Blurred people on crowded square piazza San Marco with view on cathedral basilica, Venice, Italy. Blurred people on crowded square piazza San Marco with view on cathedral basilica, Venice, Italy.

Available with:

  • Foundation Year

  • Placement Year

Follow University of Chester Business School on FacebookTwitterInstagram and LinkedIn.

Accreditations

Tourism Management Institute

Course Summary

Explore one of the world’s leading, fast-moving and dynamic industries at one of the UK’s top tourism universities - the best in the North of England, Wales & Scotland (Guardian University Guide 2023).  

You will learn from industry experts and academics how places around the world benefit from and manage tourism, how it is marketed and how tourism businesses operate. You will consider the future challenges facing tourism particularly in terms of sustainability. You will gain industry experience to help plan your tourism future.

The course provides you with a broad understanding of international tourism in your first year before exploring more specialist topics in your second and third years when you will also expand upon your own areas of particular interest by selecting optional modules that connect tourism with aspects of events management, marketing or business.

You will have a five-week tourism work placement in your second year and carry out an individual tourism management project that you have designed yourself in third year. These opportunities will help you stand-out when you apply for the job that will kick-start your tourism career.

International Tourism Management can be studied as a combined programme with Events Management, Marketing Management or Business Management as an alternative to single honours. It is available as a three-year programme or as a four-year programme with a placement year.

This degree course is accredited by the Tourism Management Institute. We work closely with it and our industry partners to make sure that our modules are always up to date and give you the skills that you will need for future success.

Why you'll Love it


What you'llStudy

Module content:

  • Reading and writing critically.
  • Constructing and evaluating an argument.
  • Note-taking techniques for reading and listening.
  • Understanding plagiarism and academic integrity.
  • Introduction to reflective practice.
  • Preparing for, and delivering, powerpoint presentations.
  • Referencing and citation.
  • Summarising and paraphrasing written sources.
  • Literature searching.
  • Report writing.
  • The culture and expectations of higher education.
  • The assessment process including the role of assessment criteria and feedback.
  • The nature of research journal publishing.

Whilst much of the content above is generic, students will be encouraged to situate skills within the context of the undergraduate discipline they are entering, which leads to some variation in emphasis for certain skills.


Module aims:

1.To raise awareness of the range of study skills required for successful higher education studies, including the process of academic writing, reading strategies, seminar skills, organisation of time and materials, planning for and meeting deadlines, understanding and responding to feedback.

2. To introduce students to concepts such as plagiarism, academic integrity and appropriate use of artificial intelligence tools.

3. To facilitate an effective transition into higher education by exploring, and providing guidance in, the key elements of successful undergraduate studentship including students' understanding of taking responsibility for their own learning.

4. To teach students how to undertake a literature, visual or data review for their discipline and be able to differentiate between a valid, reliable source and an unsubstantiated or irrelevant source.  

Module content:

  • Research and planning skills.
  • Becoming familiar with topics that comprise their undergraduate degree subject.
  • Developing a knowledge base for a discipline of study.
  • Identifying areas of interest.
  • Application and development of critical analytical skills.
  • Development of self-directed study.
  • Use of learning resources.

Module aims:

1. To develop students' skills in planning and writing an essay.

2. To familiarise students with the process of tutor supervision for a written piece of work.

3. To give students an opportunity to focus on a topic within their undergraduate degree subject.

4. To write a piece of work that allows the student to broaden and deepen knowledge on a topic of their choice.

5. To prepare and deliver an academic poster presentation outlining the student's research topic.

Module content:

  • The 'global student' and the ‘global graduate’
  • Introduction to theories of globalization
  • Perspectives on economic, political and cultural globalization
  • Globalized media, the internet & digital tech.
  • Global economy & transnational corporations
  • International organisations & social movements
  • Migration, multiculturalism and interculturalism
  • Introduction to decolonisation & education
  • International security and security issues
  • Introduction to international relations theory

Module aims:

1. To explore issues of global significance.

2. To develop and apply skills in critical thinking, research and communication and apply these to debates within the module's topics.

3. To deconstruct and reconstruct arguments by researching global issues.

4. To develop an awareness of global justice debates.

Module content:

  • Introduction to Marketing Strategies
  • Understanding the Marketing Mix (product, price, place and promotion)
  • Influences on Target Market & Segmentation
  • Marketing events

Module aims:

  1. To introduce students to a range of Marketing concepts & principles.
  2. To develop students' understanding of the Marketing Mix in the modern world of business.
  3. To provide a foundation-level knowledge base of business marketing

Module content:

  • Introduction to business functions (including human resources management, operations, marketing & finance)
  • Examples of leadership and management
  • Corporate social responsibility
  • Understanding organisational structures and behaviour
  • Introduction to strategy
  • Influences on business (including contract law & the formation of contracts)
  • Introduction to entrepreneurship

Module aims:

  1. To introduce students to a range of business functions.
  2. To develop students' understanding of operational and strategic practices in the modern world of business.
  3. To provide a foundation-level knowledge base of business and entrepreneurship.

Module content:

  • Preparation of Financial Statements (including trading profit and loss statement)
  • Presenting graphical information
  • Data handling
  • Percentages, ratios and proportions
  • Analysing business performance
  • Procedures & legal requirements

Module aims:

1. To provide a foundation-level knowledge of mathematics in preparation for progression to an undergraduate degree in Business.

2. To introduce students to fundamental concepts within maths using a selection of applications relevant to Business.

3. To introduce foundation-level knowledge in mathematical applications for finance.

In Year 1 you will learn the fundamentals of tourism, start to meet industry experts and develop core management skills in marketing, business and meeting customer needs.

Module content:

This module introduces core marketing concepts and contextualises them within the tourism and events sectors. Topics will include, but are not limited to:

  • The development, role and importance of marketing within tourism and events organisations, destinations, and in society

  • Introduction to the marketing process, the marketing environment, and market research

  • Introduction to buyer behaviour and the importance of understanding customers, visitors and other service users

  • Understanding segmentation, targeting and positioning

  • The extended marketing mix, service characteristics and servicescapes

  • Importance of understanding culture, values and global perspectives in effective marketing

  • Introduction to technology and innovation in marketing eg. social media and digital marketing


Module aims:

To introduce students to:

  1. The fundamental concepts, principles and theories of marketing.
  2. Key marketing techniques and applications.
  3. The use and importance of marketing in tourism and events with a particular focus on destinations.

Module content:

This module will use a series of workshops to explore key themes associated with academic and professional development. Students will engage in self-reflection and analysis in order to develop a personal action plan, to be implemented throughout the year. Study and professional skills will dominate the curriculum, offering students rich opportunities to develop.

The topics will include, but are not limited to:

  • Academic integrity including academic writing, referencing and responding to feedback
  • Research skills - locating, evaluating and using good quality research information.
  • Emotional intelligence and self-awareness: your skills, strengths and weaknesses, personality and needs.
  • Learning styles and approaches
  • Idea generation and problem solving
  • Developing effective teams: team dynamics, negotiation and conflict resolution
  • Commercial and subject/discipline awareness; understanding the academic and environmental contexts
  • Personal management; planning and time management, avoiding stress and tackling assignments/exams
  • Managing your professional image; CVs, social media profiles, portfolios
  • Personal and professional development planning
  • Career awareness and action planning

Module aims:

This module aims to support students in their transition into Higher Education by introducing and developing their understanding of;

  • Higher Education expectations including academic research, writing, structure and UoC processes
  • Independent learning including curriculum engagement, time management and understanding and using feedback  

In addition, the module aims to improve the employability of students by providing opportunities for them to;

  • Develop and evidence a range of transferable skills such as teamworking, presentation skills, researching, working to deadlines and problem solving
  • Explore and enhance self-awareness through skills auditing, peer/academic reviews and personal and professional action planning
  • Identify the qualifications, skills and qualities required to enable them to progress into their chosen career path and articulate any current gaps

Module content:

  • The meaning and importance of events and the role of events in society;
  • Typology of events;
  • Historical development of events and the events management industry;
  • Current trends and characteristics in events management and the industry;
  • Events characteristics and classification - sports, arts, business, entertainment, education, festivals, MICE, niche;
  • Events at different scales - community/local, regional, national, hallmark, international, mega-events;
  • Events stakeholders, partnerships and the mixed economy of supply - public, private and third sectors;
  • Impacts of events - economic, socio-cultural, environmental, political;
  • Ethical issues related to events.

Module aims:

To enable students to appreciate the factors that have led to the development and evolution of events management, appreciate the key characteristics and trends in the events industry, and identify the range of impacts events may have on their environment.

Module content:

Key themes in relation to tourism, tourism destinations and tourism businesses will be explored. These include but are not limited to:

  • Definitions, theories and types of tourism
  • The size, scale and importance of international tourism
  • Factors that influenced the development of international tourism
  • Supply and demand including seasonality, sectors, structures and stakeholders
  • Tourist types and typologies
  • Types of tourism destination eg. rural, coastal, urban and virtual places
  • Economic, socio-cultural, environmental and political impacts of tourism for destinations
  • Types of tourim business
  • Sustainable tourism and an introduction to sustainable development and planning

Module aims:

This module introduces the core concepts and issues that relate to international tourism management.

Module content:

This module introduces students to the real-life processes that help create successful tourism businesses. 

Students will explore live case studies and have the opportunity to visit local tourism businesses to experience their operation first hand and understand:

  • The operating environment of tourism businesses
  • Technology, innovation and revenue management in tourism operations
  • HR and diversity issues within tourism businesses
  • The regulatory environment including legal issues, risk, and crisis management
  • Quality management and customer appraisal techniques
  • Product design in relation to facilities, location, layout and visitor flow management

Module aims:

The module will complement the general introduction to tourism taught on TM4034 by providing insight into the day to day operations of tourism businesses.

 

Module content:

This module provides an introduction for Marketing, Tourism and Events students to the key functions, structures and requirements of organisations, particularly those operating within a service environment. Areas covered include:

  • Organisational purpose
  • Working with stakeholders
  • Key principles and decisions in managing people
  • Developing effective leadership
  • Preparation and interpretation of financial information 
  • Understanding and managing budgets
  • Introduction to the legal aspects affecting service experiences

Module aims:

The module is designed to provide a broad introduction to the business and operating functions of the types of organisations that Marketing, Tourism and Events students will have to analyse, and in many cases, work alongside as they progress through their programmes.

Module content:

This module provides an introduction to the needs and expectations of customers in the tourism and events sectors. Areas covered include:

  • Understanding the service concept 
  • Creating and managing the service experience in tourism and events organisations
  • Managing service quality in tourism and events organisations
  • Examining the dynamics and concepts of creating event experiences and tourism experiences 
  • Exploring the concepts, theories and application of consumer experiences 
  • Understanding how to evaluate consumer experiences in the tourism and events sectors

Module aims:

The module is designed to provide students with an introduction to customer service theory and its design and application in tourism and events settings.

In Year 2 you will examine how places and businesses around the world can make the most of tourism by managing it sustainably. You will consider the ethics of tourism, study aspects of tourism that most interest you and do a work placement.

Module content:

The traditional academic programme structure is not applicable in relation to this experiential learning intern-ship opportunity. The experiential content is freely structured and determined by negotiation between the student, placement supervisor and host organisation. It is generally informed by the aims and learning outcomes and by the objective of optimising added value for both the host organisation and the student experience. 

A placement conference will enable peer to peer sharing of experiential learning permit feedback and allow an analysis of the range of skills and benefits derived from the placement, it will also further develop the construction of learning logs and the portfolio.  For those unable to attend, for whatever reason, online via Teams will permit engagement and feedback.  In addition, the conference will provide an opportunity to acquire an overview of final year options and dissertation and/or project research.

For those students where costs or other geographical/logistical difficulties render visits, conference attendance or participation via teleconferencing prohibitive, there will be an augmented portfolio of activities to substitute the conference activities.

All students will engage in the drawing up of a learning agreement on acceptance of the placement that will cover a contact plan and agreed learning outcomes with their designated academic tutor and placement coordinator.


Module aims:

  1. To provide an opportunity for students to apply and enrich their previous theoretical knowledge and understanding of course content through observation in and insights derived from working in an organisation and professional environment. 
  2. To enable students to develop their practical and transferable skills in a business environment and to experience a broad range of tasks and responsibilities in different functional areas. 
  3. To enable students to pursue professional and personal development in a working business environment
  4. To enable students to recognise the nature of tasks, workloads, management problems and working methods in the working environment.
  5. To enable students to inform the tasks, problems and scenarios presented in the business environment with theoretical concerns emanating from their studies and research and vice versa.

Module content:

  • Introduction to purpose of research
  • The research process 
  • Market research industry, research briefs and proposals
  • Research ethics and code of conduct 
  • Qualitative and quantitative research
  • Primary and secondary research
  • Research in context: design and methodologies
  • Sampling methods
  • Data analysis: Intro to SPSS
  • Interpretation of data 
  • Contemporary issues for research in practice 

Module aims:

The aim of the module is to provide the student with the knowledge, understanding and skills foundation to the level 6 management research project. This module covers the scoping of a research problem, design of appropriate data collection methods, data analysis and data interpretation in order to develop business-relevant recommendations. Whilst this module will provide practical experience of data collection, it will not assess data collection. The aims are as follows:

  1. To understand the reasons that research is undertaken in varying contexts
  2. To provide adequate preparation for scoping a management research project at level 6
  3. To develop knowledge and understanding of the research process, data collection, data analysis and data interpretation
  4. To create practical experience of research design and execution

Module content:

Indicative content:

  • This module provides an examination of entrepreneurial thought and action by making provision for all students to initiate and develop a new student venture.
  • Researching and building on theories and definitions of entrepreneurial thought and action
  • An examination of one's potential to develop entrepreneurial skills and abilities
  • An exploration of creativity and innovation in a business setting
  • A study of entreprenurial communication and effective negotiation practises
  • Identify the key steps to converting ideas into potential business opportunities
  • An examination of the key steps in undertaking risk and environmental analysis
  • Identify and examine the legal, ethical and social challenges associated with entrepreneurial activity
  • Examine the key challenges of sustainability with a consideration of business failure
  • Research the impact of social media and technology on new ventures
  • Undertake research and activities related to employability enhancement
  • Develop an understanding of the impact of entrepreneurial teams 

Module aims:

  1. To equip students with a critical knowledge and understanding of what entrepreneurship is and its economic importance
  2. To develop in students practical skills related to communicating, negotiating and selling ideas
  3. To explore and investigate current issues and challenges impacting on the start-up and management of new ventures
  4. To immerse students in a number of pragmatic activities that will provide opportunities to develop, refine, reflect and articulate core employability and entrepreneurial skills.

Module content:

Some of the concepts and areas of study and skill development that may be covered include:

  • Globalisation:  Contrasting definitions and perspectives;
  • The internationalisation and integration of trade, product and factor markets and their regulation.
  • The economic growth, welfare, benefits distribution and sustainibility debate;
  • Locational theories:  The international distribution of the value chain, Offshoring and international outsourcing;
  • The significance to international business of cross-cultural issues, business networks and the international distribution of the value chain.

n.b. the above list is indicative only and may be varied at any time.


Module aims:

This module investigates the real world context in which international businesses have to operate.  It analyses the economic and political systems of globalisation that have evolved in the last thirty years and the different perspectives that have led to the interdisciplinary debate on whether the extension of liberalised trade and capital movements and the increasing international  integration of markets has been welfare enhancing.

It also examines the business rationale for the applied mechanisms adopted by international companies to exploit business opportunities and deal with threats, and the role of competitive drivers in these processes.  This links with the students fuller exploration of these mechanisms in BU5303:  International Business Operations.

Major aims of the module are:

To enable the student to expand their knowledge and understanding of the business world and to create an interest for lifelong learning in this key area.

To expand the student's awareness that in place of universal consensus as to causes and outcomes, with many contemporary issues, knowledge and understanding need instead to be informed by a careful weighing of evidence.

Module content:

Part A:      

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the university of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

  • The multiple facets of Global citizenship
  • Ethical engagement and practice
  • Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
  • Intercultural communication

Theories, models and strategies of learning

  • Theories and models Intercultural competence
  • Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
  • Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
  • Experiential learning models
  • Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

  • Enhanced independence
  • Improved command of multicultural behaviour
  • Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
  • Effective time management and organisational skills
  • Project management – working away from University and independent study
  • Self-management and personal development
  • Team building and team work

Part B:            Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 


Module aims:

The purpose of this module is to enhance students’ prospects of completing an overseas placement to the best of their ability consequently it aims to:

  • To equip participants with appropriate knowledge and skills to study or work in a different cultural, linguistic and/or social environment; enhancing ethical, cultural and intercultural awareness.
  • To enhance students understanding of the ethical issues related to living and working abroad.
  • To increase students Global Citizenship skills
  • To provide an opportunity for students to reflect critically on their experience of living and learning within an unfamiliar culture, to their 'home' culture or ethnic group.

To challenge students to learn about themselves as global citizens in terms of life skills, career choices and academic development outside the classroom.

Module content:

Preparation for the year abroad will take place in Chester during level 5 and will include:

  • Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
  • Host-country orientation, study methods– economic, political and social reality of the country
  • Orientation specific to exchange – health, education, gender issues
  • The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
  • Practical matters relating to living and studying in the wider world

Theories, models and strategies of learning

  • Critical thinking skills, experiential learning       and models of reflection

Personal and placement-related transversal skills

  • Effective self-motivation and independent resourcefulness
  • Effective time management and organisational skills
  • Project management – working away from University and independent study
  • Self-management and personal development

Whilst abroad:

Students will undertake study at one of UoC’s partner universities; it is expected that students will choose a series of modules at the university abroad, which equal a full-time study load. This must be agreed by the host institution and the International Tutor. Students must supply details of their courses/modules on a learning agreement within 4 weeks of arrival at the host university, note students who fail to supply this within 4 weeks may have the opportunity withdrawn.


Module aims:

  1. To experience academic life in country outside of the EU, enhancing cultural and intercultural awareness and increasing transversal skills.
  2. To reflect on the impact of the experience in their destination on one’s own personal, academic and professional development.
  3. To engage with the experience of study at a partner university to gain extensive first-hand knowledge and understanding of the relevant society from the perspective of the resident.
  4. To further develop independent learning techniques.
  5. To foster critical evaluation.

Module content:

  • The multiple facets of global citizenship
  • Ethical engagement and practice
  • The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
  • Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
  • Intercultural communication
  • Culture shock
  • Cultural adjustment
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
  • Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
  • Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Module aims:

This module promotes a reflective and critical approach to interculturality and aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining overseas graduate employment, which will enable them to:

  1. Examine and evaluate a chosen aspect of the society of a target country
  2. Enhance cultural and intercultural awareness and further develop related skills.
  3. Articulate clearly their career plans and take steps to prepare for their first paid overseas graduate role,
  4. Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of identified employability skills,
  5. Articulate, orally and in writing, their findings and their employability skills.

Module content:

  • Exploring tourism as a social and global phenomenon

  • Understanding the consumption of tourism places, cultures and resources

  • An understanding of ethical issues and their impact on tourism stakeholders

  • The role of public, private and not for profit sectors in tourism development and society

  • Critical cases focusing on ethical and social issues in tourism

    • Critical cases will be contemporary in nature and may include: social tourism; dark tourism; vulnerable stakeholders; animals in tourism
      etc.


Module aims:

This module will build upon the knowledge gained in level 4, in order to enhance understanding of tourism, tourism destinations and tourism organisations from a social perspective. The module aims to:

  1. Develop critical perspectives of tourism and global society;

  2. Appreciate how tourism can contribute to or influence global social issues;

  3. Develop awareness of social, cultural and political differences affecting tourism and tourism development;

  4. Facilitate and foster critical discussion around global ethical issues in tourism.

Module content:

The module will engage students through the use of lectures and seminar discussions. These will explore key themes and topics so that students may develop and enhance their knowledge, comprehension, analysis and application of marketing concepts, tools and theories within domestic and international contexts. This aims to support the preparation of the student in a marketing manager role.

These themes and topics may include, but are not limited to:

  • Purpose and role of marketing management and planning within the context of domestic and international markets.
  • Secondary data sources for marketing planning.
  • The components of an internal and external situation analysis 
  • Analysis and application of segmentation, targeting and positioning.
  • Planning market entry method in domestic and/or international markets.
  • Approaches to managing innovation.
  • Managing product portfolios.
  • Managing distribution systems for value
  • Setting and managing pricing strategies
  • Integrated marketing communications for competitive advantage and brand value.
  • Application and evaluation of the adaptation standardisation approaches to marketing across markets.

Module aims:

The aims of this module are to: 

  • To analyse and understand the importance of the situation analysis and apply appropriate models to an organisation’s situation.
  • To investigate the different contexts (domestic and international) in which organisations manage their marketing activities.
  • To examine the significance of coordinating and managing marketing for competitive advantage.
  • To provide an insight into the approaches of managing innovation.
  • To integrate and enhance areas of marketing knowledge and comprehension building on knowledge from other modules.

Module content:

This module will examine a range of key themes and concepts concerning weddings, sports and cultural events, their stakeholders, venue management, and their value within the experience economy. The themes and concepts explored will include, but are not limited to:

Weddings:

  • The design and planning of weddings
  • Consumerism and luxurification of the wedding economy
  • The influence of celebrity, royal and high profile weddings
  • Wedding politics (personal and regulatory), legislation and cultural contexts
  • The diversity of the wedding economy: civil ceremonies; same-sex marriages; destination ceremonies

 

Cultural events:

  • Cultural events, social and human capital
  • Political and social contexts
  • Commemorative events / Dark events / Religious events
  • The role of music and events
  • Community involvement in cultural events
  • Cultural events and staged authenticity

Sports events:

  • The history and development of sports events
  • Development of and diversification of venues and stadia
  • The role of gender in weddings, sports and cultural events
  • Crowd management, control and behaviours

Module aims:

This module aims to highlight the significance of weddings, sports and cultural events in communities and society.

The weddings, sports and cultural events sectors will be analysed and key themes will be investigated, which link to the personal nature of the event experience.

Module content:

Module Content

The main focus of the module will be on social media marketing.

  • User engagement, user generated content and copywriting for online media
  • Overview of social media channels like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and how they can be used within a company’s marketing strategy
  • Combining web and social media for marketing purposes Legal issues with social media channel use for marketing Social media metrics and analytics

Module aims:

  • To understand how positive online user engagement can be fostered.
  • To know a wide variety of different social media channels and understand their individual value for marketing related activities.
  • To be able to analyse the effectiveness of social media marketing campaigns.
  • To be able to use social media and web sources for gathering marketing-relevant knowledge about users.

Module content:

The module aims to address the need for sustainable destination planning and development by public bodies and destination management organisatisons (DMOs). It includes:

The need for sustainable destination planning and management

Theories and models used in the development and management of international destinations

Practical approaches to destination planning and management applied at international, national, regional and local levels and in a range of different types of place according to environment and extent of exisiting tourism volume and challenges.

Topics covered include: 

-          Stakeholder engagement

-          Destination research and forecasting

-          Policy development

-          Destination planning techniques

-          The role of different types of destaination management organisation

-          Destination branding and place shaping

-          Place promotion and marketing

-          Destination management techniques


Module aims:

The module builds on the introduction to destination tourism impacts taught within TM4034, Exploring International Tourism, by examining the tools that are available to shape places so that they meet the changing requirements of stakeholders. 

Module content:

The module addresses the need for international tourism businesses to operate sustainably. Topics covered include:

  • The need for international tourism businesses to operate sustainably
  • Tourism businesses and the triple bottom line
  • Legal requirements
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Eco-labelling and certification systems
  • The application of sustainable management principles in different business environments including transport providers, tour operators, accommodation, attractions, food & drink providers, retailers (indicative range of types of organisation).

Module aims:

The module aims to complement TM5033 (Destination Planning and Management) by exploring the techniques that tourism businesses can use to enhance their own sustainability while also contibuting to the enhanced sustainability of the places where they operate.

Module content:

Pre-placement:

  • Structured approaches to researching, selecting and securing a suitable work placement relevant to the student’s interests and career aspirations*.
  • Writing an effective CV. Constructing a letter of application.*
  • Interview skills.*

 *Note: Students are required to undertake these pre-placement tasks during term 1 level 5, as part of the placement acquisition process and will be supported by the Work Based Learning team and the Careers and Employability department.

 Induction Programme and Placement:

  • The organisational context: research-informed analysis of the placement organisation’s aims, structure, culture.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; positive attitude, resilience, building rapport).
  • Devising a strategy for integrating into the workplace and work based teams
  • Completion of online assignment tasks covering sourcing and obtaining placement; health and safety procedures in general; general workplace integrity; placement requirements. 

During and post-placement: Learning effectively in and from the workplace:- 

  • Devising and implementing strategies to improve own approach and performance
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of approach to skill development and performance in the workplace;
  • Influencing the Placement Provider’s appraisal;
  • Devising an action plan to develop gaps in transferable skills based on the placement experiences;

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment through engagement with a University approved work placement**, which will enable them to:

  • Develop their understanding of workplace practice and lifelong learning;
  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through development of transferable skills;
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of workplace employability skills;
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

Module content:

  • The organisational context: research-informed analysis of the sector’s role, development opportunities or career paths.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; developing a positive work attitude, resilience, building rapport with co-workers).
  • Devising strategies to improve one’s own career.
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired.
  • Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment, which will enable them to:-

  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through identifying relevant transferable skills for their chosen career path,
  • Clearly articulate their career plans and take steps to prepare for their first graduate role,
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of workplace employability skills,
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

Your final year is tailored towards giving you the competitive advantage you need to succeed in tourism management. You will explore cutting edge and future tourism developments, study subjects that best suit you and carry out an original supervised tourism project that you have created.

Module content:

This module is delivered in the context of the modern business environment, therefore, contemporary case studies and reports on companies and industries are integral to learning on the module.

Topics include:

  • The macro, industry and market environments,
  • The internationalisation process,
  • Strategic mergers, acquisitions and alliances,
  • Innovation and knowledge management,
  • Writing and delivering strategy,
  • Undertaking analysis on organisations and their strategic successes/failures.

Module aims:

As well as the subject knowledge and understanding set out in the module content, this module is designed to bring together and build on prior levels 4 and 5 knowledge, and current learning in the functional areas of business and/or tourism and events management (or suitable equivalent).

The seminars and assessments, both formative and summative, are designed to enhance the students' abilities in critical evaluation of sources and academic texts.  The module is designed to enhance critical faculties in balanced judgements within a context of imperfect information, risk and uncertainty, using both deductive logic and inductive lateral thinking while recognising the constraints of both. 

Module content:

  • Retailing formats and channels

  • Retail management concepts

  • Retailing destinations and environment

  • Retail strategy and planning

  • Management of the Retail Marketing Mix

  • The competitive environment

  • Understanding the retail consumer

  • Emerging customer expectations and shopping behaviour

  • Transformation of retail and retail change theory

  • Online / Delivered retail services and reverse logistics

  • Innovation and technology in retail

  • Retail ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility


Module aims:

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the nature and organisation of the retail sector and the principles of retail management.

We shall explore contemporary topics such as the changing nature of retail practice and consumer behaviour as digital technology and customer preferences in general continue to evolve.

Students will examine the strategic and tactical application of key retail management concepts in a variety of retail formats and contexts, and evaluate the effectiveness of key retail methods and applications.

The implementation and evaluation of retail management approaches will be explored with reference to real-world practical case studies and examples, including input from retail specialists as guest speakers.

A key underpinning of the module is the application and management of general and retail-oriented marketing concepts in a retail-specific environment.

Module content:

Indicative Content: 

  • Leadership versus Management
  • Theories/Approaches to Leadership (eg Trait, Situational, Contingency, Transformational)
  • Leadership dilemmas: conflict management, power, influence and trust 
  • Responsible and ethical leadership
  • Leadership and management development
  • Group leadership
  • Leading in the 21st Century (e.g. cross-cultural contexts, communication technology)
  • Nature and process of change
  • Planned versus emergent change
  • Impact of technology on change (eg BPR)
  • Resistance to change
  • Managing change
  • Approaches for leading and embedding change
  • Leadership and change management skills (eg EI, project and event management)

Module aims:

The module focusses on the nature and significance of leadership in organisations,  evaluating contemporary and future contexts in the light of developments in theoretical approaches to leadership and change , providing critical insight into the challenges inherent in successfully leading change and the role of the future leader in doing so.

Module content:

  • Introduction to the research process
  • The importance of research justification and scoping
  • Methodological foundations of research
  • Moral and ethical issues in research
  • Effective project management
  • Rigour and feasibility issues in research
  • Quantitative methodology: Research design, data collection and analysis
  • Qualitative methodology: Research design, data collection and analysis
  • Writing and reporting research in context

Module aims:

The Management Research Project aims to draw together specific subject knowledge and skills, with a particular focus on improved self-awareness and preparation for business, by challenging students for personal and academic development to management positions and and to employability on general. 

  • To undertake a research project that is 'scoped and framed' within a required degree programme of study.
  • To enable the student to design and conduct appropriate in-depth research in an elected area of study.
  • To provide the student with the opportunity to acquire, consolidate and apply theoretical knowledge, methodologies, and research approaches in a ‘real world’ environment.
  • To enable the student to develop and utilise skills in critical investigation; analysis and synthesis of evidence; reflection and autonomous learning.

Module content:

  • The drive for internationalisation/globalisation 
  • Standardisation versus adaptation- the globalisation versus localisation debate
  • International Marketing research
  • Understanding international cultures and their importance to a global marketing strategy
  • International Consumer Behaviour
  • International Communications
  • Analysis of foreign market potential - distribution systems and entry strategies
  • International Marketing Mix
  • Contemporary issues in International Marketing (e.g. ethical and societal)

Module aims:

  • To enable students to appraise and evaluate the special issues and problems faced by an organisation seeking to enter overseas markets
  • To ensure that students appreciate the cultural issues that effect an international marketing programme
  • To enable students to understand and develop appropriate strategies available to organisations when considering marketing on an international level

Module content:

  • The scale and spread of tourism. Global trends in tourism demand – trends and forecasts;

  • Globalisation and tourism – role of trans-national corporations in tourism development. Effects of globalisation on economies, communities & environments. Stakeholder roles in international tourism development;

  • Tourism as a vehicle for development – agencies involved in international tourism development;

  • Political economy of international tourism;

  • Development theory and tourism – modernisation, dependency, neoliberalism and sustainability. Critique of sustainable tourism development;

  • Tourism and poverty alleviation – Pro-poor tourism, indigenous people, human rights;

  • Tourism and economic development – assessment and management;

  • Tourism and community development – tourism as a social force for good?;

  • Tourism development and the environment – assessment and management;

  • Destination competiveness – tools and techniques used to make destinations more competitive.


Module aims:

This module aims to investigate the issues associated with international tourism development. It has a particular focus on tourism in developing countries and seeks to explore how tourism can be a force for good in these countries, but also uses a critical examination of the problems that tourism can cause. Specifically the module aims to:

  1. Examine the role of tourism in development;

  2. Critique the effects of globalisation on international tourism development;

  3. Discuss whether tourism can reduce poverty;

  4. Analyse how tourism can be more effectively managed through a variety of approaches;

  5. Discuss how destinations can become more competitive.

Module content:

This module provides the opportunity for students to explore the changing nature of the global tourism industry and its stakeholders, including current and future issues and trends that impact on tourism.

A framework of social, technological, environmental and legal issues will be used to investigate tourism organisations and destinations. The contemporary nature of this module means that the following topics are illustrative:

  • The changing nature of tourism demand and supply;

  • Social and demographic challenges;

  • Climate change;

  • Environmental and legal issues;

  • Digital destination marketing;

  • e-Tourism;

  • e-mobility;

  • Mobile tourism;

  • Issues around resource procurement and management.

Students will also be given the opportunity to examine contemporary issues in tourism which may impinge on their future career plans.

 


Module aims:

This module contextualises learning from tourism modules at levels 4 and 5 and places particular emphasis on managing change for tourism. The module aims to:

  1. Discuss the contemporary and dynamic nature of tourism;

  2. Evaluate technological changes affecting the tourism system;

  3. To analyse social and demographic changes in international societies and how they impact on tourism;

  4. Evaluate methods for adaptation and mitigation of environmental and climate change impacts.

Module content:

This module will use a series of keynote lectures and seminars to develop key themes, theories and concepts in order to develop knowledge and understanding for students appreciate the complexity in the Third Sector. These themes will include, but are not limited to:

  • Appreciation of the numerous fundraising mechanisms 
  • Understanding the differences in corporate giving and fundraising
  • Reasons for giving and supporting the Third Sector
  • The role of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising
  • The role of the Charity Commission
  • The impact of the Etherington report 
  • Contemporary trends and issues in the Third Sector
  • The role of philanthropy and altruism 
  • Third Sector Regulations and Governance 
  • Trustees and board management
  • Financial management in the Third Sector
  • Donor Pyramid and journey
  • Social media management
  • Association with celebrity's as Patrons and the Brand impacts
  • Role and importance of 3rd sector in tourism
  • Conservation, sustainability and partnerships
  • Culture and representation
  • Globalisation vs. localisation
  • The impact of Covid on the Third Sector 
  • Fundraising platforms 
  • Approaches to fundraising 

 


Module aims:

The module will provide students with insight and understanding into how NGOs, Charities and Organisations in the Third Sector operate and are governed, as well as enable students to develop knowledge that will aid them in entering roles within the Third Sector. 

Module content:

The module will focus on new and emergent themes in digital marketing, including:

  • Mobile technologies and their use in marketing
  • Innovative forms of content generation e.g. 360 degree video, AR, VR
  • Omnichannel marketing
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Analytics and data analysis
  • Regulatory considerations, e.g data management, advertising standards,
  • (mis)information.

Module aims:

  • To develop an in-depth appreciation of the current digital landscape
  • To identify emerging trends in digital marketing strategy, implementation and practice
  • To critically evaluate the usefulness of new technologies, tools and techniques within the discipline
  • To develop media skills in order to express complex ideas in a variety of creative formats.

Module content:

This module will use a series of lectures and seminars to develop key themes, theories, and concepts concerning managing virtual and hybrid events:

  • These themes will include, but are not limited to:
  • Defining Virtual events 
  • Defining Hybrid events 
  • Events and the Metaverse 
  • Developing strategic content design 
  • How to market virtual and hybrid events 
  • Financial planning for virtual and hybrid events 
  • Developing online event experiences and engagement
  • Examining technology to support virtual and hybrid events 
  • Virtual and hybrid event evaluation 
  • Sustainability for virtual and hybrid events 
  • Risk management for virtual and hybrid events 
  • Esports & gaming 
  • Future predictions for virtual and hybrid events 
  • Exploring the economic and social impacts of virtual and hybrid events 
  • Benefits and disbenefits of virtual and hybrid events 

Module aims:

The module will provide students with insight and understanding into virtual and hybrid events, how they operate, the skills required to develop, deliver and manage these events, and to appreciate how to create sustainable virtual and hybrid events.

Module content:

This is a self-directed module which enables and empowers students to initiate and develop their own project concept appropriate to their discipline of study.

Students within their final year of studies are very focussed on their ultimate work aspirations, and this module aids them to gain 'graduate trajectory' and enable them to better move into their chosen profession / industry as seamlessly as possible upon graduation.  


After the initial lectures setting out the style and scope of the module and opportunities, students decide on the content of their project and assessment (co-creation), and pitch this to staff by way of an initial project proposal.

Students then receive tutorial support and supervision throughout the year and agree the form that their final assessment will take. Students are encouraged to work with other stakeholders (internally or externally) where appropriate in the developing the project or work.


Module aims:

The aims of the module are to promote the ideas of student independence, project management, professional skills development and professional practice.

BA (Hons) International Tourism Management

BA (Hons) International Tourism Management

Who you'll Learn from

Colin Potts

Programme Leader International Tourism Management
Colin Potts

Dr Maeve Marmion

Associate Dean – Education and Student Success - Faculty of Science, Business and Enterprise
Dr Maeve Marmion

Jane Martin

Programme Leader for Marketing Management
Jane Martin

Beth Morris

Programme Leader for Digital Marketing; Senior Lecturer
Beth Morris

Dr Tim Brown

Head of Department of Marketing, Tourism and Destinations
Dr Tim Brown

Dr Emmy Yeung

Lecturer
Dr Emmy Yeung

How you'll Learn

Your learning will develop through lots of different activities, such as lectures and seminars, case studies, discussions, presentations and online learning. There will be plenty of chances for one-to-one meetings with your tutor and group tutorials, plus access to course learning materials 24/7.

Our business site at Queen’s Park is both state of the art and welcoming. This is a special and unique place that will enable you to flourish and grow from an undergraduate student to confident tourism management professional.

You are a name here. We value your uniqueness. Throughout your degree course, you will be mentored and supported by a Personal Tutor. You will also benefit from our Student Voice Representatives (SVRs) who make sure that your voice is heard.

We use a well-balanced range of assessment methods, including business reports, essays, presentations, debates and practical work. The majority of assessed work is through coursework.

Beyond the Classroom

On this course, you have the opportunity to spend five weeks working for a host organisation via our innovative Work Based Learning module. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience.

Alternatively, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake an Experiential Learning module, where you’ll apply what you’ve learnt on the course to real life scenarios and projects with organisations around the world. In the past, this route has enabled Tourism students to visit South Africa, Costa Rica, France and many other places.

If you choose a degree with a Placement Year, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a year’s paid professional placement at the end of your second year, where you’ll experience the workplace, apply your learning and build connections for your future. How does a year at Walt Disney World in the sunshine state sound? Just one of our many opportunities for a year’s study abroad, or an industry placement that will enhance your tourism degree and your employment prospects.

Entry Requirements

112 UCAS points

UCAS Tariff

112 points

GCE A Level

Typical offer – BCC-BBC

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM

International Baccalaureate

26 points

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers: H3 H3 H3 H3 H4

Scottish Highers: BBBB

Access requirements

Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above

T Level

T Level - Merit

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma: DMM

Extra Information

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
  • Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For those who do not have IELTS or an acceptable in-country English language qualification, the University of Chester has developed its own online English language test which applicants can take for just £50.

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

72 UCAS points

UCAS Tariff

72 points

GCE A level

72 UCAS points from GCE A Levels to include grade D in at least one subject

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma: MMP

International Baccalaureate

24 points

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers: H4 H4 H4 H4 H4

Scottish Highers: CCDD

Access requirements

Access to HE Diploma – Pass overall

T Level

T Level: Pass (D or E on the core)

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma: MMP

Extra Information

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.  If you are a mature student (21 or over) and have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels), then our Foundation Year courses will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to succeed in your chosen degree. 

Where you'll Study Queen’s Park, Chester

Fees and Funding

£9,250 per year (2024/25)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2024/25 are £9,250 a year, or £1,540 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

The University may increase these fees at the start of each subsequent year of your course in line with inflation at that time, as measured by the Retail Price Index. These fee levels and increases are subject to any necessary government, and other regulatory, approvals.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU starting in or after the 2021/22 academic year will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

£13,950 per year (2024/25)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. 

This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study.  

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes. 

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees. 

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships. 

Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees & Finance section of our website.

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Making the most of the chances the course offers will help you develop and boost your job prospects. Recent graduates have gone to work in tour operators, tourist boards, hotels, attractions, airports and tourism digital organisations. One, Niamh Roberts says:

“Studying International Tourism Management at the University of Chester provided me with the best platform to network with industry professionals, get involved in extracurricular activities and enhance my employability skills. I highly recommend the course – it certainly has shaped me into the person I am today.”

Our programmes are accredited by the Tourism Management Institute (TMI) professional body which brings a wealth of networking opportunities for our students.

Our graduates include experts in: Destination Marketing & Development; Luxury Tour Operations; Social Media & Digital Marketing; Hotel & Events Management; Airlines; Visitor Attractions Heritage & Cultural Organisations.

Progression options

  • International Business MSc
  • Marketing Management MSc MBA

Careers service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.