensure students receive the most up-to-date information possible to inspire them to make a difference in the world of sport.

Sport and Governance Association (SAGA)

The purpose of the Sport and Governance Association is to expose its members to the following opportunities: networking events with established professionals in the sports law industry, information sessions on the potential careers available, guest speaker engagements, and access to LSAT preparatory resources. All of these opportunities guide the members throughout the process of becoming successful sport business professionals. As a member of the Sport and Governance Association, individuals will gain an understanding of all the legal implications of business.

Tourism and Hospitality Student Professional Organization

This SPO will allow students an active role within their area(s) of interest as part of the Tourism and Hospitality industry. Partnering with several professional organizations, this is a great way to extend your network, become more involved, strengthen your resume and much, much more.

Women in Sport and Recreation Management

Women in Sport and Recreation Management is dedicated to uplifting women in sport and providing culminating experiences with a focus on creating connections and a positive culture for women in all areas of sport given the underrepresentation of women in the sport industry. This organization will aim to help students grow personally and professionally by having social events as well as professional development events (e.g., networking, guest speakers).

Honors Societies

Eta Sigma Delta (ESD)

Eta Sigma Delta is an international honor society that recognizes exceptional academic achievement among hospitality and tourism students. Eta Sigma Delta is administered by the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education (International CHRIE), the leading international association devoted to hospitality and tourism education. To earn this membership, students have to hold at least a 3.0 minimum in a 4.0 grade point average system and be in the top 20% of their class to be eligible for this invitation. With the expansion of International CHRIE, membership is no longer limited to those who are studying in the United States.

Rho Phi Lambda (RPL) Professional Honorary Fraternity

Rho Phi Lambda is a National Honorary Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services Fraternity. Rho Phi Lambda strives to recognize Sport and Recreation Management majors who have exemplified academic excellence in scholarship, leadership and service. Membership in Rho Phi Lambda cultivates student professional development through networking opportunities, scholarship eligibility, résumé building, and campus and community service initiatives.

Special Facilities and Programs

Center for Student Services (CSS)

The CSS encourages a collaborative relationship between student and advisor, ultimately empowering the student to make informed and responsible decisions concerning their education. The student takes an active role in the utilization of the services offered by the School, and the University at large, while the academic advisor strives to assist the student with their academic, cultural, emotional and pre-professional needs.

Center for Industry Engagement (CIE)

The CIE links classroom learning to successful career development. The CIE resources offer students the latest internship and job opportunities through counseling on résumés, cover letters, interviewing skills and selection criteria.

Sport Industry Research Center (SIRC)

SIRC provides opportunities for academics, students and practitioners to explore the potential of sport to impact the communities within which they exist. Through a series of initiatives, SIRC attempts to conduct and disseminate research, educate and train executives, and function as a think tank and informational resource for those involved in the sport industry. Included among the initiatives that SIRC is involved in are: executive workshops, doctoral student training, community-based programming, event management and program consulting, and academic dissemination of cutting-edge research and managerial best practices.

U.S.-Asia Center for Tourism & Hospitality Research

Temple University's U.S.-Asia Center for Tourism & Hospitality Research was established to be a leading braintrust that advances the development of the U.S. and Asian tourism and hospitality industries, education, and research. With extensive connections across the globe and deep roots in the city of Philadelphia—the first World Heritage City in the U.S.—the Center is uniquely positioned to propel Temple University and STHM's international presence.

The U.S.-Asia Center conducts cutting-edge multidisciplinary research and consultancy specific to the tourism, hospitality and related industries in the U.S., Asia, and the entire Asia-Pacific region. It aims to establish and enhance connections between government, industry and other public entities in the tourism and hospitality areas. A few research areas include:

• destination marketing
• big data analytics
• consumer profile analysis
• yield and revenue management
• hospitality asset evaluation

Members of the Center are STHM faculty with national and international recognition, and come from broad disciplinary and industry backgrounds.

STHM Leadership and Contact Information

Larry "Chip" Hunter, PhD, Dean

Amy Giddings, PhD, Associate Dean
1810 N. 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19122
giddings@temple.edu

Heather A. Blackburn, EdD, Assistant Dean
108 Speakman Hall 
1810 N. 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19122
hblackburn@temple.edu

School web site: https://sthm.temple.edu/
General e-mail address: sthm@temple.edu

Undergraduate Programs

Academic Policies & Regulations

Please see Undergraduate Academic Policies in this Bulletin. Students are responsible for complying with all university-wide academic policies that apply to their individual academic status. Additional and unique policies, or exceptions for the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, appear below.

All advising issues regarding academic policies and regulations should be directed to the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management's Center for Student Services (CSS) in Speakman Hall Suite 108, 1810 N. 13th Street.

Dean's List

Each fall and spring semester, those undergraduates who have met the credit hour and academic criteria for their school or college are placed on the Dean's List. See the Dean's List policy for specific GPA and credit-hour requirements.

Student Code of Conduct, Good Neighbor Policy, and STHM Students' Doctrine of Responsibility

All students in the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management are expected to abide by Temple University's Student Code of Conduct, Good Neighbor Policy, and the STHM Students' Doctrine of Responsibility.

The School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM) represents a high degree of scholastic excellence. In turn, the School expects an enhanced level of responsibility and preparation from its students. STHM students represent the School in a variety of forums, including, but not limited to, the classroom, internships and workplace settings. These environments require professionalism, commitment, knowledge and mutual respect. The STHM Students' Doctrine of Responsibility policy will assist students in their pursuit of excellence while earning their degrees in Sport and Entertainment Management; Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management; or Multidisciplinary Studies in Sport, Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management. 

Grievance Procedures and Ombudsperson

University Ombudspersons are designated annually by the provost and vice presidents of the University. They are knowledgeable about harassment matters and trained to assist in understanding and resolving informal complaints. Ombudspersons are sensitive to the feelings, rights, and interests of all parties, and have demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters in a discreet manner.

STHM's Academic Grievance Procedures are detailed in the STHM Academic Grievance Procedures. Additional information can be obtained from Temple University's Student and Faculty Academic Rights and Responsibilities policy.

For further information, contact:

Debra Blair, Ombudsperson 
368 Speakman Hall
1810 North 13th Street
215-204-1077
dblair@temple.edu

Temple University's Statements and Policies can be found on the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, Advocacy and Leadership (IDEAL) web site.

Program Performance

Students not in good standing are subject to collegial warning and/or probation, or they may be academically dismissed and will be so notified by the Undergraduate Studies Office. See the University policy on Academic Standing for details on academic warning, academic probation, academic dismissal and reinstatement.

Transfer Between Colleges Within the University

Students may initiate transfer to STHM from another school or college of the University if they are in academic good standing, holding a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

How to Change Your Major

As you begin or make your way through your academic journey, you may find something else more suited to your interests and goals. If you are interested in a major within the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, see below for the options available to you.

Step 1: Review the School overview in the university change of major Canvas course.

Students interested in declaring a major in STHM should review the STHM Change of Program PowerPoint presentation within the “Welcome to Temple University's Change of Program (COP) Process!” Canvas dashboard via TUPortal. 

Step 2: Consult with STHM Representative.

After reviewing the school overview in Canvas, students who want to proceed with a major change or find out more information on the programs and process, should schedule an appointment with STHM assistant dean, Heather Blackburn. Students may e-mail Heather Blackburn (hblackburn@temple.edu) to setup an appointment and/or for an advisor referral.

Step 3: Complete Change of Program Request Form.

After meeting with the assistant dean, students who want to proceed with the major change should complete the Change of Program Request form online; a change of program will be processed through the registrar's office. Please allow one week for the change to be processed. Student records will be updated only during a drop/add period or the start of the next academic semester.

Step 4: Meet with an STHM Academic Advisor.

Once the Change of Program Request form is processed, students should meet with their new academic advisor to discuss their prior course history, future course registration, and graduation planning. Students will need to e-mail their advisor to make an appointment. The new advisor will be identified during the change of major meeting.

How to Add a Minor or Certificate for Non-STHM Majors

Guidelines for Non-Majors interested in STHM coursework:

• Non-Major students should, upon expressing interest in STHM coursework, seek advising guidance from their home school/college first to ensure availability within their graduation plan.
• Determine which STHM minor or certificate you wish to pursue by reviewing the Undergraduate Bulletin (minors/certificates are listed under the Programs tab).
• If you would like to discuss the STHM minor or certificate more in-depth, please e-mail sthmcss@temple.edu to setup an appointment with an academic advisor assigned to the certificate of interest (see Advising tab in Bulletin).
• You can officially declare your STHM minor or certificate via our GoogleForm. If course overrides are needed to register for certain courses, please e-mail sthmcss@temple.edu for approval.
• Students who elect to take STHM 0857 should consult with an STHM academic advisor in reference to the courses' applicability to their curriculum. There are multiple cross-listed courses with other colleges that will only apply once to a student's academic plan.
• In instances where a minor and certificate are offered with the same program titles, such as the certificate and minor in Event and Entertainment Management, the certificate and minor in Sport Management, and the certificate and minor in Tourism and Hospitality Management, students may not earn both credentials. If a student completes the certificate requirement and wishes to upgrade to the minor, then the certificate would need to be rescinded. 

School Graduation Requirements

The information below is for new freshmen and transfer students admitted fall 2024 - spring 2025. For information prior to this time, refer to the catalog year for your matriculation semester and year. Click on the Archives link to see Bulletins from previous years.

• Students seeking a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM) must complete 124 semester hours of coursework and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 and a major GPA of 2.0. Per university requirements, a letter grade of C- or better must be earned for all required coursework.
• Certain courses may fulfill multiple requirements. In consultation with an advisor, students will be able to plan their curriculum more effectively.
• The total number of credit hours at graduation may vary for some students based on initial placement exams, transfer evaluations, individual curricular choices, and academic progress.
• Students are required to ensure that they have fulfilled the necessary prerequisites for any given course or course sequence. Students may read the entire policy in the section on university-wide Academic Policies.
• To expose students to the wide variety of opportunities in their chosen fields and prepare for future internship opportunities, STHM requires students to complete 250 Industry-Related Hours by the start of their senior year. Students must complete a minimum of four (4) unique experiences across their 250 accumulated hours. Students are encouraged to pursue their Industry-Related Hours in diverse areas including non-profit/community support needs as well as industry specific needs. Industry Hours are submitted to the CIE via their Canvas site. Students should submit their hour submissions each semester or at minimum annually to the CIE.
• Student Professional Organizations (SPOs) exist to provide students further engagement with industry partners, events, and leadership opportunities not provided in the classroom environment. STHM offers several SPOs for students that complement our industry-focused curriculum. To ensure students are professionally ready and competitive in the internship and job market, STHM students are strongly encouraged to join and be actively engaged in an STHM- or Fox-specific SPO and are strongly encouraged to join others that meet their interests. Benefits include meeting industry leaders, attending industry conferences and expanding your network of contacts.

Awarding of Certificates and Minors after Third Attempt Dismissals

• Students dismissed from STHM due to a failure at a third course attempt may still qualify to receive a minor or certificate for their STHM course credits based on the criteria below.
  • CERTIFICATE
    • STHM students who took four or more courses (12-17 credits) can be awarded the Sport Management certificate or the Tourism and Hospitality Management (excluding Event and Entertainment Management) certificate, if they complete a declaration form.
    • For the certificate, two or more courses at minimum should be at the 2000 level or higher (i.e., the student completes STHM 1113, THM 1311, THM 2311, and THM 3311).
    • Students need a 2.00 GPA across all certificate courses with no grade lower than a C- for an applicable certificate course.
  • MINOR
    • STHM students who took six or more courses (18+ credits) can be awarded the Sport Management minor or the Tourism and Hospitality Management minor, if they complete a declaration form.
    • For the minors, two or more courses at minimum should be at the 2000 level or higher (i.e., the student completes STHM 1113, THM 1311, THM 2311, THM 3311, and THM 3312).
    • Students need a 2.00 GPA across all minor courses with no grade lower than a C- for an applicable minor course.

Academic Advising

Enithie Hunter, EdS
enithie.hunter@temple.edu

Advisees:

• Students majoring in Sport and Entertainment Management and Sport and Recreation Management whose last name starts with A through O

Jennifer Valore, MS
jennifer.valore@temple.edu

Advisees:

• All students majoring in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management
• Students majoring in Sport and Entertainment Management whose last name starts with P through Z
• All international students
• All student-athletes

Heather Blackburn, EdD
hblackburn@temple.edu

Advisees:

• Minors, certificates and +1 students

​STHM Minors and Certificates

Students interested in any of the minors and certificates in STHM may e-mail sthmcss@temple.edu to meet with an advisor.

Services Provided Through the Center for Student Services

Center for Student Services
Speakman Hall, Suite 108
1810 N. 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19122
215-204-8905

The School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management's advising unit, the Center for Student Services (CSS), provides individualized information on placement exams and results, majors, minors, course sequence and load, scheduling, career planning, and academic resources. As a result, students are better equipped to make well-informed decisions regarding their futures.

The CSS encourages a collaborative relationship between advisor and student, ultimately empowering the student to make sound and responsible decisions concerning his or her education. The student takes an active role in the utilization of the services offered by the School, and the University at large, while the academic advisor strives to assist the student with his or her academic, cultural, emotional and pre-professional needs. 

Special Advising Policies and Procedures

The school utilizes a variety of advising sessions, such as workshops, asynchronous presentation/quiz format, virtual and walk-in sessions; however, students are encouraged to schedule individualized appointments to cater to their specific academic needs.

Faculty