Master of Science in Travel Industry Management

The Master of Science degree program in travel industry management is designed to provide a specialized education through coursework and research to master a broad and sophisticated set of interdisciplinary skills and knowledge. Students develop analytical abilities and the critical thinking skills necessary for careers in the travel and tourism industry. The master’s degree is a broader preparation for graduates to take the first step into leadership roles. Given the program’s focus, students are expected to engage in understanding and execution of rigorous research activities which could also lead to further advanced education.

The program prepares students for advanced careers and leadership roles across the spectrum of the travel industry including tourism, hospitality and transportation management as well as areas integrating the entire industry including information technology, finance, marketing, policy and planning. Students may also explore specific topics of interest including sustainable tourism, eco-tourism, electronic commerce, social and cultural aspects of travel and tourism, among many others. In addition, the program and faculty also have a strong emphasis and expertise in travel and tourism in the Asia-pacific region. Students come from diverse academic backgrounds, which contribute to a rich and stimulating classroom environment. There are however, certain subjects that entering students must be familar with in order to work from a common knowledge base in our courses. These subjects are: 1) introductory economics, 2) introductory financial and managerial accounting, and 3) introductory statistics. If you have not yet taken these courses, they are not required for admission and options are available to help meet these requirements. 

Candidates for the MS/TIM degree are required to satisfactorily complete 36 credit hours of graduate coursework. Each candidate may select either Plan A (thesis option) or Plan B (non-thesis option). Plan A provides an opportunity for students to explore research in their individual area of interest and develop a significant contribution to the growing body of travel industry research.  Candidates selecting Plan B complete 12 elective credits plus a Professional Paper (TIM 694), which may include but is not limited to an extensive literature review, a case study, an operational analysis, a project, a comparative study, or an interpretation of current knowledge. 

To apply to the program, use the University's Graduate Division common form which can be found here.

You can also apply directly on line at http://apply.hawaii.edu

The following is the summary of the MS/TIM degree requirements:

PLUS

Students can complete the program in four semesters. Classes are typically held in the afternoon or evening. Students selecting the Thesis option choose an appropriate faculty member to serve as their committee chair for the thesis (Plan A) once the topic is selected.