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Master's programme

Tourism Futures Studies (MSc) Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences

Duration
3 semesters | 4 semesters
Language of instruction
English
Tuition fees
Tuition varies
Next application deadline
15 July 2027 (winter semester)
Language level required
English: B2
German: None

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Tourism Futures Studies (MSc)
© Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences

Tourism Futures Studies (MSc)

In every challenge, we see an opportunity to actively shape the world of tomorrow. Innovation begins where curiosity meets complex questions. That's what drives us at Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences. Be a part of it! Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences – where knowledge grows.

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Programme overview

Quick facts

Degree
MSc
Duration
3 semesters, 4 semesters
Full-time / part-time
Full-time
Intake
Winter semester
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No

Language of instruction

English

The course is taught entirely in English.

Programme description

The Master of Science in Tourism Futures Studies comprises three major stages.

The programme starts with an induction period, during which students assess their current level of subject knowledge by participating in a research methods unit, for example. In addition, the foundation stage in semester one familiarises them with the fundamental issues of tourism futures studies as well as leadership for tomorrow and the digital transformation in tourism.

Semester two offers advanced studies. Taking a cross-disciplinary approach, this phase provides an opportunity to increase the participants' expertise in understanding futures from art, literature, media & history, as well as activism, policy innovations and ethical perspectives. In addition, students deepen their knowledge in research methods and specialise in Tourism Futures by participating in a comprehensive integrated tourism futures project.

Semester three can be used to take a non-mandatory semester or internship abroad.

Semester four includes units to broaden students' personal skills; depending on the individual study plan, these units can also be completed in semester three. Semester four is dedicated to the Master's thesis stage, which involves conducting in-depth research in the student's chosen area. Ideally, the thesis should be based on real situations in international tourism companies or organisations.

Programme structure

Students experience a period of intensive independent studies. This allows them to progress at a speed suited to their individual needs and to work on their own initiative in areas that are of interest and value to them. Some more specific objectives of this approach are:

  • to introduce students to the techniques of researching, organising and presenting the results of their work
  • to stimulate critical thinking and logical analysis
  • to develop a sense of responsibility for attaining their goals

The course content is founded on a sound theoretical basis and includes experience-based and hands-on forms of learning, such as guided business simulations, case studies, project work and role plays.

A tutorial support service is offered for students on both an individual and a group basis.

Mode of study

  • Fully on-site

International elements in the curriculum

The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:

  • Training in intercultural skills
  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
  • International guest lecturers
  • International comparisons and thematic reference to the international context

Integrated internships

Optional in the third semester

Application and admission

Application period(s)

Winter semester

Applicants from Applications begin Application deadline
All countries
Not specified
15 July 2027
Information on application periods

Academic admissions requirements

An excellent or good first degree (from a European institution) in business studies or in a business-related discipline (210 ECTS* credits and a grade point average of 2.5 or better on German grading scale) or an equivalent international qualification

*Applicants holding a degree with only 180 ECTS have the opportunity to obtain the missing 30 ECTS within the Master's programme by attending additional courses in the Bachelor's programme in International Business – Intercultural Studies offered by Heilbronn University.

Applicants with a first degree in business studies or a business-related field who have been trained in course-related jobs or have successfully studied abroad may receive bonus points that will facilitate their admission to the Master's programme.

Applicants with a first degree awarded by a non-German institution must prove that their Bachelor's degree is equivalent to a German first degree before applying to Heilbronn University. In order to have their qualifications validated, applicants have to contact the Studienkolleg Konstanz or uni-assist. The Studienkolleg Konstanz or uni-assist will assess the foreign Bachelor's degree and decide if it meets the requirements for entering a Master's degree programme in Germany. Applicants should contact the Studienkolleg Konstanz or uni-assist directly to learn about the documents that need to be submitted for the validation.

Language requirements

Please check all requirements directly with the respective higher education institution. Exceptions may apply. See our website for further details.

German language requirements

German: None

English language requirements

English: B2

Accepted certificates include
Certificates Minimum result
IELTS Academic
Total: 6 / 9
TOEFL iBT (before 2026)
Total: 79 / 120
Cambridge English Qualifications
Total: C1 Advanced

How to apply?

Website

Please check this website.

Click here

Costs and funding

Tuition fees per semester

Applicants from Tuition fee
Non-EU countries
1,500 EUR

Semester contribution

159 EUR per semester

Cost of living

The cost of living for a student is about 1,000 EUR per month.

Part-time employment

The Office of Student Services has set up a job database for part-time jobs.

The job portal of the Career Service of Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences will provide you with information about current job vacancies, internships, student jobs, and final thesis jobs. For more information, click here.

Scholarships and financing information

There are various scholarships that provide financial aid:

  • Deutschlandstipendium
  • Scholarships exclusively for students of Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences

For more information, see: https://www.hs-heilbronn.de/en/scholarships.

Living & services

Support for international students

  • Welcome event
  • Accompanying programme
  • Visa matters
  • Help with finding accommodation
  • Support with registration procedures

The International Student Support Service assists international degree-seeking students at Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences.

Services for international students:

  • Pre-arrival support
  • Advice on handling administrative formalities after arrival
  • Individual assistance with personal questions
  • Advice on other suitable programmes and services on campus

Contact: international-student-support@hs-heilbronn.de

For more information, see: https://www.hs-heilbronn.de/en/international-student-support.

Support for specific needs

Course-specific language courses available

German

Career advisory services

The International Career Service assists international students at Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences in launching their careers in Germany. We provide assistance in navigating the German job market and support in the application process, whether for internships, part-time positions, or career entry after completing your studies. For more information, see: https://www.hs-heilbronn.de/en/international-career-service.

Accommodation

There are several halls of residence in Heilbronn, Künzelsau and Schwäbisch Hall. The Office of Student Services of Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences offers a special database for finding accommodation. This database will provide you with a list of commission-free rooms available on the private housing market. For more information, click here.

About us

Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences

Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences offers study programmes in engineering, business, and computer science and is located in one of Germany’s leading economic and commercial regions. It is close to metropolitan cities and cultural centres such as Stuttgart, Mannheim, and Heidelberg. Known for its commitment to teaching, learning, and research, the university has campuses located across the Neckar region in Heilbronn, Künzelsau, and Schwäbisch Hall. Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences is very well connected and linked to over 220 reputable international universities all around the world, so students can also gain intercultural experience while, at the same time, improving their language skills.

University facts

  • 7,200
    Number of students
  • 93
    Nationalities

Location

The university has campuses located in Heilbronn, Künzelsau, and Schwäbisch Hall.

Heilbronn

With over 130,000 inhabitants, Heilbronn is a fascinating city and great for student life. It boasts a long and intriguing history and has evolved into an exciting, lively city with a diverse cultural scene. The city pulsates with activity, offering a large number of cafés, beer gardens, and pubs. For active students, numerous sports clubs, public parks, and the banks of the Neckar River provide ample opportunities for jogging, walking, cycling, inline skating, and more.

Künzelsau

Künzelsau is situated in a region with established hidden champions, global players, and leading companies in global markets. In this diverse landscape, you will find numerous recreational activities and cultural events.

Schwäbisch Hall

Schwäbisch Hall is a city known for its family-friendly environment, medieval flair, high quality of life and work, and an arts and culture programme with importance beyond the region. It is a hospitable and cosmopolitan city where tradition and innovation blend excellently.

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Contact

Main contact

Faculty of International Business

Name
Susanne Hilland
Address
Max-Planck-Straße 39, 74081 Heilbronn
Email
E-mail

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Always know what comes next

Study Guide gives you a personal to-do list tailored to your background, qualifications and interests, so you always know what to do next.