The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cruise Line Management is a first-of-its-kind program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly expanding $45 billion global cruise industry. With the cruise market projected to reach 39.4 million passengers by 2027, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate the unique challenges of shipboard and shore-side operations.
This specialized major equips students with in-depth knowledge of cruise operations, itinerary planning, revenue management, safety, and destination development.
Beyond the classroom, students will gain real-world experience through internships, industry partnerships, and guest lectures from leaders at top cruise lines. Based in Miami, Florida - the heart of the cruise industry, our students benefit from unparalleled access to global cruise brands, port authorities, and tourism organizations.
Graduates of this program will be well-positioned for careers as cruise directors, operations managers, shore excursion coordinators, revenue analysts, and environmental compliance managers. Students will enter the field with applicable experience and a global perspective, uniquely qualified to excel in their careers and set new benchmarks of excellence in the industry.
Quick Program Stats
Career—Undergrad Average Starting Salary: $54,000 (Steppingblocks.com 2024)
A Dedicated Career development office
#4 Best U.S. Public Universities (2025 QS World University Rankings)
Hospitality Course Requirements
To qualify for admission to the hospitality program, FIU transfer students with 60 credits program. All University Core Curriculum requirements must be completed prior to graduation from the university. Students with less than 60 transfer credits may need to meet the freshman criteria established by the university.
See the Cruise Line Management Track Sheet. LINK TK
Industry Experience
Chaplin School students learn in the classroom and in the field. By prioritizing experiential learning as a necessary part of our student’s coursework, our program uniquely prepares students to enter the hospitality and tourism industry. At the Chaplin School you will gain experience, make connections, and build your resume, all while earning credits towards your degree. A minimum of 500 hours of hospitality/tourism-related practical training work experience is required. In addition, the student is required to complete a minimum of 300 hours in HFT 4945 Advanced Internship.
The work experience and internship hours must be major related and approved by an advisor. Work experience documentation is required. Students with extensive industry management experience may apply for a waiver of the 1,000-hour work experience and Advanced Internship.
For more information, please visit our career services page or book an appointment with our dedicated career development counselor.
Careers in Cruise Line Management
Explore various career opportunities in the field of Cruise Line Management:
- Cruise Directors
- Operations Managers
- Shore Excursion Coordinators
- Safety Officers
- Environmental Compliance Managers
Rita Mendonça '22, MS '24
Rita is a double Panther with undergraduate and graduate degrees from FIU, recently completing her Master’s in Hospitality Management with a focus on Cruise Line Operations. While earning her degree, she interned in Hotel Operations at Royal Caribbean and later joined the company full-time as an analyst. She completed a 2-year rotational program, including 3 months onboard Symphony of the Seas and three 6-month shoreside rotations in Guest Services, Entertainment, and Private Destinations. Now a senior analyst, Mendonça oversees group operations from a Hotel Operations perspective, managing a team of 50+ Group Coordinators onboard. She dreams of one day owning a business to create unforgettable memories for others.
Minors
A minor is not required to complete the BS in Hospitality & Tourism Management degree. Interested students may elect a minor in an outside program if they choose to with guidance from an academic advisor.
Students from outside the hospitality major may choose to minor in hospitality in the following areas:
- Beverage Management
- Hotel/Lodging Management
- Restaurant/Foodservice Management
- Travel & Tourism Management
- Hospitality Studies
- International Hospitality Studies
For more information on coursework or applying for a minor please see the minors page.
Tuition
One of Florida International University’s main objectives is to provide you with an affordable, high-quality undergraduate education.
Our tuition ranks among the lowest in the nation and the lowest among our competitors. In fact, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine consistently ranks FIU among the top “100 Best Values in Public Colleges”—and U.S. News & World Report also recognizes FIU as a “best buy” in higher education, ranking our students among the least indebted college students in the nation.
In-state: $6,566 per year ($205.58 per credit)
Out-of-state: $18,964 per year ($617.87 per credit)
For more information about tuition, please visit the Admissions Office Cost & Aid page.