The FdSc International Hospitality Management foundation degree, delivered by Bolton College on behalf of the University of Bolton, offers a unique opportunity to launch a successful career in the global hospitality industry. With the travel and tourism sector contributing approximately $7.71 trillion to the global economy in 2022 (1), the hospitality industry continues to be a key driver of economic growth and provides diverse career opportunities worldwide. If you aspire to work in dynamic sectors such as hotels, cruises, events, tourism, or contract catering, this foundation degree is your first step toward making a significant impact.
This two-year, vocationally focused programme is designed with an international outlook, equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to become a successful and ethical hospitality manager. Our expert team of hospitality professionals and academics, who are actively involved in industry research, will guide you through the key areas of hospitality management. You’ll study financial management, marketing, consumer behaviour, people management, and leadership, and learn how to apply these skills to the global hospitality sector.
Throughout the course, you’ll benefit from hands-on training in our state-of-the-art kitchens, bistro, and restaurants, as well as a 300-hour external work placement to gain real-world experience. You’ll also develop transferable professional and academic skills that will enhance your employability and support your future career progression.
(1) Source: Statista – Global Tourism, accessed February 2024.
Highlights
- Practical Training: Gain hands-on experience in our in-house training kitchens, bistro, and restaurants, all open to the public.
- Real-World Placement: Complete a 300-hour external work placement to apply your skills in a professional environment.
- Industry Network: Build connections with industry professionals to strengthen your CV and career prospects.
- Top-Up Opportunity: Upon completion, you can continue your studies with the BSc (Hons) International Hospitality Management (Top-up) course to earn an honours degree.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Knowledge: Learn essential hospitality management concepts that will help you succeed in the global hospitality industry.
- Student-Centered Approach: Benefit from personalized support throughout your studies, with tailored teaching and guidance to suit your individual needs.
- Work-Based Learning: Industry visits, guest speakers, and work placements will complement your classroom learning, giving you a real-world perspective on hospitality management.
- Skill Development: Enhance vital skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, planning, adaptability, sustainability, and ethical responsibility.
- Sustainability Focus: Learn how to run hospitality operations sustainably and ethically, with a strong focus on environmental and social responsibility.
This course provides a solid foundation for a career in hospitality management, ensuring you are well-equipped to meet the demands of the global hospitality industry. Whether you choose to enter the workforce directly or pursue further academic study, this programme will prepare you for success.
Entry Requirements
- 48 UCAS points – We accept a wide range of qualifications that carry UCAS points, including A-levels, BTECs, and T-levels. Please refer to our guide to the UCAS Tariff for detailed information on how to achieve the required points. For most courses, we can also consider non-tariffable qualifications.
- Level 3 qualifications – Any subjects are acceptable at Level 3 (e.g., A-levels, BTEC, T-levels).
- GCSEs – You should have five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent), including English and Mathematics.
- Additional Requirements – Depending on your application, you may be asked to attend an interview and/or provide a portfolio of work.
We welcome applications from students with diverse educational backgrounds and will consider each application individually, taking into account any relevant experience or qualifications you may have.
Career Opportunities
The hospitality industry is vast and diverse, ranging from large conferences and exhibitions to intimate private dining experiences. It encompasses food, drink, lodging, travel, and entertainment, serving everyone from business travellers to families on vacation. With its wide array of services, the hospitality sector offers numerous career paths for those driven by a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.
This foundation degree is designed to equip you with a solid understanding of the key aspects of hospitality management on a global scale. Whether you aspire to run your own small boutique hotel or manage a global hotel chain, the principles of hospitality management remain the same. We’re committed to ensuring that you gain the knowledge and skills needed to launch your career and achieve your professional goals.
What can I do with this qualification?
As a graduate of the FdSc International Hospitality Management, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue a wide range of exciting careers in the hospitality and tourism industries. You could find yourself working in areas such as:
- Adventure tourism
- Travel agencies and resort management
- Event management
- Food and beverage management
- Hotel property project management
- Revenue and sales management
- General management
- Marketing management
You’ll have opportunities to work in sectors such as hotels, restaurants, bars, cruise lines, event planning, tourism, and contract catering. If you have entrepreneurial aspirations, you may even consider starting your own hospitality business.
Additionally, as a foundation degree graduate, you can continue your studies by topping up to a full honours degree with our BSc (Hons) International Hospitality Management (top-up) course.
Alternative Career Options
Your qualification could also open doors to a variety of other career paths. Some of these roles may require relevant industry experience or postgraduate study. Potential alternative career options include:
- Business management
- Customer service management
- Corporate liaison
- Marketing and communications
- Human resource management
- Financial management
- Education and training
- Community relations
- Property management
- Revenue analysis and management
- Quality improvement
This foundation degree provides a solid starting point for a wide range of career opportunities within and beyond the hospitality industry.
Modules
The modules listed below are designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in hospitality management. Please note that some modules may be compulsory, while others may be optional, and you may not have the opportunity to study all of them as part of the course.
- The Global Hospitality Sector
An overview of the global hospitality industry, exploring its key components, trends, and challenges. - Professional and Academic Management Skills for the Hospitality Sector
Developing the essential skills needed to manage and lead effectively within the hospitality industry, with a focus on both academic and practical management techniques. - Introduction to the Management of Food, Beverage, and Accommodation Operations
A fundamental look at the operational aspects of food, beverage, and accommodation management, covering key principles and best practices. - Fundamentals of Financial Management for Hospitality
An introduction to financial management in the hospitality sector, including budgeting, cost control, and financial decision-making. - Fundamentals of People Management and Leadership for Hospitality
Exploring the principles of people management and leadership within the hospitality industry, with an emphasis on developing effective teams and leaders. - International Gastronomy
A study of international culinary traditions and trends, examining how global food cultures influence hospitality businesses. - Marketing and Consumer Behaviour for Hospitality Businesses
Understanding how marketing and consumer behaviour impact the hospitality sector, with a focus on customer satisfaction, branding, and promotional strategies. - Hospitality Professional Practice and Career Development
Focusing on professional practice, career development, and employability skills, this module prepares you for success in the hospitality industry.
These modules are designed to provide a well-rounded education in hospitality management, equipping you with the knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in the global hospitality sector.
