Tourism Management MA

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Course Overview

Attendance

UK Fees £1,100 *
International Fees £1,700 *
Alumni Discount See details
Duration 2 years

* Price per 20-credit module

Course summary

Tourism is an increasingly important part of our lives, and the tourism industry is one of the few global industries forecast to grow in the long term. Managing this rapidly growing industry to meet visitors' demands in a sustainable way is exciting and challenging. This long-established course will give you the knowledge, analytical abilities and skills you need to make a career as a tourism professional.

Annual student feedback for this course is very positive, with teaching, staff contact and course content receiving particular praise. This reflects the teaching team's efforts to provide a valuable and effective course as well as a supportive, friendly and stimulating environment for your studies. 

Members of the teaching team have published academic texts used by students of tourism at many UK universities. You'll benefit from access to these texts and the insights of these authors. Furthermore, staff teaching on the course are active researchers, and their teaching is informed by both their own research and their engagement with industry.  

You'll learn about the nature and characteristics of tourism and explore how it can be marketed, managed and planned, examining cases from around the world. Your management and entrepreneurial skills will be developed to assist you in finding employment in many different parts of this dynamic and growing industry.

A range of option modules allows you to focus on your particular interests, and to explore the links between the different aspects of tourism. A dissertation gives you the chance to apply your learning to develop in-depth, specialist knowledge of a tourism topic of your choice. 

Top reasons to study with us

  • Central London location – You'll study in the heart of London, one of the world's leading tourism destinations, with access to an extraordinary range of major tourist attractions and tourism-based businesses 
  • Learn from experts – You'll be taught by a teaching team with specialist knowledge in tourism and related disciplines, who are also active researchers. Visiting industry speakers also bring additional expertise and industry experience to the course
  • Site visits and field trips – Site visits, incorporated into your studies, allow you to explore a wide variety of aspects of the tourism industry. A residential field trip to a UK destination is also offered to enhance your knowledge and understanding

Course climate action statement

This course will promote understanding essential to accelerate climate action in the tourism and events sector. We will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical responses to help mitigate the risks of ecological and social disruptions, and to share your learning when entering employment.  

Course structure

The following modules are indicative of what you'll study on this course.

You'll be able to choose three option modules, a selection of which are listed below. Please note that we cannot guarantee all option modules will run each year, as availability will depend on demand.

Core modules

This module evaluates destination development strategies, exploring alternative destination management structures and discusses the role of destination planning in limiting the negative impacts of tourism. Using a case study approach you will be challenged to explore the different scenarios and challenges used by tourism destinations around the globe. 

This module provides an opportunity to choose a subject that interests you, and to investigate it rigorously and in depth. With the support of an academic supervisor you will prepare and implement a research plan in order to complete an in-depth piece work which offers new insights and understanding relevant to tourism.

This module develops an understanding and knowledge of the essential communication and research skills needed for academic life and professional practice. It provides guidance on communicating, analytically and creatively, in the written form, digitally, orally and visually.   You will also develop the key skills needed for the successful completion of a research project, as well as developing your abilities for professional problem-solving and decision-making.

This module will help you develop a critical awareness and thorough understanding of the particular characteristics of the tourism industry and the broader implications of tourism development. You will examine the role, operation and interdependence of the various components of the tourism industry.

This module examines the use of marketing by tourism business and destinations, emphasis on the marketing mix, segmentation and the use of digital marketing for tourism communications.  The module also considers entrepreneurial practices and financial management in order to enhance your commercial awareness.  

Option modules

The module explores the demand for air travel and prospects for the future. You will evaluate the economic and commercial performance of airline and airport operators, as well as examining the broader impacts of air travel on the economy and the environment.

This module places the operation of tourism attractions, business and leisure events within the conceptual framework of the experiencescape to explore the increasingly complex interactions between producers and consumers of attraction and event experiences. You will examine the key concepts and issues that encourage the effective design of a transformative experience for attendees.

This module uses global events as examples through which we can better understand the strategic management of sports events and cultural festivals. You will analyse the different ways that events are produced and consumed internationally, examining the influence of globalisation. You will also explore the relationship between events and host cities, critiquing debates regarding the capacity of global events to define and regenerate places

This module introduces you to strategic management and develops an understanding of your own professional skills through industry practice via either a team consultancy project for, or a research work placement in the tourism and/or events industry. Building on your existing knowledge, and reflecting on and transforming your professional skills, you will examine a current issue on behalf of your industry partner.

The requirement for tourism and event businesses to operate sustainably, in the broadest sense, is now stronger than ever and for aspiring professionals, grounding in responsible practice has become a necessity. This module explores the founding principles of ‘responsibility’ in event and tourism management and considers the range of contexts for sustainable practice from both an industry and stakeholder perspective. Domestic and international examples are used in order to illustrate the different contexts and applications. The module addresses four key aspects: responsible business practice; improving the quality of life of host communities; conserving the local environment and local culture; and sustainable design. Students will gain detailed subject knowledge and understanding on the planning and implementation of responsible practices and also be encouraged to develop their evaluative skills when analysing existing policy and practice.

This module provides an understanding of the relationship between tourism, culture and society. You will explore tourism as a socio-cultural phenomenon and its impacts on societies around the globe. By drawing on case studies from both developing and developed world you will acquire an understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics of tourism on a theoretical and practical level, evaluating industry responses related to social entrepreneurship and corporate social responsibility.  

Professional accreditation

This course is accredited by the Tourism Management Institute (TMI) meaning you can be confident it will give you the knowledge, understanding, skills and experience that will fully prepare you for a career in tourism destination management.

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Programme specification

For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).

To request an accessible version please email [email protected]

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Get in touch

Contact us for general course enquiries:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)

[email protected]

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(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)

Open evenings

Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.

Careers

Graduates of this course have gone on to establish careers in a wide variety of fields around the world, including national and regional tourism organisations, marketing roles with transport organisations such as airlines and tourism destinations, and working for companies specialising in business tourism.

Excellent career prospects

Graduates from this course have gone on to establish careers in a wide variety of fields around the world, with some launching their own travel agency businesses and others working in hotel management or in consultancy roles.

Industry links

We have a well-established network of professional links throughout London including hotels, tour operators, and tourism marketing organisations.

3,000

Employers around the world

The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.

Job roles

This course will prepare you for roles such as:

  • Resort manager
  • Travel agent
  • Travel agency manager
  • Travel consultant
  • Tourist information centre manager
  • Tour manager
  • Tourism marketing manager
  • Tourism officer

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course have gone on to work at:

  • Airlines
  • Booking agencies
  • Destination marketing organisations
  • Global hotel companies 
  • Independent travel agents
  • Tour operators

Westminster Employability Award

Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.

The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities. 

Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.

Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.

Westminster Employability Award

Course Leader

Why study this course?

Learn from experts

You'll be taught by research-active staff with specialist knowledge in tourism and related disciplines. Visiting industry speakers also bring additional expertise and industry experience to the course.

Central London location

You'll study in the heart of London, one of the world's leading tourism destinations, with access to an extraordinary range of major tourist attractions and tourism-based businesses.

Site visits and field trips

Site visits, incorporated into your studies, allow you to explore a wide variety of aspects of the tourism industry. A residential field trip to a UK destination is also offered to enhance your learning experience and knowledge.

Entry Requirements

A minimum or an upper second class honours degree (2:1) or a lower second class honours degree (2:2) and an essay. Exceptionally an applicant without these formal qualifications, but with considerable work experience in the tourism or related industries, may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Leader.

Applicants with a lower second class honours degree (2:2) are required to submit an essay. 

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

  • the application process
  • what you need to apply
  • deadlines for applications

A minimum or an upper second class honours degree (2:1) or a lower second class honours degree (2:2) and an essay. Exceptionally an applicant without these formal qualifications, but with considerable work experience in the tourism or related industries, may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Leader.

Applicants with a lower second class honours degree (2:2) are required to submit an essay. 

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

  • the application process
  • what you need to apply
  • deadlines for applications

More information

Learn new skills

Volunteer and gain new skills

We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.

Develop your entrepreneurial skills

Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.

Get extra qualifications

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Fees and Funding

UK tuition fee: £1,100 (Price per 20-credit module)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees.

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.

Funding

There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).

Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

International tuition fee: £1,700 (Price per 20-credit module)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees.

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.

Funding

There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.

Find out more about funding for international students.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

Teaching and Assessment

Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable.  Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.

How you’ll be taught

Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:

  • Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
  • Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
Year
1
19%81%
2
20%80%
Scheduled hoursIndependent study

How you’ll be assessed

Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:

  • Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
  • Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Year
1
7%93%
2
6%94%
PracticalCoursework

Data from the academic year 2022/23

Supporting you

Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.

  • Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
  • Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
  • Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
  • Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Visit our student hub

Course location

In the heart of London, our Marylebone Campus is home to the Westminster Business School and our Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. Specialist workshops, dedicated digital and architecture studios, and our extensive Marylebone Library offer students everything they need for academic success.

Marylebone Campus is opposite Baker Street tube station and within easy walking distance of Regent's Park and Marylebone High Street.

For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.

Contact us

Call our dedicated team on:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

[email protected]

Start live chat

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

More information

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