Networking Model

The MA in Tourism incorporates the content of the Graduate Certificate in Tourism Leadership (required module), plus a choice of two of the three Graduate Certificates in Sustainable Tourism, Hospitality Management or Destination Development.  The Applied Research Module is the second required module of the MA in Tourism Management. Two of the three elective Graduate Certificates noted must be completed prior to taking the Applied Research Module. This program structure ensures that learning outcomes are aligned with the MA in Tourism Management program.

Candidates who aspire to a full masters degree will enrol in the degree and complete all four modules. Students who choose a graduate certificate, may enroll in any one of the nine-credit modules (with the exception of the applied research) and upon completion, obtain a Graduate Certificate.

Long-term plans for the evolution of the degree include increasing the choice of nine-credit modules within the degree, ensuring the curriculum evolves and remains relevant to industry, employees, and employers.

The personal and professional networks represent a modification to Royal Roads University’s current graduate studies programs where students who enrol in a given year, remain with the same students throughout the entire program of study. The network module design allows students to enter into the degree stream at multiple times throughout the year. Each nine-credit module of study has been designed to contain some face-to-face instruction enabling students to network with and form contacts with professional experts, and add new perspectives to class discussions. It also enables new groups to be formed for team assignments. It also enables new groups to be formed for team assignments.

Students enrolled in the short six-month graduate certificate will benefit from their exposure to those in the masters program who are familiar with the online learning platform and the study habits required to balance work, family and studying. Students in the MA in Tourism Management program will be enriched by greater student diversity within each module, increased professional networks, and a flexible schedule. 

The importance of networking with the other faculties was the final important element in designing the MA in Tourism Management degree. The graduate program has embedded within the content, four distinct yet complementary themes that are relevant to tourism and hospitality management and represent links to areas of strength at Royal Roads University; tourism leadership (the School of Leadership), sustainable tourism (the School of Environment and Sustainability), destination development, international hotel and resort management (the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management and the Faculty of Management).