Master of Science - International Hospitality and Tourism Management

The MSc International Hospitality and Tourism Management at Derby is accredited by the International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education (ICE), the Institute of Hospitality (IoH), and the Tourism Management Institute (TMI). The programme offers a choice between a traditional one-year route or an extended 21-month route that includes a six-month integrated paid professional practice period, with placements available in the UK and internationally, including locations such as Dubai, the USA, and Japan. The degree combines theoretical learning with real-world application, supported by an interdisciplinary team of internationally recognised, research-active lecturers with strong industry connections. Students also benefit from individual industry mentors throughout their studies. Graduates gain the knowledge, understanding, and practical experience required to take up managerial roles within the hospitality and tourism sectors, with opportunities to further enhance skills through optional work placements in the UK or abroad.

The hospitality and tourism industries are among the fastest-growing employment areas worldwide, creating a demand for professionals equipped to lead the next generation of businesses. These sectors face complex global challenges, requiring leaders to act according to professional norms while developing the competencies to think critically, assess satisfaction and performance, and apply the necessary tools to achieve high standards. The programme equips graduates with the skills to support hospitality and tourism businesses in transitioning to a sustainable global economy. This includes exploring service innovation, continuous improvement of service quality driven by technological advancements, and the adoption of sustainable and responsible business practices.

Sustainability is central to the programme, fostering a deep understanding of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the role that hospitality and tourism play in shaping visitor behaviour. Students examine how sustainability can be leveraged to deliver social, cultural, and economic benefits to local communities while minimising environmental impacts at local, national, and international levels. The curriculum also explores the use of sustainable digital technologies to build resilient infrastructures, enhance global supply chains, foster innovation, and support the development of destinations locally and internationally.