Marine and Coastal Tourism BA (Hons)

What is special about this course?

This unique course, the first of its kind in the UK, focuses on the many uses of the marine resource, how tourism interacts with these and the many challenges of developing sustainable marine and coastal tourism within the wider context of the marine sector and its associated activities.

Policies and management strategies to protect the natural capital of our coastal waters and oceans will impact the future of the growing marine and coastal tourism sector, and this BA (Hons) Marine and Coastal Tourism explores the ways in which effective management of tourism development can have positive impacts on the conservation and restoration of the marine environment and deliver the social and economic benefits to host communities.

Aspects considered throughout the course will include: activity development; response to climate change; environmental and conservation objectives; the role of coastal communities in the development of tourism; management of customer expectations; and behaviours and analysis of marine sector legislation, from both a UK and international perspective.

This integrated, practical programme gives you the opportunity to gain experience and develop personal and leadership skills, as well as gaining National Governing Body awards in activities such as: sailing; powerboating; sea kayaking; surf kayaking; SUP; snorkelling; scuba; and coasteering. Practical sessions also include guiding and interpretation skills and a science-based overview of these environments.

The practical elements are supplemented by a programme of guest speakers and visits to shows, events and conferences, giving regular contact with practising sector professionals, as well as field courses and student expeditions, both local and international.

You will be ideally placed to get involved in a number of local development projects, working and learning alongside industry professionals. Past examples of this include: working alongside the Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, managing a new cruise ship industry at Fort William; Lochaber Snorkel Trail; Sea Trekking initiatives; and the development of a new 40-berth local marina.
 
We are based in Fort William, the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK', one of the finest UK locations for marine and coastal tourism and awarded international recognition as the Argyll Coast and Islands Hope Spot by Mission Blue as an area of outstanding biodiversity and culture.

The programme aligns with the latest marine tourism strategy for Scotland, ‘Giant Strides’, which aims to '...grow the value and positively enhance the impact of tourism across Scotland by delivering the very best for our visitors, our people, our businesses, our communities and our environment.' (Outlook 2030). 

‘Giant Strides’ also aims to make Scotland ‘… a world leader in 21st century sustainable marine tourism’ and ensure ‘Marine tourism is sustainable and meets changing consumer, workforce, community and environmental needs and expectations, whilst growing the industry’s overall economic contribution to over £500 million by 2025.’ (Giant Strides, 2020).

Special features

• Strong links with many marine and coastal-based businesses in Scotland and throughout the UK
• Apply cutting edge theory and research to the exciting and dynamic tourism sector
• Excellent, optional work-based placement and exchange opportunities around the UK and abroad
• Integrated practical programme to enhance your skills and experience in marine and coastal activities
• Possibility to gain instructor qualifications endorsed by National Governing Bodies
• Be part of a vibrant and active student community of outdoor enthusiasts based in Fort William – within the Outdoor Capital of the UK and with access to the Argyll Coast and Islands Hope Spot
• UHI North, West and Hebrides, Fort William campus, is now a British Sub Aqua Club snorkel centre and our snorkel instructors are accredited by BSAC
• Opportunity to plan and carry out a significant expedition, with a discovery and research focus (previous destinations include the Lofoten Islands Norway 2017, Iceland and Sicily 2018, and Malta 2019). Fundraising and gaining sponsorship are part of this process
• Access to outstanding facilities set amongst some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK
• Involvement in Adopt a Business, leading to opportunities for student work placements within the marine and coastal tourism sector 
• Optional context classes to enhance the programme 

Accommodation

We offer modern student accommodation at a number of our locations.

Entry requirements

• For September 2023, entry to this course is only available in years 2, 3 and 4.

Advanced entry:

• Entry to year 2 may be possible with a relevant HNC, foundation degree etc. Applicants will be considered on an individual basis and may be required to attend an interview.
• Entry to year 3 may be possible with a relevant HND, foundation degree etc. Applicants will be considered on an individual basis and may be required to attend an interview.
• Entry to year 4 may be possible with a closely aligned foundation or Honours degree with relevant experience.
• Applicants with significant industry or activity experience or relevant qualifications will also be considered providing they can demonstrate sufficient academic potential and will be considered on an individual basis.
• This is a Category 1 PVG course: PVG Scheme membership is required to successfully achieve target qualification, where there is guaranteed contact with vulnerable groups in key elements of the course. For further information visit our PVG scheme webpage

For International students requiring Student Route sponsorship

• Please note that international students with a Student Route visa can only take part in sports activities or as part of a work placement, as an amateur and not as a professional or semi-professional. You will not be allowed to become a member of a professional sports association while a student. This is due to ‘professional sportsperson’ restrictions imposed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as outlined in their Student Route Policy Guidance.

Access routes

SWAP Access courses
If you are eligible to undertake Scottish Wider Access Programmes (SWAP), please visit our SWAP access list for further information on grade profiles and available subjects.

Year 1 - CertHE

For September 2023, entry to this course is only available in years 2, 3 and 4.

Year 2 - DipHE

Core modules are:

• Marine tourism field course
• Adventure operations and risk management
• The contemporary workplace
• Marine environments

You will also choose one option module which may include:

• Applied coaching and leadership
• Work placement
• Atmosphere, weather and climate
• Marketing fundamentals

Year 3 - BA

Core modules are:

• International marine and coastal tourism
• Research skills
• Planning international expeditions
• Climate change

You will also choose two option modules which may include:

• Archaeology and interpretation
• Developing entrepeneurial effectiveness
• Sustainable tourism and the environment
• Work placement
• International expedition leadership

Year 4 - BA (Hons)

Core modules are:

• Critical perspectives of marine and coastal tourism
• Emergent tourism trends

You will also choose two option modules which may include:

• Cold island tourism
• Sustainability, past and present
• Inclusive adventure
• Work placement, professional practice

You must also complete one of the following: dissertation; research and plan a new business; or a professional project

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.

Funding

UHI has a number of scholarships, bursaries, awards, and discretionary fund opportunities available to new and current students. Please use the A-Z of funds or use the filter to see which ones may be relevant to you. All students are welcome to apply.

Further information on funding your studies is also available, please see the attached link or contact the relevant UHI partner.

Additional costs

• We have an extensive equipment stores for use by students on session, but do not provide personal clothing, excepting wetsuits

• For some field trips, we may expect you to cover your own food while away.  Transport, instruction and entry fees are usually covered

• The optional International Expeditions module is a major undertaking, and will usually involve either fundraising, or personal contribution, beyond college funding.  Cost will depend largely on your destination and ambitions. How to finance an expedition is part of the taught content, and you will be supported through the process

• Essential personal protective equipment (PPE) and specialist equipment can be accessed from our comprehensive stores but you will need to purchase your own personal clothing and footwear for most activities, with the exception of wetsuits. If you choose to join an international expedition you should budget up to £1000 to ensure you have sufficient funds. Please check our website for further details and costs relating to the course.