What is MBA Tourism Management Degree: Course, Subjects, Eligibility, Admission, Scope, Salary, Career, Job Opportunities, and More

Are you passionate about travel, hospitality, and creating memorable experiences for tourists? If so, an MBA in Tourism Management might be the perfect stepping stone for your career aspirations. In this guide, we’ll not only explore every aspect of an MBA in Tourism Management, but we’ll also cover the course structure, eligibility criteria, career prospects, and the best colleges in India. So, let’s dive in and understand what this exciting course has to offer.

 

MBA Tourism Management Degree – Overview

Do you want to dive into the exciting world of tourism? An MBA in Tourism Management is a specialized postgraduate degree designed for those who want to succeed in the travel and hospitality industry. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to manage tourism-related businesses, such as travel agencies, hotels, resorts, and more. It offers valuable insights into the dynamic nature of tourism, and more importantly, how to meet the diverse needs of travelers. Therefore, this degree not only helps you grow your skills but also prepares you for the challenges of the tourism industry.

 

MBA Tourism Management Course Objectives

An MBA in Tourism Management is designed with specific objectives in mind, which include:

• Industry Insights: The course aims to provide a deep understanding of the tourism and hospitality industry, including the challenges and opportunities it presents. By doing so, students gain a broader view of the industry and its complexities.

• Management Skills: The program is tailored to develop essential management skills in key areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and customer service. These skills are not only important for any business but are specifically applied to the tourism sector, which requires specialized knowledge and strategy.

• Sustainable Practices: Moreover, the course focuses on the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism practices, which are necessary to ensure minimal environmental impact. As a result, students are trained to think about the long-term effects of tourism and how to make it more eco-friendly.

• Strategic Planning: The MBA also equips students with the ability to strategize and plan effectively for tourism businesses. This includes the ability to foresee challenges, set goals, and implement solutions that help the business grow and succeed.

• Leadership: Finally, the program emphasizes the development of leadership qualities, helping students make informed decisions in the tourism industry. By fostering these skills, students are prepared to take on leadership roles and manage teams in various tourism businesses.

 

MBA Tourism Management Course Highlights

Here’s a quick overview of the key highlights of an MBA in Tourism Management:

Aspect	Details
Full Form	Master of Business Administration in Tourism Management
Course Level	Postgraduate
Course Duration	2 years
Eligibility	Graduation in any discipline
Course Fee	INR 2 lakhs to INR 10 lakhs
Examination Type	Semester-based
Admission Process	Entrance exams or merit-based
Average Salary After Degree	INR 4 lakhs – 20 lakhs per annum
Recruiting Companies After Degree	Hotels, travel agencies, airlines, event management companies, and more.

 

MBA Tourism Management Course Duration

The MBA in Tourism Management is usually a 2-year program. It is divided into four semesters. During these two years, students learn many things about tourism. They also get practical experience through internships and industry work. Moreover, the course includes core subjects, electives, and many hands-on projects. So, this mix helps students learn both theory and practice.

 

MBA Tourism Management Course Eligibility Criteria

To study for an MBA in Tourism Management, students must meet a few rules. These rules are called eligibility criteria. Let’s understand them below:

• Educational Background: First, students must have a bachelor’s degree in any subject. This degree must be from a recognized university or college.

• Qualifying Exam: Also, some colleges may ask students to take entrance exams. These may include exams like CAT, MAT, XAT, or state-level tests.

• Minimum Marks: Usually, students need at least 50% marks in their graduation. But sometimes, this may be different based on the college.

 

MBA Tourism Management Course Admission Process

The way to get into an MBA in Tourism Management can be different. It depends on the college. There are a few common ways:

• Entrance Exams: Some colleges hold their own entrance exams. Students must pass these to get selected. So, preparing well is important.

• National Level Entrance Exams: Many colleges also accept scores from national exams like CAT or MAT. These exams are taken by students all over India.

• Merit-Based: Sometimes, admission is based only on marks. This means students are selected based on how well they did in their previous studies.

 

Top Entrance Exams For MBA Tourism Management Degree in India

There are many entrance exams used for MBA admissions in India. These exams are also needed for joining Tourism Management programs. So, if you want to join this course, you must know about the top exams.

• CAT (Common Admission Test): This is one of the most popular MBA entrance exams in India. It is accepted by many top B-schools that offer different MBA specializations, including Tourism Management.

• MAT (Management Aptitude Test): This test is conducted by AIMA. It is also a well-known national-level exam. Many MBA colleges accept MAT scores.

• XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test): This exam is held by XLRI. Moreover, over 150 colleges in India accept XAT scores for MBA programs.

• CMAT (Common Management Admission Test): This exam is managed by AICTE. It is accepted by many good management institutes across India.

• SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test): This test is needed for getting into Symbiosis International University and all of its affiliated colleges.

So, each of these exams checks your knowledge and thinking skills. However, the best exam for you depends on which college you want to apply to. Therefore, always check the college’s admission needs. Then, you can prepare in the right way.

 

MBA Tourism Management Course Fees

The course fees for an MBA in Tourism Management can be different in each college. In fact, the total cost depends on many things like the college name, its location, and its reputation.

Usually, the fees range between INR 2 lakhs and INR 10 lakhs. But don’t worry, because many colleges offer scholarships to help students. So, you should check if the college you like gives any scholarship options. That way, you can save money.

Besides, it is also very important to visit the official website of the college. There, you can find full details about the fees. You should also check for extra charges like exam fees, hostel charges, and study materials. That way, you will be fully ready before you apply.

 

MBA Tourism Management: Subjects & Syllabus

The syllabus of an MBA in Tourism Management is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the tourism and hospitality industry. While specific subjects and course structure may vary between institutions, here are some common subjects you can expect to study:

1. Tourism Marketing and Management: This subject covers the fundamentals of tourism marketing, promotion, and management.
2. Hospitality Management: Students learn about the principles of hospitality management and its significance in the tourism industry.

1. Tourism Planning and Development: This subject delves into the various aspects of tourism planning, including destination development and sustainability.
2. Tourism Economics: Understanding the economic factors and trends related to the tourism industry is crucial for effective management.
3. Travel and Tour Operations: This subject covers the operations involved in planning and executing tours and travel activities.
4. Tourism Policy and Legislation: Students explore the legal and regulatory aspects of the tourism sector, which are vital for compliance and ethical practices.
5. Sustainable Tourism: Sustainable tourism practices are increasingly important. This subject focuses on responsible tourism and minimizing environmental impacts.
6. Business Communication: Effective communication skills are essential in the tourism industry, where interaction with customers and clients is frequent.
7. Foreign Language: Learning a foreign language can be advantageous, especially in a global industry like tourism.
8. Financial Management: Understanding financial management is crucial for budgeting, financial planning, and decision-making in the tourism business.
9. Research Methodology: Students learn research techniques and methodologies, which are valuable for conducting studies and projects.
10. Internship and Industry Training: Many programs include internships to provide real-world experience in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Keep in mind that the syllabus may differ from one institution to another. Always refer to the specific curriculum provided by the college or university you plan to enroll in.

 

MBA Tourism Management: Specialization

While an MBA in Tourism Management already gives a focus on the tourism and hospitality industry, some colleges also offer extra specializations. These help students shape their studies according to their interests. As a result, students can better prepare for their dream jobs. Some common specializations are:

• Hotel Management: This teaches how to manage hotels and lodges well.

• Tourism Marketing: Here, students learn to use smart ideas to promote tourism services.

• Adventure Tourism: This is good for those who want to plan fun adventure trips and eco-tours.

• Event Management: This helps students plan and manage tourism events and conferences.

• Cruise Management: This is for students who want to work in the cruise tourism world.

• Eco-Tourism: This teaches about sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices.

Because of these options, students can choose what suits them best. So, they become stronger job candidates.

 

Why Studying MBA Tourism Management is Important?

Studying for an MBA in Tourism Management is important for many helpful reasons. It offers many benefits, both now and later in your career:

• Industry Knowledge: First of all, you learn how the tourism industry works. You also learn to deal with its challenges and spot new chances.

• Management Skills: Next, the course builds your skills in marketing, finance, and operations. These are key in any tourism job.

• Career Advancement: With this degree, you can move up and apply for higher roles like manager or team leader.

• Global Opportunities: Since tourism is a global field, you can also look for jobs in other countries.

• Entrepreneurship: If you wish to start your own tourism business, this MBA gives you the tools to begin.

• Networking: During your course, you also meet classmates, teachers, and tourism experts. They can help you in the future.

• Innovation: As the tourism world changes fast, this course helps you stay updated with new trends.

• Higher Earning Potential: Because of your skills, you can earn more than those with just a basic degree.

• Resilience: Sometimes, the tourism field faces problems. This course trains you to handle them with care.

• Sustainable Practices: You also learn how to promote green tourism, which protects nature.

So, with all these points, this course clearly gives you a bright future.

 

Salary After MBA Tourism Management Course in India

After completing your MBA in Tourism Management, you can get different salaries. However, it mostly depends on your job level and experience. Let’s see:

• Entry-Level Positions: At the start, you may earn between INR 3 to 6 lakhs per year. These jobs include tourism coordinator, travel agent, or junior marketing roles.

• Mid-Level Positions: Then, after some years of work, you may earn INR 6 to 10 lakhs. These jobs could be tourism manager, hotel manager, or marketing manager.

• Senior-Level Positions: Later, when you reach higher roles like director of tourism or regional manager, your pay may go up to INR 10 to 20 lakhs or more per year, based on where you work.

Still, remember these are just rough figures. In fact, your real salary may change due to bonuses, company type, and job location. So, it is wise to check the full offer before you join.

 

MBA Tourism Management Future Scope in India

The future scope for students with an MBA in Tourism Management in India looks bright. So, let us see the key areas and new trends in this field.

Government Sector Opportunities:

• Tourism Departments: Many state and central government tourism departments often hire trained people. They need help to manage and promote tourist spots.
• Public Sector Companies: Also, government-owned companies like the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) give jobs in different roles.

Private Sector Opportunities:

• Hotels and Resorts: First of all, the hospitality industry gives many jobs. You can work as a hotel manager, resort manager, or more.
• Travel Agencies: Also, travel agencies look for people to help with tour planning, sales, and customer service.
• Event Management Companies: Many event companies need smart people to plan tourism events.
• Adventure and Eco-Tourism Firms: Now, because adventure tourism is becoming popular, there are new jobs in these fun areas too.
• Cruise Lines: In the same way, cruise tourism is growing. So, cruise companies are hiring for manager roles.
• Online Travel Companies: Today, even online travel agencies (OTAs) want experts. You may work in marketing, product handling, or even tech areas.

Entrepreneurship:

Besides jobs, some students may also start their own tourism business. For example, they may open travel agencies, event firms, or even run tour operations.

Sustainable Tourism:

Now, the world is looking at sustainable tourism. So, students who know about green travel are in high demand.

Career Progression

With more work experience and good skills, you may move to top jobs. For example, you may become a tourism director, regional head, or even a marketing chief.

Read more: Future Scope of Hotel Management Degree

 

Career or Job Opportunities after MBA Tourism Management Degree

If you finish an MBA in Tourism Management, then you will find many career opportunities. In fact, this degree gives you many options in both government and private sectors. So, here are the most common jobs after this course:

• Tourism Manager: First, you will handle all work in a tourist place or a travel company. This includes planning, marketing, and looking after money matters.

• Hotel Manager: Also, you will manage hotels or lodging places every day. You must make sure guests are happy and comfortable.

• Marketing Manager: Next, you will help promote places to visit, travel offers, and other tourism services.

• Event Manager: In this job, you will plan and run many events, meetings, or tour programs.

• Travel Agent: Then, you will help people plan their trips, choose hotels, and book tickets.

• Tour Operator: In this role, you will build travel packages and manage everything, so the journey is smooth.

Government Jobs After MBA Tourism Management

Now, if you want to work for the government, this course can also help. After all, many departments need tourism experts. So, here are some good jobs:

• Tourism Officer: You will work with state or national tourism offices. There, you will make plans and carry them out.

• Tourism Development Officer: In this job, you will try to improve tourist spots and bring in more visitors.

• Hotel and Accommodation Inspector: Also, you will visit hotels and check their cleanliness, safety, and service.

• Cultural Program Officer: You will arrange events and shows that show local art, music, or dance.

• Regional Tourism Manager: Lastly, you will manage all tourism work in a certain state or district.

Private Jobs After MBA Tourism Management Degree Course

Now let us look at the private sector. In this area too, many jobs are waiting. So, here are some top choices:

• Tourism Marketing Manager: Here, you will lead the promotion of travel spots and make more people interested.

• Customer Relations Manager: In this role, you will listen to customer problems, fix them, and keep them happy.

• Online Travel Specialist: You will work on travel websites, manage offers, and improve user experience.

• Destination Management Executive: Also, you will plan trips to places of interest and make sure everything runs well.

• Event Planner: Again, you will create and handle travel shows, cultural nights, and other fun events.

• Travel Technology Specialist: You will build travel apps, support online bookings, and work with data.

 

Top Companies Hiring MBA Tourism Management Graduates

Now, let us look at the best companies that hire people with this degree. These firms are known in India and abroad. So, here are the top names:

• MakeMyTrip: This is one of the top online travel platforms in India. It helps with flights, hotels, and tours.

• Thomas Cook India: Also, this big travel and finance company has many jobs in tourism.

• Yatra.com: This well-known site helps people book hotels, flights, and vacations.

• Taj Hotels: This luxury hotel group is part of the famous Tata Group.

• Cox & Kings: Moreover, this is one of the oldest and best tour companies in the country.

• Goibibo: It is another online travel company that offers great travel deals.

• Air India: This is India’s national airline and offers many jobs in travel and tourism.

• Hyatt Hotels: This international hotel group has many hotels in India and across the world.

• Expedia: A big name in global travel services, it helps with bookings and more.

• Indian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC): This government body runs many hotels and tourism sites in India.

So, as you can see, there are many job roles in these companies. You can choose from marketing, event planning, hotel work, or customer service. In short, the tourism field is growing fast, and many chances are waiting for you.

 

Required Skills for MBA Tourism Management Course

To do well in tourism management, you need some important skills. These skills will help you during your MBA course. They will also help later in your job. While many skills will grow during the course, having them early is also useful. Here are the top skills you should have:

• Communication: First of all, you must be able to speak and write clearly. This helps you talk to clients, customers, and team members. It also helps in marketing and promoting services.

• Customer Service: Since tourism is a service-based field, it is very important to treat customers well. Giving a good experience is always needed.

• Management Skills: You must be able to manage teams, work, and resources. So, learning to manage well is key to success.

• Problem-Solving: Sometimes, problems may come. You must solve them fast. This skill helps you work better in busy places.

• Flexibility: As we know, travel and tourism are full of changes. So, you must be able to adjust and stay calm.

• Interpersonal Skills: Since you will meet many people, you must be good at building relationships and working with others.

• Leadership: As you grow in your job, you may lead teams. So, having the skill to lead is very helpful.

In short, if you grow these skills along with your MBA studies, you will do well. These will help you stand out in the tourism industry.

 

Certificate Courses After MBA Tourism Management Degree

Even after your MBA in Tourism Management, learning should not stop. Doing certificate courses can make your skills better. These short courses can help you learn more in some areas. Here are some good options:

• Digital Marketing: Today, most people plan trips online. So, this course helps you use the internet to promote tourism places and services.

• Event Planning: If you like planning events, this course is a good choice. You will learn how to manage tourism events better.

• Sustainability in Tourism: Nowadays, people care about saving nature. This course teaches how to do eco-friendly tourism.

• Foreign Language Proficiency: If you know other languages, you can work with people from other countries. So, this course helps you talk to international tourists.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Since tourists must feel happy, this course helps you understand their needs and feedback.

• Adventure Tourism Management: If you love adventure trips, this course is a great choice. You can work in trekking, rafting, and other fun travel jobs.

• Hotel Management: If your dream is to work in hotels, this course will help. You will learn how to manage hotel services.

All in all, these certificate courses are very useful. They show you want to learn more. They also help you get a better job in the tourism industry.

 

MBA Tourism Management or MBA in HR Management, Which is Better?

Both MBA in Tourism Management and MBA in Human Resource (HR) Management offer distinct career paths and opportunities. The choice between the two depends on your interests, career goals, and strengths. Here’s a brief comparison:

MBA in Tourism Management:

• Ideal if you’re passionate about the travel and tourism industry.
• Offers a specialized education in tourism operations, marketing, and management.
• Opens doors to careers in tourism, hospitality, event management, and more.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and global industry.
• Focuses on customer service, event planning, and tourism marketing.

MBA in HR Management:

• Suited for individuals interested in managing human resources, employee relations, and organizational development.
• Leads to careers in HR departments of various organizations.
• Opportunity to work on recruitment, employee training, performance management, and labor relations.
• Requires strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
• Ideal for those interested in the people management aspect of businesses.

Read More: What is MBA Human Resource (MBA HR) Degree: Course, Subjects, Eligibility, Admission, Scope, Salary, Career, Jobs

Ultimately, the decision should align with your interests and career aspirations. If you’re passionate about tourism and hospitality, an MBA in Tourism Management is the way to go. If you’re more inclined toward managing people and organizational development, an MBA in HR Management might be the better fit.

 

How to Choose a Top MBA Tourism Management College?

Choosing the best MBA in Tourism Management college is a big step. It is very important for your education and your future job. So, before you pick a college, you should look at some points. These will help you make the right choice easily.

• Accreditation: First of all, check if the college is approved by the right education boards. If it is approved, then it means it gives quality education and follows all rules.

• Faculty: Next, try to know about the teachers. They must be qualified and must have good experience. Because of this, they can teach well and guide you in the right way.

• Course Structure: Also, look at the course details. The subjects, extra topics, and options must match your career plans. That way, you can learn what you truly need.

• Infrastructure: After that, check the buildings and tools. A good college must have libraries, labs, and classrooms with all needed things. Moreover, these things help you study better.

• Industry Connect: Besides this, it is helpful if the college has links with tourism companies. Because of these links, you may get good internships and job offers more easily.

• Location: You should also think about where the college is. If it is close to tourist places or big cities, then you may get more chances to learn, travel, and find work.

• Placements: Lastly, always check the placement record. Find out what kind of companies come for hiring and how many students get good jobs. That way, you can plan your future better.

In the end, if you follow all these steps carefully and check everything, you will surely find a top college. So, take your time, ask questions, and make the best choice for your MBA in Tourism Management.

 

Top Colleges for MBA Tourism Management Degree in India

Here is a list of top colleges in India that offer MBA in Tourism Management. These colleges are great choices if you want to study tourism.

1. Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Gwalior
This is a top government college for tourism. It offers an MBA in Tourism and Travel Management, and it also gives good industry support.

2. Christ University, Bengaluru
Christ University has a nice MBA course in Tourism and Travel Management. It offers great placement help as well.

3. Amity University, Noida
Amity provides an MBA in Tourism with global learning options. The campus includes smart classes and good labs too.

4. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi
BHU is a trusted public university. It offers an MBA in Tourism Administration, and it also has a strong study plan.

5. Pondicherry University, Puducherry
Pondicherry University has a good MBA Tourism course. It gives quality education at an affordable fee as well.

6. University of Mumbai, Mumbai
Mumbai University offers an MBA in Travel and Tourism. Its location helps students find more job options too.

7. Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab
LPU provides an MBA in Tourism and Hospitality. Students also gain industry experience through regular field visits.

8. Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam
This university has an MBA in Tourism. The campus is beautiful, and it also gives a peaceful learning space.

9. Chandigarh University, Chandigarh
Chandigarh University offers an MBA in Tourism and Hospitality. It connects students with top companies and recruiters as well.

10. Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), Thiruvananthapuram
KITTS is a great state college for tourism studies. It provides hands-on learning, and students also enjoy real-world training.

 

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Key Takeaway

An MBA in Tourism Management is a great way to enter a fast-growing and changing industry. It gives you the knowledge and skills needed to do well in tourism, hospitality, and event management jobs.

As you start this educational journey, you must not only focus on getting your degree but also try to find new ways to learn and grow. You should also build a strong network and always follow the latest trends in the industry.

The tourism and hospitality sector needs people who bring new ideas, give great service, and think with a global mindset. So, your MBA can truly help you move ahead if you stay active and keep learning.