MBA Travel and Tourism

An MBA in Travel and Tourism in India is a specialized postgraduate program that focuses on developing management skills and expertise specifically tailored to the travel, Hospitality and tourism industry. This program aims to prepare students for leadership roles in various segments of the industry, including tourism management, hotel and resort management, airline management, event management, and more.

The curriculum is a mix of core management courses, specialized travel and tourism subjects, and practical exposure. Students learn about marketing strategies for tourism, hotel and resort management, airline operations, event planning, and travel technology. Many MBA programs in Travel and Tourism offer students opportunities for internships, field visits, and practical experience in various aspects of the travel and tourism industry. This hands-on experience is valuable for gaining insights into real-world challenges and opportunities.

MBA Travel and Tourism in India

Scope of MBA Travel and Tourism

Pursuing an MBA in Travel and Tourism opens up diverse career opportunities in one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing industries. Basically the travel and tourism sector encompasses a wide range of businesses, including airlines, hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, cruise lines, event planning, destination marketing organizations, and more. Following are the scope of MBA in Travel and Tourism:

1. Tourism Management:

• Roles: Tourism Manager, Destination Manager, Tour Planner.
• Responsibilities: Developing tour packages, managing travel itineraries, coordinating with local suppliers, and also ensuring customer satisfaction.

2. Hotel Management:

• Roles: Hotel Manager, Operations Manager, Guest Relations Manager.
• Responsibilities: Overseeing hotel operations, managing staff, ensuring high-quality guest experiences, and maximizing revenue.

3. Travel Agency Management:

• Roles: Travel Agency Manager, Travel Consultant, Sales Manager.
• Responsibilities: Selling travel packages, providing travel advice, coordinating bookings, and also managing agency operations.

4. Event Management:

• Roles: Event Manager, Event Planner, Conference Coordinator.
• Responsibilities: Planning and organizing events, conferences, exhibitions, and meetings for clients or organizations.

5. Cruise Line Management:

• Roles: Cruise Director, Onboard Revenue Manager, Cruise Operations Manager.
• Responsibilities: Overseeing onboard activities, managing passenger services, maximizing onboard revenue, and ensuring a positive cruise experience.

6. Travel Technology and E-commerce:

• Roles: Online Travel Manager, Travel Technology Consultant, E-commerce Manager.
• Responsibilities: Managing online travel platforms, developing travel apps, optimizing user experience, and implementing digital marketing strategies.

7. Destination Marketing:

• Roles: Destination Marketing Manager, Tourism Development Officer.
• Responsibilities: Promoting tourist destinations, collaborating with local businesses, organizing marketing campaigns, and attracting visitors.

8. Airline Management:

• Roles: Airline Manager, Airport Operations Manager, Revenue Management Analyst.
• Responsibilities: Overseeing airline operations, managing airport services, optimizing flight schedules, and analyzing revenue data.

9. Adventure Tourism and Ecotourism:

• Roles: Adventure Tour Operator, Ecotourism Guide, Wildlife Tourism Manager.
• Responsibilities: Organizing adventure tours, eco-friendly travel experiences, wildlife safaris, and sustainable tourism initiatives.

10. Travel Journalism and Blogging:

• Roles: Travel Journalist, Travel Blogger, Content Creator.
• Responsibilities: Writing travel articles, creating travel vlogs, reviewing destinations, and promoting travel experiences through various media platforms.

11. Tourism Research and Policy Development:

• Roles: Tourism Researcher, Policy Analyst, Tourism Development Consultant.
• Responsibilities: Conducting research on tourism trends, analyzing market data, and advising governments or organizations on tourism policies and strategies.

12. Entrepreneurship in Travel and Tourism:

• Roles: Starting and managing travel agencies, tour companies, accommodation facilities, or travel-related startups.
• Responsibilities: Building and growing a business, developing unique travel experiences, and catering to specific niche markets.

The travel and tourism industry is resilient and adaptable, offering opportunities for professionals to work in different sectors and geographic locations. Moreover, with the rise of sustainable and experiential travel trends, there is a growing demand for professionals who can create unique and responsible travel experiences. Continuous innovation, customer-centric approach, and a deep understanding of global travel trends are key to success in this field.

Modes to Study MBA in Travel and Tourism

There are several modes to Study MBA for an Aspiring Candidate. The Following are the Types of MBA in Travel and Tourism Options Available.

Full-Time MBA

Features: Full-time MBA programs are intensive and immersive, hence providing a comprehensive curriculum. Students attend classes on campus, participate in group projects, and often have access to internships also. This mode is suitable for individuals looking for a traditional MBA experience basically without the constraints of a job.

Eligibility: 50% marks in graduation basically from Recognize University along with valid Entrance Exam.

Duration: 2 Years.

Fee Structure: Rs 2.0 Lacs – 18 Lacs.

Part-Time MBA

Features: Part-time MBA programs are for working professionals. Classes are often scheduled during the evenings or on weekends, allowing students to continue working while pursuing their Masters degree. This mode is ideal for those who want to balance work, life, and education as a result.
Eligibility: Basically a Graduate along with Minimum 2-3 years work experience.
Duration: 2-3 Years.
Fee Structure: Rs 2.5 Lacs – 8 Lacs.

Executive MBA (EMBA)

Features: EMBA programs are tailored particularly for experienced professionals, usually with a minimum number of years of work experience (varies by program). Classes are usually on weekends or in intensive modules, allowing executives to continue their careers while enhancing their leadership and managerial skills. EMBA programs often emphasize real-world applications and case studies.
Eligibility: Graduate with Basically Minimum 2-3 years work experience.
Duration: 1-2 Years.
Fee Structure: Rs 3.5 Lacs – 10 Lacs.

Distance Learning MBA

Features: Distance learning MBA programs are basically off campus Studies. Hence provide course materials to students, who study independently. All Communication with instructors and peers is primarily through mail, email, or online forums. Additionally Examinations are conducted at designated centers. Therefore, this mode is suitable for individuals who require complete flexibility and cannot attend regular classes.
Eligibility: Basically a Graduate from any Discipline from an UGC Approved University.
Duration: 2-3 Years.
Fee Structure: Rs 1.0 Lacs – 3.0 Lacs

Dual MBA Programs

Features: Dual MBA programs allow students to earn two degrees simultaneously, often in collaboration with international universities. Having Credit transfer facility in 2nd year in choice of University Abroad. Also in different disciplines such as MBA/MS or MBA/MPH or PGDM/MBA. Hence these programs are more specialized and can provide a broader skill set along with Practical Exposure.
Eligibility: 50% marks in graduation basically from a Recognize University along with valid Entrance Exam.
Duration: 2 Years.
Fee Structure: Rs 10. Lacs – 30 Lacs.

Online MBA

Features: Online MBA programs are entirely taught over the internet. However, students can access lectures, assignments, and resources remotely, allowing for a flexible study schedule. This mode is suitable for individuals who require the flexibility to study from anywhere, often while working full-time or managing other commitments.
Eligibility: Graduate basically from Any Recognize University.
Duration: Minimum 2 years, Maximum 4 years from the date of registration.
Fee Structure: Rs 1.0 Lacs – 2.5 Lacs

Accelerated MBA

Features: Accelerated MBA programs are also known as fast-track or one-year MBA programs. Moreover these programs are highly intensive, condensing the traditional two-year curriculum into a shorter timeframe. Hence. These programs are demanding and require full-time commitment, making them suitable for individuals who want to complete their MBA quickly. Also the students in accelerated MBA programs typically take a heavier course load each semester and may have limited breaks between terms.
Eligibility: Basically a Graduate along with Minimum 2-3 years work experience
Duration: 1 year.
Fee Structure: Rs 2.0 Lacs – 8 Lacs.

Eligibility for MBA Admission in Travel and Tourism

The following are the basic eligibility criteria for Securing admissions to the MBA Travel and Tourism course are:

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicant require to have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognize university or college from Either India or Abroad.
• Minimum Percentage: Many institutions require a minimum of 50 percentage or grade point average (GPA)equivalent in the undergraduate degree. Therefore the specific percentage or GPA requirement varies among institutions along with other Cut off Parameters.

Entrance Exams:

• CAT/MAT/XAT/CMAT/ATMA/CUET: Most MBA programs in India require candidates to Either take one of the national-level management entrance exams or State level Entrance, National levels such as CAT (Common Admission Test), MAT (Management Aptitude Test), XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test), or CMAT (Common Management Admission Test). State level such as PGCET, MHCET, IPCET. Hence, different institutions may accept different exams, Also most of all Colleges have different Cutoff for Admission in MBA Travel and Tourism.
• Minimum Percentile/Score: Basically the Institutions usually have a minimum percentile or score Cut off requirement in these entrance exams for candidates to be eligible for admission. Also the minimum percentile/score varies by institution and can be different for each category of students also (General, SC/ST/OBC, etc.).

Work Experience (Varies):

• Some MBA programs may require work experience: While many MBA programs accept fresh graduates, some institutes, especially for executive MBA programs, Therefore require a minimum number of years of work experience, often ranging from 1 to 5 years.

Reservation Criteria:

• Indian institutions follow the government’s reservation policy, which includes quotas for different Category Students. Such as Schedule-Castes (SC/ST), Other Backward-Classes (OBC), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and also other categories. Although Candidates belonging to these categories Usually have specific relaxations in eligibility criteria also. Minimum 5% Relaxation in Graduation percentage and varied Entrance Exam Cutoff are usually Given depending upon the Institute.

Personal Interview and Group Discussion:

• Most of all institutions conduct stringent personal interviews and/or group discussions as part of the selection process. Therefore, the performance in these sessions is often considered while making final admission decisions by the Institute Admission Panel.

Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Essays:

SOP or Essays: Many a Times Applicants are often require to write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) or essays. Hence Explaining their motivation for pursuing an MBA, career goals, and why they are interested in the specific MBA program they are applying to.

List of Top MBA in Travel and Tourism Colleges in India

India, is home to several prestigious MBA colleges that offer specialize programs in Travel and Tourism. However, the ranking of these colleges can vary on different surveys and criteria. so it’s always a good idea to research and consider multiple sources before making a decision. Following are some of the top MBA colleges in India known for their Travel and Tourism programs:

1. Chandigarh University
2. Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism (IITTM):
3. J.C. Bose University Of Science And Technology
4. YMCA
5. Goa Institute of Management
6. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
7. University of Mumbai
8. National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Hyderabad
9. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi
10. Annamalai University
11. College of Vocational Studies, Delhi
12. KLE University Belgaum
13. UPES Dehradun
14. Aligarh Muslim University
15. Amity School of Hospitality
16. Welingkar Institute of Management Development
17. Christ University – Bangalore

Entrance Exam for MBA in Travel and Tourism

Accordingly India, several national and state-level MBA entrance exams are conducted for admission to MBA programs, including for MBA in Travel and Tourism. Therefore these exams are widely accepted by various business schools across the country (India). Following are some of the prominent Mandatory MBA entrance exams in India:

National Level MBA Entrance Exams:

1. Common Admission Test (CAT):
   • Conducted by: Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
   • CAT is basically one of the most popular and competitive MBA entrance exams in India, accepted by numerous top-tier business schools.
2. Management Aptitude Test (MAT):
   • Conducted basically by: All India Management Association (AIMA).
   • MAT is conducted four times a year and is also accepted by a wide range of management institutes across India.
3. Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT):
   • Conducted by: XLRI Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur.
   • XAT is also accepted by more than 150 B-schools in India and is known for its rigorous examination pattern.
4. Common Management Admission Test (CMAT):
   • Conducted basically by: National Testing Agency (NTA).
   • CMAT is accepted specifically by AICTE-approved institutions and universities across India. Whereas, MBA institutes of national importance in India does not accept CMAT Scores.
5. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
   • Conducted basically by: Graduate Management Aptitude Council (GMAC).
   • In India, more than 400+ business schools offering MBA/PGDM accept GMAT results. Subsequently, these include the Most prominent B Schools like the Indian School of Business, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM Calcutta, and the Institute of Management Technology (IMT), among others.
6. Common University Entrance Test (CUET)
   • Conducted basically by: National Testing Agency (NTA).
   • The CUET exam scores are accepted by around 197 CUET PG participating universities for admission to different postgraduate programs including MBA.
7. Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test (NMAT)
   • Conducted basically by: Graduate Management Aptitude Council (GMAC).
   • NMAT exam results are accepted by some of the leading MBA universities for flagship and specialized programs because it is an independent and reputable exam.

State-Level MBA Entrance Exams:

1. MAH CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test):
   • Conducted basically by: State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra.
   • MAH CET is the entrance exam for various management institutes in Maharashtra.
2. TANCET (Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test):
   • Conducted basically by: Anna University, Tamil Nadu.
   • TANCET is accepted by several colleges in Tamil Nadu for their MBA programs.
3. APICET (Andhra Pradesh Integrated Common Entrance Test):
   • Conducted basically by: Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, on behalf of Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE).
   • APICET is for admission into MBA programs in Andhra Pradesh.
4. KMAT (Karnataka Management Aptitude Test):
   • Conducted basically by: Karnataka Private Post Graduate Colleges Association (KPPGCA)
   • KMAT is accepted by more than 169 B-schools across Karnataka.
5. OJEE MBA (Odisha Joint Entrance Examination for MBA):
   • Conducted basically by: Odisha State Government.
   • OJEE MBA is the entrance exam for MBA programs in Odisha.
6. UPSEE MBA (Uttar Pradesh State Entrance Examination for MBA):
   • Conducted basically by: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Uttar Pradesh
   • UPSEE MBA is for admission to MBA programs in colleges affiliated with AKTU, Lucknow.

Job Profiles in MBA Travel and Tourism

Pursuing an MBA in Travel and Tourism opens up various job profiles across different sectors of the industry. Following are some prominent job roles in this field:

1. Tourism Manager:

• Responsibilities: Developing and managing tour packages, coordinating with local suppliers, ensuring customer satisfaction, and overseeing day-to-day operations of tour programs.

2. Hotel Manager:

• Responsibilities: Managing hotel operations, supervising staff, optimizing guest experiences, ensuring quality service, and maximizing revenue.

3. Travel Consultant:

• Responsibilities: Assisting clients with travel arrangements, providing destination information, booking flights and accommodations, and offering travel advice.

4. Event Planner/Manager:

• Responsibilities: Planning and organizing events, conferences, exhibitions, and meetings for clients or organizations, coordinating logistics, and managing budgets.

5. Cruise Director:

• Responsibilities: Overseeing onboard activities on cruise ships, managing passenger services, organizing entertainment programs, and ensuring a positive guest experience.

6. Travel Agency Manager:

• Responsibilities: Managing travel agency operations, supervising staff, developing marketing strategies, maintaining client relationships, and ensuring business growth.

7. Airport Manager:

• Responsibilities: Overseeing airport operations, managing ground services, ensuring security and safety standards, coordinating with airlines, and optimizing passenger experiences.

8. Tour Operations Manager:

• Responsibilities: Planning and organizing tours, negotiating contracts with suppliers, managing tour guides and staff, ensuring smooth tour operations, and addressing customer needs.

9. Destination Manager:

• Responsibilities: Promoting and marketing tourist destinations, collaborating with local businesses, organizing promotional events, and attracting visitors to the destination.

10. Travel Technology Specialist:

• Responsibilities: Managing online travel platforms, developing travel apps, optimizing user experience, implementing digital marketing strategies, and analyzing customer data for business growth.

11. Sustainable Tourism Manager:

• Responsibilities: Developing and promoting sustainable tourism practices, collaborating with local communities, implementing eco-friendly initiatives, and raising awareness about responsible travel.

12. Adventure Tour Operator:

• Responsibilities: Organizing adventure tours, managing outdoor activities, ensuring safety standards, guiding adventure enthusiasts, and promoting adventure tourism packages.

13. Tourism Researcher/Analyst:

• Responsibilities: Conducting market research, analyzing travel trends, studying consumer behavior, and providing insights to businesses for strategic decision-making.

14. Travel Journalist/Blogger:

• Responsibilities: Writing travel articles, creating travel blogs/vlogs, reviewing destinations, sharing travel experiences, and engaging with audiences through various media platforms.

15. Entrepreneur in Travel & Tourism:

• Responsibilities: Starting and managing travel agencies, tour companies, accommodation facilities, or travel-related startups, developing unique travel experiences, and catering to specific niche markets.

These job profiles demonstrate the diverse opportunities available in the travel and tourism industry. Professionals in this field can choose roles based on their interests, skills, and specialization areas, such as adventure tourism, luxury travel, sustainable tourism, or event planning, among others.

Salary Potential in MBA Travel and Tourism

Average package in the travel and tourism industry can vary widely based on factors such as job role, level of experience, education, geographic location, the specific sector within the industry, and the size and reputation of the employer. Following are an overview of the salary potential in various job roles within the MBA in Travel & Tourism sector:

1. Entry-Level Positions – Average Package:

• Tourism Manager/Travel Consultant: ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 per year
• Hotel Manager: ₹3,00,000 – ₹8,00,000 per year
• Event Planner: ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 per year

2. Mid-Level Positions – Average Package:

• Tour Operations Manager/Destination Manager: ₹5,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 per year
• Travel Agency Manager: ₹4,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 per year
• Cruise Director: ₹6,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 per year

3. Senior-Level Positions – Average Package:

• Airport Manager: ₹8,00,000 – ₹18,00,000 per year
• Hotel General Manager: ₹10,00,000 – ₹25,00,000 per year
• Event Director: ₹10,00,000 – ₹20,00,000 per year

4. Specialized Roles – Average Package:

• Travel Technology Specialist: ₹6,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 per year
• Sustainable Tourism Manager: ₹5,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 per year
• Adventure Tour Operator: ₹4,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 per year

5. Entrepreneurship – Average Package:

• Startup in Travel & Tourism: Earnings can vary widely based on the success of the business, ranging from ₹5,00,000 to several crores per year, depending on the scale and type of business.

6. Health Care Industry – Average Package:

• Medical Tourism: ₹5,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 per year

7. Academic – Average Package:

• Professor/Lecturer: ₹10,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 per year

8. Free lancer – Average Package:

• Travel Advisor:₹12,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 per year
• Lead Generator/Allocator: ₹15,00,000 – ₹17,00,000 per year

Therefore, its important for professionals in the travel and tourism industry to continuously update their skills, gain relevant certifications, and explore emerging trends to enhance their earning potential. Moreover, building a strong professional network and gaining experience in diverse roles can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions within the industry.

Factors affecting Salaries (MBA in Travel and Tourism)

• Average package can vary based on the specific sub-sector within travel and tourism. For instance, professionals working in luxury travel or high-end tour operations may earn higher Average package due to the premium nature of the services.
• Geographic location plays a significant role in salary determination. Average package tend to be higher in metropolitan areas and popular tourist destinations.
• Specializations in areas like sustainable tourism, adventure tourism, or destination management can provide unique opportunities and potentially higher compensation due to expertise in niche markets.
• Experienced professionals with a strong track record, industry certifications, and an MBA from reputed institutions can command higher Average package.
• Additional perks and benefits, such as bonuses, commissions, travel allowances, and accommodation, can significantly enhance the overall compensation package.

Major Recruiters of MBA in Travel and Tourism in India

Professionals with an MBA in Travel and Tourism are in demand by a variety of employers across different sectors of the industry. Following are some major recruiters for individuals with an MBA in Travel and Tourism:

1. Travel Agencies and Tour Operators:

• Recruiters: MakeMyTrip, Yatra.com, Thomas Cook India, SOTC India, Cox & Kings.
• Roles: Travel Consultants, Tour Planners, Holiday Experts.

2. Hotel Chains:

• Recruiters: Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels, Marriott International, IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited), Lemon Tree Hotels.
• Roles: Hotel Managers, Operations Managers, Sales and Marketing Executives.

3. Airlines:

• Recruiters: Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, GoAir.
• Roles: Airport Managers, Revenue Management Analysts, Customer Service Representatives.

4. Cruise Lines:

• Recruiters: Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Star Cruises, Jalesh Cruises.
• Roles: Cruise Directors, Onboard Revenue Managers, Guest Services Managers.

5. Travel Technology and E-commerce:

• Recruiters: Cleartrip, ixigo, TravelTriangle, OYO, RedBus.
• Roles: Online Travel Managers, Product Managers, Digital Marketing Executives.

6. Government Tourism Departments:

• Recruiters: State and national tourism boards in various states of India.
• Roles: Tourism Development Officers, Marketing Executives, Event Coordinators.

7. Educational Institutions:

• Recruiters: Universities, colleges, and training institutes offering travel and tourism courses.
• Roles: Professors, Academic Administrators, Research Associates.

8. Travel Research and Consulting Firms:

• Recruiters: Euromonitor International, Phocuswright, Nielsen India, Frost & Sullivan.
• Roles: Market Researchers, Travel Analysts, Consultants.

9. Event Management Companies:

• Recruiters: Wizcraft, Percept, Fountainhead MKTG, E-Factor Entertainment.
• Roles: Event Planners, Project Managers, Client Servicing Executives.

10. Tourism Boards of Various States:

• Recruiters: State tourism boards promoting specific regions within India.
• Roles: Tourism Marketing Executives, Public Relations Officers, Tourism Development Officers.

11. Adventure Tourism Companies:

• Recruiters: Thrillophilia, Adventure Nation, The Great Next, Aquaterra Adventures.
• Roles: Adventure Tour Planners, Outdoor Guides, Adventure Travel Consultants.

12. Startups in Travel and Tourism:

• Recruiters: Various startups in travel tech, experiential travel, and travel planning sectors.
• Roles: Various roles in marketing, operations, customer experience, and product development.

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