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INTRODUCTION
As an industry that contributes approximately 9% of global GDP and supports one in every tenÌýjobs worldwide, tourism requires visionary leaders equipped with advanced managementÌýcompetencies and strategic thinking capabilities. This Master of Science in Tourism ManagementÌýprogram has been designed to develop highly skilled professionals capable of addressingÌýcontemporary challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector. The curriculum emphasizesÌýsustainable tourism development, digital transformation, crisis management, and strategic
leadership – all critical areas in today’s rapidly evolving global tourism landscape.
The program’s development incorporated extensive input from tourism industry leaders,Ìýpolicymakers, and academic experts to ensure its relevance to current and future industry needs.ÌýThrough a combination of rigorous academic study, applied research, and practical engagementÌýwith industry practitioners, students will develop the expertise needed to lead tourism organizations,Ìýshape policy, and drive innovation in various sectors of the tourism economy.
Graduates will be prepared for leadership roles across multiple tourism sectors includingÌýdestination management organizations, hospitality enterprises, tour operations, governmentÌýtourism agencies, and international tourism organizations. The program also provides strongÌýfoundations for those interested in tourism research and academia.
With its blend of theoretical depth and practical application, this master’s program represents anÌýexceptional opportunity for professionals seeking to advance their careers in tourism managementÌýwhile contributing to the sustainable development of this vital global industry.

PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES
The programme seeks to:-
a) Equip graduates with advanced theoretical and practical tourism management skills that
seek to address global tourism challenges through best practices
b) Enhance research capabilities for evidence-based tourism decisions through
strengthening analytical and problem-solving competencies that support national
development through tourism policy contributions
c) Develop strategic thinkers capable of driving tourism business growth and cultivate
entrepreneurial skills for tourism product development
d) Foster sustainability leadership in tourism operations and planning in order to boost
Kenya’s tourism competitiveness and global positioning by promoting inclusive tourism
benefiting local communities
e) Build expertise in tourism technology and digital innovation through developing
technology-competent tourism leaders

f) Produce industry-ready professionals and academic researchers by creating sustainability-
focused tourism practitioners

RATIONALE
At the global level, the rapid evolution of tourism demands professionals who can navigateÌýtechnological, economic & ecological disruptions, changing traveler preferences, and sustainabilityÌýimperatives. The movement of millions of travelers worldwide creates complex economic impactsÌýthat require sophisticated management approaches. Our MSc in Tourism Management directlyÌýaddresses these needs by developing professionals capable of driving innovation, implementingÌýsustainable practices, and leveraging digital transformation in tourism operations.
This programme is particularly timely as it aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 development blueprint, which identifies tourism as a key economic pillar. By combining rigorous academic training with practical industry exposure, we prepare graduates to assume leadership roles in government agencies, private sector organizations, and international tourism bodies. The curriculumÌýemphasizes critical competencies in destination management, tourism policy, entrepreneurship,Ìýand research – all essential for advancing Kenya’s position in the competitive global tourism marketÌýwhile ensuring inclusive benefits for local communities.
Designed for both practicing professionals and aspiring academics, the programme offers uniqueÌýopportunities for industry networking, professional placements, and knowledge exchange. It servesÌýas a vital platform for developing the next generation of tourism leaders who can transformÌýchallenges into opportunities, driving sustainable growth at local, regional, and global levels whileÌýpositioning Kenya as a leader in innovative tourism management practices.

ENTRY RECQUIREMENTS

• A holder of Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management with at least Second-Class LowerÌýDivision or related field (Tours and Travel Management; Hospitality Management, HotelÌýManagement, Ecotourism; Tour Guiding; Events Management; Wildlife Management) or
• A holder of Bachelor’s Degree (with at least Second-Class Lower Division) in a non-Ìýrelated field with a Postgraduate Diploma in Tourism Management.

MODE AND STRUCTURE OF DELIVERY
The programme will be offered by full time face-to-face, blended, and online mode of delivery.

The duration of the programme shall be at least 2 years. The 1st Year of the Programme willÌýcommence in the 1st Semester and proceed to the 2nd Semester where at least 5 Courses (4 CoreÌýand 1 Elective) will be taken in each semester. Each Semester will run for 14 Weeks fromÌýSeptember – December; and from January – April of that Academic Year. The 2nd Year willÌýcommence in the Third Semester from May of the second Academic Year, where the student willÌýprogress with their Thesis work. In the case of the Trimester Session, the 1st Semester of theÌýProgramme will run for 14 Weeks from May – August of that Academic Year and continue in theÌý2nd Semester from September – December of the following Academic Year. At least 5 Units (4ÌýCore and 1 Elective) will be taken in each Semester. The 2nd Year will commence in the SecondÌýSemester from January of the second Academic Year, where the student will progress with theirÌýThesis work.

PROGRAMME DURATION
ï‚· The Master of Science (Tourism Management) degree in the Department of Hospitality andÌýTourism Management shall extend for a minimum of 2 years.
ï‚· The degree programme shall be by coursework, examination, research and thesis.
ï‚· The first year of study shall be spent on course work and examination during which aÌýcandidate must take a minimum of (10) units. These will include 8 core units and 2 electives.
ï‚· After successful completion of coursework, a student shall undertake research work on a topicÌýthat is relevant to tourism and submit a thesis.

CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
The Master of Science in Tourism Management offers a rigorous and industry-aligned curriculumÌýdesigned to develop well-rounded professionals equipped to tackle contemporary challenges inÌýglobal tourism. The programme structure combines essential core courses with specialized electives,Ìýproviding students with both theoretical foundations and practical applications. FoundationalÌýcourses in Research Methods and Advanced Statistics establish strong analytical capabilities, whileÌýSustainable Tourism Planning and Development addresses critical environmental considerations.
The curriculum places particular emphasis on emerging industry needs through courses in TourismÌýTechnology and Innovation, as well as Destination Management and Marketing. Students gainÌývaluable insights into the business aspects of tourism through Tourism Economics and TourismÌýEntrepreneurship, while Tourism Governance and Regional Development explores policyÌýdimensions. The programme includes specialized offerings such as Meetings, Incentives,ÌýConventions and Exhibitions (MICE) for those interested in event tourism, and TourismÌýLegislation and International Conventions for policy-focused students. All students complete aÌýsubstantial research thesis (385 hours) in their second year, allowing for in-depth exploration of aÌýspecialized tourism topic. This balanced approach – combining core competencies, electiveÌýspecializations, and research – ensures graduates develop both the breadth and depth of knowledgeÌýrequired for leadership positions in various tourism sectors. The curriculum’s design reflects current industry demands while anticipating future trends, preparing students to drive innovationÌýand sustainable practices in tourism organizations, destinations, and policy institutions worldwide.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The Master of Science in Tourism Management prepares graduates for diverse and rewardingÌýcareer pathways across local, regional and international tourism sectors. In Kenya and the widerÌýAfrican region, our alumni assume critical roles in tourism policy formulation with governmentÌýbodies like the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, where they contribute to strategic planning andÌýregulatory frameworks. The programme’s strong emphasis on sustainable tourism developmentÌýopens opportunities in conservation tourism, with graduates managing national parks, private
conservancies and community-based tourism initiatives.
For those inclined towards business leadership, the degree provides the entrepreneurial skillsÌýneeded to establish innovative travel startups, boutique tour operations, or digital tourismÌýplatforms. The growing meetings and events industry offers additional prospects in conferenceÌýmanagement and corporate travel coordination. Academic and research-oriented graduates findÌýplacements in universities, where they shape future tourism professionals, or with researchÌýinstitutions conducting vital tourism impact studies.
At the international level, our graduates compete successfully for positions with global organisationsÌýsuch as the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and WorldÌý Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), contributing to sustainable tourism policies and globalÌýindustry standards. Many secure roles with multinational hotel chains, cruise lines and destinationÌýmanagement companies, where they oversee operations, customer experience and market
development across different regions. The programme’s focus on emerging tourism technologiesÌýequips graduates for specialised roles in travel tech startups, digital marketing and smart destination development.

With tourism being one of the world’s most dynamic economic sectors, our alumni are well-positioned to drive innovation in traditional tourism businesses while pioneering new approaches to sustainable and inclusive tourism development. The degree’s balanced combination of theoretical rigour and practical application ensures graduates can adapt to diverse workplace demands, whether in government agencies, private sector organizations, international bodies or entrepreneurial ventures. Our career support services further assist graduates in identifying
opportunities that match their specialised interests and professional aspirations in this globally interconnected industry.

TUITION AND FEE STRUCTURE
Full Time; Fees ksh.267,000= Non East Africans ksh.333,750 p.a

WHY CHOOSE THIS PROGRAMME AT KU?
At our institution, we take pride in offering a transformative tourism management education thatÌýbridges theory and practice while nurturing future leaders for Kenya and beyond. What makes usÌýdifferent? Our approach is hands-on, industry-driven, and globally relevant – designed to give youÌýa competitive edge in this dynamic field.
We bring together a team of passionate faculty members who are not just academics but also activeÌýconsultants, researchers, and former industry professionals. Many of us work closely with tourism boards, conservation organizations, and hospitality brands, ensuring that what you learn in classÌýreflects real-world challenges and innovations. Our lecturers don’t just teach—they mentor,Ìýconnect you with industry leaders, and guide you in applying knowledge to real tourism projects.
Our strong partnerships with top tourism players, from safari operators to international hotelÌýchains and government agencies, mean you’ll gain direct exposure to the industry through internships, guest lectures, and field projects. We also collaborate with global universities,Ìýgiving you opportunities for exchange programmes, international conferences, and researchÌýcollaborations that broaden your perspective.
We emphasize practical learning—whether through case studies from Kenya’s world-famousÌýtourism destinations, simulations in our tourism lab, or fieldwork in national parks and coastal resorts. Our curriculum doesn’t just follow trends—it anticipates them, with a strong focusÌýon sustainability, digital innovation, and crisis management—skills that employers worldwide areÌýseeking.
As a student here, you won’t just earn a degree—you’ll build a professional network, researchÌýexpertise, and hands-on experience that sets you apart. Whether you dream of managing a luxury lodge, shaping national tourism policy, launching a travel-tech startup, or conductingÌýgroundbreaking research, we’ll equip you with the tools, connections, and confidence to succeed.
Join us, and be part of a programme that’s as adventurous, forward-thinking, and impactful as theÌýtourism industry itself.