Tourism Management (With Thesis)
Tuzla Campus, Turkey
Tourism Management (With Thesis)
Istanbul Okan University
Tourism Management
Program Overview: Tourism Management (With Thesis)
The Tourism Management (With Thesis) Master's program at Istanbul Okan University aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the tourism industry in all its dimensions, equipping them with a global tourism vision and advanced analytical thinking skills. The program prepares graduates to become entrepreneurial, dynamic, and contemporary managers capable of leading tourism institutions in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
The thesis track consists of a total course load of 24 credits across 8 courses, complemented by a non-credit master's thesis that allows students to conduct original research in their chosen area of tourism management. Students benefit from Istanbul Okan University's strong connections to business life and its emphasis on integrating theoretical knowledge with practical industry applications.
Located in Istanbul, one of the world's leading tourism destinations and a city that bridges two continents, students gain unique access to a vibrant tourism ecosystem. The program is taught by experienced faculty members who bring both academic expertise and industry insights, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in Turkey's dynamic tourism sector.
Key Program Highlights
- Research-focused thesis track combining 8 core courses with original academic research
- Strategic location in Istanbul, a global tourism hub bridging Europe and Asia
- Strong university-industry partnerships aligned with Okan's motto as the university closest to business life
- Faculty with extensive expertise in tourism management, hospitality, and related fields
Curriculum and Modules
The Tourism Management (With Thesis) program is structured around 24 credits of coursework delivered across 8 modules, followed by a non-credit master's thesis. The curriculum balances advanced theoretical foundations with practical industry analysis, research methodology, and strategic management skills essential for tourism professionals.
Advanced Research Methods in Tourism
3 CreditsDevelops expertise in qualitative and quantitative research techniques applicable to tourism studies. Students learn to design, execute, and evaluate research projects within the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Strategic Tourism Management
3 CreditsExamines strategic planning, competitive analysis, and management frameworks specific to tourism organizations. Focuses on developing leadership capabilities for managing tourism enterprises in dynamic markets.
Tourism Marketing and Consumer Behavior
3 CreditsExplores marketing strategies, digital promotion, and consumer behavior patterns in the tourism industry. Students analyze destination branding, customer experience management, and market segmentation techniques.
Sustainable Tourism Development
3 CreditsAddresses environmental, social, and economic sustainability in tourism planning and development. Covers responsible tourism practices, ecotourism models, and policy frameworks for sustainable growth.
Tourism Economics and Policy
3 CreditsAnalyzes the economic impact of tourism at local, national, and global levels. Examines government policies, regulatory frameworks, and economic models that shape tourism development strategies.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Tourism
3 CreditsCultivates creative thinking and entrepreneurial skills for launching and managing tourism ventures. Covers innovation management, technology adoption, and business model development in the tourism sector.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Tourism Management (With Thesis) master's program is open to graduates holding a bachelor's degree. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, which provides guidance throughout the entire admissions process to ensure a smooth experience for international students.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA completed undergraduate degree from a recognized university is required
- ALES ScoreALES exam result with a minimum of 55 points in the EA (Equally Weighted) category for thesis programs
- Academic TranscriptOriginal or university-certified transcript from the institution where the bachelor's degree was obtained
- Equivalence CertificateGraduates from universities abroad must provide an equivalence or recognition certificate from the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YOK)
- Minimum EnrollmentThe program opens with a minimum of 10 participants per cohort
Language Requirements
- Turkish ProficiencyProficiency in Turkish is required as the program is taught in Turkish
- TOMER CertificateInternational students may need to provide a Turkish language proficiency certificate (TOMER or equivalent)
- Minimum LevelB2 level language proficiency is generally expected for graduate programs
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Istanbul Okan University offers various scholarship and funding opportunities for graduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for relevant financial support options to make your studies more affordable.
Okan University Graduate Merit Scholarship
Merit-based tuition discounts available to high-achieving graduate applicants based on academic performance and ALES scores. Eligibility and coverage vary by academic year.
Turkiye Scholarships (Government)
Fully funded (varies by program)The Turkish government's flagship scholarship program for international students, covering tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and health insurance for eligible applicants.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Tourism Management (With Thesis) program are prepared for leadership and research-oriented roles across the tourism and hospitality sectors. Istanbul Okan University's emphasis on bridging academia and business life ensures graduates possess both theoretical depth and practical skills valued by employers in Turkey and internationally.
Potential Career Roles
Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Istanbul Okan University has been steadily building its international reputation since its founding in 1999. The university appears in multiple global and regional ranking systems, reflecting its commitment to academic quality, research output, and internationalization across its 242 degree programs.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business | EduRank | #70 in Turkey |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #109 in Turkey |
| Overall National | EduRank | #77 in Turkey |
| Health Sciences | Nature Index | #1078 Globally |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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