MSc - Tourism Management

Originally from Denmark, Betina elected to study her Masters degree at BU because of our outstanding reputation in the tourism field.

Her decision to study at BU was made even easier thanks to the response that she received when she enquired about a place on her course. "I received a very warm welcome from the first time I enquired, and that hospitable attitude continued throughout my application and my time at the University," says Betina.

The friendly environment helped Betina settle in quickly, and get on with the serious business of studying for her degree, which in her own words, she has loved! "The degree is structured very logically and the academics are very knowledgeable and professional. They have provided me with different academic tools that I know I can use in practice in the future, and I have learned about different cultures and tourism in different countries thanks to the international environment that BU fosters. There are students from all over the world and the academic staff have all worked in the tourism industry and carried out research in many different countries. It has been very inspirational."

As much as Betina has enjoyed throwing herself into her studies, she recongises that it is ‘very important’ to do something away from academic life. “Whether you join a sports club, a social club, or get involved in other activities, it enriches your life, develops your social skills and helps you to meet people from other courses,” she says.

BU’s great location has also been something that Betina has taken full advantage of during her time in the UK. “It is close to the sea, near to the New Forest national park, and within easy reach of lots of interesting cities in southern England. I like outdoor activities such as running and walking and Bournemouth and the surrounding areas offer lots of cycling and walking paths.”

“As a result of the global nature of my course, I feel I am more independent than ever and have developed my personal and professional skills. Being part of such an international environment means I have made contact with people from all over the world, which I consider to be an advantage in my future career. I am confident that my Masters from BU will be of huge benefit to me in the future.”

Why Tourism Management?

I am happiest when I am travelling. The research itself is enlightening. I have often planned travel and accommodation for myself as well as friends and family. All those successfully executed plans gave me a sense of achievement and pushed me in the direction of taking formal education in this field doing something I love.

Tourism is now recognized as not just a leisure activity but an economic activity of global significance. The attention given to tourism by governments, both public and private sector organizations, and academics had increased multi-fold in recent decades. Tourists are continually looking for new travel destinations and experiences, and countries generating these are getting their place on the global tourism maps. A master’s degree in the field of Tourism management will equip me with the skills to enter and succeed in the competitive world of tourism.

Why BU?
Honestly, I was very confused when I had to finalize the university. I applied to universities that are known to run successful courses in the field of Tourism. Here is why I chose BU:

Location:

Anyone who loves the beach cannot resist the charm of living in a seaside town. What better place to study Tourism Management than a tourist destination?

Scholarship:

I was eligible for the Academic Excellence Scholarship worth £3,500, which would decrease my fees considerably, especially compared to other universities. BU automatically processes the scholarship, and you get the confirmation on your CAS.

Open Days:

The communication from BU was amazing. There were regular seminars and open days held by BU international team as well as the India team. It gave a sense of familiarity and comfort.

Why the UK?
UK universities seem to be pretty broad-minded when it comes to acceptance. I had completed my graduation in Accounting and Finance 12 years back. Not only was I returning to academics after a very long time, but I also wanted to study something for which I didn’t have any educational background or work experience.

Secondly, the UK has a cosmopolitan population. And thirdly, it’s geographical location. It is closer to India compared to the USA and has numerous direct flights to my home city, Mumbai. Europe is so near! Yes, you still need to get a Schengen Visa, but the flights are short and cheap!