An innovative tourism and visitor economy degrees will be launched by the University of Cumbria later this year.
The programmes include paid industry placements, designed to equip students with real-world experience and a deep understanding of place-based learning in one of the UK’s most significant tourism destinations.
Set to launch in September, the new programmes will be delivered from the university’s Ambleside campus.
The programmes include BA (hons) tourism and visitor economy management, BA (hons) tourism and visitor economy management (top-up) as well as MBA tourism and visitor economy management.
Each includes assessed paid industry placements in every year of study. The university said it made sure that students graduated with substantial hands-on experience while being financially supported and academically rewarded for their professional practice.
The programmes have been developed in close collaboration with industry partners, including Cumbria Tourism, reflecting the region’s strategic importance as a visitor economy where tourism represents around a third of all industry activity.
Local employers have actively contributed to programme design and are committed to supporting placements and future employment opportunities.
The curriculum is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, embedding principles of sustainability and global responsibility throughout.
Students will engage in real-world projects, live briefs, and simulations, building professional confidence while developing the skills and competencies required in a competitive global job market.
Angela Anthonisz, principal lecturer in tourism management at the University of Cumbria said: “These programmes represent a new approach to tourism education.
“By combining paid, assessed placements with teaching and learning in a world-class destination, we are ensuring our graduates leave with both academic knowledge and meaningful professional experience. This is place-based learning at its most impactful.”
Th university added: “As the only tourism programme in the UK based within both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, the courses offer students a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of managing tourism businesses in one of the busiest and most environmentally sensitive visitor destinations in the country.
“Graduates will emerge with a powerful blend of theory and practice, positioning them strongly for careers across the visitor economy, locally, nationally, and internationally.”
