About Bachelor's Degree courses in Travel and Tourism
A Bachelor’s Degree in Travel and Tourism Management is a four-year program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the growing tourism and hospitality industry. The program covers key areas such as travel operations, tourism marketing, and event management, offering students the skills needed to plan, manage, and promote travel services. Courses in history, culture, and travel also provide a well-rounded understanding of the industry.
Students can specialize in areas like travel operations and service management, learning about travel agency management, tour planning, and travel laws. Many programs also offer internships or industry placements, allowing students to gain real-world experience in hotels, travel agencies, and tourism departments. This practical exposure helps students transition seamlessly into leadership roles in tourism.
For those interested in related fields, degrees like Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts and Bachelor’s in Hotel Management provide additional options for career paths in the hospitality sector. Both degrees focus on specialized skills in areas like food management and hotel operations, complementing a career in the broader travel and tourism industry.
Course Structure
The Bachelor’s Degree in Travel and Tourism Management in Malaysia is typically a 3-year or 4-year program designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the tourism industry. Students will gain a strong foundation in tourism management, hospitality, and event management.
1. Core Subjects
- Principles of Tourism
- Travel Management
- Destination Marketing
- Tourism Planning and Development
- Hospitality Management
- Event Management
- Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism
2. Electives
- Travel Technology
- Eco-tourism
- Customer Service Management
- Marketing for Tourism
- International Business in Tourism
This program combines both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training, offering students a comprehensive education in tourism and hospitality management.
Entry Requirements for a Bachelor’s in Travel and Tourism Management
1. Local Students
- SPM / Equivalent Studies: Completion of SPM with at least 5 credits, including English, Mathematics, and Science, or equivalent UEC/Matriculation/Foundation qualifications with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.
- STPM / A-Level: Pass STPM with a minimum Grade C (CGPA 2.00) in at least 2 subjects.
- Diploma in Related Fields: Relevant Diploma with a CGPA of 2.00 or higher may allow direct entry with possible credit transfers.
2. International Students
- High School Completion: Completion of Grade 12 or equivalent (e.g., A-Level, SAM, CPU) with the required grades.
- For Students with 11 Years of Study: Students with only Grade 11 (e.g., IGCSE or equivalent) must complete a Foundation or pre-university course in a related field to meet entry equivalency.
- English Proficiency: IELTS score of 5.5–6.0, TOEFL (IBT) 60–80.
What career opportunities are available with a degree in Travel and Tourism?
In 2023, approximately 3.4 million people were employed in Malaysia's tourism sector, accounting for nearly 25% of the nation's total employment.
This substantial workforce underscores the potential career prospects available to graduates of a Bachelor's Degree in Travel and Tourism Management. The industry's growth is driven by increasing international travel, eco-tourism, and a rising demand for hospitality services.
Careers available for Travel & Tourism graduates;
- Travel Consultant/Agent
- Tour Manager/Guide
- Hotel and Resort Manager
- Event Planner
- Travel Operations Manager
- Destination Marketing Manager
- Eco-tourism Specialist
- Cruise Director
- Corporate Travel Manager
- Tourism Development Officer
Cost of a Travel and Tourism Degree in Malaysia
The cost of pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Travel and Tourism Management in Malaysia varies depending on the university and the type of program. On average, the tuition fees for local students typically range from RM 20,000 to RM 50,000 for the entire program, which usually spans 3 to 4 years.
For international students, the fees are slightly higher and can range between RM 30,000 to RM 70,000 for the entire duration of the degree.
Looking for the best and most affordable Bachelor's degree courses in Tourism and Hospitality in Malaysia? Let our expert advisors help you find the perfect program.
Why Study Travel and Tourism in Malaysia?
1. Top-Quality Education in Tourism
Malaysia is home to some of the best-ranked universities for Travel and Tourism, including Taylor’s University, MSU, SEGI University, and APU. These universities offer best degrees in Travel and Tourism Degree courses. Graduating from these reputable universities in Malaysia ensures a qualification valued worldwide. In fact, Taylor's University ranks 43rd globally for hospitality and leisure management, according to the QS World University Rankings.
2. Affordable Education and Living
Malaysia offers affordable travel and tourism degrees compared to Western countries. Tuition fees for a Bachelor’s degree in Travel and Tourism range from MYR 25,000 to MYR 50,000 (USD 5,500 to USD 11,000). Monthly living expenses can be as low as MYR 1,500 to MYR 2,500 (USD 350 to USD 550), making it a cost-effective choice for international students looking to study in Malaysia.
3. Growing Tourism Industry
The Malaysian government is actively supporting the tourism sector with initiatives like the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board and the Visit Malaysia Year campaign. These efforts open abundant opportunities for students to enter a growing tourism job market in travel, hospitality, and tourism management.
4. Industry Exposure and Job Opportunities
The Travel & Tourism market in Malaysia is projected to grow by 3.28% (2024-2029). With practical training, internships, and career placements, students gain valuable exposure needed for successful careers in tourism management and hospitality management. The connections made during these placements provide students with a clear path toward tourism career opportunities in Malaysia and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which degree is best for travel and tourism?
The best degree for travel and tourism depends on your career goals. A Bachelor’s in Tourism Management focuses on the business aspects of the industry, such as marketing, operations, and sustainable tourism. For those interested in the hospitality side, a Bachelor’s in Hospitality and Tourism Management may be a great option, offering skills in hotel management, customer service, and event planning.
2. Can I study Travel and Tourism after completing my SPM in Malaysia?
Yes, you can pursue Travel and Tourism courses after completing your SPM. If you have completed your SPM with at least 5 credits (including English), you can enroll in a Foundation in Tourism or a Diploma in Travel and Tourism. These programs are designed to provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Tourism later on. The Foundation or Diploma courses typically take 1 to 2 years to complete.
3. Do universities in Malaysia offer online Tourism courses?
Yes, some universities in Malaysia offer online Tourism courses as part of their flexible learning options. These online diploma and degree programs in Tourism Management are designed to cater to students who prefer to study remotely or need a more flexible schedule.
4. What is the best career in tourism?
The best career in tourism often depends on your interests, but some top options include tourism management, travel consultancy, and event planning. Careers like hotel management and destination marketing also offer promising prospects in the tourism industry.
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