Graduates possess technical skills in problem solving, systems planning, integrative team decision making, quantitative analysis, oral and verbal communications, and computer operations. Graduates are familiar with skills useful in a business setting and the historic evolution of environmental conservation. Additionally, graduates develop an appreciation for how their discipline contributes to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Two concentrations are offered – Global Tourism and Natural Resource Tourism.

Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate:

  • Written and oral communication skills, with a focus on writing skills. Student writing and speaking will embody characteristics that represent attention to high quality communication skills, including substance of the issue addressed, organization of the paper or presentation, mechanics, and evidence.
  • Research and analytical skills. These skills will include the ability to generate a problem statement, associated research questions, data acquisition methodologies, synthesis of related information and the development of management implications and conclusions.
  • Planning skills. These will involve an ability to implement the planning process, including setting goals and objectives, acquiring relevant background information, synthesizing information, conceptualizing ideas, constructing alternative courses of action, making recommendations and considering ways of evaluating decisions.

Accelerated Program

The major in Natural Resource Tourism includes an accelerated program option for students to graduate on a faster schedule. Accelerated Programs typically include 15-16 credits each fall and spring semester for three years, plus 6-9 credits over two to three summer sessions. Students who enter CSU with prior credit (AP, IB, transfer, etc.) may use applicable courses to further accelerate their graduation. Visit the Office of the Provost website for additional information about Accelerated Programs.

Potential Occupations

Graduates primarily work in a variety of private commercial tourism and recreation enterprises. Competition can be intense for full time/permanent positions in highly attractive natural resource locations, although ample opportunities exist to gain experience through seasonal/temporary and volunteer work. Participation in a high quality, pre-approved internship is required for the degree. Graduates who go on for advanced studies can attain more responsible positions with the possibility of rising to top professional levels.

Career opportunities available to graduates in the global and natural resource tourism concentrations include, but are not limited to: retail relations manager; social media planner; convention sales coordinator; marketing/public relations specialist; trip counselor; travel account manager; food and beverage supervisor; small tourism enterprise/ecotourism owner/manager; regional sales director; account executive; director of trail development; tourism planner; travel pricing and demand analyst; concession specialist; marketing/sales manager; conference/meeting/event planner; resort services director; member relations director; purchasing manager; camp and nature center director; tourist information center manager; sustainable energy director. 

Concentrations

More Information

To learn more about the Global Tourism or Natural Resource Tourism concentrations, or to declare one of these concentrations, please click here to schedule an individualized face-to-face or virtual meeting with an advisor.