The Postgraduate Diploma in International Tourism Management at AUT is a Level 8 postgraduate qualification designed for graduates and tourism professionals seeking advanced knowledge of the global tourism industry. The programme develops expertise in tourism leadership, destination management, tourism innovation, sustainability, crisis management, research, and strategic planning.

The programme is ideal for students aiming to:

• Advance into tourism leadership roles
• Build specialist tourism management expertise
• Move into destination marketing and policy
• Develop research and analytical skills
• Progress to master’s-level study

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

• Globally focused tourism management qualification
• Industry-connected learning environment
• Study in New Zealand’s tourism and hospitality hub
• Strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation
• Exposure to tourism resilience and crisis management
• Pathway to master’s and research programmes
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options
• Practical learning supported by industry partnerships

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete 120 points through advanced tourism management courses.

Topics and Courses Include

• Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Tourism, Hospitality and Events
• Consumer Perspectives in the Visitor Economy
• The South Pacific and Tourism
• Contemporary Topics in Tourism, Hospitality and Events
• Urban Tourism and Creative Placemaking
• Tourism, Ethnic Minorities and Indigenous Peoples
• Sustainable Leadership in Hospitality, Tourism and Events
• Events and Leisure: Concepts, Practices and Impacts
• Critical Tourism & Hospitality Perspectives
• Risk, Resilience and Crisis Management
• Qualitative Social Research Methods
• Quantitative Social Research Methods
• Special Topic in Tourism

Disciplines / Specialisations Covered

The programme covers advanced study areas including:

• International Tourism Management
• Sustainable Tourism
• Tourism Leadership
• Tourism Innovation
• Destination Management
• Tourism Marketing
• Tourism Research
• Indigenous and Cultural Tourism
• Crisis and Risk Management
• Tourism Entrepreneurship
• Events and Visitor Economy

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

Tourism Industry

• Tourism Manager
• Destination Marketing Manager
• Tourism Development Officer
• Visitor Experience Manager
• Tourism Strategy Specialist

Hospitality & Events

• Tourism and Events Coordinator
• Hospitality and Tourism Consultant
• Resort or Visitor Attraction Manager

Government & Policy

• Tourism Policy Advisor
• Tourism Planning Executive
• Regional Tourism Development Specialist

Research & Academia

• Tourism Researcher
• Pathway to Master’s and doctoral study

Entrepreneurship

• Tourism Business Owner
• Travel and Experience Entrepreneur

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of Place from AUT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency documents

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Important Notes

• Some papers may only be offered in specific semesters.
• Applicants with professional industry experience may receive special admission consideration.
• The qualification can serve as a pathway to higher postgraduate studies.
• International students are encouraged to apply early because intake capacities can fill quickly.

Industry Engagement & Learning Experience

AUT emphasises practical and industry-connected education. Students benefit from:

• Applied tourism projects
• Industry-linked learning
• Research-informed teaching
• Networking opportunities
• Exposure to tourism trends and sustainability practices

Programme Highlights

• Advanced Level 8 postgraduate qualification
• International tourism management focus
• Industry and research-oriented curriculum
• Sustainability and innovation emphasis
• Strong employability outcomes
• Flexible study options
• Pathway to master’s programmes
• Study in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest tourism gateway city