Masters Program in Tourism Destination Development

Program Overview

The Master’s Program in Tourism Destination Development at Dalarna University is designed for individuals who aspire to build a career in tourism management, focusing on the development and sustainable growth of tourism destinations. The program offers an in-depth understanding of how to design, manage, and promote tourist destinations while considering the economic, social, and environmental impacts. Students will gain the necessary skills to work in both public and private sector roles, including tourism boards, governmental organizations, destination marketing firms, and travel consultancy businesses. With an emphasis on sustainable development, the program also prepares students to create responsible and innovative solutions for the global tourism industry.

Curriculum: The Master’s Program in Tourism Destination Development at Dalarna University provides a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills in tourism management. Key areas of study include destination marketing, sustainable tourism, hospitality management, and tourism economics. The curriculum also explores cultural heritage, community-based tourism development, and the challenges of managing tourism destinations in a globalized world. Courses are designed to give students an understanding of the critical issues facing the tourism industry today and equip them with the tools to develop successful, sustainable tourism strategies. The program incorporates hands-on projects, case studies, and industry-specific seminars to ensure students gain relevant experience and insights.

Research Focus: Dalarna University has a strong research focus in the field of tourism destination development. The university’s research emphasizes sustainable tourism, tourism planning, and destination management, particularly in the context of developing regions and emerging tourist destinations. Faculty members and researchers at Dalarna University explore topics such as the impact of tourism on local economies, communities, and environments. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research, contributing to global discussions on responsible tourism, the future of travel, and the preservation of cultural and natural resources. This research focus ensures that students are not only gaining theoretical knowledge but also engaging in practical, real-world solutions for tourism development.

Industry Engagement: The Master’s Program in Tourism Destination Development benefits from strong industry connections and partnerships with tourism-related organizations, including government agencies, non-profits, tourism boards, and travel companies. Dalarna University encourages students to gain industry experience through internships, collaborative projects, and guest lectures by experts in the field. These engagements provide students with the opportunity to network with professionals, understand the latest industry trends, and apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges. Additionally, students can attend international conferences, workshops, and events related to tourism development, expanding their professional network and enhancing their career prospects.

Global Perspective: A key strength of the Master’s Program in Tourism Destination Development is its global perspective. The program is designed to address the universal challenges and opportunities in tourism, while also focusing on local and regional contexts. Students explore tourism from an international viewpoint, gaining insights into how global tourism trends impact destination management. The program includes case studies from around the world, allowing students to compare and contrast different approaches to tourism development. Students will also have the chance to participate in exchange programs and internships abroad, providing them with firsthand experience of international tourism destinations and expanding their understanding of global tourism practices.