Managing the Sustainable Tourism Business
This course analyzes how sustainability impacts business operations and how successful sustainable businesses identify and assess alternative resource management techniques.
Degree pathways
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Transfer up to 4 courses (an estimated 12 credits)
OR
Same degree from ASU
OPT eligibility
NA
Tuition cost and Credit Transfer
Tuition estimates are based on ASU's published 2026–2027 tuition and fee rates and are subject to change. The number of credits that transfer and the length of the one-year timeline may vary by student and by home institution.
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Program description
Sustainable Tourism, MST
Tourism has far-reaching environmental, economic, and social effects, and the Master of Sustainable Tourism program gives students a well-rounded understanding of how these dimensions intersect. By weaving the three pillars of sustainability directly into tourism practice, the curriculum offers an applied, hands-on approach to learning.
The Master of Sustainable Tourism examines forward-thinking strategies for sustainable development and the challenges facing tourism destinations and communities around the world. Coursework focuses on creating tourism products and experiences that reduce environmental harm while strengthening cultural identity and economic health. Grounded in a community-first approach, the program prepares students to ensure that tourism's benefits flow back to host communities, supporting long-term sustainability and responsible engagement on a global scale.
Curriculum
Featured courses
Sustainable Thinking in Tourism I
This course is the first in a series of two courses introducing the basic concepts of sustainability and their application and implications for tourism.
Sustainable Tourism Destination Planning and Management I
This course applies sustainable economic and regional development concepts and theories to destination planning and management.
Admissions
Admission requirements
Program requirements
For admission requirements, refer to the academic unit program page. Some programs have additional requirements — check with your local Enrollment Advisor for details.
Sustainable Tourism, MST, MS →Transfer applicants
International graduate and undergraduate transfer applicants should review ASU's international transfer guidance before applying.
https://admission.asu.edu/apply/international/transfer →Key admission dates & deadlines
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| Campus Immersion | Online | Campus Immersion | Online | |
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Outcomes
Career opportunities & applicable roles
The program prepares professionals to meet the growing demand for those who can apply sustainability principles in tourism planning, management and operations. It serves industry professionals who are seeking to advance their careers, as well as individuals interested in transitioning into tourism or sustainability-related fields.
Career examples include
Destination Planner and Manager
Recreation Manager
Sustainable Food Systems Manager
Tourism Planner
The school
Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college that integrates teaching, research and service to address social problems, serving more than 8,000 students across four schools and 20+ research units.
Its School of Public Affairs ranks No. 9 nationally in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report graduate rankings, including No. 1 in local government management, and its online master's in criminal justice ranks No. 10.
Programs span public policy, social work, criminology and criminal justice, nonprofit leadership, emergency management and community development. Watts students deliver more than half a million hours of community service each year.
Ready to take the next step in your career?
Complete the Request Information form and connect with an International Enrollment Advisor to explore your options.