Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality

By the year 2025, the senior living industry will require the support of 1.2 million employees, according to a report by Argentum. As the population of individuals over the age of 65 grows rapidly, the need for uniquely trained professionals who know how to address the distinct challenges and needs of the senior population will be higher than ever before.

In order to address the needs of this expanding population, USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has collaborated with Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration to create the Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality.

This program combines a deep understanding of the aging process, the aged population, and the needs of older adults by addressing their physical, psychological, and social needs. Students who complete this program will also be equipped with specific skills essential for senior living management, including:

• Analysis and management of legal and regulatory issues
• Identification of consumer needs, including health care and nutrition
• Revenue management
• Finance
• Marketing analysis and strategy
• Branding

All successful graduates will also have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Hospitality from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration in addition to their Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality. Contact an advisor to learn more.

Advanced Standing

Students admitted to advanced standing will bypass 11 units of the Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality program and be required to complete 24 units total of the following coursework, plus two additional 4-unit elective courses from the suggested electives listed below, for a total of 32 units. To learn more about the advanced standing option, please visit the admissions page.

Students in the advanced standing option of this program will have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Hospitality from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration in addition to their Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality degree. Contact an advisor to learn more.

Who Is This Program For?

The need for senior living industry professionals has significantly increased as the senior population continues to grow. Our program can prove beneficial for both professionals currently working in the senior living industry and those looking to begin their senior living hospitality careers.

This program was designed with flexibility in mind and can be completed on campus or entirely online. All coursework is available in both delivery methods and is taught by the same faculty members. Upon completion of the program, your diploma will read: Master of Arts in Senior Living Hospitality, regardless of whether you completed the program on campus or online. If you also earn the Cornell University certificate, it will read Certificate in Hospitality, Cornell University School of Hotel Administration.

Application Fee

The application fee is $90 and must be paid when you submit your application.