MSc Tourism and Hospitality

Program Overview

The MSc Tourism and Hospitality at the University of Sunderland equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in senior roles within the tourism and hospitality sectors. It combines theoretical and practical learning, focusing on critical tourism and hospitality issues from a social science perspective. The program includes a residential field trip, extensive supervisor support for the major project, and access to modern facilities and a well-stocked library. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in hotel and resort management, attractions and museums, destination marketing agencies, and other tourism and hospitality sectors.

Program Outline

MSc Tourism and Hospitality at the University of Sunderland:

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to rapidly advance within the tourism and hospitality sectors.
• Prepare graduates for senior roles with significant responsibility in the industry.
• Provide a comprehensive understanding of social science approaches to tourism and hospitality, combined with practical workplace skills.

Description:

• This MSc program offers a unique blend of theoretical and practical learning, focusing on critical tourism and hospitality issues from a social science perspective.
• It equips graduates with the necessary skills and expertise to excel in rapidly evolving tourism and hospitality environments.
• The program combines academic rigor with industry-relevant knowledge, preparing graduates with the necessary skills for success in today's competitive job market.

Outline:

Content:

• Module 1: Hospitality Management Studies (30 credits):
Explores hospitality as a global industry, covering key topics such as industry structure, ownership, employment practices, triple bottom line (economic, environmental, and socio-cultural) responsibility, and operational functions like food and beverage.
• Module 2: Tourism Concepts and Issues (30 credits): Delves deep into the complex and fascinating world of tourism, exploring its social and cultural practices, tourist subjectivity, the spatial dimension of tourism, and diverse perspectives from various academic and industry backgrounds.
• Module 3: Research Methods for the Service Sector (30 credits): Equips learners with essential research methodologies and philosophies employed in tourism, hospitality, aviation, and events research.
Develops practical data analysis skills, utilizing quantitive software in workshops. Lays the foundation for conducting independent research projects.
• Module 4: Current Practices in the Visitor Economy (30 credits): Provides current insights into trends and practices within thriving tourism, hospitality, aviation, and events industries.
Develops an understanding of current industry practices and offers opportunity for a residential field trip within the UK. Critically examines the relationship between theory and real-world implementation within the visitor economy.
• Module 5: Tourism and Hospitality Major Project (60 credits):: Allows learners to select an area of personal interest within tourism or hospitality management, designing and implementing a comprehensive research proposal, which includes setting aims and objectives, selecting and implementing appropriate research methods, conducting a thorough literature review, gathering empirical data through various means, interpreting and analyzing data effectively, all within the context of provided resources related to their chosen topic.
Throughout the process, learners receive expert supervision to ensure their research design is flawless and data interpretation is accurate.

Structure:

• Typical week: Lectures, seminars, study visits, group projects, workshops with guest speakers from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
• Higher level of independent study: Compared to undergraduate programs.
• Assessments: Essays, presentations, portfolio of evidence, and a dissertation.
• Part-time students: Expect around three-hour contact time each week.

Teaching:

• Methodologies:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Study visits
• Group work
• Workshops
• Teaching Staff: Experienced and passionate academics who actively engage in world-leading research.
• Guest Speakers: Experts from diverse academic and industry backgrounds, providing valuable insights and real-world perspectives.
• Unique Approaches:
• Residential fieldtrip opportunity in Module 4, enriching the visitor economy learning experience.
• Extensive supervisor support during the major project, ensuring research design and execution are well-guided.

Careers:

• Potential career options include:
• Hotel and resort management
• Attractions and museums
• Destination Marketing Agencies
• Tourism companies
• Restaurant and bar management
• Catering management
• The program equips graduates with skills and knowledge to thrive in senior roles with significant responsibility within various tourism and hospitality sectors.

Other:

• Facilities: Access to modern facilities on the St Peter's Campus, situated overlooking the river and within walking distance of both the coast and Sunderland town center
• Library: St Peter's Library boasts over 31,000 resources related to business, economics, human resources, tourism, management, and marketing.
Access to a wide range of journals and periodicals is also available. Dedicated librarian support ensures students maximize the library's benefits.
• The University also offers:
• The Enterprise Place:
A supportive environment to help students turn their business ideas into reality, offering free hot desk space, IT facilities, specialist advice/support from mentors, and networking opportunities
• Financial aid:
scholarships and bursaries may be available for eligible students.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• UK/EU: £7,500
• International: £16,500
• Part-time fees are £445 per 10 credits.