Program Overview

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Sustainable Tourism (Graduate Certificate)

The graduate certificate in sustainable tourism is intended for professionals who work in or desire to work in the tourism industry. Students in this program explore the practices of managing and developing sustainable tourism businesses and destinations. They learn numerous strategies and tools for identifying and building innovative tourism products and experiences, as well as minimizing adverse impacts so that these attractions remain viable and sustainable for their host communities.

Program Description

The graduate certificate in sustainable tourism is designed to enhance the ability of professionals to make a lasting impact in the tourism industry through adept management. The program focuses on preserving natural and historical wonders while supporting the communities that surround them for a sustainable future.

At a Glance

• College/school: Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions
• Location: Online
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

Degree Requirements

The program requires 18 credit hours.

• Required Core (15 credit hours)
  • TDM 520 Sustainable Thinking in Tourism I (3)
  • TDM 521 Sustainable Thinking in Tourism II (3)
  • TDM 530 Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management I (3)
  • TDM 531 Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management II (3)
  • TDM 570 Sustainable Tourism (3)
• Electives (3 credit hours)
  • TDM 540 Sustainable Food Management in Tourism (3) or
  • TDM 550 Managing the Sustainable Tourism Business (3)

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.
• Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
• All applicants must submit:
  • graduate admission application and application fee
  • official transcripts
  • resume
  • proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Attend Online

ASU Online offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.

Application Deadlines

• Fall:
  • Session A/C: Online, 02/01, Final
  • Session B: Online, 10/01, Final

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the dominant concepts and practices in sustainable tourism.
• Analyze existing examples of sustainable tourism by offering suggestions and solutions through research-backed support.

Career Opportunities

This certificate is beneficial to students or professionals who are interested in advancing their profiles in the tourism field and to those who are seeking a career change. The certificate allows graduates enhanced recognition and credentials in an area experiencing a great deal of interest and growth. They can further enhance their careers by obtaining an advanced degree specific to sustainability practices in tourism.