Commerce (Tourism)

The Bachelor of Commerce (Tourism) at the University of Otago is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of the tourism industry. This dynamic degree combines core business and commerce disciplines with specialized knowledge in tourism management, sustainable tourism development, and hospitality operations. Throughout the program, students gain valuable insights into global tourism trends, consumer behavior, marketing strategies, and sustainable practices essential for successful careers in the tourism sector worldwide.

The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical and practical learning, incorporating case studies, industry projects, and internships that provide real-world experience. Students have the opportunity to develop critical skills such as strategic planning, liaison with stakeholders, environmental management, and digital marketing, all within the context of tourism. Emphasis is placed on understanding the social, economic, and environmental impacts of tourism, preparing students to contribute responsibly to this vital industry.

The program is supported by Otago's strong links with tourism industry partners, allowing students to engage directly with leading organizations during their studies. This industry connection enhances employability upon graduation, with many graduates moving into roles in tourism operators, government agencies, event management, or start their own tourism enterprises. The University of Otago’s exceptional academic staff, renowned for research excellence and industry experience, deliver engaging lectures and mentorship to foster both academic and professional growth.

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Commerce (Tourism) will also have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, including tourism clubs, conferences, and networking events, providing additional avenues for professional development. The program emphasizes sustainable and ethical tourism practices, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute positively to local and global communities. Upon completion, graduates will possess a versatile skill set suited to a wide array of careers in the tourism sector, with the ability to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of global travel and hospitality industries.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 15772 Year (EEA)
• EUR 3191 Year (National)

International: 24,530NZ$. National:4,963.00NZ$

• English

Course Content

Tourism at Otago gives you a management focus and also gives you wider exposure to social, cultural, environmental and economic issues relevant to this dynamic industry. Through our key pillars of Business and Governance, Society, and Environment you will gain a degree that employers value and will allow you to become a leader in your field. As a first year Tourism student you will study the global principles that structure tourism, the nature and operation of the tourism industry and the impact, development and management of issues that are constantly and inevitably arising in relation to the tourism industry. Alongside this, you will have the choice of one of two other papers focusing either on global tourism or hospitality. As you progress through your degree to the second year you will be studying different areas of tourism in more detail, including destination management, tourist behaviour and tourism and hospitality enterprise management, as well as having the option of including sport tourism and wine business into your degree.

At the 300-level you will able to choose papers that allow you to focus on your areas of interest and that will enhance your future career. Double major/degree options Tourism complements a range of other major and degree programmes such as Marketing Management, Management, Economics, Geography, Physical Education, Communication and Languages. Your options are endless!

Student Exchange

The University of Otago has exchange agreements with more than 70 institutions in over 30 countries. If your marks average B or better you may qualify to attend one of these institutions for one semester or for a year. You pay only your Otago fees and complete your qualification within the same timeframe as if you’d never been away. Business students are also encouraged to participate in one of the more than 40 specific business and tourism exchanges.

Disney World Internship

Students have the opportunity to spend five or twelve months based at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Interviews take place twice a year. You can take advantage of this opportunity either during your degree or within one year of graduating. Disney’s Live, Learn and Earn programme gives you opportunities to gain work experience with one of the world’s most renowned entertainment companies and also meet over 7,500 like-minded students who are looking for a great experience and friendships for life.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 58 TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 80

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

NCEA National Certificate in Educational Achievement

• 10 Level 2 credits in approved literacy (5 in reading, 5 in writing)

CIE Cambridge International Examinations

• Grade E or better in AS English

IB International Baccalaureate

• English at Higher or Standard level in Language A: literature, or Language A: language and literature; or at Higher level in Language B

NZUEBS New Zealand University Entrance Bursaries and Scholarships

• English mark of 46% or higher

IELTS International English Language Testing System

• 6.0 in academic module (with no individual band below 6.0)

TOEFL (paper based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 550 Test of Written English 4.5

TOEFL (internet based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 80 (with a Writing score of 20)

CPE Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English

• Minimum of 50

CAE Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English

• Minimum of 58

APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination

• Grade 3 or higher

University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd

• Successful completion of ‘English for Undergraduate Academic Purposes’ paper

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

• Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.