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The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS), established in 1987, is Malta's leading Tourism and Hospitality educational institution. ITS offers a broad selection of study programmes taught by experienced and dedicated lecturers. The campus provides multiple specialised labs and kitchens to ensure that students receive the essential theoretical and practical education.

The Institute of Tourism Studies, located close to the Malta International Airport and sister campus in Qala, Gozo, currently offers programmes of study ranging from Foundation Programme (MQF Level 2) to Masters Degree Programmes (MQF Level 7) level.

ITS has a signed academic affiliation with the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (EAHM), ranked one of the top ten institutions globally in the field of Tourism and Hospitality Management. In addition to the agreement with EAHM, ITS has secured contracts throughout the years with various top International Universities and Institutions to ensure students not only graduate from a reputable institute but in the process have the opportunity to study at these institutions. Students can obtain a more comprehensive experience and develop skills to meet diverse international standards.

ITS works closely with the highly esteemed Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences in Finland and Institut Paul Bocuse in France to offer its Degree programmes in Bachelor in International Hospitality Management and Bachelor in Culinary Arts, respectively.

The Institute of Tourism Studies prides itself on offering students theoretical knowledge and extensive hands-on experience throughout the ITS training restaurants, kitchens, and hospitality laboratories. ITS students also gain opportunities for further training through the Local Industrial Trade Practice and International Internship, which is included in the students' programme of study.

With various programmes available at multiple levels, covering the necessities of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry, students can be sure they have the best opportunity to specialise in areas suited to their abilities and interests.

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Mission Statement

Shaping Excellence and Innovation in Tourism, through teaching and learning, quality research, advice, and realisation of innovative business concepts

Where:

  • Shaping:  We proactively lead students through the constantly evolving and changing Tourism Industry.
  • Excellence:  We shall be at the forefront in creating Professionals, Business Concepts and Support Industry that obtain the highest levels of quality
    in their fields of study.
  • Innovation:  We shall stimulate creativity, entrepreneurship, and key fundamental attributes in the tourism industry.
  • Teaching and Learning:  We shall, at our core, remain committed to providing high- quality education and training programmes for our students that are relevant to the current and future needs of the industry.
  • Quality Research: We shall transition from an instruction based institution to a research lead institution wherein we will strive to generate relevant comprehensive and organised content, concepts and publications.
  • Advice:  We shall provide support and assistance to the tourism industry by improving its management, standards, processes and systems to enhance excellence, operating and financial performance.
  • Realise Innovative Business Concepts: We shall assist promising startups in the Tourism Industry in developing and implementing their business ideas.
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Vision Statement

The Institute of Tourism Studies will lead the transformation of tomorrow’s international tourism industry by directing its resources to:

  • Create comprehensive and systematic knowledge through high-quality research.
  • Develop innovative and relevant higher and further education and training programmes combining technical, generic and behavioural skills.
  • Deliver programmes via a student-centred and inclusive learning environment, integrating theory and practice whilst promoting modern leadership approaches.
  • Provide expert advice to established professionals.
  • Mentor entrepreneurs in successful commercialisation of innovative business concepts within the Tourism Industry.

Hands-On Experience

Students will acquire theoretical knowledge and extensive hands-on experience through the ITS training restaurants, kitchens, and hospitality laboratories throughout their studies. These include four restaurants, Chocolate Lab, Bar Lab, Wine lab, Food Science Lab and six separate kitchens.

Internship Experience

Internship experience, both in Malta and abroad. A specialised Internship department partners with Hosco, the leading online recruitment and networking platform for the Hospitality industry. ITS students are guaranteed the best internship options available, which will pave the way to their future careers.

International Students

ITS, through the International office, supports international students to ensure a smooth transitioning to move to study in Malta. Further information for international students may be found here.

Student Wellbeing

Students have access to specialised support services, which include career guidance, student support and wellbeing services, thanks to a dedicated team of professionals. Further information on the student support services offered may be found here.