| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-10 | - |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MSc Tourism and Aviation program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in tourism and hospitality management, emphasizing a social science approach combined with practical workplace skills. The program fosters a global perspective and prepares graduates for successful careers in the tourism and aviation industries, including management, research, and consultancy roles.
Program Outline
MSc Tourism and Aviation
Degree Overview
Overview:
The MSc Tourism and Aviation program is a one-year intensive program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in tourism and hospitality management. The program emphasizes a social science approach to tourism and aviation, combined with practical skills relevant to the workplace.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Enhance students' understanding of the complex and dynamic tourism and aviation industries.
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to address contemporary issues in tourism and aviation.
- Equip students with practical skills and knowledge for successful careers in the sector.
- Foster a global perspective on tourism and aviation management.
Program Description:
The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through field trips, company visits, and a major research project. Students will delve into topics such as tourism concepts and issues, current practices in the visitor economy, research methods, aviation management studies, and culminating in a major project focusing on an area of their choice within tourism or aviation management.
Outline
Program Structure:
The program consists of a series of modules delivered through lectures, seminars, study visits, and group work. Students are expected to engage in independent study and research, culminating in a major project.
Course Schedule:
The program is typically offered on a full-time basis starting in June or October. Each module runs for a specific period within the academic year.
Modules:
- Tourism Concepts and Issues (30 credits): Explores the complex world of tourism, delving into its social and cultural practices, tourist subjectivities, and spatial dimensions.
- Current Practices in the Visitor Economy (30 credits): Provides insights into current trends in the tourism, hospitality, aviation, and events industries. Includes a residential field trip within the UK.
- Research Methods for the Services Sector (30 credits): Equips students with key theories, methodologies, and philosophies adopted in tourism, hospitality, aviation, and events research.
- Aviation Management Studies (30 credits): Provides a comprehensive understanding of the global aviation industry, including developing and emerging economies. Covers topics such as industry structure, ownership, employment practices, operational functions, branding, and consumer behaviour.
- Tourism and Aviation Major Project (60 credits): Students select a specific area within tourism or aviation management and conduct independent research, culminating in a dissertation.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Essays
- Presentations
- Portfolios of evidence
- Dissertation
Assessment Criteria:
The assessment criteria will vary depending on the specific module and assessment method. However, generally, students will be assessed on their:
- Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Ability to apply theory to real-world situations
- Communication and presentation skills
- Research skills
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Group work
- Field trips
- Guest speakers
- Independent study
Faculty:
The program is taught by passionate academics who are actively engaged in world-leading research. Students will benefit from one-to-one support from academic staff throughout their studies.
Unique Approaches:
The program incorporates several unique approaches, including:
- Industry Focus: The program emphasizes the practical application of knowledge and skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the workplace.
- Global Perspective: The program encourages students to develop a global understanding of tourism and aviation, preparing them for careers in an international context.
- Research-Led Learning: Students are encouraged to engage in independent research, culminating in a major project that contributes to knowledge and understanding within the field.
Careers
Career Paths:
Graduates of the program can pursue a wide range of careers in the tourism and aviation industries, including:
- Tourism and hospitality management
- Event management
- Travel and tourism
- Aviation management
- Airport operations
- Airline marketing and sales
- Tourism research and consultancy
Career Opportunities:
Graduates are well-positioned to secure employment in various organizations, including:
- Attractions and museums
- Airports
- Tourism companies
- Major airlines
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
Career Outcomes:
The program boasts a strong track record of graduate employability. Graduates have secured positions in leading organizations within the tourism and aviation sectors.
Other
Field Trip Opportunities:
The program offers various field trip opportunities, including visits to destinations within the UK and internationally. Previous field trips have included destinations such as Dublin, Prague, Barcelona, and New York.
Meet the Students:
The program website features testimonials from current and past students, providing insights into their experiences and the program's impact on their careers.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
- Fees are: £7,500 if you're from the UK/Europe £16,500 if you're an international student Part-time fees are £445 per 10 credits. Please note that part-time study is not available to international students who require a student visa to study in the UK.
- European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who do not qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission, you'll receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies. The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.
University of Sunderland
Overview:
The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.
Services Offered:
The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.Student Support:
Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options.Career Services:
Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Student Life:
A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Quality Facilities:
The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.Inclusive Culture:
The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.Vibrant City:
Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.Strong Industry Links:
The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.Academic Programs:
The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts and Design:
Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.Sciences:
Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.Business and Law:
Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.Computing and Engineering:
Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.Education and Social Sciences:
Education, Psychology, and Social Work.Other:
The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Entry Requirements:
- Domestic and EU Home students: A UK bachelor's degree with at least a 2:2 honors classification is needed. If your bachelor's degree comes from another country, the institution's entry requirements might have specific criteria for your qualification. It's recommended to check with the admissions office if you're unsure. Additionally, if your first language is not English, you'll need to prove proficiency through an English language test (more details below).
- International Students (outside EU):
- A Canadian bachelor's degree with a GPA of 2.40 or better.
- A USA bachelor's degree with a GPA of 2.5 or better. If you hold a postgraduate qualification, consult the institution's dedicated article on "Applying for additional postgraduate degrees" for further details. The entry requirements mentioned above are typical; however, if you don't meet them, you can consider taking a foundation pathway program offered by ONCAMPUS Sunderland. Explore more information and eligibility on their dedicated webpage.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
If English is not your native language, you must demonstrate English proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual element below 5.5.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 62 with no individual element below 55.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90 with no individual element below 20.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Overall score of 61 with no Communicative Skills score below 59.
- Cambridge Advanced English (CAE): Overall grade of C.
- Cambridge Proficiency English (CPE): Overall grade of C. These are the standard language proficiency tests accepted, but the institution does provide a complete and updated list of accepted English language tests on their dedicated "English language requirements" page. It's important to note that if you're from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland and don't qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme, you'll be categorized as an international student for fee purposes. However, during the 2024/25 admissions, you'll receive a European student fee scholarship, allowing you to pay the home tuition fee throughout your studies. This reduced fee will be shown in your offer letter. For detailed information, refer to their "Help and Advice" article.
