INTERNATIONAL TOURISM MANAGEMENT

BA (Hons) / FdA

This course is subject to validation and approval
Choose Award
Duration

4 years FT (3 years without placement)

UCAS Code

N810

Placement

48-week placement (optional)

Entry

September, February

Fees

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Department of Hospitality and Tourism
Choose Award
Duration

2 years full-time

UCAS Code

N891

Entry

September, February

Fees

View Fees

Department of Hospitality and Tourism
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According to UNWTO data (2024), international tourism is rapidly recovering after the pandemic, with international tourism receipts reaching 1.6 trillion US dollars in 2024, contributing directly and indirectly to an estimated 348 million jobs in 2024

145.4 million tourists visited the West Midlands in 2023, representing a 3% increase from the previous year, boosting the visitor economy to £16.3 billion, a 15% increase from 2022 (Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 2024)

Our International Tourism Management BA (Hons) degree opens doors to a world of opportunities in one of the fastest-growing global sectors. The tourism industry contributes over £6 trillion to the global economy annually, creating demand for skilled professionals with an international perspective. This tourism management course combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing you to excel in roles across tour operators, travel agencies, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, visitor attractions and destination management organisations worldwide.

One of the major benefits of our four-year BA (Hons) International Tourism Management course is an optional 48-week paid work placement, giving you a significant and distinctive advantage in a competitive job market when you graduate. We are one of a few universities in the UK to have an established partnership agreement with Disney, giving our students the opportunity to work at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, Florida) on their Academic Exchange Programme. You will also have the opportunity to travel and go on a variety of residential visits both in the UK and abroad, while our range of optional modules will enable you to personalise and specialise your studies to match your interests and career aims.


Whether you want to work in areas ranging from tour operations and destination management organisations to visitor attractions and events organisations, or even set up your own business, our International Tourism Management degree course at University College Birmingham will equip you with specialist knowledge and a versatile skill set that will accelerate your career path in the tourism industry. Studying at a recognised Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT) Centre of Excellence, you will learn how to analyse tourism trends and undertake real-life industry projects to devise innovative, creative strategies to compete in the marketplace.

£5k Cost of Living Allowance: for all full-time UK undergraduate students starting in September 2025.

Why should I choose this course?

  • INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL TRIPS – Take on tourism projects in the UK and overseas*, with essential trip costs covered by us – past destinations have ranged from Malta, Majorca, Barcelona, Lisbon and Marrakesh (* subject to visa requirements)
  • INDUSTRY APPROVED – Study at an Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT) Centre of Excellence, attending employability conferences and working on live industry projects with international tourism organisations 
  • INDUSTRY INFORMED TEACHING – Develop specialist knowledge and a versatile skill set with industry-informed teaching delivered by tourism experts, giving you a competitive advantage in the graduate job market 
  • WORK PLACEMENT (BA only) – Boost your career prospects and first-hand industry experience with a paid 48-week placement aligned with your subject area- we are one of 14 universities with an approved placement partnership with Disney (*subject to placement application)
  • PERSONALISE AND SPECIALISE – Personalise your studies by selecting specialist optional modules from tourism, aviation, hospitality and events in your second and final years 
  • AWARD-WINNING UNIVERSITY – Study at the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023)

Our facilities

At University College Birmingham, you’ll learn in dynamic spaces—from lecture theatres to collaborative group areas and extensive library resources. You'll have access to top tourism data sources, including Digital Tourism Think-Tank, UNWTO, WTTC, World Economic Forum, Deloitte Travel Outlook, CAPA, Statista, Mintel, and WARC.

Digital tools are embedded into lectures and practical sessions, with learning materials, quizzes, and discussions available on our online platform, Canvas. Depending on your modules, you may also explore our specialist aviation and tourism suite.

Aviation and Tourism Suite

Take a look around our Aviation and Tourism Suite that features exciting simulation facilities for students on our aviation, travel and tourism courses.

Find out more

Course breakdown

Students on the FdA have the option of progressing onto the final year upon completion of the foundation degree.

  • Year 1
  • Year 2
  • Year 2/3
  • Year 4

Core Modules

Global Tourism Environment

Explore the dynamic world of international tourism with Global Tourism Environment. You will uncover the key players, sectors, and dynamic events that shape the global tourism industry. Learn how external factors like geopolitics, economic shifts, and emerging markets impact travel while gaining insight into the legal and regulatory frameworks governing movement across borders. Discover the social, cultural, and economic significance of tourism, and explore how digital innovations and sustainability initiatives are transforming the industry. By the end of the module, you will have the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of global tourism and its future opportunities.

Tourist Consumer Behaviour

Tourist Consumer Behaviour offers an in-depth exploration of the factors influencing how and why people travel. From understanding the motivations behind travel choices to examining how cultural, psychological, and economic factors shape tourist behaviour, this is an essential first step in understanding tourism and hospitality marketing. You will engage with key theories and practical examples, learning how consumer trends and behaviours impact destinations, businesses, and the wider travel industry. This module will give you the essential skills to understand and respond to the needs of a diverse range of travellers.

Personal Branding

You will be introduced to the concept of future employability readiness with the module Personal Branding. You will develop the knowledge and skills needed to develop your personal brand as a professional or entrepreneur of the future. This will include building an external profile and being introduced to a range of experiences related to the programme of study that you undertake, all designed to prepare you for successful placement and work experience opportunities.

Digital Content Creation

In this module you will explore principles, tactics, and tools for the effective curation of digital content that resonates with the modern consumer. You will learn how to develop compelling narratives, multimedia content, and digital marketing tactics to engage diverse audiences. With a focus on practical application, this module will help you to develop the essential skills needed to design innovative content campaigns that reflect evolving industry trends and sustainability goals.

Tourism Destination Success

Tourism Destination Success will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the key factors needed for the success of tourism destinations. You will explore topics such as the development of compelling products and experiences, connectivity, active local community involvement, and effective government support. You will reflect on the challenges destinations face, including managing overtourism, adopting sustainable practices, and maintaining competitiveness over time. You will develop valuable employability skills, focusing on analysing data trends, conducting destination audits, and identifying critical challenges and best practice within the tourism sector.

Tourism Sales and Product Development

In this module you will take on the role of a tour operator or online travel agent and create travel experiences and tour packages. You will develop practical knowledge of all the key elements that make up a successful tour package, taking key components, such as transportation, accommodation and cultural assets, to form a specialist tour package for a specific audience. From destination research and sales techniques to digital transformation and stakeholder collaboration, you will gain essential skills to create, market, operate and sell travel experiences that are both profitable and meaningful. This module is perfect for aspiring professionals looking to thrive in an evolving industry

Core Modules

Visitor Attraction Management

In this module you will be given the opportunity to evaluate the visitor experience of a prominent regional attraction, exploring the vital role of visitor attractions in tourism and examining key themes such as visitor types, experience management, operational challenges, and storytelling techniques. You will explore best practice in crowd control, customer service, and online reputation management while addressing ethical, sustainable, and inclusive tourism practices. Using real world examples, you will gain insights into creating engaging, accessible, and responsible visitor experiences.

Operational Financial Management

In this module you will develop your ability to interpret and analyse key financial and management data to influence departmental and organisational profitability. You will develop the techniques of effective pricing, cost management and budgeting to positively impact business operations. You will gain knowledge of the application of performance indicators and commercial awareness, and learn how to monitor and evaluate financial performance.

Marketing Consultancy Project

This practical module is designed to provide you with real-world experience through work as a marketing consultant with a live client from the aviation, tourism or hospitality industry. The context of the project will be to develop and implement a targeted marketing campaign focusing on showcasing a new product, service or customer experience following the brief from the client. This project will enhance your employability and can be added to your CV as a live consultancy project.

Business Innovation

In this module you will be introduced to the principles and practices of business research in the hospitality, tourism or aviation industries, providing you with the necessary skills to design and conduct research that solves business problems and enhances opportunities. You will explore key stages of the research process, from defining SMART aims and objectives, completing background research into key theories and thinking, and explaining research processes, to analysing findings and developing actionable recommendations. With a strong focus on innovation, you will be encouraged to apply practical research principles to support decision-making and drive business success and innovation.

Sustainable Tourism Management

In this module you will move beyond traditional sustainability models to develop cutting-edge skills that position you as a next-generation tourism professional. By exploring innovative approaches to ecosystem conservation, community engagement, circular economy principles, and regenerative design, you will gain the practical expertise that global businesses are desperately seeking. Whether you are driven by environmental passion, social impact, or a desire to create meaningful change, this module offers a unique opportunity to transform travel from an extractive industry to a powerful force for positive global transformation.

Work Placement (optional - for BA (Hons) students only)

You will gain valuable work experience on a 48-week work placement. This is an exciting opportunity to put what you have learned into practice, broaden your experience and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.

Plus one option from:

Event Tourism and the Visitor Economy

In this module you will explore the role of medium to large-scale events in shaping a destination's visitor economy, examining how destinations bid for and host major events and considering operational planning, legacy, and stakeholder engagement. You will gain insights into the economic, social, and political impacts of events, along with the challenges and opportunities they present. The module covers key topics such as destination competition, infrastructure development, visitor management, sustainability, and inclusivity in event planning. Through real-world case studies and strategic analysis, you will develop the skills needed to evaluate event impact, create sustainable growth strategies, and ensure long-term benefits for host destinations.

Niche Tourism

This module delves into the growing importance of niche tourism markets, from adventure and wellness to cultural and religious tourism. You will examine the drivers shaping these unique sectors, explore the challenges they face, and evaluate strategies for sustainable growth. Through engaging case studies and practical research, you will gain the skills to critically assess niche tourism businesses and propose innovative, evidence-based solutions that meet the needs of modern travellers. This module is perfect for those eager to shape the future of niche tourism.

Gastronomy and Food Innovation

Global Gastronomy and Food Innovation will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of gastronomy, food cultures, and sustainable food management, giving you the knowledge, skills, and attributes required for a career in the evolving food and hospitality industries. You will gain insight into the cultural significance of food, the role of gastronomy in tourism, and the impact of global challenges such as food security and climate change. You will develop practical skills in sensory food evaluation, food sustainability strategies, and innovative culinary tourism experiences, while exploring cutting-edge trends like alternative proteins, AI in gastronomy, and experiential dining.

Digital Communication for Business

In a digital world, effective communication is a cornerstone of success in the tourism, aviation and hospitality industries. Digital Communication for Business will help you to develop the essential skills to thrive in the tourism, aviation, and hospitality industries. You will harness technology to enhance operations, strengthen customer engagement, and drive business growth through hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, AI, and data communication. The module explores ethical and cultural considerations in a globally connected digital world while providing practical learning through case studies, workshops, and industry insights. By solving real-world challenges and developing AI-driven strategies, you will gain the confidence to navigate digital platforms and lead effective, ethical communication in the modern workplace.

Aviation Security Operations

Aviation Security Operations provides an in-depth exploration of aviation security threats and the strategies to address them. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the various types of threats facing the aviation industry, including terrorism, cyber-attacks, and insider threats. Through case studies and practical exercises, you will learn to assess risks, develop security protocols, and implement effective solutions to safeguard passengers, crew, and aircraft. Emphasis will be placed on regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and crisis management techniques to ensure a holistic approach to aviation security.

Cargo and Logistics Management

Step into the world of global commerce with Cargo and Logistics Management. The module is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of cargo and logistics. From understanding the impact of globalisation on supply chains to mastering the intricacies of intermodal transportation, this module will develop your skills in planning supply chain logistics, embedding sustainability and using digital technologies.

Work Placement

Work Placement (optional) for BA Hons students only

You will gain valuable work experience on a 48-week work placement for BA students and 24-week placement for FdA students. This is an exciting opportunity to put what you have learned into practice, broaden your experience and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.

Core Modules

Strategic Tourism Business Management

In a turbulent and uncertain world, the Strategic Tourism Business Management module examines in detail the drivers, dynamics and disruptors of global travel and tourism and how these affect the competitiveness of tourism businesses. An emphasis is placed on the drive for innovative, creative and smart sustainable strategies. The skills gained in the module include strategic thinking, the use of analytical techniques to assess trends and challenges and strategic planning to develop relevant resilient and sustainable strategies.

Digital Transformation and Futures

In this module you will explore the profound impact of digital technologies on the tourism and hospitality industries. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of how digital transformation, artificial intelligence and smart technologies are transforming business models and urban living, and driving innovation. The focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to navigate and leverage digital changes effectively, ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of tourism and hospitality providers, while also addressing the ethical challenges that digital transformation brings.

Strategic People Leadership

Strategic People Leadership will empower you with the essential leadership skills to thrive in today’s dynamic workplace. You will explore contemporary leadership theories, people management principles, and the key traits of successful leaders, including strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and adaptability. You will learn how to manage and motivate high-performance teams within the tourism, hospitality or aviation industries, develop a positive workplace culture, and drive innovation through equality, diversity and inclusion. Gain practical insights into change management, ethical leadership, and corporate social responsibility while developing the confidence to lead with integrity, resilience, and vision.

Enterprise and Innovation Showcase

This module provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your capabilities in researching, planning and delivering an industry or community-related project relevant to events, aviation, hospitality or tourism businesses/organisations. You will research a new business product, service or system and develop it into an idea that you can deliver in a professional report and presentation. This project is designed to develop the graduate attributes of professionalism, critical enquiry and problem solving, enterprise, creativity, and innovation to support you in your career as a manager or entrepreneur of the future.

Plus two options from:

International Tourism Destination Management

Step into the role of a consultant for a global destination management organisation, tasked with future-proofing the long-term sustainability of a tourism destination. You will audit its current performance and develop strategic, inclusive visitor management and marketing plans. You will develop essential skills in governance, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable tourism development, integrating best practices from UNWTO and UNESCO. You explore destination branding, digital marketing, and visitor experience management while tackling challenges like overtourism and climate targets. With a focus on creativity and strategic thinking, you will align your recommendations with societal goals such as community regeneration, SDGs, and a carbon-neutral future, preparing you for leadership roles in the evolving tourism industry.

Crisis and Risk Management

Explore the challenges facing the tourism, aviation and hospitality industries, from natural disasters to reputational crises, and learn how to assess risks, develop strategic response plans, and manage stakeholders effectively. Master crisis communication across media channels, craft compelling digital PR campaigns, and safeguard brand reputation during times of uncertainty. With a focus on recovery strategies and futureproofing, this module will help you develop the skills necessary to build resilience and drive sustainable growth in an ever-changing global landscape. The module’s crisis simulation-based assessment will develop your critical thinking, decision-making, and communication abilities, preparing you for leadership roles with airlines, airports, tourism organisations, hospitality providers and government agencies.

Aviation Crash Investigations

Aviation Crash Investigations will support you in exploring the critical role of human factors in aviation safety and crash investigations. You will examine human information processing, decision-making, and cognitive limitations that impact flight operations. Key topics include human error classification, situational awareness, workload management, and the influence of stress and fatigue on pilot performance. The module also covers major human factor theories, flight deck design, and aeronautical decision-making. By the end of the module, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of how human, environmental, and systemic factors contribute to aviation incidents and the strategies used to prevent them.

Aircraft Maintenance Systems Management

The focus of this module is to provide an in-depth exploration of aircraft maintenance systems. It develops expertise in aviation maintenance, aircraft lifecycle management, and MRO operations within regulatory frameworks. It integrates technical, regulatory, and strategic skills to optimise efficiency, address industry trends, and promote sustainability. Emphasising problem-solving and innovation, it prepares learners for careers in aviation maintenance management and MRO enterprises, and compliance oversight.

Strategic International Marketing

Strategic International Marketing will develop the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of global markets. As businesses expand into diverse and unfamiliar environments, this module focuses on identifying and overcoming obstacles to international market entry. You will explore practical marketing strategies, cultural considerations, and ethical implications, developing adaptable approaches for global success. Through real-world case studies and scenario analysis, you’ll gain insights into international business dynamics and decision-making processes, preparing you to capitalise on opportunities in emerging markets.

Optimising Operational Efficiency

Optimising Operational Efficiency will provide you with the skills to analyse and enhance operational processes within a business to maximise efficiency and performance. You will explore the principles of process optimisation, examining how activities consume time and resources and how a strategic process redesign can improve overall business effectiveness. Through practical applications, you will develop the ability to identify inefficiencies, streamline operations, and implement solutions that drive productivity and resource efficiency.

The modules listed above for this course are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up to date and informed by industry as well as the latest teaching methods. On occasion, we may need to make unexpected changes to modules – if this occurs, we will contact all offer holders as soon as possible.

Disclaimer for Selecting Option Modules Outside of Degree Programme


Students who choose to study an optional module outside the core structure of their specific degree programme do so at their own discretion and are fully responsible for developing the subject knowledge and skills necessary to complete and pass the module successfully.


It is the student's responsibility to make an informed decision before selecting such modules. Students are strongly advised to thoroughly review the relevant Option Module Handbook and any supporting materials, including recorded briefings, to understand the academic expectations, content, and assessment methods.


By enrolling in a module outside their degree programme, students acknowledge and accept that they may need to undertake additional independent learning to meet the required academic standards.

Entry requirements

International Tourism Management BA (Hons)

A-levels: An A-level grade profile of CDD.

T-levels: A T-level graded Pass with a core component of grade C.

BTEC: A BTEC grade profile of MMP. This can be achieved from either an Extended Diploma or a combination of smaller BTEC qualifications.

Tariff: Other Level 3 qualifications are accepted at University College Birmingham for entry. A minimum of 80 UCAS Tariff points will be required.

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 80 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 15 Level 3 credits at Distinction.

International Tourism Management FdA

A-levels: An A-level grade profile of DD.

T-levels: A T-level graded Pass with a core component profile less than C.

BTEC: A BTEC grade profile of PP. This can be achieved from either an Extended Diploma or a combination of smaller BTEC qualifications.

Apprenticeship: Achieve an advanced apprenticeship (Level 3).

Tariff: Other Level 3 qualifications are accepted at University College Birmingham for entry. A minimum of 32 UCAS Tariff points will be required.

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 32 UCAS Tariff points.

Non-tariff: Non-UCAS Tariff-based Level 3 qualifications are also considered for entry. Please complete our enquiry form here to check your eligibility.

Work-based: We also give equal consideration to applicants who are currently in work and wish to apply to University College Birmingham. To apply, you must have a minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience, demonstrating management or supervisory duties. Your application must also include a reference from your line manager supporting your entry to higher education. For further details, please contact Admissions.

International students

For academic and English entry requirements for EU and international students, please visit the Country Specific Information page.

Please note: As an International Student, when choosing optional placement, a visa extension may be required.

Key information

Teaching and assessment

Teaching takes place through weekly lectures and seminars across two 12-week semesters. Each semester, you will study three 20-credit modules, supported by our weekly Graduate Advantage skills module and personal tutorials to enhance your academic and career development.

Assessment is industry-informed and is designed to reflect the wide range of roles and skills in the tourism sector. Our assessment aims to prepare you for employment by developing specialist knowledge and practical skills needed by industry, giving you a competitive advantage in the graduate job market.  

You will be assessed through a variety of methods, such as:

  • Industry live projects
  • Online simulations
  • Digital presentations
  • Digital content creation
  • Student debates and discussions
  • Business pitches
  • Academic posters & Infographics
  • Industry standard toolkits 

Every assessment is designed to bring you closer to the career you want, helping you graduate not just with knowledge, but with the experience and edge to make a real impact.

Throughout your journey, you will be supported by personal tutors and module leaders who tailor their guidance to your individual needs, ensuring you always feel confident, capable, and ready to succeed.

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.

Timetable

We understand that you need to balance study with work, so wherever possible your lessons will be timetabled into 2-3 days a week.

Tuition fees for home students

If you are a home student enrolling on a bachelor's or foundation degree course at University College Birmingham, the 2025/2026 academic year tuition fee for full-time study is £9,535. For part-time study, the fee is £4,767.50.

View tuition fees for home students

Tuition fees for international students

If you are an international student (or have been fee assessed as an international fee payer) and are enrolling on a full-time [Band 1] bachelor's degree course in 2025/2026, the fee for the academic year will be £16,000. If you complete a placement year, there will be an administration fee of £500 for a full year or £250 for a half-year placement.

View fees for international students

Kick-Start Scheme

As a new student studying this course full-time, you will receive £300 per year through our Kick-Start Scheme (UK students only, eligibility criteria applies). This scheme will support your studies and future career by contributing to course-related materials, uniform or selected items on campus. You may also qualify for an additional £500 per year.

Find out more about the Kick-Start Scheme here.

Unibuddy Community - meet other students on your course

Starting university is an exciting time, but we understand that it can sometimes feel a little daunting. To support you, you will be invited to join our Unibuddy Community, where you can meet other students who have applied for the same course at University College Birmingham, before you start studying here.

As soon as you have been made an offer, you will be sent an invitation email to complete your registration and join the Unibuddy Community. For more information, check out our Unibuddy Community page.

Have questions around your chosen subject or course content? Are you wondering what you can expect to study as part of your course? Fill out our form and chat to a lecturer.

Percentage
70%

of graduate employers say relevant experience is essential to getting a job with them

Work placements

Work placements are vital for gaining real-life experience and for building your confidence and skills before you finish your course – and they may even lead to a job when you graduate. Our Hired team can help find the ideal placement for you.

Our four-year BA International Tourism Management course features an optional 48-week paid placement, during which you will not incur any tuition fees. Opportunities are available in the UK and overseas. (There is also the option to study the BA course without a placement. The placement is not included in the FdA.)

*Placements are subject to placement application*

Work alongside experts in your sector

A snapshot of some of the employers we have worked with:

  • Caro Hotel (Spain)
  • Lisbon Bike Tour and Outdoors (Portugal)
  • Coeur Des Montagnes (France)
  • Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place (Brussels)
  • Hilton Birmingham Metropole (Birmingham)
  • Cherry Hills Country Club (USA)
  • Hotel Alhambra Palace (Grenada, Spain)
  • Greenwich Country Club, Connecticut, USA
  • Rolling Hills Country Club, California, USA
  • Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA
  • Disneyland Resorts and Hotels
  • TUI
  • Celtic Manor Hotel and Resort
  • Warner Holiday Group
  • Ryanair
  • Attraction World
  • Lufthansa

Designed in conjunction with industry, shaped by student feedback and with employability at the heart of everything we do, our International Tourism Management programme will transform your prospects, accelerate your career path and secure your future in the tourism industry. 

Our aim is to deliver contemporary, cutting-edge teaching and learning based on an employability-informed curriculum that is tailored to your individual needs, guiding you into graduate level positions.

Richard Behan Head of Department for Hospitality and Tourism

Career opportunities

The example roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.

Tourism marketing officer

Average salary: £22,000 - £33,000

Tour operations manager

Average salary: £28,000 - £40,000

Travel consultant / agent

Average salary: £20,000 - £28,000

Visitor economy manager

Average salary: £30,000 - £40,000

Event coordinator / manager

Average salary: £25,000-£35,000

Hotel / resort / visitor attraction management

Average salary: £30,000 - £50,000

Want to take your studies to the next level? Completing the BA (Hons) degree will enable you to move onto our postgraduate courses such as International Tourism Management MSc/PGDip, Hospitality with Tourism Management MSc/PGDip (Pathway A) or International Events Management MSc/PGDip.

Hired

We are here to support your career goals every step of the way. 

 

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