MSc Ecotourism

You’ll gain a variety of scientific and business skills including ecological field skills, contract tendering, questionnaire design and analysis, community engagement approaches, proposal and report writing. An understanding of the diversity of living organisms and their taxonomy is fa core component of the course, together with an appreciation of the impact of humans on their environment. The practical and applied nature of this course encourages the development of generic skills including communication, IT (GIS, R), problem solving, statistical analysis, research and team-working, all designed to enhance your employability. You’ll benefit from an intensive field course to help embed practical skills in sampling, identification and data analysis. It is likely there will be a choice of two field courses; one abroad (probably in Tobago for two weeks) with an additional cost (approximately £1,) and one in Scotland for three weeks with minimal associated costs. These usually take place in early May. This is a one year full-time course and is divided into three trimesters. You can choose to start in September or January, however the development of theory and practice are best facilitated with a September start. You'll be taught using a variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, field trips and independent study, supported with information on the virtual learning environment. If you do not have a biological background, you need to be aware that science lies at the core of this course and have an enthusiasm to learn how to study and manage the natural world. Your option choices from a range of business and science modules will then allow you to tailor your programme to your own interests. Subjects include Scientific methods Humans and wildlife Field and laboratory skills Plus a choice of one module from Environmental management for ecotourism Tourism concepts and issues Managing heritage tourism And also two modules from Case studies in international tourism Management of aquatic protected areas Experience design and management for tourism, hospitality and events Natural area tourism In addition you will undertake a research project on a subject of your choice. Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study. You can view a list of all current modules in our module catalogue.