Program Overview
The International Sustainable Tourism Master's program, offered by UNT and CATIE, equips students with knowledge and skills to analyze and apply sustainable tourism principles. This joint degree program emphasizes global perspectives, research methods, and prepares graduates for leadership roles in the tourism industry or further research.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The International Sustainable Tourism Master's (MIST) is a joint Master of Science degree program offered by the University of North Texas (UNT) and CATIE (The Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Objectives:
The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to:
- Analyze sustainable tourism in the USA and Costa Rica.
- Apply sustainable tourism principles to hospitality.
- Understand the operational and policy perspectives of sustainable tourism.
Program Description:
The MIST program provides students with unique opportunities, including:
- International instruction from industry experts and experienced researchers.
- A focus on balancing environmental, economic, and socio-cultural benefits and concerns in tourism.
- The chance to gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainable tourism development.
- The ability to apply appropriate research methods and present research findings effectively.
- Exposure to governmental strategic planning and best practice identification and facilitation.
Careers:
The travel sector is a major global industry, and professionals with a strong understanding of sustainable tourism are in high demand. This program prepares graduates for management and leadership positions in the international sustainable tourism industry. It also provides a foundation for pursuing a doctoral degree.
Other:
- CATIE has strategic alliances with public and private universities, research centers, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and government entities worldwide.
- The UNT-CATIE joint master’s degree is the first of its kind in the U.S.
- The program is a two-year program, with the first two semesters at UNT and the last two semesters at CATIE in Turrialba, Costa Rica. All courses are taught in English.
- The Toulouse Graduate School® offers professional development workshops, many of which are available online.
- CATIE combines scientific research, graduate education, and technical cooperation to create a balance between conservation and sustainable production.
