Tourism is a rapidly growing industry, and many students are interested in pursuing a degree in this field. However, one common question that arises is – What type of degree is tourism? In this article, we will explore the different types of degrees available in tourism and their benefits.
Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism
A bachelor’s degree in tourism is a popular choice among students who want to pursue a career in the travel and tourism industry. This degree program typically covers subjects such as hospitality management, travel planning, event management, marketing, and destination management. The courses are designed to provide students with an understanding of the industry’s various aspects and prepare them for various roles within the industry.
Benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism
- Provides a comprehensive understanding of the travel and tourism industry.
- Opens up various career opportunities such as tour guide, travel agent, event manager, hotel manager, etc.
- Develops skills such as communication, customer service, problem-solving, and leadership.
- Many universities offer study abroad programs to provide hands-on experience in the global tourism market.
Master’s Degree in Tourism
A master’s degree in tourism is designed for students who want to specialize further within the industry. This degree program typically covers advanced topics such as sustainable tourism practices, cultural heritage management, tourism policy development and analysis. The courses focus on providing students with advanced knowledge about specific aspects of the industry.
Benefits of a Master’s Degree in Tourism
- Provides specialized knowledge and skills required for upper-level management positions within the industry.
- Opens up opportunities for research-based careers such as academic research or policy-making roles.
- Provides an opportunity to network with industry experts and gain hands-on experience through internships.
Associate Degree in Tourism
An associate degree in tourism is a two-year program that provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills required for entry-level positions within the industry. This degree program typically covers subjects such as tourism planning, travel operations, and hospitality management.
Benefits of an Associate Degree in Tourism
- Provides foundational knowledge about the travel and tourism industry.
- Prepares students for entry-level positions such as travel agent, tour guide, customer service representative, etc.
- Enables students to transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree program in the future.
- Less expensive compared to a bachelor’s or master’s degree program.
In conclusion, there are various types of degrees available in tourism that cater to different career aspirations. A bachelor’s degree provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry and prepares students for various roles within the industry.
A master’s degree focuses on specialized knowledge and skills required for upper-level management positions. An associate degree provides foundational knowledge required for entry-level positions within the industry. Students should consider their career goals before selecting a degree program in tourism.