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ABSTRACT
This study reports the findings of an investigation into the relationship between hospitality industry certification and course performance among undergraduate students. By analyzing the course performance of undergraduate students who enrolled in a hospitality course from Fall 2016 to Fall 2018 across the seven semesters, the study establishes a positive association between getting certified and course performance. Specifically, temporal differences in passing the certification exam revealed that earlier exam takers showed higher course performance than later exam takers. Significant differences in course performance across academic status were also found. Regression results showed that class attendance is a strong predictor of course performance. Overall findings revealed a consistent pattern across multiple semesters. The pedagogical implications of these findings are discussed, along with suggestions on how to maximize the academic and motivational benefits of industry certification programs in classes.