The program is designed for students to gain extensive management skills and practical work experience. Labs in hotel operations, food production and computers, among others, give students hands-on training that increases their marketability in the industry. The nature of the hospitality business allows the student a great deal of individual and group social interaction. This camaraderie prepares the student in areas of interpersonal communication and networking which facilitates future employment opportunities.

Studies in RHIM include courses in both general education and hospitality management. RHIM classes include food production, and management, hotel operations, computer applications, beverage management, travel and tourism, entrepreneurship, hospitality law, marketing, financial control, purchasing, and facilities management. Outside support classes are taken in accounting, communication, and personnel management.

Practical management experience is gained through diverse laboratory experience. These range from front desk hotel operations to product evaluation in purchasing to managing a student-run restaurant.