Sustainable Tourism (Graduate - Arizona State U

The Sustainable Tourism Graduate Certificate program at ASU Online equips professionals with the skills and knowledge to contribute to the sustainable development of tourism businesses and destinations. Through a blend of core courses and electives, students learn to identify and build innovative tourism products and experiences while minimizing adverse impacts, ensuring long-term viability and sustainability for host communities. The program's online format offers flexibility for working professionals, and graduates are prepared for leadership roles in the field of sustainable tourism.

Program Outline

Sustainable Tourism (Graduate Certificate)

Degree Overview

Overview:

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Tourism is designed for professionals working in or aiming to work in the tourism industry. The program focuses on managing and developing sustainable tourism businesses and destinations. Upon completion, graduates possess knowledge in integrating economic, social, and environmental aspects of tourism sustainability. They can conduct sustainability audits, assess community impacts, and contribute to sustainable destination and business planning and management.

Objectives:

Equip students with the skills and knowledge to contribute to the sustainable development of tourism businesses and destinations.
Foster an understanding of the complex interrelationships between tourism, environment, and society.
Provide students with the ability to critically analyze tourism development and propose sustainable solutions.
Enable graduates to contribute to building a more responsible and sustainable tourism industry.

Program Description:

This graduate certificate program immerses students in the practices of sustainable tourism, focusing on managing and developing sustainable tourism businesses and destinations. Participants learn numerous strategies and tools for identifying and building innovative tourism products and experiences. They also develop their skills in minimizing adverse impacts, ensuring that tourist attractions remain viable and sustainable for their host communities. The program curriculum delves into the integration of economic, social, and environmental aspects of sustainability as it relates to tourism. Students learn to conduct sustainability audits for destinations and businesses, examine community impacts of tourism, and gain expertise in sustainable destination and business planning and management.

Outline

General Program Structure:

18 credit hours
It features a blend of
required core courses
elective options
online

Required Core Courses (15 credit hours):

TDM 520: Sustainable Thinking in Tourism I (3 credits)
TDM 521: Sustainable Thinking in Tourism II (3 credits)
TDM 530: Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management I (3 credits)
TDM 531: Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management II (3 credits)
TDM 570: Sustainable Tourism (3 credits)

Elective Courses (3 credit hours):

Students choose one elective from the following:
TDM 540: Sustainable Food Management in Tourism (3 credits)
TDM 550: Managing the Sustainable Tourism Business (3 credits)

Course Schedule:

Courses are offered in multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.

Module Descriptions:

TDM 520: Sustainable Thinking in Tourism I: Introduces core concepts and principles of sustainable tourism.
TDM 521: Sustainable Thinking in Tourism II: Develops analytical skills for evaluating and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
TDM 530: Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management I: Explores destination planning and management frameworks.
TDM 531: Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management II: Deepens understanding of sustainable destination planning and management strategies.
TDM 570: Sustainable Tourism: Addresses specific environmental, social, and economic issues in sustainable tourism.
TDM 540: Sustainable Food Management in Tourism: Focuses on the intersection of food and tourism sustainability.
TDM 550: Managing the Sustainable Tourism Business: Examines business management approaches for sustainable tourism organizations.
Students benefit from access to ASU Online resources, including online learning tools and support services.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes.
These include:
Written assignments:
Presentations: Students present their research and findings to the class.
Exams: Assess comprehension of key concepts.
Participation: Active involvement in class discussions and activities is valued.

Assessment Criteria:

Specific assessment criteria vary depending on the course and assignment.
Generally, criteria emphasize:
Critical thinking:
Communication skills: Effective written and oral communication of ideas.
Problem-solving skills: Ability to identify and address sustainability challenges in tourism.
Collaboration: Working effectively with peers on team projects.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles.
These include:
Interactive lectures:
Case studies: Analyzing real-world examples and developing solutions.
Group projects: Collaborative work fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Online discussions: Facilitated online forums for peer interaction and knowledge sharing.

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty from the School of Community Resources and Development.
Faculty members hold expertise in sustainable tourism, destination planning, and environmental management.
They bring real-world experience and industry knowledge to the classroom.

Unique Approaches:

The program leverages online learning tools to create an engaging and interactive learning environment.
Focus on practical application of theories and concepts through case studies and project work.
Emphasis on fostering a community of learners through online discussions and collaboration.

Careers

Career Opportunities:

Completion of the Sustainable Tourism Graduate Certificate enhances career prospects for professionals in the tourism industry.
Potential career paths include:
Sustainability Manager
Ecotourism Consultant
Destination Planner
Policy Analyst
Marketing Specialist
Development Professional
Researcher
Educator

Graduate Outcomes:

Graduates demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in sustainable tourism planning and management.
They are prepared to contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable tourism initiatives.
Contact: School of Community Resources and Development | IDPAdvising@asu.edu | 602-496-1019

Program Highlights:

Flexible online format offering international and domestic access.
Designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in the tourism industry.
Equips graduates with expertise in sustainable tourism planning and management.
Provides opportunities for networking and career development.