As tourism continues to be a major factor in the economy of many nations, there is a growing need for expert professionals and consultants who can provide in-depth guidance and direction for this rapidly expanding industry. Travel and tourism may indeed be the world's largest industry today, accounting for considerable percentages of the global domestic product, capital investment and consumer spending worldwide. Located between New York and Boston, two of the most prominent U.S. tourist gateways, the University of New Haven offers students a unique vantage point from which to study tourism. Tourism as a profession requires a knowledge of such fields as economics, finance, accounting, marketing, planning and policy development. Recognizing that education extends beyond the classroom, all tourism majors must complete 1,000 hours of work experience by doing 600 hours of practicum and 400 hours of internship.
Professional internships are an elective means of obtaining quality work experience.
Guest lectures and field trips to conventions, trade shows and professional meetings provide excellent learning opportunities. The program presents a balanced tourism curriculum with management skills, leadership and human resource management as well as tourism economics, planning and marketing. Global orientations are provided in courses covering international relations and international law, organization and business. Classroom theory is complemented by other learning opportunities including guest lecturers and field trips to conventions, trade shows and professional meetings. Moreover, as conditions allow, students are given opportunities to work on professional projects.