Aberdeen Business School
BA (Hons)
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Undergraduate
This fully accredited (BA Hons) International Hospitality Management degree from Robert Gordon University combines both the academic and specialist aspects of International Hospitality Management.
It provides you with the opportunity to study and experience the industry’s many sub-sectors through both practical and theoretical teaching methods, including field trips, placement and industry masterclasses.
We have strong industry relationships which ensures the course is continuously evolving in line with sector demand, providing you with many opportunities to meet and listen to working professionals in the hospitality industry through guest lecturers and attending conferences and events.
Complementing the specific hospitality focus, the course also emphasises a strong understanding of the key management disciplines, ensuring you are ready to step right into management positions in your chosen field.
1st in Scotlandfor satisfaction with teaching in Hospitality, Event Management & Tourism
(GUG 2024)
2nd in the UKfor teaching quality in Hospitality, Leisure, Recreation and Tourism
(GUG* 2024)
*The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide
1st in Scotlandfor student experience in Hospitality, Leisure, Recreation & Tourism
(GUG* 2024)
*The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide
Degree Link
View study options
Mode of Study
- On Campus
Mode of Attendance
- Full Time
Start Date
September
Course Length
4 years
Mode of Study
- On Campus
Mode of Attendance
- Full Time
Start Date
January (Entry via International College)
Course Length
4 years
Year 1
This year provides a solid introduction to the Hospitality industry with further focus on contextualised relevant management disciplines. You will learn through a unique sect of modules including Service Sector Management, Marketing, Food and Beverage Operations and Working in Hospitality Environments.
Year 2
This year continues to focus on both industry specific and general management areas including Food and Beverage Management and Hotel Operation Management, helping to develop the key skills and specialist knowledge expected of a manager within the industry.
Year3
The key focus is on industry experience, with a choice of year long industry placements available locally, nationally and internationally. If you choose to not follow a formal placement route you will study management disciplines in depth and have the opportunity of a shorter six month placement.
Year 4
Includes in-depth self-directed study and the opportunity to increase your understanding of specialist areas of Hospitality Management. This year develops your strategic and critical thinking abilities and your ability to analyse and critically appraise problems. Your Research Project applies this through researchinga self-selected tourism topic.
Our sustainability commitment
It is essential that all hospitality graduates have a critical understanding of how the hospitality industry impacts on environment and people, and the strategies all stakeholders can adopt in order to minimise negative sustainable impacts. Exposure to industry through practical experience provides our students with valuable, first-hand insights to sustainable practices. Throughout the BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management course you will develop your understanding of sustainability within varied hospitality sectors and cultures and be encouraged to consider, evaluate and lead change in terms of current industry practices. An issue driven approach to sustainability is taken which explores emerging relevant developments including food miles, food waste, ethical production, consumer trends and technological advancements.
This course is committed toUnited Nation's Sustainability Goals 8, 12 and 13. Find out more on theUnited Nations website.
Events
We have on campus and virtual events to help you find out more about study, student experience and future career paths.
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Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes.The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module information
Learning Methods
Teaching is through a combination of lectures and contextualised modules; you are encouraged to discuss theory and ideas and develop your skills of analysis and interpretation. General management lectures may consist of over 100 students; subject specific tutorials will be around 25 students. Each subject is nominally three hours per week over a 12 week term.
Throughout the course, there is a significant focus on industry experience and we engage with key players in the hospitality industry extensively, particularly those who influence the direction and growth of the industry in the UK. You will have the opportunity to build your practical experience through field trips, guest speakers, masterclasses and live client projects.
Activity Summary
- Lectures - 16 students per group, 4 hours per week
- Tutorial - 16 students per group, 8 hours per week
- Project Supervision - 6 students per group, 1 hour per week
- External Visits - 16 students per group, 16 hours per week
How long is a BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management course?
An International Hospitality Management degree can be successfully completed in 4 years, in which the opportunity to receive the necessary skills are obtained.
Independent Study
In Year 4, a substantial level of effective and committed independent study is required. This involves wider reading but also critical reflection. You will be expected to spend around 20-25 hours a week conducting independent study. Much of this will be directly linked to the Research Project.
Staff Delivering on This Course
Academic staff who teach on this course have extensive experience within the hospitality sector having worked in variety of roles in Tourism, Hotel Management, Hospitality and Events.
Our staff have either achieved Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, or are working towards this. This is a professional recognition of lecturer practice, impact and leadership in teaching and learning.
Other staff members include industry experts, RGU lecturers from other subject areas, postgraduate research students and media technicians.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed eachyear:
Year 1
- 1written exam, typically for 2 hours
- 3 reports
- 2 oral assessments
- 2 practical skill assessments
Year 2
- 1 written exam
- 2 written assignments, including essays
- 3 reports
- 1 practical skills assessment
Year 3
- 2written assignments, including essays
- 4 reports
- 1 oral assessment
- 1 poster presentation
Year 4
- 6 reports
- 1 dissertation
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The InclusionCentre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
The Inclusion CENTRE
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
CampusMoodle
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
STUDY SKILLS SUPPORT
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
University Library
Placements
In Year 3, you will have the opportunity to undertake a 48-week paid placement locally, nationally or internationally. On the taught/direct entry route, Year 3 involves a taught Term1 and the option of a 6-month placement in Term2.
Past placements have been undertaken at The Mariner Hotel, Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel (France), AECC, Gleneagles, Burning Tree Country Club (USA) and Waccabuc Country Club (USA).
You can choose to source your own placement or access our Placement Office, who will support you in sourcing and validating a suitable position.
PLACEMENTs at rgu
Study Abroad
In Years 2 and 3, there are opportunities to study with partner overseasinstitutions in Europe as part of the Study Abroad programme. For more information visit:
STUDY ABROAD
Job Prospects
Hospitality is a thriving and innovative business sector and there is a major demand for able graduates with in depth specialist knowledge and skills. There are fantastic opportunities for varied and challenging careers in this sector including management roles in events, hotels, tourist services and leisure, or more specialist roles in HR management and guest services.
Is International Hospitality Management a good career choice?
Previous BAInternational Hospitality Management graduates of Robert Gordon University have gone on to pursue the following careers:
- Front of House Manager
- Assistant Restaurant Manager
- Events Co-ordinator
- Clusters Sales Researcher for an International Hotel chain
- Brasserie Manager
Find your CAREER Path
What is needed for a BA (Hons) International Hospitality Management degree?
Standard Entry Requirements
- SQA Higher: BBCC
- GCE A Level: CCC
- Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H3H3H3H3
- IB Diploma: 26
Minimum Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:
Entry to Year 1
- SQA Higher: BCC/CCCC
Entry Requirements Explained
Alternative Qualifications
We welcome applications from those with equivalent qualifications to those stated, including SVQs/NVQs, access programmes,Foundation Apprenticeships and overseas qualifications. Applications from students with non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis.
Applicants from Partner Colleges
A relevant HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for entry into Year 3.
DEGREE LINK
Applicants from Foundation Pathway Providers
Entry to year 1 or year 2 may be possible for students who have completed a Foundation Certificate or Foundation Undergraduate Pathway programme, from an approved UK provider, at 60% or above. For courses which require a specific subjects match, such as English or Maths, these would need to provided in addition to the Pathway Programme Certificate or result.
Advanced Entry
All other applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.
International Students
International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
English Language requirements
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.ukfor further information.
Academic Year 2025-2026
Scottish Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
Year 2 | £1820 | |
Year 3 | £1820 | |
Year 4 | £1820 |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6250 |
Year 2 | £6250 | |
Year 3 | £6250 | |
Year 4 | £6250 |
International Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £16980 |
Year 2 | £16980 | |
Year 3 | £16980 | |
Year 4 | £16980 |
Academic Year 2024-2025
Scottish Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
Year 2 | £1820 | |
Year 3 | £1820 | |
Year 4 | £1820 |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £5890 |
Year 2 | £5890 | |
Year 3 | £5890 | |
Year 4 | £5890 |
EU Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £5890 |
Year 2 | £5890 | |
Year 3 | £5890 | |
Year 4 | £5890 |
International Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £16490 |
Year 2 | £16490 | |
Year 3 | £16490 | |
Year 4 | £16490 |
Additional Costs
- £30 Travel (for study trips)
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Other Fees and Costs
Student Funding
If you are a Scottish resident, you may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding.
Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website:
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Funding and Scholarship Search
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Finance and Funding
Any questions?
Get in touch with our Student Admissions Service and we'll do our best to help.
Get in touch
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Institute of Hospitality(IoH) and you will be eligible for student membership once you have completed the course.