Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

This graduate diploma combines applied social science, economics and management modules focused on tourism development and destination management. Teaching covers both strategic and operational topics with an emphasis on sustainable and place-based approaches.

• Tourism Economics and Policy — demand and supply fundamentals, macro and regional effects of tourism, regulatory frameworks and policy instruments.
• Destination Management and Development — destination competitiveness, product development, stakeholder coordination and public–private collaboration.
• Sustainable and Responsible Tourism — carrying capacity, community engagement, environmental management and certification schemes.
• Tourism Marketing and Consumer Behaviour — segmentation, branding, digital marketing strategies and experience design.
• Project and Event Management — project lifecycle, funding sources (including EU-backed instruments), event programming and logistics.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis — qualitative and quantitative methods, survey design, basic GIS applications for spatial planning and interpretation of industry data.
• Hospitality and Service Operations — operational issues relevant to accommodation, F&B and visitor services, quality management.
• Practical Element — applied consultancy project, internship or capstone assignment with a destination, DMO, municipality or tourism business, allowing students to use skills on a real development task.

Assessment typically combines written assignments, project reports, presentations and a practical capstone rather than a large research dissertation. Modules are delivered by lecturers from Corvinus’s faculty and guest practitioners from the Hungarian and Central European tourism sector.

Entry requirements

• A completed university degree (BA or equivalent) in economics, business, geography, hospitality, social sciences or a related field. Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.
• Evidence of academic and/or professional aptitude: transcript, CV and a short motivation letter outlining interest in tourism development and intended career direction.
• Selection interview or admission meeting may be part of the process to assess fit and professional goals.
• Proficiency in the language of instruction is required. The programme is traditionally offered in Hungarian; prospective students should check for courses or modules available in English if they do not speak Hungarian.
• Specific additional requirements (for example, proof of language level or a portfolio) are communicated by the admissions office; applicants should consult Corvinus University for precise guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across the public, private and third sectors where strategic tourism development skills are needed. Typical career paths include:

• Destination Manager or Planner for cities, regions and DMOs (destination management organisations).
• Tourism Development Officer in municipal or regional authorities, focusing on policy, regeneration and community engagement.
• Project Manager for tourism development projects, including EU-funded and international programmes.
• Consultant in tourism strategy, market research and feasibility studies for private developers or consultancies.
• Sustainable tourism coordinator or environmental manager for protected areas, cultural sites and heritage tourism initiatives.
• Product or marketing manager within hotel groups, tour operators and event organisers.

The emphasis on applied project work and industry contacts helps graduates build professional networks and practical experience valued by employers in Central Europe and beyond.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

• Specialist reputation in economics and social sciences: Corvinus combines management and public policy expertise which is well suited to tourism development’s cross-disciplinary nature.
• Location advantage: Based in Budapest, students have direct access to a major Central European tourism market, national tourism bodies and cultural institutions for fieldwork and internships.
• Practice-oriented teaching: The programme integrates applied projects, guest lectures from industry practitioners and links to regional development initiatives.
• Research and partnership opportunities: Corvinus hosts applied research centres and maintains partnerships with local and international organisations, supporting work on policy, sustainability and economic impacts.
• Career support: The university’s career services and alumni network provide contacts in the tourism, hospitality and public sectors to help students transition into professional roles.