About the course

Open doors to an exciting career in a rapidly evolving industry incorporating all aspects of world travel from airlines and hotels to visitor attractions and eco-tourism. This globally focused course develops your understanding of tourism while giving you the practical skills you need to take on a management role in the sector.

Alongside the development of your business and management skills, your studies focus on global issues such as the development and management of sustainable tourism; the impact of new technology on travel, tourism and mobility; and the environmental, economic and social impacts of tourism. Our approach places the business of tourism within an ethical framework, which is essential in an industry whose prime attractions include the natural environment and local cultures.

The course is practice based, with theory put to the test in real-life scenarios from within the international tourism industry. You also benefit from field trips to tourist destinations and attractions, and have the opportunity to take a year in industry in the UK or abroad.

The University of Bedfordshire is a member of The Association for Tourism in Higher Education (ATHE). ATHE is the subject association for tourism in higher education in the UK. It represents universities that are leading providers of tourism programmes.

Why choose this course?

• Study theory and practice in different branches of tourism, including hospitality, visitor attractions, heritage and sustainable tourism
• Gain knowledge of the strategic management of tourism-related businesses
• Benefit from regular guest speakers from industry, providing insight into your chosen career
• Develop your skills in analysing and interpreting complex information, ready for employment
• Take the course over four years and include a fee-free year in industry (see below), gaining experience, developing your language skills and building your CV
• If you need to step up into higher education, start with a Foundation Year (see below), which guarantees you a place on the degree course

This course has the option to be taken over four years which includes a year placement in industry. Undertaking a year in industry has many benefits. You gain practical experience and build your CV, as well as being a great opportunity to sample a profession and network with potential future employers.

There is no tuition fee for the placement year enabling you to gain an extra year of experience for free.

*Only available to UK/EU students.