L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management
Where Passion Meets Possibility
At the L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, we prepare students to lead with purpose, passion, and professionalism in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. Here, you’re not just studying hospitality—you’re living it. Our students become hotel and resort managers, event planners, travel innovators, experience curators, and trusted leaders in hospitality, tourism, and recreation. With hands-on learning, real-world internships, and unmatched access to industry mentors, you’ll graduate with more than a degree—you’ll have a clear path to a thriving career. If you’re ready to turn your love for people, places, and experiences into something bigger, you’ve found the right place. This is where your journey begins—and leadership begins with you.
Join Us
Students in the Payne School don’t just study hospitality—they live it. With access to cutting-edge industry tools, real-world simulations, and hands-on experience, you'll graduate prepared to step confidently into your career. From property management systems to event planning software, revenue analytics to guest experience design, you’ll master the tools professionals use every day. Here, you’ll learn how to create exceptional guest experiences and understand the business behind them. Because in hospitality, it’s not just about service—it’s about strategy, innovation, and impact.
Immerse Yourself
At the Payne School, San Diego isn’t just where you study—it’s where you learn by doing. From managing real events and working with top hotels, to interning at world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo and local resorts, our students turn the city into their classroom. With a thriving tourism industry right in our backyard, you’ll gain real-world experience, build your network, and start shaping your future—long before graduation day.
Lastest News From HTM and RTM
Building a Future for Tribal Gaming
After growing up on a Minnesota reservation, Katherine Spilde has spent her career helping tribes build casino economies that balance business, sovereignty and cultural revitalization—work recently honored with SDSU’s 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award.
Payne School Commemorates 25 Years of Hospitality Education
Alumni, students and industry partners celebrate a quarter-century of career preparation, applied learning and community engagement.
L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management Announces 2026 Outstanding Students
Celebrating outstanding students who are redefining hospitality, tourism, and recreation management through leadership, innovation, and lived experience. Through event planning, sustainability initiatives, and community-centered work, these students are bringing creativity and purpose to the future of the industry.