International Hospitality Management
This fully accredited (BA Hons) International Hospitality Management degree from Robert Gordon University combines both the academic and specialist aspects of International Hospitality Management.
It provides you with the opportunity to study and experience the industry’s many sub-sectors through both practical and theoretical teaching methods, including field trips, placement and industry masterclasses.
We have strong industry relationships which ensures the course is continuously evolving in line with sector demand, providing you with many opportunities to meet and listen to working professionals in the hospitality industry through guest lecturers and attending conferences and events.
Complementing the specific hospitality focus, the course also emphasises a strong understanding of the key management disciplines, ensuring you are ready to step right into management positions in your chosen field.
1st in Scotland for satisfaction with teaching in Hospitality, Event Management and Tourism (Guardian University Guide 2024).
2nd in Scotland for graduation prospects: outcomes Tourism, Travel, Transport and Heritage Studies (Complete University Guide 2023).
Year 1
This year provides a solid introduction to the Hospitality industry with further focus on contextualised relevant management disciplines. You will learn through a unique sect of modules including Service Sector Management, Marketing, Food and Beverage Operations and Working in Hospitality Environments.
Year 2
This year continues to focus on both industry specific and general management areas including Food and Beverage Management and Hotel Operation Management, helping to develop the key skills and specialist knowledge expected of a manager within the industry.
Year 3
The key focus is on industry experience, with a choice of year long industry placements available locally, nationally and internationally. If you choose to not follow a formal placement route you will study management disciplines in depth and have the opportunity of a shorter six month placement.
Year 4
Includes in-depth self-directed study and the opportunity to increase your understanding of specialist areas of Hospitality Management. This year develops your strategic and critical thinking abilities and your ability to analyse and critically appraise problems. Your Research Project applies this through researching a self-selected tourism topic.
Our sustainability commitment
It is essential that all hospitality graduates have a critical understanding of how the hospitality industry impacts on environment and people, and the strategies all stakeholders can adopt in order to minimise negative sustainable impacts. Exposure to industry through practical experience provides our students with valuable, first-hand insights to sustainable practices. Throughout the BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management course you will develop your understanding of sustainability within varied hospitality sectors and cultures and be encouraged to consider, evaluate and lead change in terms of current industry practices. An issue driven approach to sustainability is taken which explores emerging relevant developments including food miles, food waste, ethical production, consumer trends and technological advancements.
This course is committed to United Nation's Sustainability Goals 8, 12 and 13. Find out more on the United Nations website.
Events
We have on campus and virtual events to help you find out more about study, student experience and future career paths.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module informationLearning Methods
Teaching is through a combination of lectures and contextualised modules; you are encouraged to discuss theory and ideas and develop your skills of analysis and interpretation. General management lectures may consist of over 100 students; subject specific tutorials will be around 25 students. Each subject is nominally three hours per week over a 12 week term.
Throughout the course, there is a significant focus on industry experience and we engage with key players in the hospitality industry extensively, particularly those who influence the direction and growth of the industry in the UK. You will have the opportunity to build your practical experience through field trips, guest speakers, masterclasses and live client projects.
Activity Summary
- Lectures - 16 students per group, 4 hours per week
- Tutorial - 16 students per group, 8 hours per week
- Project Supervision - 6 students per group, 1 hour per week
- External Visits - 16 students per group, 16 hours per week
How long is a BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management course?
An International Hospitality Management degree can be successfully completed in 4 years, in which the opportunity to receive the necessary skills are obtained.
Independent Study
In Year 4, a substantial level of effective and committed independent study is required. This involves wider reading but also critical reflection. You will be expected to spend around 20-25 hours a week conducting independent study. Much of this will be directly linked to the Research Project.
Staff Delivering on This Course
Academic staff who teach on this course have extensive experience within the hospitality sector having worked in variety of roles in Tourism, Hotel Management, Hospitality and Events.
Our staff have either achieved Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, or are working towards this. This is a professional recognition of lecturer practice, impact and leadership in teaching and learning.
Other staff members include industry experts, RGU lecturers from other subject areas, postgraduate research students and media technicians.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed each year:
Year 1
- 1 written exam, typically for 2 hours
- 3 reports
- 2 oral assessments
- 2 practical skill assessments
Year 2
- 1 written exam
- 2 written assignments, including essays
- 3 reports
- 1 practical skills assessment
Year 3
- 2 written assignments, including essays
- 4 reports
- 1 oral assessment
- 1 poster presentation
Year 4
- 6 reports
- 1 dissertation
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
Placements
In Year 3, you will have the opportunity to undertake a 48-week paid placement locally, nationally or internationally. On the taught/direct entry route, Year 3 involves a taught Term 1 and the option of a 6-month placement in Term 2.
Past placements have been undertaken at The Mariner Hotel, Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel (France), AECC, Gleneagles, Burning Tree Country Club (USA) and Waccabuc Country Club (USA).
You can choose to source your own placement or access our Placement Office, who will support you in sourcing and validating a suitable position.
Study Abroad
In Years 2 and 3, there are opportunities to study with partner overseas institutions in Europe as part of the Study Abroad programme. For more information visit:
Job Prospects
Hospitality is a thriving and innovative business sector and there is a major demand for able graduates with in depth specialist knowledge and skills. There are fantastic opportunities for varied and challenging careers in this sector including management roles in events, hotels, tourist services and leisure, or more specialist roles in HR management and guest services.
Is International Hospitality Management a good career choice?
Previous BA International Hospitality Management graduates of Robert Gordon University have gone on to pursue the following careers:
- Front of House Manager
- Assistant Restaurant Manager
- Events Co-ordinator
- Clusters Sales Researcher for an International Hotel chain
- Brasserie Manager
What is needed for a BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management degree?
Standard Entry Requirements
- SQA Higher: BBCC
- GCE A Level: CCC
- Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H3H3H3H3
- IB Diploma: 26
Minimum Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:
Entry to Year 1
- SQA Higher: BCC/CCCC
Alternative Qualifications
We welcome applications from those with equivalent qualifications to those stated, including SVQs/NVQs, access programmes, Foundation Apprenticeships and overseas qualifications. Applications from students with non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis.
Applicants from Partner Colleges
A relevant HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for entry into Year 3.
Applicants from Foundation Pathway Providers
Entry to year 1 or year 2 may be possible for students who have completed a Foundation Certificate or Foundation Undergraduate Pathway programme, from an approved UK provider, at 60% or above. For courses which require a specific subjects match, such as English or Maths, these would need to provided in addition to the Pathway Programme Certificate or result.
Advanced Entry
All other applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.
International Students
International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Academic Year 2024-2025
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
| Year 2 | £1820 | |
| Year 3 | £1820 | |
| Year 4 | £1820 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £5890 |
| Year 2 | £5890 | |
| Year 3 | £5890 | |
| Year 4 | £5890 | |
EU Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £5890 |
| Year 2 | £5890 | |
| Year 3 | £5890 | |
| Year 4 | £5890 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £16490 |
| Year 2 | £16490 | |
| Year 3 | £16490 | |
| Year 4 | £16490 | |
Academic Year 2023-2024
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
| Year 2 | £1820 | |
| Year 3 (Full placement year) | £1820 | |
| Year 3 (Full academic year) | £1820 | |
| Year 4 | £1820 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £5660 |
| Year 2 | £5660 | |
| Year 3 (Full placement year) | £5660 | |
| Year 3 (Full academic year) | £5660 | |
| Year 4 | £5660 | |
EU Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £5660 |
| Year 2 | £5660 | |
| Year 3 (Full placement year) | £5660 | |
| Year 3 (Full academic year) | £5660 | |
| Year 4 | £5660 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £15860 |
| Year 2 | £15860 | |
| Year 3 (Full placement year) | £15860 | |
| Year 3 (Full academic year) | £15860 | |
| Year 4 | £15860 | |
Additional Costs
- £30 Travel (for study trips)
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with your placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Student Funding
If you are a Scottish resident, you may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding.
Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website:
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
Get in touch with our Student Admissions Service and we'll do our best to help.