Georgia Military College (GMC) is launching new Hospitality and Tourism programs designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the region’s expanding tourism and service industries.
Beginning in January 2027, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), GMC will offer a certificate, associate degree, and Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Hospitality and Tourism, as well as a Hospitality and Tourism track within the existing Business Management B.A.S. Degree program and an unaccredited certificate focused specifically on Georgia Tourism.
These SACSCOC-accredited programs represent stackable credentials that create clear educational and career pathways — from entry-level certification to advanced degree opportunities. The programs were developed in response to the Milledgeville Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (CVB) recognition of the region’s increasing need for a trained workforce in hospitality and customer service, driven by the addition of several new hotels and a growing tourism market across Middle Georgia.
“At Georgia Military College, we are deeply committed to preparing students for success in high-demand career fields that also strengthen our communities,” said Major General Terrence McKenrick, U.S. Army (Retired), president of Georgia Military College. “These new Hospitality and Tourism programs will not only provide students with the knowledge and experience needed to build rewarding careers but will also serve the workforce needs of our region and state, helping communities thrive through education, professionalism, and service.”
In support of the new programs, the Milledgeville CVB is partnering with GMC to invest $30,000 over the next three years to assist with program development, as well as provide scholarships and internship opportunities for students pursuing careers in the field.
“We at Visit Milledgeville are absolutely delighted to support Georgia Military College in the development of its new hospitality certificate and degree programs,” said Rebekah Snider, Visit Milledgeville executive director. “With the anticipated growth and $82 billion economic impact of the visitor economy across the state, it is clear that the future of Central Georgia tourism depends on a skilled, ready workforce. In Baldwin County alone, we support nearly 900 local tourism jobs, and our partnership with GMC ensures a pipeline of educated talent capable of leading new and existing hospitality enterprises, making the CVB’s investment a direct commitment to sustaining, and accelerating future tourism growth.”
The new Hospitality and Tourism programs will provide hands-on learning experiences and professional development opportunities designed to prepare graduates for careers in hotel and resort management, event planning, culinary services, travel and tourism coordination, and other customer- focused industries.
Through its longstanding commitment to providing affordable, highquality education, Georgia Military College continues to serve as a catalyst for workforce development and community success throughout Georgia.
For more information about GMC’s new Hospitality and Tourism programs, please visit www.gmc.edu.
— Contributed