Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Edith Cowan University

Program Overview

At Edith Cowan University (ECU), the Bachelor of Commerce is a flexible and career-focused degree that gives you the freedom to tailor your studies to your interests and professional goals. It is ideal for students who want to build strong business knowledge while specialising in areas such as Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, International Business, Project Management, and more.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, you build a strong understanding of the business world through units such as Foundations of Business, Accounting and Finance Essentials, Business Environments & Markets, and Work and Career. These subjects introduce key business concepts while helping you develop professional skills and career awareness.

Year 2
The second year focuses on strengthening your analytical and decision-making abilities through units including Introduction to Business Analytics, Ethics and Responsibility in Business, and Professional Engagement and Planning. You also begin to specialise in your chosen major, developing knowledge in your preferred business field.

Year 3
In the third year, you undertake advanced studies within your major and complete Professional Practice, gaining valuable insight into real business environments. The focus shifts towards applying business knowledge, solving workplace challenges, and developing industry-ready skills.

Year 4
The final year allows you to deepen your expertise through advanced major units, electives, internships, industry projects, and professional practice opportunities. This stage helps you build a stronger professional profile and graduate with practical experience that employers value.

Focus areas: Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, International Business, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Management, Project Management, Event Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Sport Business, Law in Business

Learning outcomes: Business problem-solving, analytical thinking, ethical decision-making, professional communication, teamwork and collaboration, innovation and creativity, leadership skills, and industry-ready business knowledge

Professional alignment (accreditation): ECU's business programs are accredited by AACSB International, a globally recognised accreditation held by a small percentage of business schools worldwide. Some majors may also have additional professional recognition.

Reputation (employability rankings): ECU was ranked Australia's #1 business school for teaching in the Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools 2024 rankings and is recognised as Western Australia's leading public university for undergraduate Business and Management studies based on student experience and outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Edith Cowan University (ECU), the Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This hands-on approach ensures that you not only learn the concepts but also apply them in real-world settings. The program features state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance your learning experience, preparing you for a successful career in the dynamic hospitality and tourism industry.

Through various experiential learning opportunities, you will engage in group projects, internships, and field trips that allow you to collaborate with peers and industry professionals. Here are some key components of the program that contribute to your practical skills development:

- Internships: Gain valuable industry experience through structured internships with leading hospitality and tourism organizations, allowing you to apply your classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios.

- Industry Projects: Work on group projects that involve real clients, giving you the chance to solve actual business challenges and develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various hospitality and tourism venues, providing you with insights into industry operations and best practices.

- Digital Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as Opera PMS for property management and other digital tools that enhance your learning and prepare you for the tech-savvy nature of the industry.

- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research laboratories and resources that support your studies and allow you to explore current trends and innovations in hospitality and tourism.

- Library Resources: Benefit from ECU's extensive library services, which include access to a wide range of academic journals, books, and online databases relevant to your field of study.

- Networking Opportunities: Engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and networking events organized by the university, helping you build valuable connections for your future career.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you graduate with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Choosing to study at ECU means you’re not just learning; you’re preparing to lead in a vibrant and ever-evolving industry.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Edith Cowan University (ECU) are well-prepared to enter a dynamic and growing industry. With a strong focus on practical skills and industry connections, you can expect to find yourself in exciting roles such as a Hotel Manager, Event Coordinator, or Tourism Marketing Specialist. The opportunities are vast and varied:

- University Services: ECU offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events that connect students with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The hospitality and tourism sector is thriving, with ECU graduates enjoying a high employment rate. On average, graduates can expect starting salaries around AUD 60,000, with potential for growth as they gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: ECU has established strong partnerships with leading organizations in the hospitality and tourism sectors, such as Accor Hotels and Tourism Australia, providing students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Tourism and Hospitality Management Association, ensuring that your degree holds value in the industry for years to come.
- Graduation Outcomes: ECU boasts a high graduate satisfaction rate, with many alumni successfully advancing to leadership positions within just a few years of completing their degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, you have the option to further enhance your qualifications. You could pursue a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management or Tourism, which would deepen your expertise and open doors to higher-level management roles. Additionally, ECU offers various professional development courses and certifications that can help you specialize in areas such as event management or sustainable tourism. This pathway not only enriches your knowledge but also significantly boosts your career prospects in this vibrant industry.