Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - International Tourism Management (Placement Year)

The BA (Hons) International Tourism Management degree at Derby equips students with the skills to manage and promote destinations while developing leadership and entrepreneurial abilities necessary to excel in the tourism industry, particularly in a sector undergoing reshaping and rebuilding following the Covid pandemic. The programme offers extensive opportunities for international exposure, including studying abroad for a semester, participating in overseas field trips, and undertaking a placement year in the UK or abroad. It emphasises the interconnectedness of tourism, events, and hospitality within the broader 'visitor economy', fostering collaboration with Events and Hospitality students to broaden career prospects. The programme is part of the Centre for Contemporary Hospitality and Tourism, accredited as an International Centre of Excellence (ICE), and integrates modules aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, encouraging consideration of the social and environmental impacts of tourism alongside its economic benefits.

The curriculum has been updated to reflect the demands of the tourism industry in the 2020s and beyond, with a focus on business management, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Business disciplines such as finance, marketing, human resources, and leadership are taught in context throughout the course, allowing students to develop practical skills, create business plans, and learn to lead organisational change. The programme also provides optional modules in event management and hospitality, enabling students to gain a broader understanding of the visitor economy and a wider range of career options.

A placement year provides the opportunity to apply skills in a real-world environment, gain industry experience, make professional contacts, and refine career interests. Key areas of study include sustainable tourism, e-tourism, technology in tourism, niche tourism sectors such as food, nature-based, or adventure tourism, project planning and management, research, data analysis, business launch, financial management, and team leadership. Graduates develop a diverse skill set, practical problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to make a significant impact in the tourism industry.

The programme also offers access to professional training and insights from ABTA, the UK’s largest travel association. As an ABTA partner, Derby students can complete online training courses, earn CPD (Continuing Professional Development) certificates, and stay informed with the latest travel industry updates, research, and publications on topics such as travel trends and travel law, enhancing employability and professional knowledge.