Introduction

Tourism is often described as the world’s largest and fastest growing industry, and is also considered a ‘smokeless industry’. Nature, landscapes and local cultures make up the resource base upon which the majority of tourism products are developed. However, the uncontrolled growth of tourism can have a severe negative impact and risk destroying its own resource base. The capacity to be entrepreneurial and innovative - to be able to respond quickly, proactive and constructive towards changes in external and internal conditions - is considered crucial both for the survival of firms and destinations, and definitely in terms of meeting the challenges the continued growth of tourism will imply. The program combines perspectives from the field of international tourism studies, entrepreneurship and sustainable planning and management. Through this study program, the students will be introduced to and learn about how tourism destinations, businesses and products can be planned, developed and managed in an innovative and sustainable manner.

Target Group and Admission Requirements

This program is mainly for international exchange students, and it is possible to attend for a full academic year, or during the fall or spring semester only.

One year of study at university/university college level within the field of business, tourism, sociology, political science, ecology or environmental management is beneficial, but not mandatory.

The program and courses are offered in English and the students must have sufficient knowledge of the English language. For more information, please visit our International Office website or contact International office at TUC (Telemark University College).

Aim of the Programme

The aims of the study are to:

• Introduce key issues related to international tourism, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainability.
• Introduce the key features of the relationship between the global tourism industry, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development (economic, environmental and socio-cultural).
• Identify elements of the business environment for international tourism businesses.
• Explore issues of strategic management, sustainability management and innovation in international context.

Learning outcome

Through this study you learn about the entrepreneurship and innovation in tourism, and about the sustainable development which is needed in order to adapt to the changes in the tourism industry as it continues to develop. You will also learn about how tourism itself contributes to innovative local, regional and national development strategies. After completing the study the candidate should:

• be familiar with central concepts such as tourism, entrepreneurship, international business and sustainability,
• understand how these concepts relate to each other,
• be familiar with relevant ethical issues,
• be able to apply academic concepts and theories to practical problems and make well-founded choices, and
• be able to reflect, express and communicate academically (written and orally) on issues related to the topics in the study program.

Curriculum and structure

Several courses are offered on a rotational basis. Some courses are mandatory and some are elective. Students may register for additional courses that total more than 60 Norwegian study points.

Internationalization

The study unfolds in a highly international environment. Most of the classes are taught together with Norwegian and/or other international students. Telemark University College, campus Bø, is known for its very good student environment and offers a lot of opportunities for student activities within outdoor life, sport, tourism and cultural activities. To learn more please visit the Facebook site of HiT, campus Bø.

Teaching and Learning Methods

This program is a full-time, full or half academic year of study (30/60 study points/ECTS credits), extending through 17 weeks in the autumn + 17 weeks in the spring including an orientation week, a winter break between autumn and spring semesters, and a spring break. Final examinations are normally scheduled in December and in May.

Learning methods include lectures, group work seminars, tutoring, individual preparation, field work, study trips and independent study. Some courses include mandatory attendance. You will mostly work together in small mixed groups and classes which provides the opportunity to get to know students from other parts of the world well.

Theory and Practical Training

The program aims at combining theoretical insights with practical experience, case studies, and field trips are organized.

Assessment Methods

Final assessment is based on a variety of tasks: papers, tests, reports, journals, oral presentation, final individual written examinations. The grade scale is from A-F; E is the last passing grade. All elements of the final grade must be passed to pass the course. Pass/No Pass applies to a few courses.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean