best tourism university in uk

The best universities for travel and tourism in the UK

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Which are the best universities for travel and tourism Choosing which university you study at and indeed which course is best for you is a very important decision. Not only will it affect the next three years (or longer) of your life but it is likely to guide the course of your career and what opportunities will be available to you. 

League tables can be really confusing as there are so many different lists out there! One of the most reputable sources is the Guardian , where courses have been ranked according to subject area. Remember, there is more to consider than simply where a university is ranked (like research output, funding opportunities, teaching and excellence (TEF) score etc), but for those of you interesting in studying travel and tourism this list is a good place to start. 

Some of the institutions on the Guardian list are not included below. This is because courses are grouped into ‘Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism’. Because of this, courses in nutrition, sports and business are included. Universities that don’t offer any courses related to travel and/or tourism have not been included in this article.

The top 10 best universities for travel and tourism in the UK

Before you read on, you might find it helpful to watch my new video, where I explain which are the best universities for travel and tourism and why!

De Montfort

Based in Leicester, De Montfort offer various courses that fall into the travel and tourism bracket – BA Hons degrees in Arts and Festivals Management can be combined with dance or drama, or you could choose to study Global Arts Management. Another option is Arts and Festivals Management.

The University of Lincoln offers a BA in International Tourism Management. This includes a one-year work placement, so students can get amazing real-world experience as part of the course. They also offer masters degrees in this field, as well as an International Hospitality Management BA degree.

Central Lancashire 

UCLAN, as it is known, offers various courses in the Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management area. International Hospitality Management and International Tourism Management are two popular undergraduate courses here. They also offer ‘top up’ courses in hospitality and tourism management.

Glasgow Caledonian

This brilliant Scottish university offers International Tourism and Events Management as a full-time, four-year BA hons degree.

Coventry University offers courses in Tourism and Hospitality Management as well as International Tourism and Hospitality Management. You can also study HNCs and HNDs in Tourism and Hospitality Management. They, too, offer top-up courses. This is one of the best universities for travel and tourism in terms of the different levels of study offered.

Falmouth 

Located in Cornwall , one of the UK’s most beautiful areas, Falmouth offer a few related courses. One of these is Sustainable Tourism Management. With the boom in sustainable travel, this is a really interesting option. Others include Sustainable Festival Management and Creative Events Management.

Edinburgh Napier

You can choose from a variety of courses here. From International Tourism Management to International Tourism and Airline Management there is a wide range of options. International Tourism & Marketing Management, International Festival & Event Management with Tourism and International Hospitality Management & Tourism make it five. For something different, like the airline aspect, this is one of the best universities for travel and tourism.

Ulster 

Based in beautiful Ireland , Ulster offers two relevant courses: International Travel and Tourism Management, and International Hospitality Management. Both are BSc (Hons).

Greenwich University in London offers a Tourism Management course. You can choose to take this with a language, too. There is an extended four-year option, meaning you can walk away with an incredible skill set ready for a job in the tourism industry.

Bournemouth

Choose from full or top-up courses here. Options include Tourism Management as well as International Hospitality & Tourism Management, or International Hospitality Management.

The best universities for travel and tourism in the UK: 11-30

Another Southern university, Essex has a wide range of options too. Choose from Hotel Management or opt for Tourism Management, a 3-or-4-year course with a year abroad or placement year included in the latter. They also offer Hospitality Management, Events Management and more.

Sheffield Hallam

International Hospitality and Tourism Management, with a business option too, is a great course here. You can choose to take International Tourism Management instead, however, and combine it with French, Spanish or German if you want to. With a range of short courses and top-up available too, it’s no surprise that Sheffield Hallam is on the list of best universities for travel and tourism.

Huddersfield

There are fewer options here, but they do offer Business with Travel and Tourism Management as a 4-year sandwich course. You can take Events Management as a full time course, though. This can be a great ‘in’ to the tourism industry!

Oxford Brookes

At Oxford Brookes, you can take International Hospitality and Tourism Management as a full-time BSc (Hons) course. They also offer Marketing and Events Management as a 4-year sandwich course.

Manchester Met

Located in one of the cities with the best nightlife in the UK, as well as one of the best music scenes, Manchester Met is a great choice. They offer an International Tourism Management degree, too. You can do this as a 3-year course or make it four years with a foundation year. They also offer an International Hospitality Business Management degree.

This is another uni with a wide range of options. From Tourism Management BSc (Hons) to International Tourism and Hospitality Management you’ll be spoilt for choice. They offer Tourism and Aviation Management too. This is another brilliant specialised degree in the field. Sunderland offers foundation degrees and top-ups too!

Queen Margaret 

Located in Edinburgh, QMU have two related courses. These are Events and Festival Management, and International Hospitality and Tourism Management. Both are full-time, four-year BAs.

Canterbury Christ Church

At CCC, ‘Tourism Studies’ can be combined with many different degrees. These include Business Management, Digital Media, International Relations, Psychology, Sports & Exercise Science, and many, many more. They also offer a standalone Tourism Management course. For combing this with your other passions, this has to be one of the best universities for travel and tourism.

Located in the North West of England, this small but lovely university offer various related courses. International Tourism Management can be combined with a language, or with Marketing Management. There is also a ‘Professional Placement Year’ option. You can also combine Events Management and Business Management with the above, or opt for Events and Festivals Management as a standalone course.

Strathclyde

Up in Scotland, Strathclyde Uni is a popular choice. Hospitality and Tourism Management is a four year course here. It can be combined with various other subjects, like French or Finance, Marketing or Accounting. There is also an International Business degree available.

Here you can take Hospitality, Tourism and Events Management as a BA (Hons). You can also choose from standalone Events Management, or International Tourism Management.

Arts University Bournemouth

There isn’t as much choice here, but their Creative Events Management course still gets great reviews. It’s a 3-year, full-time course.

At Derby, you can study International Tourism Management or International Hospitality Management. Both can include a foundation year. There is also an Events Management course available here.

Leeds Beckett

Choose from Events Management, International Tourism Management or Hospitality Business Management. Some can be combined with marketing, too!

Birmingham 

In terms of studying travel and tourism related courses at the University of Birmingham, there isn’t much choice – Applied Golf Management Studies might get you into travelling, though! However, courses like Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University College Birmingham are accredited by UoB.

South Wales

The University of South Wales is a great choice. Located in Pontypridd, you can choose from a variety of related courses. Hotel and Hospitality Management is an interesting 3-year BA (Hons), and the university also offers International Events Management as a 3 or 4 year course.

The variety of courses at Surrey make it one of the best universities for travel and tourism. International Hospitality and Tourism Management, International Tourism Management and International Tourism Management make up the bulk of this department. These courses can be done over 3, 4 or even 5 years. Combine with a foundation year, or with a course in Transport.

Cardiff Met

Degrees here are 3 years, or 4 to include a foundation degree. Choose from International Hospitality Management or International Tourism Management.

Robert Gordon

Located in gorgeous Aberdeen, you can study International Tourism or Hospitality Management here. They are both 4-year courses.

Northampton

Northampton has a variety of options. You can study International Tourism Management as a top-up, with a foundation year, alongside accounting or just as a standalone 3-year course. They also offer some Events Management degrees.

The best universities for travel and tourism in the UK: 31-45

London south bank.

South Bank offer some really exciting degrees, meaning it could be a great choice if you’re looking for the best universities for travel and tourism. Tourism and Hospitality Management and Events and Entertainment Management are on offer here.

West London

University of West London is easily one of the best universities for travel and tourism in terms of the wealth of choice they offer. From International Tourism Management (wth foundation and placement years available) to Hospitality Entrepreneurship, there is something for everyone. They also offer degrees in Culinary Arts Management and Air Transport Management!

Hertfordshire

At Hertfordshire, Tourism and International Tourism degrees can be combined with various languages such as Japanese or German. Event Management and Business degrees with tourism aspects are also on offer here.

Liverpool John Moores

In one of the most vibrant cities in the world, LJMU is a popular university choice. Here you can study International Tourism Management or Events Management.

There are three different Event Management degrees on offer at Chichester, which might get you into the tourism sector. However, there are no degrees focused specifically on travel or tourism here.

Bucks New University

At Bucks, you can study International Tourism Management with Air Travel. This is offered as a 3 year course, or 4 years with a foundation year. They also offer Event, Festivals and Venue Management.

Anglia Ruskin

ARU offers Tourism Management as part of their Business degrees. This can include a placement or foundation year, and they have an accelerated (2 year) option too.

Here, you can study International Tourism Management as a standalone course or with Spanish or Mandarin.

Trinity Saint David

Located in Carmarthen, Wales, Trinity Saint David offers a wide variety of related courses making it one of the best universities for travel and tourism. These include UK Tourism Management and International Hotel Management with a placement year. Other courses include International Leisure Resort Management and Events and International Festivals Management. There are so many options here.

East London

From Airline and Airport Management to Tourism Management there is plenty of choice here. With courses as specific as Hospitality Management with Revenue Analytics, there is something for everyone!

A tourist hotspot, Brighton also offers some great travel and tourism courses. These include International Event Management and International Tourism Management. Both can be combined with Marketing.

Westminster

There are a few tourism courses here. These are Tourism Management (also offered as a 1 year top-up course), Tourism & Events Management and Tourism Planning & Management.

Tourism and Travel Management as well as Events Management are on offer here. These can include foundation years, too. Tourism and Travel Management is offered as a top-up course, and Events Management can be combined with Marketing.

West of Scotland

Tourism Management, a 2-year course, and Events Management, a 4-year course, are available here. Both are full-time BA (Hons).

Bedfordshire

If you want choice, look at Bedfordshire. From Marketing with International Tourism Management to Travel, Aviation & Tourism Management, there are so many options. Courses can be altered to include placement or foundation years too.

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Study hospitality, leisure and tourism in the UK

Discover the life of leisure in the uk.

Studying hospitality, leisure and tourism can provide the perfect gateway to a truly international career, and the UK offers one of the very best possible destinations to do it.

We know hospitality inside out and are home to some of the world’s most popular visitor destinations. From world-famous cities like London and Edinburgh to historic landmarks such as Giant’s Causeway and Stonehenge, and some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and restaurants, we’ve been refining the art of hospitality for centuries.

A rapidly evolving sector

The tourism and hospitality industry contributed £72 billion to the UK economy in 2018 and it’s the seventh biggest employment sector providing jobs for around 3.2 million people.

Bringing together everything from the biggest event venues to the smallest boutique hotels, the sector is constantly innovating, and has risen to the many challenges presented by the global pandemic. So from creating unforgettable experiences to exploiting emerging technologies and the business essentials underpinning it all, there’s no better place to tap into the expertise you’ll need to flourish in a global career, than the UK.

World-class teaching

When you travel to the UK to study hospitality, leisure and tourism you’ll have access to some of the very best teaching in the world. We have three of the best universities for hospitality and leisure - the University of Surrey, Oxford Brookes University and Bournemouth University. And with 321 courses in total to choose from across the country, you won’t find it hard to find the insights and experience you need for the career you’re dreaming of.

There are a huge number of specialist courses, but all UK degrees offer a versatile modular approach that lets you tailor your learning throughout your studies. From sustainable tourism to the logistics of moving and accommodating people from all over the world, you’ll get the perfect preparation for a career that takes you where you want to go.

What to expect

Work experience.

One of the best things about studying in the UK is the network of industry contacts you’ll be able to tap into. A huge range of work experience is available – from a year in industry part-way through your course, to placements and internships – as well as regular guest speakers. So you’ll be able to connect with leading industry voices and apply what you learn to real world environments as you progress.

Switched on courses

To thrive in a global industry you’ll need to be at the sharp end of digital technologies. The UK hospitality and leisure sector is constantly innovating, so you can learn all about the next generation of technology being applied worldwide, from facial recognition and geo-location services to robot staff.

Flexible, modular teaching from day one

As with any UK degree, you can tailor your hospitality, leisure and tourism studies as you go. Specialist modules include:

• Transport economics and policy
• The digital customer experience
• Sustainable tourism
• Exhibitions and events
• Special interest tourism
• Global planning and logistics
• Bed and room management
• Hospitality policies

Explore what’s on your doorstep

Studying in the UK means enjoying a unique study experience from day one, especially when it comes to travelling around the country. You can sample some of the best UK hospitality first hand, and from our cultural cities to the rugged, historic beauty of locations such as the Lake District, you’ll graduate with a whole new perspective.

Step into a 21st century career

Studying in the UK is the perfect preparation for all kinds of jobs in the hospitality and leisure sector. Whether you want to compete on the global job market for full time roles or start your own business. Some of the most popular roles UK graduates go into include:

• Air cabin crew
• Holiday representative
• Hotel manager
• Tour manager
• Tourism officer
• Tourist information centre manager
• Travel agency manager

More in this section

Study marketing in the uk.

If you want to forecast emerging trends, shape extraordinary customer experiences and drive sales, you’ll be in good company in the UK.

Study international relations and development studies in the UK

Are you passionate about making a positive contribution to global affairs? Find out more about studying development studies or international relations.

Study peace and conflict studies in the UK

If you want to make a positive impact on the world, peace and conflict studies can provide a gateway into a range of international careers.

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London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism

Introduction.

Welcome to the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism. We are an award-winning school with over six decades of teaching excellence in the service industries.

We are ranked as the best university in London for 'satisfaction with the course, assessment and teaching' on our hospitality, leisure and tourism subjects in the Guardian's University Guide 2023.

Choose from a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses that lead to professionally accredited qualifications, developed by our expert staff .

Our courses and facilities

Our goal at the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism is to give you a holistic learning experience that will set you up for a successful career in this exciting, thriving sector. Our diverse curriculum provides courses that are focused on key business skills that you need to succeed – from operations and logistics to finance and leadership. We are nationally respected as a provider of industry-relevant courses.

Browse our courses by subject area and find out more about our fantastic facilities, including our 737 flight simulator, professional-standard kitchens, Food Innovation Lab and Pillars, our on-campus training restaurant. 

Aviation, airline and airport management

Event management

Food sciences

Hospitality management

Travel and tourism

Welcome video

Hear from James Edmunds, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism on why studying at UWL is a great choice for your future.

Our research.

We are highly engaged in research, including through the International Centre for Hospitality and Aviation Resilience Management (ICHARM) and in partnership with the West London Food Innovation Centre .

We offer a range of PHD opportunities .

Other courses

Junior chefs academy.

The Junior Chefs' Academy offers two courses which offer a great start for those interested in a career in food and culinary arts.

The Pillars Restaurant

The Pillars Restaurant is our popular training restaurant, where our our students cook and serve delicious food and wine from around the world.

Heathrow Exhibition

‘Heathrow: The Journey’ is a free, permanent exhibition at the University of West London’s Ealing site.

FlightPad, our 737 simulator, offers team-building activities, experiences for novices, and services for qualified pilots.

James Edmunds

James Edmunds is the Dean of the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism.

James has over two decades’ experience of teaching and managing tourism, hospitality and aviation courses within higher education. Most recently, he has been involved in managing commercial pilot degree teaching contracts, which has involved working with the world’s two largest flight training providers as well as a number of high profile international airlines.

Teaching staff

• Dr Elitza Iordanova   - Head of Subject - Aviation, Tourism and Events
• Louise Gill   - Head of Subject - Hospitality, Food Studies and Quality Lead  

Aviation and tourism

• George Arbuckle - Senior Lecturer in Air Transport Management
• Richard Dale - Senior Lecturer in Aviation and Tourism
• Kanchana Gamage - Senior Lecturer in Aviation Management
• James Goodman - Lecturer in Aviation and Tourism 
• Dr Cristina Maxim - Senior Lecturer in Tourism
• Ash Mistry - Senior Lecturer in Aviation and Tourism 
• Francesco Ragni - Senior Lecturer in Aviation
• Dr Peter Smith - Senior Lecturer in Travel and Tourism Management

Dr Elitza Iordanova - Head of Subject

Dr Faithfull Gonzo - Senior Lecturer in Events Management

• Peter Petrides - Lecturer in Events Management
• Liz (Elizabeth) Quick - Senior Lecturer in Events Management / Business
• Miss Gergina Pavlova - Lecturer in Events Management

Future Food, Nutrition and Culinary Arts

• Benjamin Christopherson - Lecturer in Patisserie and Confectionery
• Peter Cross - Senior Lecturer in Culinary Arts and Nutrition
• Peter Pelham - Senior Lecturer in Culinary Arts and Future Food
• Tarik Ramjaun - Lecturer in Culinary Arts and Professional Cookery
• Shamin Talib - Lecturer in Pastry
• Dr Amalia Tsiami - Associate Professor
• Nathan Vasanthan - Lecturer, Professional Cookery and Food Studies

Hospitality

• Jayanti Jayanti - Lecturer in Hospitality
• Dr Sherine Kwok - Lecturer in Hospitality
• Natalia Lara - Lecturer in Hospitality
• Ariane Lengyel - Senior Lecturer in Hospitality
• Patrick Muigai - Lecturer in Hospitality
• Professor Alexandros Paraskevas - Director of ICHARM

Further Education

• Keiron Coogan - Lecturer in Advanced Skills, Lead in English and Maths 
• Faye Kenny  - Lecturer in Pastry
• Ashley Marsh - Lecturer in Advanced Skills

Administrative staff

• Laura Ulvee - School College Administrative Manager,  [email protected]
• Edward Makin - Administrative Assistant,   [email protected]
• Paula Marquez-Pastides - Administrative Officer,  [email protected]
• Jacqueline McDonnell - Administrative Officer,  [email protected]
• Purwinder Sandhu - Administrative Assistant,  [email protected]
• Tajinder Sidhu - Administrative Officer,  [email protected]
• Paz Tello - Administrative Officer,  [email protected]

University event promotes sustainable behaviour among employees in the hospitality and tourism industry

University of West London’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) hosted an event to promote sustainable actions in the hospitality and tourism industry ahead of Earth Day on Monday 22 April.

Rise and shine! UWL alumnus Mantas Kozlovskis tells us about his work at Bundu bakery

Mantas Kozlovskis, founder of Bundu Bakery, studied Culinary Arts Management during his time at the University of West London.

Hospitality and Tourism Careers Fair attracts both students and employers

Over 30 UK businesses were offering a variety of career opportunities including part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate training schemes.

International relations: UWL’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) hosts Franco-British culinary competition - L'Entente Cordiale Culinaire

The University of West London was delighted to host the latest Franco-British Entente Cordiale culinary competition in its 20th anniversary year.

Keen beans: Future Plates Future Chefs shows sustainable ways to feed people better

UWL recently hosted 70 students and guests in its Pillars Restaurant for Future Plates Future Chefs, an annual event exploring sustainable food education in the hospitality sector.

UWL hosts inaugural TEDx event: Beyond Boundaries: Unleashing Limitless Perspectives

Topics under discussion included SEGA Europe and cyber security; research on astronaut bone health using smart tech to improve osteoporosis; digital dexterity, artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of creative communications and immersive engineering.

TV cereals: A masterclass from UWL’s West London Food Innovation Centre for BBC’s Apprentice candidates

The Food Innovation Centre has a highly specialised laboratory, and its facilities can be used by UWL students, as well being available for specialist food manufacturers and TV companies to hire.

London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism sponsors Air League inclusivity event at Westminster

LGCHT have been working with Air League, the UK’s leading aviation, aerospace and space charity, for over five years.

Flying visit: First year student pilots tour British Airways Global Learning Academy

The students were given talks about careers at BA and employability skills, as well as getting to experience the airline’s Boeing 747, 777 and 787 flight simulators.

Special delivery: UWL degree apprentices enjoy landing air freight in the London Docklands

UWL apprenticeships help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career. Second-year degree apprentice students on our BSc (Hons) Express Delivery Manager course participated in a special morning at UWL’s FlightPad Boeing 737 simulator.

UWL hosts a Future Pilot Skills event with Flight Pad for those seeking an aviation career

Industry experts and leaders from major airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet and TUI, as well as leading flight training schools including Leading Edge Aviation and the Bristol Ground School, gathered at UWL’s Ealing site to offer advice to aspiring pilots.

University of West London Events Management student wins prestigious education award

Kenya Harriott has won an Association for Events Management Education (AEME) Student Award for her dissertation on diversity, equality and inclusion in women’s sport.

The London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) students learn the importance of soft skills at hospitality symposium

The 75 students who attended heard from ten guest speakers about the vital attributes that will set them apart from the competition in the hospitality industry.

Hats off! Winter graduation starts at Twickenham

Two days of graduation ceremonies are taking place on 28 and 29 November for UWL students at Twickenham Rugby Stadium.

Final year UWL culinary students visit Harrods food hall and kitchens

Members of the Harrods team gave them a tour of the busy sales floor and production kitchens, as well as the chance to taste products and answering their questions during the visit.

UWL academic secures Knowledge Exchange funding for 'Future Flight' Masters course

Dr Anil Padhra, from UWL’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, has secured funding from Innovate UK’s ‘Future Flight Challenge’, which is investing in projects that can help build on the UK aviation industry’s skills.

UWL students gain summer employment at the Civil Aviation Authority

Some of the eleven students are studying Aviation at UWL’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) and others Engineering at the School of Computing and Engineering (SCE).

UWL lecturer reaches the finals for the Green Gown Awards

Peter Cross, Senior Lecturer in Food Business and Nutritional Sciences at LGCHT, has played an instrumental role in accelerating sustainable food initiatives at UWL.

Students create signature dishes with Foie Royale

Five students from the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism made it through to the final cook-off and the chance to create in front of Foie Royale Marketing Manager Laith Amiry.

UWL student achieves his dream of working in the aircraft industry with Airbus

As part of his BSc in Air Transport Management at UWL’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) student Irvine Kirkpatrick recently finished a placement year at the industry leading aircraft manufacturer.

2023 graduation celebrations begin for UWL students!

Across two days and eight ceremonies featuring thousands of students, 15 honorary degrees and countless handshakes and hugs, it is time for the University of West London’s graduation festivities to begin!

UWL is awarded the top rating on the Food Made Good sustainability standard

The University of West London has achieved an outstanding standard of sustainability and been awarded the maximum of three stars by the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

Delegates from leading hotel chains and academics, students and alumni discuss employability

UWL’s London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) recently hosted a hospitality symposium for close to 70 attendees from the hotel industry, academia, alumni and students. The event was part of a UWL knowledge-exchange funded project aimed at improving the employability of hospitality graduates.

Alumni Spotlight: Loretta Nana Asiedu

Find out more about Alumni Loretta Nana Asiedu, who graduated with a degree in International Tourism and Aviation Management just as the aviation industry shut down.

Business Aviation professionals and students gather at UWL to discuss career opportunities

The London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) held a Working in Business and General Aviation Symposium recently to explore how the Business Aviation (BA) sector can recruit and train the next generation of professionals. 

Student Pastry Chef of the Year 2023 – UWL student reaches final

UWL student Katrina Atienza who is in the final year of her BSc (Hons) in Culinary Arts Management has reached the final of Student Pastry Chef of the Year 2023.

Adaptogenic coffee developed with the help of UWL now being sold in Harrods and Selfridges

London Nootropics is an adaptogenic wellness company which produces the highest-quality mushroom coffee, a blend of coffee, medicinal mushrooms and other adaptogen extracts. These extracts help your body and mind adapt to physical, mental and emotional stressors.

Earth Day – Investing in our Planet

Saturday 22 April was Earth Day and the theme this year was ‘Investing in our Planet’. UWL is continually investing in increasing sustainability across our campus sites.

University of West London Culinary Arts Management student wins prestigious title

A BSc Culinary Arts Management student at the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT), Jun Ming Yee and mentor lecturer Nathan Vasanthan won the 2023 Entente Cordiale Lauréat title with LGCHT’s French partner college, Lycée Jeanne et Paul Augier.

World’s largest airliner – the A380 - returns to Scotland with UWL lecturer in command

The Emirates A380 returned to Glasgow for the first time since 2019 last weekend – touching down at lunchtime on Sunday 26 March, to large crowds of media, aircraft enthusiasts and local people.

UWL and Wizz Air hold first ‘Ideas Lab’

Head of Ancillary Services for Wizz Air James Goodwin, who is also a UWL alumnus, teamed up with the University’s BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) students to hold an ideas session – Wizz Air Lab – at UWL’s St Mary’s Road campus on 14 March.

UWL brings students, graduates and employers together for Hospitality and Tourism Careers Fair

UWL delivers an extensive programme of careers fairs throughout the academic year covering a range of disciplines and sectors which support students in finding work placements, part-time work and graduate employment.

UWL contributes to a working paper on equipping universities for the impact of climate change

A University of West London aviation expert has contributed to a working paper recently published by the UK Universities Climate Network (UUCN) entitled ‘Assessing Climate Risk and Strengthening Resilience for UK Higher Education Institutions'.

Food Waste Action Week: Making food go further

UWL is proud to support Food Waste Action Week, from 6-12 March, a campaign bringing the nation together to save time and money by making food go further. This will ultimately reduce the impact of food waste on climate change.

UWL hosts Future Plates and Future Chefs sustainable food event

UWL hosted 80 students and delegates for Future Plates and Future Chefs, an event exploring a range of sustainable food approaches.

Alumni Spotlight - Neel Shah

Find out more about UWL alumnus, Neel Shah, and his UWL experience and journey.

BioHealth Scientists from South Korea visit the West London Food Innovation Centre

Food innovation and R&D breakthroughs in healthier food formulation were the focus of five South Korean BioHealth Regulatory Science researchers who recently visited the West London Food Innovation Centre at the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism.

University of West London’s LGCHT students crowned winners of Zest Quest Asia 2023

Culinary students from the University of West London London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) have won the Zest Quest Asia 2023 competition.

Alumni Spotlight: Head Pastry Chef Chris Hurter

Find out more about UWL Alumni and Head Pastry Chef, Chris Hurter, and his UWL experience and journey.

Food security in the spotlight

This year’s Victor Ceserani lecture, delivered by Andrew Selley at the University of West London, will explore the future of food security and the challenges this poses to the hospitality sector.

Healthy futures on the table as UWL supports Ealing families

UWL is using its catering expertise and facilities to help tackle high diabetes rates across Ealing as part of a pioneering healthcare programme to support healthier lifestyles.  

Final day of celebrations as hundreds collect UWL degrees at iconic stadium

Celebrations rang out across Twickenham Stadium on Friday in the last day of a week of UWL graduation ceremonies.

Ealing Food Lab stars in C5 documentary

A food product development centre based at the University of West London in Ealing has featured in Channel 5 documentary looking at the secrets of supermarket food.

UWL graduate announced as chef of the year

A UWL graduate is already making her mark on the industry after cooking up a story to win her first ever contest and be named as Chaine des Rotisseurs Young Chef of the Year.

Aspiring chef working towards kitchen dreams with UWL and Gordon Ramsay apprenticeship

An aspiring young cook is already working towards his dream of becoming the country’s youngest head chef as one of four Gordon Ramsay apprentices working while he studies in a University of West London (UWL) partnership.

Student's work helps to combat human trafficking in aviation

Research undertaken by a University of West London (UWL) student is now being used by an influential not-for-profit organisation to fight the business of slavery in the aviation industry.

70 scholarships for College’s 70th birthday

The University of West London’s (UWL) London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) has marked its 70th birthday by raising more than £150,000 towards 70 new scholarships at its celebratory gala dinner.

Top celebrity chef delights diners at Pillars restaurant

University of West London (UWL) alumni, students, and the local community in Ealing enjoyed a taste of Malaysia during an authentic dining experience prepared by Zamzani Abdul Wahab, one of Malaysia’s most recognised and loved celebrity chefs.

Our social channels

Our mission is to be the UK’s premier hospitality and tourism degree and training establishment, offering an exceptional education, ready to deliver the highest calibre of graduates that the industry demands.

Maintaining our leading position poses many challenges, none more demanding than the cuts in higher education funding. We seek the support of alumni, friends and corporate partners.

To support The London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism please contact  The Office of Development and Alumni Relations  on 020 8231 2608.

How you can support our work

Support for students.

Thanks to generous support we are able to provide a number of students each year with scholarships and bursaries, which help cover the costs of fees and living expenses.

You can help our students to achieve their aspirations by making a gift to one of the following areas:

Postgraduate fellowships

These prestigious awards are for postgraduate students pursuing doctoral or Masters level studies. These awards can also concentrate on a particular area of study or research.

Suggested fellowship donation: £5,000; the award for a post-doctoral researcher may be higher.

Scholarships

These awards recognise academic excellence and will enable the College to attract and retain outstanding students.

Suggested scholarship donation: £2,500.

These awards assist students with monetary expenses incurred during their studies. Financial need is the primary consideration for the selection of bursary recipients.

Suggested bursary donation: £1,000.

These awards are to recognise academic excellence or achievement in various subject areas.

Suggested prize donation: £500 or less, can be accompanied by a medal, certificate or plaque.

I am the first in my family to go to university. I have a bursary and work part-time. Without the financial aid and my part-time job I would not be able to pursue my dream of working in the hospitality industry. It is empowering to know that people have confidence in me and that I am acquiring employable knowledge and skills. I am proud that I am connected to this venerable community through the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism and I am grateful to all of you, especially those of you who enable students like me to experience such a magical opportunity through scholarships and awards." Ashley Mall, BSc Culinary Arts Management

Unrestricted gifts

No gift benefits the College more broadly than unrestricted donations, which meet the daily needs of the staff and students.

Professional partnerships

There are a number of ways hospitality professionals can partner with The London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism to develop a long-term corporate / academic alliance.

These can include:

• student work placements
• graduate recruitment
• giving guest lectures.

To get in touch with our school, please contact Laura Ulvee:

• 020 8231 2254
• [email protected]

To contact us about applying for a course, please get in touch with our Admissions team:

• [email protected]
• 0800 036 8888 and select option 2 - free for land line and mobile users
• +44 (0) 20 8231 2468 for callers from outside the UK.

Here's how to contact us at the University of West London.

Explore our courses

Tourism, Hospitality and Events

Study in the heart of one of the world's most renowned tourism cities.

Our nationally ranked academic staff will take your learning outside the classroom and get hands-on experience, giving you a jump start in this exciting sector.

Find out more…

Download your prospectus

Courses we offer

You'll go on life-changing visits around one of the world's most iconic cities. Go to popular tourist hotspots at museums, exhibitions and more. Meet inspiring industry-leading guest speakers and work alongside an approachable, experienced academic team.

Explore our courses, and discover your passion for tourism.

Undergraduate courses

FdA Tourism and Events Management

This is the two-year foundation version of our popular BSc in International Tourism and Hospitality Management course. The degree is perfect for you if you've already got a background in the industry and want to get an academic understanding of the main ideas behind tourism and hospitality to increase your career options.

BSc (Hons) International Tourism and Hospitality Management

With our BSc Tourism and Hospitality degree, you'll have the chance to start your career in this exciting sector. Learn research skills with our expert lecturers, study the things you're passionate about with our flexible modules and graduate with the skills top employers are looking for.

BSc (Hons) International Tourism & Hospitality Management (Top-Up)

With this one-year course, you'll be able to top-up your Higher National Diploma (HND) to a full honours and get ready for an exciting career in this fast-paced industry.

Postgraduate courses

MSc Tourism and Hospitality

With this Institute of Hospitality accredited course, you'll learn theory and practice, learning about hospitality as a global industry.

MSc Tourism and Hospitality (Dissertation Only)

This course combines theory and practice to teach you about hospitality as a global industry. You'll write an independent piece of work based on your interests and career goals.

Take your next step

Ahead of the game.

At the University of Sunderland in London, you'll have access to nationally ranked, high-quality education.

Our Tourism, Hospitality and Events courses are ranked 1st in the country for Teaching Quality and Student Experience in the Times and Sunday Time Good University Guide 2020.

They're also ranked best in the UK for student satisfaction by the Complete University Guide 2021.

Our friendly and experienced academic staff include both active researchers and industry practitioners which informs our teaching. That means you'll always have access to the latest thinking in the tourism, hospitality and events industries.

View courses

Beyond the classroom

You'll go outside the classroom into real-world environments to get hands-on experience. Visits to companies and events at all levels will give you an insight into the sector.

Previous classes have gone to key London attractions including Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Borough Market, the Museum of London and the Tate Modern.

We've also got partnerships with world-renowned hotel chains like the Crowne Plaza, where you'll be invited to attend regular guest lectures and networking events.

• Degrees Explained We offer degrees at every level from foundation to doctorates.
• Student stories Hear what it’s like from our current students and graduates.
• About us Why we are the life-changing university in London.
• Request your Prospectus Request our new prospectus here.

Best universities for...

What are the best universities for Hospitality and Tourism?

Barni Homden

Hospitality and Tourism is a fascinating and subject, and very relevant in today’s international jobs market. These are the  best universities for Hospitality and Tourism degrees.

So, what are the best universities for Hospitality and Tourism?

Both the UK and the USA are extremely popular tourist destinations, with an incredible array of landmarks and attractions. They are also home to brilliant universities offering degrees in Tourism and Hospitality, making them a smart choice for students.

• Bournemouth University

Based on the UK’s scenic south coast , Bournemouth University (BU) is ranked 14th in the UK for Hospitality, Leisure, Recreation and Tourism ( Complete University Guide 2024 ). This makes it one of the best universities for Hospitality and Tourism in the country! Bournemouth is an ideal destination for students of Tourism degrees. In fact, more than 6 million tourists visit the seaside town every year, and its beach is rated the best in England by the popular travel website TripAdvisor. At BU, you can study a range of Hospitality and Tourism subjects at undergraduate and postgraduate level, including Events Marketing, International Hospitality Management and Tourism Management.

• University of Essex

Named University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards 2018, the University of Essex is another great destination for Hospitality and Tourism students. Part of the reason for this is that the University is home to the Edge Hotel School, the only hotel school of its kind in the UK. Here, you’ll study your degree while gaining hands-on experience in a real 4* hotel! At Essex, you can even also for a degree which includes an optional year in industry so you can gain even more experience while you study.

• Arizona State University

One top university to offer Hospitality and Tourism degrees in the USA is Arizona State University (ASU). ASU is based in Phoenix, a popular destination with both tourists and international students. ASU is also the number 1 most innovative university in USA ( U.S. News Education 2023 ), and has been for 7 consecutive years! You’ll have lots of choice at ASU too, like the option to specialise in an area that interests you. Areas of specialism at ASU include Resort and Hotel Leadership and Sustainable Tourism, an increasingly important topic.

• University of Westminster

The  University of Westminster is another of the best universities for Hospitality and Tourism. It benefits from its prime location in central London. This capital attracts more than 18 million visitors a year, and is the top academic city in the world ( QS Best Student Cities 2024 ), so studying Hospitality and Tourism here is a great opportunity! Westminster enjoys a ranking in the top 20 in the UK for this subject area (Complete University Guide 2024). At the University of Westminster, you could opt to study degrees such as Tourism Management, Tourism Planning and Management and Tourism with Business.

• Pace University

Pace University also enjoys a superb location for Tourism degree students, in the heart of Manhattan in New York City. New York has an enormous tourism industry, with the sector contributing billions of dollars a year to the city’s economy. The University offers the only AACSB -accredited Hospitality and Tourism Management degree in the New York City area, and gives students the chance to gain exposure to some of the city’s world-class hotels and restaurants.

How to study a Hospitality and Tourism degree in the UK or USA

With Kaplan, you can study a pathway course that will help you gain entry to a degree at one of the top universities for Hospitality and Tourism in the UK, even if your current grades or English language level don’t quite meet the entry requirements If you’d like to study a Hospitality and Tourism degree in the USA, we can help you to access a pathway program too. If your grades already meet the entry standards, we can even help you apply and enter a degree directly.

• Hospitality and Tourism

Discover more

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• Study in UK /

Best Travel and Tourism Courses in UK

• Updated on  
• May 9, 2022

Travel and tourism are an integral part of any country. According to Statista, the total contribution of the travel and tourism industry in the UK is estimated at 89.6 billion. Travel and tourism courses over a wide range of subjects like hospitality, management, marketing, human resources, event management, and business administration. If you are passionate about traveling and a people’s person then here is a list of travel and tourism courses in the UK and kickstart your career in tourism !

Must Read: How to Become a Travel Writer?

This Blog Includes:

Why study travel and tourism in the uk, best travel and tourism universities in uk, diploma courses for travel and tourism in uk, travel and tourism uk entry requirements, how to apply, cost of studying travel and tourism in uk, career and scope after travel and tourism in uk.

Education in travel and tourism is greatly unheard of. Nonetheless, very few know the benefits that this industry holds. All you need is a passion for traveling and serving those who travel:

• Unlimited Opportunities : The best thing about travel and tourism education is that the knowledge is not restricted to only one country. If you study in the UK , the same techniques apply to the entire world. Therefore, it is an industry full of worldwide opportunities. 
• Creative : Thinking on your feet and keeping the ones around you safe and comfortable is what the job demands, even if you sit as the minister of tourism in your country or a wildlife safari guide.
• Scope : Travel and tourism come with no boundaries and maximum flexibility. You can become a tourist guide, tour manager, travel consultant, event and conference manager, air cabin crew, hotel manager, tourism manager- the scope is limitless. 
• Networking: Travel and tourism education teach you how to treat people in this service-oriented industry. 
• Travel Opportunities: One year you will be skiing in the Alps, the other at the beaches in Bangkok. Who knows where your tourism and travel job takes you but you’ll surely have fun! Universities in UK are the perfect spot for you to camp and get your degree in the travel and tourism field before you enjoy the perks and peril of your dream job. 

Must Read: Aston University Acceptance Rate

We’ve curated a list of the best universities in UK that have the most fitting travel and tourism courses for you and you will be surprised to see how none of the high ranking universities make it to the list! 

The top 10 universities for travel and tourism courses in UK are:

• Leicester University 
• Northumbria University
• Plymouth University 
• Glasgow Caledonian University, London
• Coventry University, Coventry
• Falmouth University, Cornwall
• Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh
• Ulster University, Coleraine
• Greenwich University, London
• Bournemouth University, Poole
• University of Surrey

While some of these colleges are seldom heard of, they are the hidden gems that provide the best travel and tourism courses in UK. 

Must Read: Career in Travel Photography

Top Courses for Travel and Tourism in UK 

Expensive as well as cheap universities in the UK offer the most diverse courses in travel and tourism.

Undergraduate travel and tourism courses in UK:

• BA Tourism and Hospitality Management 
• BSc International Travel and Tourism Management 
• BA International Tourism Management
• BSc Aviation and Tourism Management
• BSc Tourism Management 
• BA Tourism with Business
• BA Tourism and Events Management 
• BA Tourism Planning and Management

Postgraduate travel and tourism courses in UK:

• MSc Tourism Management
• MA Tourism, Environment and Development
• MSc Tourism and Hospitality Management 
• MSc International Tourism Planning and Management
• MSc Tourism Development and Culture
• MSc Tourism, Heritage and Sustainability 
• MSc Management and Sustainable Tourism 

Also Read: MBA in Travel and Tourism

There are several Diploma Courses available in the UK for those who want to pursue a Travel and Tourism course in part-time mode. Listed below are some of the Diploma Certifications awarded by the Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality:

• Foundation Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality (Level 3)
• Diploma in Hospitality Management (Level 4)
• Diploma in Tourism Management (Level 4)
• Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management (Level 5)
• Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management (Level 5)
• Professional Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management (Level 6)
• Executive Diploma in Hospitality and Tourism Management (Level 7)

As an Indian student, you are required to be qualified in the following criteria to be eligible for travel and tourism courses in UK:

• A 12th pass certificate in case of undergraduate course and bachelor’s degree for a postgraduate course
• All academic transcripts
• Statement of Purpose
• Letter of Recommendation
• Proof of English Proficiency ( IELTS / TOEFL )
• Resume with updated qualifications 

Must Read: What is Travel and Tourism Management?

To apply for a Travel and Tourism Course in any of the above-mentioned universities in the UK, you can follow this guide:

• Call our Leverage Edu student counsellors at 1800 572 000 to shortlist your courses with the help of our trusted AI Course Finder .
• The experts will then commence your application process at your chosen university through our common dashboard platform where you can witness the status of your application process.
• The next step is to gather and compile all your documents like SOPs, essays, certificates and LORs and exam scores like IELTS, TOEFL etc.
• After submitting your application and all the necessary documents, the experts will then start with the application process for accommodation , UK students visas , and scholarships / student loans . 
• It’s now time to wait for your offer letter which can take around 4-6 weeks or more. Post accepting your offer letter, it’s now time to pay your semester fees, get your visa approved, CAS-Letter .

Applying for a visa might be the end of the application process but also a tedious process. Have a look at the UK Visa Application for complete details on the process. 

Also Read: How to Make a Career in Sustainable Tourism?

The cost of studying travel and tourism in UK inculcates two types of costs- the cost of education and the cost of living in the UK. The cost of education includes all the pre-arrival costs as well as the tuition fee of the travel and tourism course in the UK. The cost of education has been given below:

Now let’s look at the cost of living when you set foot in UK as an international student living independently:

Also Read: Learn How to Reduce your Cost of Living as an International Student!

When you look for travel and tourism courses in UK, you also wonder whether there are enough job opportunities for you in the future that can compensate for your study abroad hard work. The average starting salary of a tourism graduate is ₹16.5-₹20.63 lakhs per year. This figure depends upon the location and job position as well. So who hires tourism graduates in UK? Here’s a list of the companies that hire tourism managers, travel writers and other travel and tourism-related job profiles in UK:

• Trailfinders
• Jet2Holidays
• TravelRepublic
• Virgin Holidays
• Emirates Holidays
• British Airways Holidays
• National Geographic Traveler
• Travel Channel

Yes, you can do your undergraduate from India and PG from the UK.

If you are passionate about traveling and are a people person, you can consider yourself suitable for the course.

The average tuition fee is ₹10-₹20 lakhs per year.

It depends upon your course syllabus whether you are required to travel for your course or not. 

The average salary for a tourism manager in UK is ₹36.11 lakhs.

Yes, there are courses on-campus as well off-campus for short term courses in UK for tourism. Warnborough College offers multiple short term courses as such. 

The UG courses for travel and tourism in UK are 3 years long. 

The PG courses for travel and tourism in UK can be 1 to 2 years long. 

Want to study travel and tourism courses in the UK? Apply with the Leverage Edu experts and get started on your study abroad journey. 

Team Leverage Edu

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I would like to know about pg diploma courses with campus placement in travel and tourism industry…can you guide me more?

Hey! We can surely guide you one-on-one in our first counselling session (FREE) for you. Call us at 1800-572-000 and sign up!

I am interested to study Travel & Tourism with a fully funded scholarship program. Could you please guide me in this regard?

Hey Tajesh. Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Study Grants 2023, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships 2023, Aésal-Model Citizen Scholarship 2023,and Global Emerging Scholarship at Sogang University 2023 are some of the best fully funded scholarships you can apply for. To learn more about scholarships consult the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.

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