Navigate the rapidly changing global tourism industry. Build leadership, marketing, business and communications skills to advance your career in the international tourism industry.
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September 03, 2024
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September 02, 2025
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Program description
Learn about the intersection of tourism, and management and how to influence positive social change through the Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management.
You'll gain key skills to advance your career through experiences that range from creating, managing and working in a tourism business to learning about topics such as destination management, tourism attractions, museums and events.
Get a local and international perspective by exploring breathtaking tourism destinations right in British Columbia’s own backyard.
And build industry connections, while you study with a group of global learners. Your instructors and classmates will become part of your worldwide network.
Gain a competitive edge and career experience through a three-month internship in Canada or abroad. And expand your international experience with optional semesters abroad.
Learn about our multiple program delivery options, including our 16-month completion option for eligible students.
You can build from here
Your undergraduate degree can open the door for you to continue with graduate studies at Royal Roads or around the world. Some of our related graduate programs include:
- Master of Arts in Tourism Management
- Master of Global Management
- Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Program outcomes
Once you graduate, you'll have developed a set of skills and a deep understanding of the issues that drive the tourism industry.
You'll graduate with the following:
- Global awareness — You'll learn to analyze and assess the impact of global issues facing tourism managers and how tourism initiatives can impact communities. At the same time, you'll learn to apply sustainable management techniques, build community resilience and develop your multicultural sensitivity.
- Knowledge - While learning approaches to human resource management, you'll develop an understanding of strategic planning for a tourism enterprise. You'll also learn the principles of tourism marketing and event management.
- Critical thinking and problem solving — Using case study scenarios and conceptual models, you'll learn critical analysis, data interpretation and business research skills highly valued in tourism.
- Effective communication — You'll create written materials and oral presentations, participate in class discussions, and improve computer, internet and communications skills.
- Leadership and collaboration — You'll learn how to lead teams through group assignments and activities, and hone your skills needed to be an effective team member in a variety of situations.
You'll be able to successfully apply what you learn to your career, anywhere in the world.
Program delivery
Program options
There are three program options for the Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management:
1. First-year entry (four-year undergraduate degree)
Coming September 2024. Accepting applications in the near future. Please check regularly for updates
A new undergraduate experience is on the way.
For future changemakers. The passionate and the curious. Those who are ready to take action. Learn more at www.royalroads.ca/challenge.
2. First-year entry (four-year undergraduate degree) with academic and language support
This option is for students coming from high school and beginning a four-year undergraduate degree who are still becoming proficient in English. Learn more about first-year entry with academic and language support.
3. Third-year entry (two-year undergraduate degree completion)
You’ll complete the third and fourth year of your Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management in 16 months or 24 months. Both options are delivered on campus.
On campus
Studying on campus brings you together with your class colleagues and instructors. Expect the program to be rigorous. You’ll do homework, readings and team assignments outside of your full-time class hours. Classroom learning includes three-hour seminars with hands-on practice and teamwork.
Learning outside of the classroom
Practical, experiential learning is an important part of this program. Your studies will allow you to learn outside of the classroom through the following:
- a one-week field trip course
- semester abroad study options
- a final three-month internship
Field trip course
During this course, you'll explore travel destinations on Vancouver Island, including the beaches of Tofino and the slopes of Mount Washington. You'll meet with tourism entrepreneurs to get an understanding of tour operations and current issues faced by the industry. At the same time, you'll have a chance to participate in activities like skiing, snowboarding, whale watching, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Semester abroad
Expand your international and cultural experience. You can choose to study during a semester abroad at any of our partner universities in Korea, India, Austria, Germany, Chile, Vietnam, France or England.
Internship
Complete your program with a three-month professional work placement anywhere in the world. You'll be mentored by a supervisor at your work placement and guided by an academic advisor, as you gain experience in a location and career path of your choice.
Previous internships have taken place in Canada and internationally in positions, such as music festival coordinators, management trainees, front-line workers and tour leaders.
Courses
Entry Options
Below are the courses you will take depending on the option you choose:
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Year 1 & 2 - with language support
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Year 3 & 4 - degree completion
Year 1 & 2 - Language Support Option - Required Courses
ORNT
Orientation
0.0 Credits
On Campus, Online
ITAI
Introduction to Academic Integrity
0.0 Credits
Online
EAP084
Academic Skills for University Success
0.0 Credits
On Campus
EAP085
Critical Inquiry and Academic Writing Processes
0.0 Credits
On Campus
EAP086
Research Skills and Strategies
0.0 Credits
On Campus
CDNS101
Canadian Studies
3.0 Credits
On Campus
CESL100
Civic Engagement and Service Learning
3.0 Credits
On Campus
HUMN103
Foundations of Global Citizenship
9.0 Credits
On Campus
HUMN104
Social, Economic and Environmental Sustainability
3.0 Credits
On Campus
WRIT110
Writing for Success
3.0 Credits
On Campus
WRIT111
Academic Writing
3.0 Credits
On Campus
BUSA204
Principles of Economics
3.0 Credits
On Campus
BUSA205
Management Statistics
3.0 Credits
On Campus
BUSA206
Fundamentals of Human Resources Management
3.0 Credits
On Campus
COMM211
Advanced Academic Communication
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN223
Events, Festivals and Sports
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN230
Fundamentals of Accounting
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN245
Introduction to Marketing
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN251
Sales and Services
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN290
Work-Term Preparation
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN295
Industry Work Term
3.0 Credits
Directed, Field, Lab or Major Project
JUST205
The Environment and Justice
3.0 Credits
On Campus
Year 1 & 2 - Language Support Option - Elective Courses
Students select ONE of the following two electives in their first year.
IHMN201
The Business of Tourism
3.0 Credits
On Campus
BUSA201
Introduction to Business Administration
3.0 Credits
On Campus
Year 3 & 4 - Degree Completion
This program is for those students who have already completed years one and two of their studies (60 credits).
Year 3 & 4 - Degree Completion - Required Courses
ITAI
Introduction to Academic Integrity
0.0 Credits
Online
GTMN344
Selected Topics in Tourism and Hospitality Management
3.0 Credits
Blended
GTMN495
Tourism Capstone Project
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN301
Digital Communication in Global Business
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN305
Writing, Critical Thinking and Research Literature
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN315
Research Methods for Tourism
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN325
Financial Management for Tourism
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN335
Special Events Management
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN354
The Leadership Experience
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN360
Multicultural Management and Communications
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN411
Tourism Policy and Planning
3.0 Credits
On Campus, Online
IHMN412
Tourism Product Development
3.0 Credits
Online
IHMN413
Destination Management and Marketing
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN435
Field Study
3.0 Credits
Directed, Field, Lab or Major Project
IHMN440
Tourism and Hospitality Entrepreneurship
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN455
Human Resource Issues and Practices
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN475
Ethical Issues in Hospitality
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN480
Strategic Management in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN485
Globalization and the Hospitality Industry
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN490A
Career Development
3.0 Credits
On Campus
IHMN490B
Career Development Internship
3.0 Credits
Directed, Field, Lab or Major Project
Faculty

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Transfer agreements
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First-year entry (4-year undergraduate degree with language support)
This option is for students who require English language support. Please review the requirements for first-year entry with language support for more information.
First-year entry (4-year undergraduate degree)
This option is for students coming from high school (or equivalent). Please review the First-year admission and application requirements for more information.
Third-year entry (degree completion - 3rd & 4th year)
Standard admission
- Completion of a diploma (or 60 credits), including a minimum of 24 second-year credits, in areas such as hospitality, tourism, business administration or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 'B' (3.00/4.33), from a recognized post-secondary institution.
- At least 400 hours of tourism/hospitality related work experience
Flexible admission
- To be considered for flexible admission, applicants would normally require at least five years of mid-level work experience in the tourism/hospitality industry.
English language proficiency
- If English is not your primary language, please review our English language requirements.
Additional recommendation(s)
Solid academic writing skills are required for success in this program; therefore an English composition course focused on academic writing and critical thinking is strongly recommended. APA style citation is used in this program. A basic knowledge of accounting principles is also strongly recommended.
Courses available from Continuing Studies at Royal Roads University that meet these recommendations are:
- Academic Writing and Critical Thinking – Continuing Studies - Academic Support
- Financial Accounting Fundamentals – Continuing Studies - Academic Support
Application requirements
First-year entry (4-year undergraduate degree with language support)
This option is for students who require English language support. Please review the requirements for first-year entry with language support for more information.
First-year entry (4-year undergraduate degree)
First-year entry is for students coming from high school (or equivalent). Please review the year 1 admission and application requirements for more information.
Third-year entry (degree completion - 3rd & 4th year)
If you've completed some university or college courses, you may be eligible for the degree completion option, comprising of years 3 & 4 of this program. Before your file can be assessed for admission, the following information & supporting documents are required for entry to third year.
Application form
In order to apply online, you will be required to create a log-in account using your email address. You will be required to list all credit courses and/or programs you have completed or are currently enrolled in. An application fee will be required. If your application fees are being paid by a third party, review sponsored student information. Once submitted, you may check the status of your application at any time.
Official transcripts
Applicants are responsible for arranging for the submission of official transcripts from ALL post-secondary (higher education) institutions currently or previously attended, for all credit courses and/or programs. Transcripts are not required for non-credit programs or courses, though some programs may require proof of professional certifications or designations.
Transcripts are considered official only if submitted directly by the Registrar or other recognized authority of the providing institution in the institution's original, sealed envelope. If the envelope has been opened, the transcripts are no longer official and new (official) transcripts will be required to complete your application.
All international transcripts or credentials are subject to an international transcript and/or credential evaluation.
Detailed résumé
- Education: List all post secondary education, degrees, diplomas, and certificates you have achieved.
- Work experience: Please include the name of the organization, length of service (documenting hours per week worked to ensure a minimum of 400 hours business-related experience) and a brief description of duties.
- Voluntary/unpaid work experience: List and describe any voluntary/unpaid post-secondary employment and/or community service experience. Please include the name of the organization, length of service, and a brief description of duties. List positions you have held in this service.
- Information technology training and experience: Briefly describe your level of training and experience in the use of information technology including computers, software and telecommunications networks as tools for business, education, teaching and personal use.
- Professional memberships and affiliations: List memberships and positions you hold/have held in professional associations, service clubs, community/volunteer sector.
- International experience: Please include any international or intercultural experience you have, in the form of travel, work, education, or volunteer experience.
- Other relevant information: Provide any other information which you believe is relevant to your application and will be of assistance to the review committee.
Additional Requirements for Flexible Admission
For applicants who will be reviewed under the flexible admission process the following additional supporting documents will be required:
Personal statement
Your personal statement should consist of (but is not limited to) a two to three page essay, addressing the following four questions:
- What influenced your decision to apply to Royal Roads University?
- Why is this degree appropriate for you?
- What do you hope to contribute to this program and the university?
- In 5-10 years, how do you anticipate this program will add value?
If there is any other information that you feel might be of interest or relevance to your application, please include it in your personal statement.
Letter of reference
Typically, applicants will provide one professional, academic or personal character reference letter.
- Academic reference: This letter should attest to your performance in the context of your current or previous studies. The letter can address such areas as academic achievement, study skills, teamwork, leadership potential, human relations, flexibility, communication, and technical skills.
- Professional reference: This letter should attest to your current or previous performance in your professional life. The letter can address areas such as communication skills, interpersonal and leadership skills, management potential, work ethic, etc.
- Personal character reference: Your personal character reference should consist of a letter from someone who has known you for several years outside of the context of your work. Please ask the writer to indicate the length of time and context in which they have known you, and to consider the following attributes in their letter about you: integrity, responsibility, adaptability, concern and respect for others, sense of self-esteem and confidence, communication skills and work ethic.
If applicable
- Applicants declaring permanent resident or Convention Refugee status in Canada, must submit a copy of their Permanent Resident Card (PR card) along with their application.
- Transcript evaluation fee or credential evaluation report, if submitting international transcripts.
- An official English Language Proficiency score report or other evidence of proficiency if English is not your primary language.
- Other information or documents as may be requested to determine your eligibility.
For information on how and where to send your supporting documents, please refer to the document submission guidelines.
Financial aid and awards
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Four-year undergraduate program with academic & language support
The Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management is a unique four-year undergraduate program for international students, Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
You'll receive academic and English language support in your first two years to prepare you for success in your degree and career.
You'll be studying on campus with other international students for your first two years of the program. After this, you'll join years three and four with domestic and international students in the regular undergraduate degree completion program.
Our small class sizes mean that you'll get to know your classmates and instructors by name.
You'll take classes with a group of students from around the world. You'll start and finish your courses and program at the same time. This group of students will become your support network during your program, and part of your professional network once you graduate.
Program delivery
First year: International foundations (three semesters)
During your first year, you'll take a set program of English language, academic preparation and academic courses.
You'll take the same courses as students in the other four-year degree programs with academic and language support, and one global tourism elective.
Courses will provide you with a foundation in global citizenship, critical thinking, independent and inquiry-based learning, intercultural relationships, communication and social justice.
You'll explore:
- what it means to be a global citizen
- how to analyze global issues from different perspectives
- Canadian history and identity
And you'll learn through the in the following activities:
- writing blogs and filming newscasts
- researching and writing essays
- creating your own non-governmental organization
- engaging in lively discussions and debates
- volunteering with a local service organization and learning about Canadian society
Second year
During your second year, you'll take introductory courses related to global tourism management with other students in this program.
At the end of your second year, you'll have a 12-week work placement. You'll apply and expand your knowledge, while you gain valuable career experience.
Read first and second year course descriptions.
Third and fourth year (degree completion)
In your third and fourth years, you'll join other students in the degree completion program. This consists of four semesters of courses and another 12-week internship.
You'll engage with professionals from the tourism sector and experienced faculty who have worked around the world.
The program focuses on global tourism opportunities, trends and issues.
You'll graduate with tools, knowledge, practical experience and connections to advance your career in tourism and hospitality anywhere in the world. You'll learn to use entrepreneurship, leadership, and management skills to contribute to community and business development. And you'll graduate with a competitive advantage.
You can build to here
If you don't meet the English language requirement for this program, you may be conditionally admitted.
To meet the minimum level of English proficiency for the program, you can take an academic preparation and English language program at our Global Learning and Language Centre.
After you successfully complete one, two or three semesters in an intensive English program, you'll be ready to begin your first year of this undergraduate degree program.