What will I learn on this module?
This module will provide you with the knowledge and a critical understanding of the management of travel and tourism offerings both packaged and unpackaged. The module analyses the pivotal role of principals (accommodation, airlines and attractions), intermediaries, such as tour operators and destination management companies, in the creation and distribution of tourism commodities. You will develop an appreciation of the complex management and operational challenges faced by managers when planning, marketing and operating responsibly in host destinations.
The module commences with sector overview providing an understanding of the external environment, researching strategic opportunities for new products and developments. It addresses the key operational, consumer and host destination supplier management challenges, within the political and legal constraints of tourism management in a global context. The creation of products offerings is examined, with attention being paid to special interest tourism and the complex supply chain necessary in creating such products. The intricacies and relationships between these actors are analysed and you will develop a working insight into the business of suppliers and management organisations including contracting, digital enterprises and crisis management. Your studies will highlight the importance of cost-effective dissemination though e-mechanisms and traditional distribution agents. You will examine the key issues in management operations such as customer service, product innovation and the sharing economy within the associated legal and regulatory frameworks.
How will I learn on this module?
The module is delivered to you using three lectures a week and is supported by weekly seminars. The lectures will provide you with the theoretical underpinning of the module content and seminars will give you the opportunity to transfer and apply your knowledge to contemporary case studies and real-life examples.
In order to maximise your learning, pre-reading and exercises will be available on the module’s e-learning portal. In addition, a specially designed E-reading list will provide you with focused contemporary material, including industry reports and academic research to further develop your knowledge of the sector and current practice.
Independent learning time is set aside for learning activities, self-identified by you to gain deeper and broader knowledge of the subject and recommended by the teaching team that you demonstrate a commitment to the sector by updating your industry awareness through the use of industry websites and newsletters such as Travelmole.com.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Support will be provided to you by a member of academic staff leading the module. Summative assessment and support will be given throughout. Your module is supported by an e-learning portal, which will house lecture material, seminar activities, assessment details and study support resources. You will be provided with an electronic reading list that comprises of book section, journal articles and industry reports that will contribute to your understanding of the management practices and challenges within international tourism, hospitality and events.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• Develop a critical understanding of the importance of the management role in the development, production, packaging and distribution of tourism products and to appreciate the different management approaches. (MLO1)
• Demonstrate knowledge of the role, function and structure of tour operations, travel distribution, accommodation, transport sectors, resort management and their inter-relationships. (MLO2)
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Demonstrate a critical appreciation of the importance of research, development, planning and dissemination of tourism products. (MLO3)
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• Demonstrate a critical appreciation of the importance of research, development, planning and dissemination of tourism products. (MLO3)
How will I be assessed?
This module is assessed by 2 pieces of work. The first assessment is a poster presentation based on travel product proposal worth 20% of the module assessing MLO3 and MLO4. The second assessment will be a written assignment (a business type report) that will require research and application skills; this will represent 80% of the total assessment of the module and will assess MLO1, MLO2 and MLO3.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module explores the operations, organisations and structures involved in the travel and tourism sector. It will give you the opportunity to
examine the various management issues involved in the design, development, distribution and operation of travel and tourism offerings. You’ll
start by looking at the growth of package travel globally and the emergence of digital intermediaries and suppliers. You’ll then use
contemporary research to identify new potential market segments and design and plan a new product to meet the needs of this market. This
will help you develop an understanding of the financial and legal constraints of the sector, as well as contractual agreements, customer
relationship management and quality control. The module is underpinned by the philosophy of responsible management, encouraging you to
explore the implications of management decisions on suppliers and host communities.
Course info
UCAS Code N811
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 2 years Full Time or 3 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Newcastle Business School
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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