Villa College has launched a new Master of International Tourism and Hospitality Management programme.
Offered through the college's School of Hospitality, Tourism and Experiential Industries, the postgraduate programme is designed to develop leadership, strategic thinking and management skills for professionals in the tourism and hospitality sector.
According to Villa College, the programme combines academic theory with practical experience to prepare students for senior leadership roles in the Maldives and internationally.
The programme aims to equip students with strategic leadership skills to address challenges facing the tourism and hospitality industry, while promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism practices.
It also focuses on developing global marketing, digital and analytical skills, enabling students to make evidence-based decisions through research and data analysis.
The programme is delivered over three semesters through a combination of face-to-face and online learning.
The first semester includes modules in:
- Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Customer Experience Management
- Sustainability and Resilience in Tourism Operations
- Strategy and Leadership
The second semester covers:
- Digital Transformation and Hospitality Data Analytics
- Hospitality Financial Planning and Simulation
- Business Research Methods
Students must also complete one elective from:
- Project Management
- Global Marketing and Brand Strategy
- Hospitality Law and Policy
- Cultural Tourism
In the final semester, students will complete either an Action Research Paper, an Executive Project, or a Case Study Research Paper.
Villa College Vice Rector Dr Ali Najeeb said tourism is the main pillar of the Maldivian economy and that the college has a responsibility to develop professionals with strong leadership and strategic capabilities.
He said the new master's programme provides an opportunity for both industry professionals and those aspiring to senior management positions to pursue an internationally recognized postgraduate qualification while remaining in the Maldives.
Dr Mohamed Uzain, Assistant Professor at the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Experiential Industries, said the programme has been designed to prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving tourism and hospitality industry.
He said the curriculum combines theory and practical learning, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation, data analytics and sustainability.
Villa College said further information on admission requirements and the programme will be available as part of its September intake.
