Masters in Travel and Tourism in the UK in 2025



Masters in Travel and Tourism in the UK opens doors to a world of possibilities. As the global tourism industry continues to thrive, there has never been a more exciting time to embark on a postgraduate journey in this dynamic field.

In a post-pandemic world where global tourism is rapidly rebounding, the travel and tourism sector contributed approximately $9.5 trillion to the global economy in 2023, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), accounting for 9.1% of global GDP. International tourist arrivals surged to nearly 1.3 billion, reflecting renewed enthusiasm for cross-border travel. Leisure travel spending alone reached over $4.1 trillion, marking a strong recovery from previous years. The industry now supports more than 330 million jobs globally, reaffirming its status as a vital economic engine. Within this dynamic landscape, the United Kingdom continues to hold a prominent position, both as a top destination and a leader in hospitality education and innovation.

The tourism and hospitality sector remains one of the largest and most dynamic employment sectors in the UK. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, in 2023, the sector supported approximately 4 million jobs in the UK, highlighting its crucial role in the national economy. Travel and tourism contributed over £252 billion to the UK’s GDP, showcasing the industry’s resilience and potential for growth. Pursuing an MSc in Hospitality Management in the UK offers not only access to world-class education but also exposure to a thriving industry that blends tradition with innovation, opening doors to diverse global career opportunities.


Why study travel and tourism in the UK?


When considering where to pursue your MSc Hospitality Management in UK or any other 1 year degree courses in UK, it’s essential to evaluate various factors to make an informed decision about your academic journey. Here are the top 5 reasons why you should pursue any of these programs – MA travel and tourism, hotel management in UK or  MSc Hospitality Management in UK.

World-Class Universities

With more than 70 universities offering courses in hospitality, leisure, and tourism, the UK provides a wealth of academic options. Among these institutions, the University of Surrey, Oxford Brookes University, and Bournemouth University rank among the top ten globally in this field. This impressive variety ensures that you have access to high-quality education and a wide range of specialization areas.

Diverse Courses

The UK offers approximately 320 courses in hospitality, leisure, and tourism, giving you the flexibility to tailor your studies to your interests and career aspirations.

Generous Scholarships

High-profile opportunities such as Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth Scholarships are available to residents of any country, further easing the financial burden of your studies.

Lucrative Starting Salaries and Training

Hospitality-related roles in the UK typically offer competitive starting salaries, averaging around £20,000. Moreover, many prominent organizations provide graduate training schemes that facilitate your professional growth and accelerate your progress up the career ladder.
According to Glassdoor, a typical annual salary for professionals in the field of Tourism and Travel is estimated to be £31,064, with an average annual income of £26,778 in London.

Graduate Route

For international students who have completed undergraduate or master’s degrees in the UK, the Graduate Route offers an enticing prospect. This initiative allows graduates to remain in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies, providing an opportunity to gain practical work experience and apply your acquired knowledge in the field.

Top PG Travel and Tourism Courses in the UK


In the UK, postgraduate degrees typically span one to two years, often including an integrated foundation year for those new to the subject. These courses provide essential knowledge and skills for careers in hospitality, leisure, and tourism, offering endless opportunities worldwide.

With a UK degree in this field, you’ll be well-equipped to explore diverse career paths and embark on global adventures. Let’s explore MA travel and tourism, hotel management in UK, MSc Hospitality Management in UK and other popular 1 year degree courses in UK

Tourism Management (MSc and MA)


Tourism Management involves gaining insights into the multifaceted global challenges that contemporary tourism managers and professionals are expected to confront. These challenges span a wide spectrum, including issues like climate change, sustainability, overtourism, shifts in consumer behaviour, digitalization, and concerns related to safety and security.

Graduates of this course will be equipped with essential decision-making skills, enabling you to critically evaluate complex scenarios within the tourism industry. Beyond this, the educational journey in this field also fosters your academic acumen. Moreover, it inspires and cultivates a range of crucial skills, such as leadership, effective communication, problem-solving, cultural awareness, sustainability, and digital proficiency.

What are the entry requirements?

The basic eligibility criteria for tourism and hospitality management courses in UK are

  • A 2:2 UK honours degree or an equivalent international qualification.
  • Relevant work experience can be considered if you do not meet the academic requirements.
  •  A minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual element scoring lower than 6.0 in IELTS may be required.
  • Please note that these are the basic requirements and every university will have additional pre-requisites.

Career Prospects

According to data from Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a Tourism Manager in the United Kingdom is £47,064. Additionally, the average supplementary cash compensation for a Tourism Manager in the UK is £6,021.

Top Universities

The top universities for tourism and hospitality management courses in UK

Name of the Course Name of University Fees
MSc International Tourism and Events Management Glasgow Caledonian University £18,800 (one year)
MSc Tourism Management University of Derby £14,900(1 year)
MA Tourism Management University of Westminster £18,000 (per year)
MA International Tourism and Hospitality Management University of Wolverhampton £15,950
MSc Event and Tourism Management Oxford Brookes University £17,750–18,350 (international, per year)

Aviation Management


Aviation Management is a specialized field that addresses the complex operations of the global aviation industry, which served over 4.7 billion passengers in 2024, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). As the sector rebounds strongly post-pandemic, with global air traffic nearly reaching pre-COVID levels, the demand for skilled professionals in airline operations, airport management, and aviation strategy continues to grow. Most postgraduate Aviation Management programs are designed to equip students with the strategic, technical, and managerial expertise needed to navigate and lead within this fast-evolving industry.

Successful graduates can find employment with airlines, airports, civil aviation departments, or aviation consultancies.

What are the entry requirements?

The entry requirements for travel and tourism university in UK for an aviation management course is as follows:

  • A 2:2 grade classification or equivalent international qualification.
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant managerial work experience, showcasing sector-specific expertise if the academic requirements are not met.
  • Fulfilling English language proficiency requirements through IELTS, PTE, TOEFL etc. scores.

Career Prospects

Upon successful completion of your aviation management course, prospective career opportunities include roles such as Airport Operations Manager with an average salary of £35,461, Passenger Transport Manager with an average salary of £30,000, Business Development Manager (Postgraduate) with an average salary of £52,000,, Marketing Executive (Postgraduate) with an average salary of £37,500, Transport Planner with an average salary of £32,500, and Management Consultant with an average salary of £50,000.

Top Universities

The top universities for Masters in Travel and Tourism in UK focussing on Aviation Management are as follows:

Name of the Course Name of University Fees
MA International Tourism and Aviation Management University of West London £18,750–19,500
MSc Aviation Management University College Birmingham £15,000
MSc Aviation Management Teesside University £17,000
MSc Aviation Operations and Management Buckinghamshire New
University
£17,000–20,000
MSc
International Tourism and Aviation Management
Sheffield Hallam University £18,705 (with work experience placement)

International Tourism and Hospitality Management


The Master’s programme in International Tourism and Hospitality Management has been designed to address the increasing demand for professionals in the industry. Students in this programme will gain in-depth knowledge of strategic management, marketing, sales management, entrepreneurship, financial planning, human resource management, governance, and policy.

Upon completion, graduates will possess a strategic and managerial outlook on tourism and hospitality, preparing them for future roles as managers, policymakers, or consultants. The course aims to enhance students’ skills in tourism and hospitality management, equipping them with the capabilities to establish and oversee their own businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector.

What are the entry requirements?

The entry requirements for study hospitality management in UK are:

  • Possession of an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or higher from a recognized university or higher education institute.
  • Alternatively, a postgraduate diploma in a relevant field is acceptable.
  • Mature applicants who lack an undergraduate degree but possess relevant business experience are encouraged to apply, pending a successful interview.
  • All international applicants are expected to fulfill the English language requirements.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this programme have access to diverse career opportunities within the international tourism and hospitality industry. These prospects encompass leadership and managerial positions, entrepreneurship in the form of business start-ups, and consultancy roles.

Alumni from this programme typically secure employment in prominent tourism and hospitality enterprises, large hotel corporations, government tourism agencies, major online and high-street travel and tour agencies, international tourism organizations, tour operators, airlines, marketing firms, as well as cultural, heritage, festival, and other specialized tourism ventures.

The average salary for Hotel Manager is £51,651 per year in the London, United Kingdom. The average additional cash compensation for a Hotel Manager in the London, United Kingdom is £5,486, with a range from £2,841 – £10,595.

Top Universities

The top universities for Masters in Travel and Tourism in UK focussing on international tourism are as follows:

Name of the Course Name of University Fees
MSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management Robert Gordon University £16,900
MSc International Hospitality and Tourism Management (Extended Professional Practice) Coventry University £21,250
MA International Tourism Development University of Northampton £16,995
MSc International Hospitality and Tourism Management Cardiff Metropolitan University £17,600
International Tourism Management MSc University of Aberdeen £27,000
MSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management Manchester Metropolitan University £18,000

Tourism Marketing


Tourism marketing courses introduce students to marketing management in the global tourism sector, equipping them with skills sought after by top global organizations. They align with the dynamic and technologically advanced landscape of modern marketing, providing students with the technical and personal competencies essential for future careers in tourism.

Entry Requirements

  • A Bachelor’s Honours degree with a 2:2 classification in any subject or an equivalent qualification.
  • If English is not your first language, typically students are required to have an IELTS score of 6.0 (Academic) with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.

Career Prospects and Placements

Graduates in Tourism Marketing can anticipate a wide array of roles, including Destination Marketing Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist, Travel Content Writer, and Tourism Promotion Coordinator. These careers involve crafting compelling narratives and strategies to increase business and tourism traffic to specific destinations.
The typical annual salary for a Marketing Manager in the travel industry averages £40,000, equivalent to £20.51 per hour according to Talent.com. Entry-level positions commence at £35,000 per year, while highly experienced professionals can earn up to £55,000 annually.

Top Universities

The top universities for Masters in Travel and Tourism in UK focusing on marketing are as follows:

Name of the Course Name of University Fees
MSc Tourism Marketing Management University of Strathclyde £28,250
MSc International Tourism Management and Marketing University of Nottingham £26,250
MSc Tourism Marketing Management Bournemouth University £17,350
MA Marketing Management for Events, Hospitality and Tourism University College Birmingham £15,000

Responsible and Sustainable Tourism


Sustainable and responsible tourism programmes expand on candidates’ existing expertise and knowledge in sustainable tourism, tourism entrepreneurship, innovation, political economy of tourism, cultural and heritage tourism management, destination marketing, and strategic tourism management.
Graduates will be well-prepared to tackle the substantial challenges confronting tourism managers, entrepreneurs, policy-makers, and even tourists themselves, encompassing the aftermath of the pandemic, the development of resilient tourism destinations, and the fortification of businesses against future crises.

What are the entry requirements?

  • Minimum 2.2 Honours in Business, Tourism, or Hospitality related degree, or equivalent overseas Bachelor’s degree.
  • English language proficiency which can be met through IELTS, TOEFL, PTE etc. test scores.

Career Prospects

Responsible Travel and tourism jobs in UK encompass roles such as Sustainable Tourism Manager, Eco-Tourism Coordinator, Wildlife Conservation Officer among others. These profiles earn competitive salaries.
According to talent.com, the average annual salary for a Conservation Officer in the United Kingdom is £32,085, which is equivalent to an hourly rate of £16.45. For those starting in entry-level positions, the typical yearly salary begins at £26,487. Experienced professionals in this field can earn up to £50,895 annually.

Top Universities

The top universities for travel and tourism courses in UK focusing responsible and sustainable tourism are as follows:

Name of the Course Name of University Fees
MSc Sustainable Tourism University of Sunderland £17,000
MSc Sustainable Tourism Development & Management University of East London £18,360
MSc Management & Sustainable Tourism University of Glasgow £28,260
MSc Sustainable Business Management: Tourism University of Exeter £30,700

Miscellaneous

Besides the above listed courses, the following travel and tourism courses are also available:

Name of the Course Name of University Fees
MBA – Tourism Management University of Cumbria £15,375
Global Business Administration (International Tourism and Hospitality Management) MBA University of Gloucestershire £17,800
MA Tourism and Cultural Policy Goldsmiths, University of London £22,640
MSc Tourism Development and Culture University of Glasgow £25,320

Top Travel and Tourism Diploma Courses in the UK


Diploma in travel and tourism in UK for international students cover a wide spectrum of topics, from sustainable tourism to destination management, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in the ever-evolving world of travel and tourism. Here are some of the popular diploma courses that open doors to a global career in one of the world’s most exciting industries.

Popular Travel and Tourism Diploma Courses in the UK

The following are the popular PGDM in travel and tourism courses available in the UK:

Name of the Course Name of the University Fees
PGDip in Tourism Management University of Cumbria £10,250
Postgraduate PG Dip
Responsible Tourism Management
Leeds Beckett University £ 11,665
BTEC Higher National Diploma in Hospitality Management The London College £6165

Cost of Travel and Tourism Course in the UK


The cost of a Travel and Tourism course in the UK can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the level of the course, the institution and your fee status.

Postgraduate courses, such as a Master’s in Travel and Tourism have fees ranging from approximately £14,000 to £30,000 per year.

Short-term courses and diplomas in Travel and Tourism can be more budget-friendly, with fees often starting from £6000 and going up to £12,000 making them an accessible option for those seeking specialized skills without the commitment of a full-degree program.

It’s essential to research specific institutions and programmes to get accurate and up-to-date information on tuition fees, as they can vary widely across universities and colleges in the UK. Additionally, scholarships and financial aid opportunities may be available to help mitigate the cost for eligible students.

Frequently asked questions


Which is the best travel and tourism course in UK?

Determining the best travel and tourism course in the UK can be subjective as it depends on individual preferences and career goals. However, some of the best universities for travel and tourism UK are renowned for their travel and tourism programs.

For example, the University of Surrey is often recognized for its excellence in tourism education, offering a range of well-regarded courses in the field. Oxford Brookes University and Bournemouth University are also notable for their high-quality programmes in travel and tourism.

Where can I study tourism management in the UK?

Over 70 universities in the UK offer courses in tourism, hospitality, and leisure management. Notably, the University of Surrey tops the UK charts—ranked 1st in the UK and 16th globally for hospitality & leisure management (2025 QS), and 2nd in the world for hospitality & tourism management (ShanghaiRanking 2024). Alongside Surrey, Oxford Brookes and Bournemouth University are frequently placed among the top UK institutions: the British Council cites Surrey, Oxford Brookes, and Bournemouth as the three best universities for this field. There are around 321–320 distinct tourism and hospitality courses across the UK

Can I work in UK after studying travel and tourism?

Yes. International students who complete a relevant UK postgraduate degree (e.g., MSc or PGDip in travel & tourism) are eligible for the Graduate Route visa, allowing them to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years for doctoral graduates). This provides valuable time to seek jobs, internships, or graduate schemes in the tourism sector.

Can I do a short travel and tourism course in UK?

Absolutely. The UK has a wide range of short courses, certificates, and diplomas (Levels 2–6), both online and in-person. For example, online diplomas in Travel & Tourism Management are available for around £100–£200, such as the Level 6 award from Oxford Home Study Centre, which costs approximately £99.90

What’s the best PGDM course in travel and tourism in UK?

“Best” varies based on your goals, but the PGDip/MSc from the University of Surrey is widely recognised, given its top global and UK rankings. Other good options include the University of Cumbria and Leeds Beckett University, which offer respected PGDip-level courses. Surrey’s International Tourism Management MSc has UK fees of £12,400 and international fees of £19,900 for 2025 entry.

What’s the cost of studying travel and tourism in UK?

Postgraduate programmes like a Master’s in Travel and Tourism typically come with tuition fees that span from approximately £14,000 to £30,000 per year. On the other hand, short-term courses and diplomas in Travel and Tourism tend to be more budget-friendly, with fees typically ranging from £6,000 to £12,000.

When considering the cost of studying in the UK, it’s essential to factor in the cost of living, which can vary depending on the city or region. On average, students should budget for expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, which can amount to around £12,000 to £15,000 per year. However, these costs can fluctuate significantly based on your location and lifestyle choices.

Can I get a job after a diploma in travel and tourism in UK?

If you’ve completed a diploma or postgraduate diploma (PGDip) in travel and tourism in the UK, your eligibility for the Graduate Route visa depends on whether your course is classified as a UK degree-level qualification. Generally, only courses at bachelor’s degree level (RQF Level 6), master’s (Level 7), or doctoral (Level 8) make you eligible for the Graduate Route. Most PGDip courses are Level 7 and can be eligible if they are officially recognised as postgraduate qualifications by your university and are on the list of approved courses.
However, non-degree diplomas, such as HNDs or vocational diplomas below Level 6, do not qualify for the Graduate Route visa.
To confirm your options, you should contact your Student Route visa sponsor or the international office at your institution. They can verify your course’s eligibility and advise on alternative routes, such as Skilled Worker visas, sponsorship opportunities, or short-term work schemes.

How to apply to UK universities with TC Global?


Applying to UK universities for a degree travel and tourism with TC Global is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:

1. Consultation

Begin by scheduling a consultation with TC Global’s experienced advisors to understand different course travel and tourism available. They will guide you through the university selection process based on your academic goals and preferences to study travel and tourism.

2. Application

Once you’ve chosen your desired travel and tourism university in UK and travel courses in UK, TC Global will assist you in preparing and submitting your applications for your Masters in Travel and Tourism in UK course. This includes preparing necessary documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

3. Visa Assistance

TC Global provides guidance on the UK student visa application process, ensuring you meet all the requirements and deadlines.

4. Financial Planning

TC Global helps you understand tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid options. They can assist in securing scholarships when available.

By partnering with TC Global, you gain access to expert advice and support to make your application process for course travel and tourism in UK universities as smooth as possible.



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