The global tourism industry's contribution to GDP was approximately 7.7 trillion USD in 2022. There were over 295 million jobs in the sector, a number which is expected to increase to 430 million by 2033. Incorporating many industries such as accommodation, transport, attractions and more, it saw a huge surge after pandemic restrictions were lifted, with its percentage share of the global market almost fully returned to pre-pandemic numbers. Both domestically and internationally, the sector plays a crucial part in many economies, with more people joining the industry every year.

With a student experience unlike any other, it may come as no surprise that 95% of our graduates are in full-time employment or further education (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).

Studying BA International Tourism Management at the Edge Hotel School will prepare you to take up management roles in the UK or overseas in cruise ships, airlines, events and visitor attractions or travel and holiday organisations. The course includes integrated work experience across various departments in Wivenhoe House during your first year, a luxury hotel on Essex's Colchester campus, as well as integrating contributions from industry speakers, consultancy projects and live project experiences.

Whilst your time in the hotel will help you understand how hospitality businesses work, the main highlight will be your time working alongside various tourism businesses on collaborative projects. You'll be studying in Britain's oldest recorded city filled with a rich history that attracts tourists from all over the world. Geographically close to London, the coast and with six international airports within 2 hours from campus, you'll be working with local tourism hubs and teams at the city's main tourist attractions such as Colchester Castle and Visit Essex.

Study abroad

Your education extends beyond the university campus. We support you in expanding your education through offering the opportunity to spend a year or a term studying abroad at one of our partner universities. The four-year version of our degree allows you to spend the third year studying or employed on a placement abroad, while otherwise remaining identical to the three-year course.

Studying abroad allows you to experience other cultures and languages, to broaden your degree socially and academically and to demonstrate to employers that you are mature, adaptable and organised.

If you spend a full year abroad you'll only pay 15% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year. You won't pay any tuition fees to the host university in the country you will be studying in.