Advice from the best in the UAE.

I am planning to take a master’s degree or a diploma in tourism from Canada. Can you suggest some options?

Being a mature and vibrant industry where international tourists increased from 563 million in 2005 to 1.19 billion in 2017 the industry reflects significant and continuous growth and it is a prudent decision to be an integral part of this growth.

That said it is equally important your skill sets match your passion and for that I would suggest you do a psychometric test to ensure this career path suits your personality and life goals. In this dynamic and competitive field, along with being well educated and trained you would be required to flexible, have a genuine interest in other people’s culture and possess an extrovert character trait.

In addition to the academic qualifications and training, a major advantage of studying in Canada is the possibility of acquiring a permanent residence and eventually citizenship by virtue of your studies and work in the country. Canada genuinely encourages and welcomes skilled foreigners. Learning another language - French or Mandarin - will be especially advantageous for your career.

Your post graduate studies can range from short term diploma to longer duration advanced courses to master’s programs or an MBA in tourism. Careers could span from hotel and resort staff, to holiday consultant to event planner to entertainment manager to a manager on a luxury cruise liner.

University of Waterloo has a MA, Tourism in Recreation and Leisure Studies, Guelph offers a Master of Science in Tourism & Hospitality; Ryerson University offers a Master of Science in Management specialised in Hospitality & Tourism Management and Royal Roads University offers a full time Master’s program. Diplomas will be faster and cheaper and is offered by, among others, Centennial and Mohawk College.

The procedure requires you to complete the University application form and support it with proof of your undergraduate qualification. In addition you would be required to show evidence of English proficiency, by virtue of an IELTS exam, a statement of purpose, references and proof of finances. For an MBA there is also the possibility of demonstrating work experience. Apply to at least 5-6 universities selected on the basis of their ranking and your personal parameters. On receiving the offer letter from the preferred University you will need to apply to the Canadian Embassy for a student visa.