LEARN

The MS in International Sustainable Tourism educates graduate students for management and leadership in the international sustainable tourism industry. Students receive one degree with both institutions' credentials, thus allowing the evaluation of sustainable tourism through each institution's strengths of scientific, policy, and operational perspectives of hospitality management. To guide graduate curriculum and research, the program  incorporates the three pillars of sustainable tourism: environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development.

CONNECT

The UNT/CATIE Master of Science in International Sustainable Tourism is the only graduate program of its kind in the United States and Costa Rica. Its unique interdisciplinary perspective allows for the application of sustainable tourism not only in two countries, but around the world, leading to unparalleled career opportunities for graduates.   

• Students with a wide variety of bachelor's degrees are welcome, such as hospitality management, exact sciences, social sciences, administration, and many other disciplines.
• Professionals working in the  hospitality/tourism industries, leisure, and parks and wildlife administration who want to specialize in sustainable tourism are encouraged to apply. 
   

Courses will be taken by classes of students admitted each Fall, who will move through the program together. The first 18 credits of the program (first year) will be taken at the University of North Texas, in Denton, Texas, USA, and the second 18 credits of the program (second year) will be taken at CATIE, in Turrialba, Costa Rica.

RESEARCH

UNT and CATIE are both high-quality research institutions with outstanding teaching facilities, libraries, computer labs, research resources, and student services. Students will participate in class research, case studies, and other investigations throughout the joint graduate degree program.

A field work experience with a linked research project and presentation is required for the final capstone course at CATIE; students will gain practical experience in tourist destinations, NGOs, and/or governmental organizations in Costa Rica as part of the joint graduate program.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

MIST graduate application submission is strongly encouraged by February 1.  This allows for review and completion, if necessary, of pre-requisite courses and to prepare and meet the Feb. 1 deadline for scholarships offered in SMHM.  However, graduate applications will be accepted until university designated deadlines. For all admission requirements, documents, and deadline, please click here  

Additional Student Support:

• Competitive scholarship fund;
• English and Spanish-speaking advisors;
• Supportive network through each campus' international programs, services, and activities; 
• Traditional graduate experience in two countries with a wide variety of campus activities. Invent your future, discover real solutions and impact the world.