Best Schools Offering Online Restaurant Food Services Management Programs (2024)

A Restaurant Food Services Management online degree program provides you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to effectively oversee restaurant operations. Through a combination of coursework and practical experiences, you will learn about the various aspects of food service management, including customer service, financial management, staff supervision, and food safety regulations.

Prerequisites and Requirements

To enroll in a typical Restaurant Food Services Management online degree program, you may need to fulfill the following prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: A foundational requirement for admission.
• Minimum GPA: A specified minimum grade point average may be required.
• Work Experience: Some programs might recommend or require prior experience in the food service industry.
• Letters of Recommendation: You may need to submit professional or academic references that attest to your skills and character.
• Personal Statement: A written essay detailing your interest in food service management and career aspirations often forms part of the application process.
• Interview: Some programs may conduct an interview as part of the admissions process.

Completing this degree equips you with the skills needed to excel in various roles within the food service industry, positioning you for opportunities in management and leadership.

In an online degree program for Restaurant Food Services Management, you will encounter a variety of courses designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the food service industry. Here is an overview of the typical courses you can expect:

• Principles of Food Safety and Sanitation
  This course covers essential health codes, food handling techniques, and sanitation practices necessary for maintaining a safe dining environment.

• Introduction to Restaurant Management
  You will learn the foundational elements of managing a restaurant, including operations, customer service, and staffing.

• Food Cost Control
  Focus on budgeting, pricing strategies, and the management of food inventory to ensure profitability without compromising quality.

• Culinary Arts Fundamentals
  This course introduces various cooking techniques, food preparation methods, and the principles of flavor development.

• Menu Planning and Design
  Explore the art and science of menu design, including how to create appealing menus that align with target demographics and maximize profits.

• Human Resource Management in Food Services
  Gain insights into recruitment, training, employee relations, and management practices specific to the food service industry.

• Marketing and Promotions for Restaurants
  Understand marketing techniques, digital promotion strategies, and customer engagement practices tailored for the restaurant sector.

• Restaurant Financial Management
  Learn about financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to make informed business decisions.

• Sustainability in Food Services
  Examine sustainable practices and innovations in sourcing, waste management, and environmentally friendly operations.

• Customer Service Excellence
  Develop skills vital for exceptional customer service, including communication, conflict resolution, and creating memorable dining experiences.

• Hospitality Law
  Explore legal topics relevant to the restaurant industry, such as liability, licensing, health regulations, and employment law.

These courses will provide you with a well-rounded education in restaurant food services management, preparing you for a successful career in the field.

Selecting the right school for your online degree in Restaurant Food Services Management can significantly influence your educational experience and future career. Here are key aspects to consider as you evaluate potential programs:

• Accreditation: Ensure the institution is properly accredited by a recognized agency. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets specific educational standards, which can enhance your degree's value in the job market.

• Program Curriculum: Review the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your career goals. Look for courses that cover essential areas such as restaurant operations, food safety, financial management, and human resources.

• Faculty Credentials: Investigate the qualifications of the faculty members. Experienced instructors with industry backgrounds can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.

• Flexibility and Format: Assess the program's scheduling flexibility. Online programs should offer asynchronous coursework, allowing you to manage your studies alongside work or other commitments.

• Technology and Resources: Determine what online resources are available to students. This could include virtual libraries, career services, and access to industry-related software or platforms.

• Networking Opportunities: Check if the program offers networking opportunities, such as virtual internships, mentorship programs, or connections to industry professionals. Networking can play a vital role in your job search after graduation.

• Student Support Services: Look for schools that provide robust student support, such as academic advising, technical support, and career counseling. These services can enhance your online learning experience.

• Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the overall cost of the program. Consider tuition rates, fees, and the availability of financial aid or scholarships. Understanding the financial commitment will help you make an informed decision.

• Alumni Success: Research the success of alumni from the program. Look for information on job placement rates, types of positions held, and the industries alumni are employed in. This can give insight into the program's reputation and effectiveness.

• Reviews and Testimonials: Seek out reviews from current and former students. Their experiences can provide valuable information about the strengths and weaknesses of the program.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose an online degree program in Restaurant Food Services Management that aligns well with your career aspirations and fits your personal and professional needs.

To support your journey in pursuing an online degree in Restaurant Food Services Management, several valuable resources and tools are available to assist you in your studies, networking, and career development.

• Accredited Online Programs: Ensure that the institution you choose is accredited. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) offers a searchable database of accredited programs. Visit CHEA for more information.

• Professional Associations:

  • American Culinary Federation (ACF): This organization provides resources for culinary professionals, including networking opportunities and certification. Explore their programs at ACF.

  • National Restaurant Association (NRA): The NRA offers valuable resources, including industry reports, trends, and educational materials. You can access these at NRA.

• Online Learning Platforms: Familiarize yourself with platforms that provide additional tools for learning and collaboration, such as:

  • Coursera: Offers courses in restaurant management and hospitality, which may complement your degree. Discover courses at Coursera.

  • edX: Similar to Coursera, edX provides courses from reputable institutions that can help you build skills relevant to food services management. Learn more at edX.

• Library Resources: Many universities provide online access to a vast array of academic journals, articles, and e-books. Check your institution’s library resources for access to databases such as:

  • JSTOR: A digital library offering access to thousands of academic journals. Visit JSTOR.

  • ProQuest: A resource providing access to dissertations, thesis papers, and other academic literature. Explore more at ProQuest.

• Networking Opportunities: Engage with professionals in the industry through platforms such as:

  • LinkedIn: Utilize LinkedIn to connect with alumni from your program and industry professionals. Create a strong profile and join groups related to food services management. Visit LinkedIn.

  • Meetup: Look for local networking events or professional groups within the restaurant industry. You can find events tailored to your interests at Meetup.

• Career Services: Take advantage of your university’s career services. These services often include résumé writing help, interview preparation, and job search strategies. Check your institution’s website or contact the career services office for more details.

• Internship Opportunities: Consider applying for internships to gain hands-on experience. Websites like Internships.com and Indeed can help you find relevant listings.

Utilizing these resources can greatly enhance your educational experience and prepare you for a successful career in Restaurant Food Services Management.