Tourism

Tourism is a dynamic and rapidly growing sector that plays a vital role in the global economy, cultural exchange, and sustainable development. The Monash University Bachelor of Tourism program offers students an in-depth understanding of the diverse facets of the tourism industry, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this vibrant field. Across this program, students explore key areas such as tourism planning and development, hospitality management, marketing, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience through industry placements, case studies, and project-based learning, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.

Students will gain insights into global tourism trends, digital marketing strategies, customer service excellence, and the economic impacts of tourism. The program also addresses contemporary issues such as eco-tourism, community engagement, and environmental sustainability, preparing graduates to contribute responsibly to the tourism sector. With a strong emphasis on intercultural communication and leadership skills, the Bachelor of Tourism at Monash University aims to develop innovative professionals capable of shaping the future of tourism.

Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in tourism management, event planning, destination marketing, travel consultancy, and tourism policy development. The university’s extensive network of industry partners and alumni facilitates excellent internship and employment opportunities, ensuring students are industry-ready upon graduation. Furthermore, Monash’s reputation for high-quality research and teaching ensures that students receive a comprehensive education grounded in the latest industry developments. Embark on your journey to becoming a leader in the tourism industry with Monash University’s Bachelor of Tourism program, where academic excellence meets practical training to prepare you for a successful career in this dynamic sector.

The course is structured in three parts: Part A. Foundations for advanced tourism studies, Part B. Core master's study and Part C. Advanced expertise. All students complete Part B. Depending upon prior qualifications, you may receive credit for Part A or Part C or a combination of the two. Note that if you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit.

Part A. Foundations for advanced tourism studies (24 points)

These studies will introduce you to tourism studies at advanced undergraduate or graduate level. They are intended for students whose previous qualification is not in a cognate field.

Part B. Core master's study (48 points)

These studies provide you with with in-depth understanding of tourism development theory and practice. You will develop the skills and techniques to develop tourism policies and practices in a global setting and to manage tourism and small and medium enterprise development in the direction of more sustainable practice.

Part C. Advanced expertise (24 points)

The focus of these studies is professional or scholarly work that can contribute to a portfolio of professional development. You have two options:

• a program of coursework study where you select the units to suit your own interests. This option includes the opportunity to undertake an internship in the field
• a 24 point research thesis. Students wishing to use this Masters course as a pathway to a higher degree by research should take this second option.

Students admitted to the course, who have a recognised honours degree in a cognate discipline including humanities or social sciences, will receive credit for Part C, however, should they wish to complete a 24 point research project as part of the course they should consult with the course coordinator.

Requirements

The course comprises 96 points structured into three parts: Part A. Foundations for advanced tourism studies (24 points), Part B. Core master's study (48 points) and Part C. Advanced expertise (24 points).

Depending on prior qualifications you may receive entry level credit (a form of block credit) which determines your point of entry to the course:

• Students admitted at entry level 1 complete 96 points, comprising Part A, Part B and Part C.
• Students admitted at entry level 2 complete 72 points, comprising Part B and Part C.
• Students admitted at entry level 3 complete 48 points, comprising Part B.

Note: Students eligible for credit for prior studies may elect not to receive the credit and complete one of the higher credit-point options.

All students must complete a minimum of 48 credit points at level 5 and a maximum of 24 points at level 2 or 3 for entry point 1. Unless otherwise stated, units with codes beginning with 2 or 3 are 6 points, and units with codes beginning with a 5 are 12 points.

Part A. Foundations for advanced tourism studies (24 points)

Students complete:

a. Unit(s) (12 points) from the following, taken during the first full time equivalent year of study:

• ATS2395 Australia in a globalising world
• ATS2490 Advanced professional writing
• ATS3392 A lonely planet? Travel, culture, power
• MGF5991 Professional development - Career dynamics
• MKF5916 Foundations of marketing
• MKF5911 Theory and process of buyer behaviour

b. One unit (12 points) from the electives listed in Part C

Part B. Core master's study (48 points)

Students complete:

a. The following units (36 points):

• APG5389 Tourism industry and marketing
• APG5717 Applied industry research and practice
• APG5720 Cultural tourism and events management

b. One capstone unit chosen from the following:

• APG5044 Professional internship
• APG5183 International tourism marketing research project
• APG5390 Contemporary tourism and development in emerging economies
• APG5856 Research project*

* Students electing to take the research thesis option and APG5856 should consult with the course coordinator.

Part C. Advanced expertise (24 points)

Students complete either a. or b. below:

a. The following unit/s:

• APG5848 Research thesis (24 points) or APG5849 Research thesis A (12 points) and APG5850 Research thesis B (12 points)**

** Students admitted to the course at Entry level 3 who wish to complete this 24 point research thesis should consult with the course coordinator.

b. Two units (24 points) including the following:

• APG5609 Sustainable tourism development and planning

and one of:

• APG5398 Digital media technologies
• APG5628 Doctrines of development
• APG5805 Project planning and management in international development
• APG5894 Communications theories and practices
• APG5900 Cultural economy
• MKF5601 Social media marketing (6 points)
• MKF5926 Integrated marketing communication (6 points)
• any capstone unit for Part B not already completed

Qualifications

Depending on prior qualifications:

English entry requirements

Minimum English language requirement for Monash University

IELTS 6.5 (no band lower than 6.0) or equivalent approved English test as defined in the Admission to Coursework Courses and Units of Study Procedures.

The Bachelor of Tourism at Monash University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. International students are required to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, health insurance, and other associated costs for the duration of their program. Monash University provides transparent information regarding tuition fees, which vary depending on the specific course and campus. For the Bachelor of Tourism, tuition fees are set annually and are payable per semester. Financial aid options include scholarships, grants, and bursaries specifically designed for international students. These financial aids are competitive and often require an application, demonstrating academic merit or financial need. In addition to university-based funding, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government scholarships, private sponsorships, and international organizations that support students studying abroad. The Australian government offers various student visa pathways that stipulate proof of sufficient funds for visa approval, typically requiring students to demonstrate access to approximately AUD 21,000 per year for living costs, excluding tuition fees. The university's financial services department provides guidance on managing tuition payments, installment plans, and bank guarantees to facilitate financially planning students’ study period. Students should also consider additional costs such as health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover), textbooks, transportation, and personal expenses, which should be factored into their overall budget. Monash University offers financial counseling and budgeting support to help students manage their finances effectively during their course. It is advisable that prospective students contact the university's admissions or student financial services directly for personalized information specific to their country of residence and individual circumstances. Overall, the program provides various financial resources to assist students, but careful planning and early application for financial aid are highly recommended to ensure smooth financial management throughout the course duration.

The Bachelor of Tourism at Monash University offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic and growing tourism industry. The program is designed to equip students with essential skills in tourism management, sustainable tourism practices, hospitality, marketing, and strategic planning. Throughout the course, students gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for diverse roles within the global tourism sector. The curriculum includes core subjects such as tourism principles, event management, tourism policy and planning, and digital marketing, alongside elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas like eco-tourism, cultural tourism, or hospitality management. Monash University emphasizes an international perspective, encouraging students to understand tourism within a global context through case studies, industry placements, and collaborations with tourism organizations. The program also focuses on developing soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving, which are crucial for career advancement in the tourism industry. Students have access to advanced facilities and industry networks to facilitate practical learning and internship opportunities. Upon graduation, students can pursue careers in various sectors including tourism planning and development, destination management, hospitality services, event coordination, and tourism consultancy. The Bachelor of Tourism at Monash University positions graduates to contribute actively to the sustainable development of the tourism industry worldwide, aligned with current industry needs and innovations.