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MSc Sustainable Tourism

Explore current issues around the sustainability of regions, cultures, and attractions. You'll look at different theories and approaches, and think about best practice. Graduate with specialist knowledge and a range of skills employers are looking for.

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Key course information

Course codeCID1437
Duration1 year
Fee(s)View fees
LocationOn campus

Course summary

As the global tourism industry responds to climate change and environmental challenges, sustainable and regenerative approaches are becoming more important than ever. The MSc Sustainable Tourism course prepares you to be part of that change. You’ll build the knowledge and skills you need to make a real impact and support responsible tourism development.

You’ll explore how to protect social, economic, and environmental resources, while still creating meaningful travel experiences. Through a mix of theory and practical learning, you’ll look at key topics such as:

  • Ecotourism and community-based tourism
  • Slow tourism and wellness travel
  • The challenges of putting sustainability into practice
  • The role of sustainability in policy, destination planning, and tourism business models
  • Managing change and responding to the global sustainability agenda.

We’ll support your learning with guest lectures from academics and industry professionals. You’ll also take part in local, national, and international field trips, helping you bring your learning to life. These experiences give you insight into best practice across a range of real-world settings.

We have strong links with employers, public bodies, and community organisations. This helps us shape what you learn and gives you opportunities to network, go on placements, and build your career. It also supports your personal and professional growth.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have a strong understanding of sustainable tourism and the confidence to respond to industry needs. You’ll be ready for roles in areas such as:

  • Destination management organisations
  • Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
  • National parks
  • Tourism consultancies
  • Public sector organisations
  • International tourism businesses.

This course is also available to study through our Global Partnerships.

Accreditations and approvals

What you'll study

Many of our courses include a range of modules you can choose from. Some options may only be available if you’ve already studied specific modules. If you’re not sure what you need before picking a module, your course leader can help.

Postgraduate module credits should total 180. If optional modules are available alongside core modules on your course, you should choose an amount that totals 180 credits.

How you'll learn

You'll learn through a mix of:

  • In-person and online lectures
  • Seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Field work
  • Lab-based and library-based activities
  • Library-based work
  • Case studies
  • Independent study.

You’ll also regularly use our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). This is where you’ll find module guides, lecture recordings, notes, glossaries, discussion boards and other useful resources.

You'll submit your assignments online and we usually give electronic feedback.

Entry requirements

Apply now

Current students

Current undergraduate students of the University of Sunderland, please use this apply link.

Disclaimer

We want to make sure you have clear and accurate information about our courses. Our website always shows the latest updates. If you’ve applied and you're offered a place, we’ll contact you in writing if anything important changes.

For more information, view our programme specifications. These include course content, learning outcomes, and the skills you'll gain.