Overview

The Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA®) is the most prestigious certification available to a hotel general manager and hospitality executive. It identifies the recipient as being part of an elite group of hospitality professionals who by combining education and experience with dedication to the industry have achieved a high level of expertise.

Globally recognized, the CHA® is a highly respected professional credential that validates your advanced knowledge in the hospitality industry. It is an honor awarded to lodging professionals whose leadership and managerial abilities are exemplary.  

Achieving the CHA® certification announces that you have a place among the best in your profession, are abreast of current trends and latest hospitality protocols; and serves as leverage in current and future career opportunities. 

Course Prerequisite

Because individual backgrounds vary widely in the hospitality industry, applicants may pursue the CHA® designation through one of three options: Plan A emphasizes an education background; Plan B emphasizes industry experience; and Plan C emphasizes early entry. All plans require documented evidence of managerial experience and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

Plan A Eligibility -- Education Emphasis 

• At least a 2-year degree from an accredited institution or successful completion of the Educational Institute's Hospitality Management Diploma
• Current employment as a general manager, owner/operator, or corporate executive* (see below) in a lodging hospitality company, with at least two years of full-time experience in one or more such positions.

Plan B Eligibility -- Experience Emphasis

• Current employment as a general manager, owner/operator, or corporate executive* (see below) in a lodging hospitality company, with at least three years of full time experience in one or more such positions.
• Educators Only: Currently teaching hospitality management courses on a full-time basis at an accredited academic institution; three years of experience in this capacity; three years of full-time experience in a management position in a lodging hospitality company.

Plan C Eligibility -- Early Entry

Plan C requires a candidate to hold a qualifying position at the time of application.

Plan C does not have an education requirement, but a degree will reduce the length of time you are required to spend in a qualifying position.

Through Plan C you can begin working on your CHA® designation and demonstrating your commitment to professional development the first day on the job. Plan C enables you to take the CHA® certification test up to three times so you can gauge your progress and knowledge against an industry proven standard. You no longer need to wait to see if you meet the benchmark of industry quality. You can prove it, and pursue a strong professional development regimen. This plan will allow individuals who are in qualifying positions to pursue their certification even if they are lacking in experience.

A Plan C candidate who is in a qualifying position:

• May sit for the examination BEFORE meeting the experience requirement.
• May take the examination up to 3 times.
• May sit for the examination while in the process of completing a hospitality degree.
• Will be required to submit documentation of employment at the time the experience requirement is met.