MSc Tourism and Hospitality
Future You will go beyond.
Lang’s MSc in Tourism and Hospitality offers two flexible options designed to align with your career goals and academic interests. If you are passionate about research and envision yourself pursuing a PhD or a research-intensive role, the Thesis option will give you the opportunity to dive deeply into an area of interest, supported by strong methodological training and faculty mentorship. You will develop a critical understanding of how research and knowledge are used to explore the complexities of the tourism and hospitality industry. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with advanced analytical and research skills that will prepare you for doctoral studies or impactful research roles in both academic and industry settings.
If you are looking to build practical research skills that can be applied directly to your career, the Major Research Project (MRP) option is a great fit. In just one year, you will complete a focused applied research project that connects academic knowledge to real-world challenges in the tourism and hospitality industry. Designed for professionals seeking career advancement and recent graduates eager to deepen their expertise, the MRP pathway will help you strengthen your ability to make evidence-based decisions, lead with insight, and contribute meaningfully to your organization or community. The MRP option empowers you to expand your skills while staying connected to industry demands.
Whichever path you choose, the MSc in Tourism and Hospitality will help you grow into a thoughtful, informed, and forward-thinking professional.
- 24 Months - Thesis Based
- 12 Month - Master Research Paper (MRP)
- Top 6%
- of the world's business schools - AACSB Accredited
- Every September
- Program start date
MSc Tourism and Hospitality program at a glance:
- One-Year MRP (12 months): 8 courses (7 core + 1 elective) and a major research paper.
- Two-Year Thesis (24 months): 6 courses (3 core + 3 restricted electives) and a thesis defence.
- Start Date: Every September.
- Delivery: In-person, on-campus (Guelph).
- Application Deadline: February 1st.
- MRP Option (1 year): completing 8 courses (7 core and one electives) and a major research paper in a year. This option is designed for professionals seeking advanced training and leadership roles in a shorter timeframe.
- Thesis Option (2 years): completing 6 courses (3 core and 3 restricted electives) plus a thesis proposal and defence within 2 years. It provides a deep understanding of the economic, cultural, and social dynamics of the tourism and hospitality industries, preparing students for research or leadership roles, ideal for students planning to pursue a PhD or academic career.
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for admission:
- A four-year honours Bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) with at least a B average (73%) from a recognized post-secondary institution within the last 2 years of degree.
- International applicants should use this guide to compare their academic credentials and determine the grade equivalency needed.
- Two references, with an option for a third reference. Our preference is for academic references, but professional ones may be substituted if appropriate.
- Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English. Please note that test scores must be valid for the start of the program.
- Applicants who completed a post-secondary degree from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or New Zealand may request that this requirement be waived. This request will be reviewed by the graduate selection committee, who may ask for an interview and/or supplementary documentation in their consideration.
Application deadlines for Fall 2026 admission:
- January 15 -- submission of the online application form
- February 1 -- submission of all required supporting documents
Graduates of this program pursue careers in a number of unique areas in hospitality and tourism management, including;
- Market Research Consultant
- Data Analyst
- Hospitality Management
- Tourism Industry Analyst
- Destination Management
- Public Sector Planner
- Continuing on to PhD studies
Students enrolled in the program receive partial funding in support of their studies through scholarships and/or Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) positions.
Click here for information regarding tuition of the MSc Tourism and Hospitality program.
Click here for more information about graduate student scholarships.
Are you an international student considering applying to Lang's MSc Tourism and Hospitality Studies program? The digital international student viewbook provides you with an overview of our programs, admission requirements, and supports available for international students at the University of Guelph and Lang.
View Lang's International Student Viewbook
Please refer to this guide to determine if you meet the equivalent of a four-year Honours degree with an average of 73% or higher.
Meet our students
Students in the MSc Tourism and Hospitality program are part of a community of well-rounded researchers, focused on solving complex challenges within their chosen field.
MSc Tourism and Hospitality alumna Lena Liang and professor Statia Elliot talk about the program.