International Tourism and Hospitality Management - MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in International Tourism and Hospitality Management at Ulster University equips students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the dynamic tourism and hospitality industry. The program covers principles, strategic marketing, management, leadership, sustainability, and innovation. Delivered in a blended learning mode, it prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including hotel management, tourism planning, event management, and operations management.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

MSc in International Tourism and Hospitality Management

offered at Ulster University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to succeed within the dynamic tourism and hospitality industry.

Objectives:

• The course aims to prepare graduates for a wide variety of career paths within the sector.
• It equips students with a comprehensive understanding of tourism and hospitality principles, strategic marketing, management, leadership, business sustainability, and innovation.

Program Description:

• This internationally recognised master's degree provides students with the knowledge and skills to work across various sectors within the industry, including hotels, tourism agencies, airlines, attractions, tour operators, event management companies, ferry/cruise companies, and airport operations.
• The course is suitable for both recent graduates seeking entry into the industry and experienced professionals aiming for career advancement.
• It covers the necessary competencies and qualities required for diverse job roles within the tourism and hospitality sector.

Outline:

Program Content and Structure:

• The program consists of 180 credits and is typically completed over two and a half years on a part-time basis.
• Students take up to 90 credits per academic year.
• The course is delivered in a blended learning mode with intensive three-day blocks for each module, supplemented by online discussion groups and learning support sessions.
• The course curriculum includes the following modules:
• Semester 1:
> Tourism & Hospitality Principles > Strategic Marketing > Managing & Leading People
• Semester 2:
> Contemporary Issues in Tourism & Hospitality > Business Sustainability & Innovation > Research Methods
• Semester 3:

Assessment: The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate students' understanding and application of course material. These include:

• Written essays: Students demonstrate critical thinking and analytical abilities through essay assignments.
• Short Synopses: Students condense and summarize key information from lectures and readings.
• Personal Reflections and Peer Reviews: Students reflect on their own learning experiences and provide constructive feedback to peers.
• Case Studies: Students apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios and analyze business situations.
• Objective Tests: Students demonstrate knowledge acquisition and understanding of key concepts.
• Business Reports: Students develop comprehensive analyses and solutions for business-oriented problems.
• Computer Modelling: Students use technology and data analysis tools for practical applications in tourism and hospitality.
• Individual and Group Presentations: Students refine communication skills and present their research findings or project ideas.
• Dissertation: Students undertake an independent research project and develop original insights within a specific area of interest.

Teaching:

The program employs a diverse range of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These methods include:

• Traditional Lectures: Experts in the field provide in-depth knowledge and theoretical foundations for key topics.
• Case Studies: Real-world scenarios are presented to enable the application of theoretical concepts and problem-solving skills in a practical context.
• Business Simulation Gaming: Interactive simulations provide students with hands-on experience in managing business operations and making strategic decisions under realistic conditions.
• One-to-One Tutor Sessions: Individualized guidance and support are offered to students.
• Guest Speakers from Industry: Professionals share real-world insights, experiences, and perspectives on the industry's current challenges and opportunities.

Careers:

Graduates of the MSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management can pursue diverse and exciting career paths within various sectors of the industry. Some potential job roles include:

• Hotel Manager: Oversee the operation of hotels, ensuring guest satisfaction, staff management, budget control, and adherence to operational standards.
• Tourism Planning and Development: Engage in the planning and implementation of tourism strategies and initiatives, contributing to destination development, marketing, and sustainable growth.
• Tourism Product Development: Create and design innovative and attractive tourist packages and experiences, taking into consideration market trends, consumer preferences, and responsible tourism principles.
• Event Management: Organize and manage large-scale events, conferences, or festivals, coordinating logistics, budgets, and stakeholders to ensure successful execution and attendee satisfaction.
• Operations Manager: Oversee and manage the smooth operation of diverse hospitality businesses such as restaurants, bars, cafes, or holiday parks, ensuring efficient service, staff management, budget control, and quality standards.

Other:

• The program is accredited by the Institute of Hospitality (IoH), ensuring the academic, vocational, and professional standards of the course meet internationally recognised benchmarks for quality and relevance to industry needs.
• The course curriculum is designed to provide students with relevant and practical skills that are highly sought after by employers in various sectors of the tourism and hospitality industry.
• The program focuses on developing students' critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills to prepare them for success in a dynamic and challenging industry.