Niche Tourism
20 ECTS
Niche Tourism
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Module Description
This module is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of effectively managing and catering to the diverse interests of tourists. With the increasing globalisation and accessibility of travel, it has become crucial for tourism professionals to possess the necessary competences, knowledge, and skills to address the varied preferences and needs of tourists.
Throughout this module, learners will explore different tourism niches, including: Medical Tourism, Sports Tourism, Dark Tourism, Agritourism, Heritage and Culture Tourism, and Sustainable Tourism. By examining these niches, students will gain insights into the specific requirements, motivations, and expectations of tourists who engage in these specialised forms of travel.
Entry Requirements
Candidates who apply for this course must possess:
- A qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent in any subject) and a pass in English Language* and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).
In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted on the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA College, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
Evidence may include:
- A detailed CV outlining relevant work experience and responsibilities.
- Employer reference letters outlining job role, duration, and key competencies.
- Related documentation demonstrating relevant skills (e.g. work portfolio).
IDEA College’s RPL Policy: https://mt.ideaeducation.com/app/uploads/2024/07/Doc_007_24-Recognition-of-Prior-Learning-Policy-and-Process.pdf
*Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.
Target Audience
The programme targets the following groups:
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in the Tourism and Hospitality Management.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of career paths in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Career Paths
The potential positions for which this programme aims to prepare could be and are not limited to: –
- Travel consultant.
- Operations manager.
- Event organiser/planner/manager.
- Business Development executive.
- Hotel manager.
- Travel agency manager.
- Marketing executive.
- Tour operator.
How you’ll be assessed
The course comprises:
- Evening classes for part-time courses.
- Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
- Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
- Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Formative Assessment
- Summative Assessment
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Recognise and appreciate the diverse interests and preferences of tourists across various tourism niches.
- Gain advanced knowledge on the concept of Medical Tourism.
- Critically assess the importance which Sports Tourism represents to some tourists.
- Identify and critically appraise the motivations behind Dark Tourism.
- Critically analyse the role of the agriculture industry in tourism.
- Assess the significance and allure of heritage and cultural landmarks in tourism.
- Critically review how tourism can be made to be more sustainable and assess the motivations behind the concept of Sustainable Tourism.
- Learn about and discuss the principles of Ecotourism.
- Appreciate and evaluate the charm and appeal of Adventure Tourism to some tourists.
- Judiciously examine how Culinary Tourism represents an attractive concept to some tourists.
Knowledge
By the end of the module/unit, the students will be able to:
- Recognise and appreciate the diverse interests and preferences of tourists across various tourism niches.
- Gain advanced knowledge on the concept of Medical Tourism.
- Critically assess the importance which Sports Tourism represents to some tourists.
- Identify and critically appraise the motivations behind Dark Tourism.
- Critically analyse the role of the agriculture industry in tourism.
- Assess the significance and allure of heritage and cultural landmarks in tourism.
- Critically review how tourism can be made to be more sustainable and assess the motivations behind the concept of Sustainable Tourism.
- Learn about and discuss the principles of Ecotourism.
- Appreciate and evaluate the charm and appeal of Adventure Tourism to some tourists.
- Judiciously examine how Culinary Tourism represents an attractive concept to some tourists.
Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Design customised tourism experiences for diverse tourists groups.
- Implement conflict resolution and negotiations skills to address potential conflicts arising from diverse interests.
- Work with stakeholders and partners in the tourism industry to create inclusive and sustainable tourism practices.
- Develop strategies to manage and meet the specific needs and expectations of tourists from different cultural backgrounds and demographics.
- Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for tourists, ensuring their satisfaction and promoting positive experiences.
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address conflicts or challenges arising from diverse tourist interests.
- Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills to engage with tourists coming from diverse backgrounds.
Module-Specific Learner Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to:
- Identify challenges and issues specific to niche tourism markets and devise creative solutions.
- Adapt to changes in niche tourism trends and preferences, ensuring the ongoing relevance of tourism offerings.
- Integrate the principles of sustainability into niche tourism operations.
- Evaluate the economic, social, and environmental impacts of niche tourism on destinations.
- Promote responsible behaviour among niche tourists and raise awareness about sustainable practices, etc.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences
The learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find, download, and upload assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials, etc.