Tourism Studies MA, Tourism and the Sustainability Agenda, 7.5 credits

Aim

The aims of this course is to give students a holistic perspective on the sustainability agenda and the role of tourism in it, as well as provide the tools to critically analyze, challenge and suggest improvements in current sustainable tourism practices.

Course objectives

Upon successful completion of the course students are expected to demonstrate:

• demonstrate theoretical knowledge of the central socio-economic, political and environmental processes that have contributed to the development of sustainability
• demonstrate knowledge of important issues and trends in today's sustainable tourism, with a particular focus on both nature and cultural tourism
• be able to analyze and explain how global processes and general sustainability principles are put into practice within tourism destinations.
• be able to critically analyze central challenges and opportunities in sustainable tourism, considering both theoretical and practical aspects.
• identify and apply different tools and methods used to address sustainability challenges.
  
  

Content

The course consists of lectures, seminars and other educational activities that provide students with theoretical foundations by highlighting the global social, economic and environmental changes that have led to sustainability becoming a central issue in tourism studies. During the course, students gain in-depth knowledge of how natural and cultural resources can be managed sustainably within tourism destinations and firms, the impacts of tourism, the role of different actors and the management methods used, as well as critical perspectives. By analyzing case studies and discussing ongoing projects, students get to explore current challenges and opportunities within sustainable tourism.

Entry requirements

A bachelor' s degree of at least 180 credits (ECTS) and English course 6/English course B from Swedish Upper Secondary School (Gymnasium) or the equivalent.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Lectures, peer learning through group works and field trips.

Examination form

0020: Group work assignment (including oral presentation), 3.5 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A-F o Fx

0030: Individual written assignment, 4 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A-F o Fx

At home examinations or other written assignments, a complementary oral presentation may be requested by the teacher. The student should hence demonstrate the necessary knowledge to ensure that the student is the actual sender and the author of the written work.

Transitional rules

Students admitted to the previous version of this course have the right to graduate 3 times within 1 year according to that syllabus. Thereafter the students are transferred to this syllabus.

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A-F o Fx

Other information

The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University's disabilities adviser.