Students seeking a career in the growing tourism industry now have a new degree option to pursue at Missouri State University. 

A Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management has launched through the School of Hospitality and Agricultural Leadership at the Darr College of Agriculture. This is the first four-year tourism management degree offered at a public higher education institution in Missouri.  

“Tourism is a major driver of economic development worldwide, and it affects not only businesses but also communities, cultures and the environment,” said Dr. Tina Liang, professor in the School of Hospitality and Agricultural Leadership and program coordinator. 

“Our goal is to prepare students to contribute meaningfully to tourism development that benefits both destinations and the people who live there,” Liang added. “This program teaches students to approach tourism development responsibly and inclusively, guided by Missouri State’s public affairs mission.” 

About the degree  

The tourism management program is offered in collaboration with the School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability at the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. It is ideal for first-year students, transfer students, international students or any students interested in travel, culture or community development and want to explore how tourism connects to these fields.  

It prepares students for leadership and professional roles in the tourism industry through a comprehensive interdisciplinary and applied curriculum. It includes: 

• Core tourism coursework 
• Experiential learning through internships or education abroad 
• A public affairs capstone focused on applied problem-solving  
• Certificates in specialized and integrated tourism areas  

“This program responds to the growing demand for professionals who can manage tourism as an interconnected system by integrating geography, management, agriculture and sustainability,” Liang said. “It also emphasizes community engagement and destination management.”  

More information is available on the program website. 

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