A New Approach for Formulating Higher Education Goals in the Jordanian Tourism and Hospitality Sector

Objectives: The aim of this research is to propose a new approach for developing graduate curricula in tourism and hospitality. This approach is based on four main pillars: the needs of businesses and the market, the needs of students, the development of international standards, and the vision of secondary schools for industry. Methods: To identify the inputs for this new approach, both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted. The quantitative method was used to assess needs, while the qualitative method was employed to develop the new approach based on the obtained results. Results: The results indicate that these four pillars are vital components of the new strategy. The proposed integrated objectives from this approach offer a comprehensive solution and a forward-looking perspective on the essential skills required in the tourism and hospitality sector, as identified from the viewpoints of graduates, the market, and the academic community. The identified core skills are crucial for expanding and building a sustainable tourism and hospitality sector, both in Jordan and globally. The findings emphasize the necessity of incorporating innovation skills into the curriculum as a fundamental requirement to enhance graduates' capabilities. Additionally, management and networking skills should be integrated to improve students' opportunities in the industry. Conclusions: The research highlights the importance of an integrated approach in creating successful educational programs in the tourism and hospitality sector.