TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

International Hospitality Management

Prepare for an exciting career in a dynamic global industry with our BSc (Hons) International Hospitality Management. Gain hands-on experience, industry insights and the skills to succeed in hotels, resorts, cruise ships and international events.

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Launch your global hospitality journey

Immerse yourself in real-world learning through live client projects, case studies and consultancy work. Graduate with the confidence, portfolio and networks to step straight into a competitive industry.

Shape the future of global hospitality

Develop the cultural awareness and decision-making skills needed to respond to shifting global challenges, preparing you for leadership across diverse international contexts.

Placement-powered professional edge

Boost your career prospects with an optional paid placement year – with partners such as Hilton, Princess Cruises and Sodexo – and earn a Certificate of Industrial Experience to stand out in the job market.

About

Gain a competitive edge in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries and combine academic expertise with strong industry links to maximise your employability.
Whether your aspirations lie in managing luxury resorts, commanding cruise ships, overseeing bustling restaurants, or orchestrating unforgettable experiences, you’ll benefit from hands-on learning and industry connections that bring your ambitions to life. With the option to study a foreign language and develop transferable skills in problem-solving, teamwork and communication, you’ll graduate ready to innovate, inspire and thrive in international hospitality.
Join us and unlock a world of career possibilities in one of today’s most vibrant and fast-paced industries.
Tourism and hospitality
 

This course is for you if...

you’re eager to kick-start a global career in international hospitality management
Ship
you want to test ideas in authentic hospitality settings, not just in the classroom
Three individuals below a globe, depicting community
you want to broaden your horizons by learning a new language and embracing cultural diversity
Planet earth with arrows around
you want to graduate with a competitive edge, ready to adapt to the evolving hospitality industry
person with lines around their head, depicting experience

Details

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Year 1

Gain a strong foundation in international hospitality management, exploring global business, sustainable operations and core hotel and restaurant practices. Learn to analyse market trends, consumer behaviour and cultural factors, while developing entrepreneurial skills to innovate and adapt in a dynamic industry.
International Hospitality Management

Core modules

STO4002
The Business Environment: A Global Perspective 40 credits

This module introduces students to essential understanding and competencies in the dynamic and changing nature of business and the consideration of the future of organisations within the global business environment, including the management of risk and business resilience.

60% Tests

40% Coursework

THE4008
Introduction to International Hospitality Operations

This module develops a model understanding of the international hospitality sector in the context of hotel, restaurants and broad ranging hospitality operations. Fostering an understanding of the essential business and sustainable management practices for international hospitality operations, which include food and beverage, front office, accommodation and environmental considerations. It includes engagement with external learning element, such as industry operation in providing a practical perspective to theoretical reading.

THE4009
Global Hospitality Landscape

The module offers an exploration of the dynamic and multifaceted world of international hospitality operations. Through a blend of business frameworks and real-world case studies, examining the diverse cultural, economic, and social factors shaping the global hospitality landscape. The module uses HOTS a Hotel Management simulation experience, allowing students to make business based decisions which covers topics such as market trends, consumer behaviour, sustainable practices, and the impact of globalization on hospitality operations.

THE4011
Management and Entrepreneurship in Tourism, Hospitality and Events

This module explores a range of issues relating to the effective development of regional, national and/or international organisations and ventures in the tourism, hospitality, and event industries. Students will recognise how entrepreneurial thinking can drive growth and adaptability and will develop the necessary entrepreneurial skills to identify opportunities for innovation and business development, including opportunity recognition, strategic thinking and creative problem-solving. The module includes a focus on the importance and relevance of social responsibility and resilience strategies and equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical tools to thrive in dynamic and evolving industries.

Year 2

Build on your first-year foundations by exploring service innovation, digital transformation and marketing in hospitality and tourism. Learn how to deliver exceptional customer experiences on cruise ships, in hotels and across visitor services, while developing practical skills in digital tools, market analysis and personalised service strategies. Optional challenge modules allow you to tackle sustainability and responsible entrepreneurship, applying your knowledge to real-world business problems.
Molly Braham tourism and hospitality placement student

Core modules

THE5011
Service Innovation in the Cruise Industry 20 credits

This module introduces you to the management of passenger services on-board cruise liners, focussing on the provision of quality service, as a component of the cruise product.

100% Coursework

THE5018
Digitalisation and the Visitor Experience

This module equips you with the knowledge and skills to understand the transformative role of digital technologies in shaping visitor experiences within tourism and the global hospitality industries. It explores how digitalisation impacts the customer journey, enhances service delivery, and influences destination management. You will gain the knowledge through practical experiences to use digital tools, analyse emerging trends, and develop innovative strategies for creating personalised, seamless visitor and consumer experiences. The module encourages critical thinking about the ethical, social, and operational challenges posed by digital transformation.

THE5019
Service Marketing in Practice

This module will introduce you to key marketing principles and theories, emphasising their practical application. You will learn to develop marketing strategies that respond to industry trends, technological advancements, and changing consumer needs. Additionally, you will develop skills in conducting market research and analysing data to generate actionable insights.

Optional modules

PBS5001C
The Challenge Module: Sustainable Business 20 credits

Through this module you can select from a choice of topics related to the big challenges business and society are facing today. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy.

100% Coursework

PBS5002C
The Challenge Module: Sustainable Supply Chains for Global Trade 20 credits

In this module, you will be challenged to evaluate the sustainability of the globalised business world. You will assess conflicting viewpoints and present balanced arguments for the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the supply chains that support global trade.

100% Coursework

PBS5003C
The Challenge Module: Responsible Entrepreneurship in Action 20 credits

Through this module you can develop an understanding of the big challenges business and society are facing today, in the context of entrepreneurship. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy and will be informed by established business theories. You will develop and reflect on a business idea which has sustainability at its core.

100% Coursework

Progression routes

International progression routes
The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
 
 
 
 
 
 

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

My time at Plymouth moulded me into a strong person, brimming with self-confidence.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the lecturers on the programme for being wonderful and supportive. My supervisor too, who guided me on the right path, helping me with my vision. Without their support, I do not think I would have produced an amazing dissertation which helped me achieve a first-class honours in this field.
Vihangi
BSc International Hospitality Management graduate 
Vihangi De Silva
 
 

Real experience every step of the way

Gain hands-on experience through live projects, guest speakers and employer engagement. You can also take a paid placement year, earning a Certificate of Industrial Experience and building skills to stand out in the job market. Membership of the Institute of Hospitality adds networking and professional development opportunities.
Young woman working in an office. Getty 2184233967
 
 
 

Optional placement year

You have the option to spend your third year on a paid industrial placement. This extended professional experience in a relevant organisation will boost your commercial awareness, develop your skills and give you the practical experience employers value. Our strong industry links mean you’ll have access to a wide range of trusted placement providers, many of whom have worked with our students for years.
Our students have completed placements with leading organisations such as Hilton Worldwide, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Princess Cruises, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Accor Hotels Group, Harbour Hotels Group, Best Parties Ever, Accomplished Events, Newquay Hotels Group, Global Infusion Group – and many more.
Optional placement year logos
 
 
 

Exploring the cruise industry

“Placement is such a fantastic opportunity for not only your personal development but it allows you to make contacts within the industry.”
Molly shares how her optional placement year on-board with Carnival UK gave her invaluable hands-on experience and insights into the hospitality industry.
 
 
 
 
 

A new home to cultivate business leaders

Our Fitzroy Building has been transformed, becoming the new home of the Plymouth Business School, providing students with specialist facilities and social learning spaces.
Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite for tracking stock markets and The Cube – support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab.
Fitzroy Building from the outside
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

We’re Team Plymouth. As one of our team, we’re here to help you succeed. 
Our expert lecturers and your own personal tutor will be with you every step of the way.
Dr Richard Parkman Associate Head of School - International


Associate Head of School - International

Mrs Mandy Aggett Lecturer in Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management


Lecturer in Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management

 
 
 
 

Develop your leadership skills on the water

Making the most of our waterside location, we develop your essential leadership skills in a unique and unforgettable way – out on the water at Mount Batten Watersports Centre.
While classroom learning provides a solid foundation, practical experiences play a crucial role in shaping effective leaders.
During your first semester you are challenged to develop and reflect on your current capacity to lead and motivate one another through a series of challenges including rock climbing and abseiling, bell boating and orienteering.
Students kayaking at Mount Batten
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

 
 
 

I was given an amazing opportunity when I left university and started as a Business Analyst at Millennium Hotels. I was with the group for 16 years and held a number of different posts during that time. This gave me exposure to project management, international openings, sales and marketing and operational management.

My degree gave me a really good understanding of hospitality but, probably more importantly, how to manage and run a business. It also gave me a huge amount of life skills which allowed me to build my own confidence, both personally and professionally.
David
BSc (Hons) Hospitality Management graduate

David Lane – BSc (Hons) Hospitality Management graduate
 
 

Careers with this subject

You’ll be highly sought after across the global hospitality industry, including hotels, resorts, cruise lines, event management and catering operations. 
Develop transferable skills in problem-solving, communication, teamwork, negotiation and data presentation, alongside specialist expertise in revenue management, social media, emotional intelligence and contemporary food and beverage management. 
These skills prepare you for roles such as accommodation manager, hotel manager, events manager, business development manager and cabin crew, with graduates employed by leading organisations including Princess Cruises, Hilton, Marriott and Sodexo. 
You can also move into operational management, marketing, IT, or human resources, or enhance your career prospects through postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth.

My focus has been on human resources in the hotel industry in Hong Kong, specifically in talent development.

The course during my time at Plymouth had a combination of theory, classroom-based learning, as well as practical sessions where we rolled up our sleeves and cooked some dishes. The experience made it easier for me to adapt fairly quickly when I started my first job.
Charissa Chan
BSc (Hons) International Hospitality Management graduate

Inspiring student and graduate entrepreneurs

From an idea to a fully-fledged business, the Cube offers advice, funding and support at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey. The Cube can develop your creative skills and business acumen to maximise your future career.
“On my placement I ran my own business and got support from the Cube. They helped my business model and refine my skills.”
Samuel Jaffe
Workshop at The Cube

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£17,600 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£18,150 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSEs

All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above.

A levels

104 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.

BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma

DMM in any subject.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses

Pass a named Access to HE Diploma in any subject with at least 33 credits at merit/distinction.

T level

Merit in any subject.

International Baccalaureate

26 - 30 overall to include 4 at any subject at Higher Level.
English and Maths accepted within: Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 5.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
N224
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
 
UCAS course code
N224
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth

Other routes to this course

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
 
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.