Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This master's combines advanced business and hospitality-specific subjects with applied research and a major industry project. Core themes include strategic management, international hospitality operations, revenue and distribution management, service leadership, and sustainability in tourism and hospitality. You will study how global market forces, technology and changing consumer expectations shape service design and organisational strategy.

• Strategic Hospitality Management – strategic planning and competitive positioning for hospitality firms operating across borders.
• International Operations and Service Design – management of front- and back-of-house operations, quality systems and customer experience design.
• Revenue, Distribution and Digital Marketing – pricing, channel management, digital marketing and analytics for hospitality and tourism businesses.
• People Leadership and Human Resource Management – workforce planning, leadership, cross-cultural management and labour issues in service industries.
• Sustainability and Responsible Tourism – environmental, social and governance considerations and community engagement strategies.
• Research Methods and Applied Project – research skills for business decision-making, culminating in a major applied project or thesis in partnership with industry.

The programme typically offers a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, field visits and industry-led workshops. Students can expect opportunities to work on real-world problems with industry partners in Auckland and the wider Pacific region.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification. Degrees in hospitality, business, tourism, management or a related field are directly relevant, but applicants with substantial professional experience in hospitality or tourism may also be considered. Admission normally requires evidence of academic readiness and the ability to undertake postgraduate study.

International applicants who did not complete tertiary study in English must provide evidence of English language proficiency from a recognised test or an approved pathway. Additional requirements may include a CV and a statement of purpose; some applicants may be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to senior and specialist roles across the global hospitality and tourism sector. Typical career paths include senior management in hotels and resorts, revenue and distribution managers, operations and food and beverage managers, hospitality consultants, events and conference managers, destination managers, and roles in tourism boards or development agencies. The degree also prepares graduates for entrepreneurial ventures and for further academic study at doctoral level.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology is located in New Zealand’s largest city, a major tourism hub with a diverse hospitality industry that provides abundant opportunities for industry engagement, internships and fieldwork. AUT emphasises applied learning and industry partnerships, so students benefit from practical projects, guest lectures from local and international practitioners, and access to research centres focused on tourism and service innovation. The university’s strong links across the Asia–Pacific region also support international perspectives and career mobility.