Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced theory, applied practice and research methods to equip you to manage and lead in international tourism contexts. Core topics typically include international tourism management theory, strategic destination planning, sustainable and responsible tourism, tourism marketing and branding, tourism policy and governance, and hospitality operations.

Students follow a mix of taught papers and a major research component. Typical modules and subjects you can expect include:

• International Tourism Strategy — frameworks for planning and managing tourism across national and cross‑border contexts.
• Sustainable and Responsible Tourism — approaches to environmental, social and cultural sustainability in destinations and businesses.
• Destination Management and Development — stakeholder engagement, destination product development and crisis management.
• Tourism Marketing and Digital Promotion — market segmentation, branding, consumer behaviour and digital strategies for tourism organisations.
• Tourism Policy, Planning and Governance — public policy influences on tourism, regulatory frameworks and regional planning.
• Research Methods for Tourism — quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis and applied research design.
• Hospitality Operations and Experience Management — service design, operations management and quality assurance in tourism settings.
• Applied Project or Thesis — a supervised research project or dissertation that addresses a practical problem or research question in international tourism.

Delivery blends seminars, case studies, industry projects and fieldwork. Many students undertake an industry practicum, consultancy project or field research in New Zealand and the wider Pacific region.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, preferably in tourism, hospitality, business, geography, environmental management or a related discipline. Applicants with significant relevant professional experience in the tourism or hospitality sector may also be considered.

Selection takes into account academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining career aims and suitability for graduate study, and referees or evidence of professional experience. International applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements; commonly accepted evidence includes recognised English tests or approved prior study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for management and leadership roles across the tourism system. Typical career paths include positions in destination management organisations, national and regional tourism boards, private sector tourism businesses, hotels and resorts, tourism development consultancies and non‑government organisations focused on sustainable tourism.

Specific roles graduates move into include destination manager, tourism development planner, policy adviser, marketing and brand manager, sustainability or community engagement manager, tourism consultant and research analyst. The programme also provides a pathway to further doctoral study for those interested in academic and high‑level research careers.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is located in New Zealand’s largest city, providing direct access to a dynamic tourism industry, gateway connections across the Pacific and close proximity to diverse urban and natural tourism environments. The university has a strong applied focus and established links with industry and government agencies, which supports work‑integrated learning and applied research opportunities.

Students benefit from teaching delivered by academics with tourism research and industry experience, smaller class sizes for interactive learning, and opportunities to undertake fieldwork in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific. AUT’s emphasis on contemporary issues such as sustainability, cultural tourism and innovation in visitor experiences aligns the programme with current employer needs in the international tourism sector.