MBA Tourism Management: Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility

• Updated on  Jul 22, 2025, by Dharti Bhadla

MBA Tourism Management is often categorised as MBA Tourism and Travel Management. Some colleges may offer this program with different specializations, like MBA in Tourism, Aviation & Hospitality Management, and MBA in Hospitality & Tourism Management.

 

MBA Tourism Management is a 2-year program that can be pursued by any graduates with 45-50% in a bachelor's degree obtained from a UGC-recognised university. Admission to this course requires a qualification of CAT, MAT, CUET PG, CMAT, or GMAT exam. These exams are accepted by some of the top Management institutes like the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sirmaur, the Indian Institute of Travel & Tourism Management (IITTM - various campuses), Lovely Professional University (LPU), Chandigarh University, Goa Institute of Management (GIM).

 

The MBA Tourism Management syllabus equips learners with essential management knowledge and skills to plan, operate, and run tours and relevant events. Graduates may work in government or private travel agencies, tourism boards, hospitality, etc, sectors.

 

Table of Contents
  1. MBA Tourism Management Key Highlights
  2. What is an MBA in Tourism Management?
  3. Why Study MBA Tourism Management?
  4. Who should study MBA Tourism Management?
  5. MBA Tourism Management Eligibility Criteria
  6. MBA Tourism Management Entrance Exams
  7. MBA Tourism Management Colleges in India
  8. MBA Tourism Management Admission Process 2025
  9. MBA Tourism Management Syllabus
  10. MBA Tourism Management Job Opportunities in India
  11. MBA Tourism Management Vs MBA
  12. MBA Tourism Management FAQs

 

MBA Tourism Management Key Highlights

The key highlights of the MBA in Tourism Management are tabulated below.

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Master of Business Administration in Tourism Management

Course Level

Postgraduation

Duration

2 years

Course Type

Full-Time

Admission Process

Primarily based on Entrance Exam scores (CAT, MAT, CMAT, XAT, GMAT, LPUNEST, CUET-PG, ATMA, IIAT, etc.), followed by Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI)

Eligibility Criteria

Bachelor's Degree (10+2+3 pattern) in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (often 45% for reserved categories).

Course Fees

INR 2 Lakhs to INR 10 Lakhs

Top Colleges

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sirmaur, Indian Institute of Travel & Tourism Management (IITTM - various campuses), Lovely Professional University (LPU), Chandigarh University, Goa Institute of Management (GIM)

Job Profiles

Tour Manager/Operator, Travel Consultant/Agent, Destination Manager/Specialist, Hotel Manager/Operations Executive, Sales & Marketing Manager, Revenue Manager, Front Office Manager, Tourism Development Officer (Government), Guest Relations Manager, Cruise Ship Manager

Top Recruiters

Travel Agencies/OTAs, Airlines, Hospitality Chains, Tour Operators, Ministry of Tourism, State Tourism Boards, etc.

Average Salary in India

INR 4 LPA to INR 10 LPA

 

What is an MBA in Tourism Management?

An MBA in Tourism Management is a specialized postgraduate program designed to equip students with comprehensive management skills tailored for the dynamic and diverse tourism, hospitality, and travel industries.

 

Unlike a general MBA, which provides a broad overview of business functions, an MBA in Tourism Management delves into the unique challenges and opportunities within the tourism and hospitality sector.

 

Why Study MBA Tourism Management?

MBA Tourism Management can be a good choice for shaping your career. The tourism and hospitality industry is one of the world's largest and fastest-growing sectors, offering immense career opportunities and stable job options.

  • It provides you with management skills directly applicable to the nuances of the tourism industry.
  • Students get to learn about specific operational challenges, marketing strategies, and customer behaviors unique to travel and hospitality.
  • This course also trains individuals who wish to establish their startups in this industry.

 

Who should study MBA Tourism Management?

An MBA in Tourism Management is ideal for Individuals who genuinely love travel, exploring new cultures, and providing excellent service to others.

  • Working professionals can also pursue this course to advance their careers.
  • Those interested in working in an international environment should study this program, as the tourism industry offers numerous opportunities to work with diverse clients and in different countries
  • The tourism sector is rarely monotonous; it involves constant interaction with people, problem-solving, and adapting to new situations. Hence, If you thrive in such environments, this program could be a good fit.

 

MBA Tourism Management Eligibility Criteria

To get admission in an MBA Tourism Management course, students need to meet certain exam requirements. Here's a detailed look:

  • Students must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant stream from a recognized university.
  • A minimum aggregate score of 45–50% in undergraduate studies is required. Some institutes may offer relaxation for reserved category students.
  • Candidates must have a valid score in national or university-level entrance exams like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, SNAP, or specific institute tests such as LPUNEST or CUCET.
  • Some institutes may conduct personal interviews or group discussions as part of the selection process.
  • Work experience is not mandatory, but may be preferred by certain institutes for executive MBA options.

 

MBA Tourism Management Entrance Exams

Some commonly accepted Master of Business Administration Tourism Management entrance exams are CAT, MAT, CMAT, GMAT, and CUET PG. Some institutes conduct their own selection exam like LPUNEST, IITM entrance test etc.

Exam Name

Application Date

 

(Tentative)

Exam Date

 

(Tentative)

Application Fee

CAT

August 2 - September 21, 2025

November 30, 2025

INR 2,500 (General/EWS/NC-OBC), INR 1,250 (SC/ST/PwD)

MAT

Multiple sessions throughout the year.

Multiple sessions throughout the year.

INR 2,200 (for one session), INR 3,800 (for two sessions)

CMAT

November - December 25, 2025

January 25, 2026

INR 2,500 (General), INR 1,250 (EWS/OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwD/Female)

GMAT

Rolling admissions; can apply and schedule anytime.

Available throughout the year, multiple slots daily.

-

LPUNEST

Multiple phases throughout the year.

Multiple phases throughout the year.

INR 1,000 (Soft Copy Kit for boys & girls), INR 1,500 (Printed Kit for boys & girls). Female candidates may have a lower fee in some phases.

CUET PG

January - February, 2026

March - April, 2026

NR 1,400 (General - for up to 2 papers), INR 1,200 (OBC-NCL/Gen-EWS - for up to 2 papers), INR 1,100 (SC/ST/Third Gender - for up to 2 papers), INR 1,000 (PwBD - for up to 2 papers).

 

Additional fees for more papers.

 

MBA Tourism Management Colleges in India

Master of Business Administration Tourism Management is offered by many private institutes in India. Some of the best MBA Tourism Management colleges or MBA Tourism and Travel Management colleges are given in the table below.

College Name

Average Course Fees

NIRF Ranking

 

(Management)

Intake Exams

LPU

INR 3.0 Lakhs

32

LPUNEST, CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT

Chandigarh University

INR 4 Lakhs

36

CAT, MAT, CMAT, CUCET, CUET-PG

Goa Institute of Management (GIM)

INR 8 Lakhs

37

CAT, XAT, GMAT, CMAT

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sirmaur

INR 17 Lakhs

57

CAT

Parul University

INR 2 Lakhs

-

Based on graduation merit

Indian Institute of Travel & Tourism Management (IITTM)

INR 1.88 Lakhs

-

IITTM Admission Test (IIAT), CAT, MAT, CMAT, XAT, GMAT, ATMA

 

MBA Tourism Management Admission Process 2025

Admission to the Master of Business Administration Tourism Management is based on various competitive exams. The application and selection process varies among different colleges. Candidates are advised to go through the admission guidelines and selection criteria for their chosen college.

 

MBA Tourism Management Admission Process for LPU is explained here for your reference.

 

LPU's MBA admission process typically involves the following steps:

 

Step 1: Candidates have to register on the LPU ADMIT portal (admission.lpu.in) with their email ID and Mobile Number details.

 

Step 2: Next is filling out the application form with general information and qualification details.

 

Step 3: If you're taking LPUNEST, you'll need to book a slot for your exam (preferred venue, date, and time).

 

Step 4: The LPUNEST can be taken as an online, remotely proctored exam from home or at a test center.

 

Step 5: You'll need to submit a video essay of approximately 2 minutes on a given topic (e.g., "Give a brief introduction of yourself, your career goals, and discuss your motivations for pursuing an MBA at Mittal School of Business, LPU").

 

Step 6: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a Personal Interview round.

 

Step 7: The final selection is based on your entrance exam score (LPUNEST/CAT/MAT/XAT/CMAT/NMAT/CUET-PG), performance in the video essay, and the interview.

 

Step 8: Upon selection, you'll need to complete the document verification process and pay the admission fee to confirm your seat.

 

Step 9: Selected candidates will have to pay tuition fees to confirm their admission.

 

Documents Required

  • Original Marksheet of 10th and 12th grade, Graduation certificate
  • School Leaving Certificate
  • Caste Certificate (if applicable)
  • Birth Certificate
  • ID Proof (Aadhar/ PAN/ Passport)
  • Passport-size Photograph
  • Entrance Exam Score Card

 

MBA Tourism Management Syllabus

Master of Business Administration Tourism Management or MBA Tourism and Travel Management course typically covers Core management subjects and Tourism aspects. It also includes internship and project work. Here is an example of the MBA Tourism Management Syllabus followed by Parul University.

1st year

2nd year

Management Information System

Legal Aspects of Business

Principles of Management

Strategic Management

Business Statistics

Comprehensive Project

Accounting for Managers

Summer Internship Project

Business Economics & Environment

Tourism and Event: Planning, Sponsorship & Budgeting

Organizational Behavior

Hotel operations and Hospitality Management

Employability Skills - 1

Event Team Management

Elective -1

Business Ethics and Corporate Governance

Cost and Management Accounting

New Enterprise and Innovation Management

Financial Management

Comprehensive Project

Human Resource Management

Law and Permissions for Event and tourism

Research Methodology

Advance aspects of Tourism and Event Management

Marketing Management

Travel and tourism: Policy planning and development

Operation Research

-

Employability skills - 2

-

Elective - 2

 

 

MBA Tourism Management Job Opportunities in India

MBA Tourism Management Jobs are tabulated below with required experience and salary range. Salary varies based on location, job role, size and profitability of the agency, commission structures, etc.

Job Title

Recruiters

Experience Level

Average Salary (INR)

Tour Operator

Online Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotel Chains, Tour Operators & Travel Agencies, Hospitality Consulting Firms, etc.

Entry-Level (0-2 years) to Mid-Level (2-5 years)

2.5 LPA - 5.5 LPA

Tourism Officer

Government Tourism Departments, Online Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotel Chains, Tour Operators & Travel Agencies, Hospitality Consulting Firms, etc

Entry-Level (0-2 years) for assistant roles, Mid-Level (2-5 years)

4 LPA - 8 LPA

Sales and Marketing Manager

Online Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotel Chains, Tour Operators & Travel Agencies, Hospitality Consulting Firms, etc

Mid-Level (2-5 years)

6 LPA - 12 LPA

Cruise Line Manager

International Cruise Lines (e.g., Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises), Indian Cruise Operators (fewer in number but growing)

Mid-Level (2-5 years

12 LPA to 15 LPA

Operations Manager

Online Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotel Chains, Tour Operators & Travel Agencies, Hospitality Consulting Firms, etc

Mid-Level (3-5 years)

7 LPA - 12 LPA

Travel Agency Manager

Online Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotel Chains, Tour Operators & Travel Agencies, Hospitality Consulting Firms, etc

Mid-Level (3-5 years)

5 LPA to 10 LPA

 

MBA Tourism Management Vs MBA

MBA Tourism Management is the creation of only a specific domain specialization representing the sphere of tourism itself, whereas a General MBA will give the wider practice of managerial education, which will be applicable to any domain. The comparison table provided below will help in better understanding.

Parameter

MBA Tourism Management

MBA (General)

Course Focus

Specializes in the tourism industry, including travel, destination planning, tourism marketing, sustainability, and hospitality-related management

Covers broad business disciplines such as finance, marketing, HR, operations, and strategy applicable across multiple industries

Core Subjects

Tourism Marketing, Destination Management, Sustainable Tourism, Travel Agency Management, Event Management, Airline & Airport Management

Finance, Organizational Behavior, Marketing Management, Business Strategy, Operations Management, Accounting

Career Options

Tourism Manager, Travel Consultant, Event Planner, Airline Manager, Government Tourism Officer, Hotel Manager

Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, HR Manager, Consultant, Operations Manager, Entrepreneur

Average Salary Range

INR 5 LPA to INR 15 LPA

INR 6 LPA to INR 10+ LPA, depending on specialization and company

Top Recruiters

Thomas Cook, MakeMyTrip, Cox & Kings, Indian Railways, Government Tourism Departments

Deloitte, Accenture, HDFC Bank, ITC, Amazon, KPMG

Skill Development

Focus on customer service, destination promotion, cultural awareness, and sustainable tourism practices

Emphasis on leadership, analytics, business strategy, and financial management

Scope for Higher Studies

MSc in Tourism, PhD in Tourism Management, Certifications in sustainable tourism

MBA specializations like Finance, Marketing, Data Analytics, and a PhD in Management

 

MBA Tourism Management FAQs

Is work experience mandatory for admission in MBA Tourism Management?

No, there is no mandate of work experience to get admission in MBA Tourism Management course. However, working professionals can enrol to advance their career. Generally, admission to MBA is through CAT, MAT, GMAT, CMAT, and PI performance.

Can I pursue an MBA Tourism Management while doing a job?

Yes, one can pursue an MBA Tourism Management while doing a full-time job. There are various institutes offering some distance learning programs for such people. Online MBA programs allow you to study remotely without compromising your current work commitments. The course is conducted via online platforms and LMS to deliver video lectures, assignments, discussion forums, assessments, etc.

Can I pursue entrepreneurship after this MBA?

Definitely, one can always establish their own business after completing an MBA in Tourism Management. The program provides necessary business acumen, strategic thinking, and industry knowledge to launch and manage travel agencies, tour operating companies, hospitality ventures, or tourism-related startups.

What is the MBA Tourism Management salary for entry-level roles?

Fresh graduates would be paid a salary of between INR 5-10 lakh per annum. Salaries may even increase to INR 12-15 lakh per annum on exceptional candidates or those who are recruited in the leading hotels, airlines, and travel majors.

What are the MBA Tourism Management fees in top colleges?

The course fees vary with the institution and range between INR 3-14 lakh full program. Institutes that are very good might be costly but government run or distance learning courses (such as IGNOU) are affordable.

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