Masters of Science in Ecotourism and Protected Areas Management

Description of the Qualification

The Master of Science in Ecotourism and Protected Areas Management is developed to provide postgraduate candidates with knowledge in managing and developing protected areas in a sustainable manner. This qualification will enhance candidate’s career prospects in areas of biodiversity conservation in protected areas, tourism in protected areas, planning for protected area tourism, sensitive development of infrastructure and services in protected areas, managing the challenges of tourism in protected areas, tools for visitor management, the economics of tourism in protected areas, financial aspects of tourism in protected areas as well as monitoring tourism in protected areas. This wide ranging and varied learning experience will help candidates to implement and manage sustainable tourism initiatives in protected areas.

Admission/Entry requirements

To be admitted into a Master of Science in Ecotourism and Protected Management, candidates must hold an Honours Degree in Ecotourism and Protected Area Management or equivalent qualification at NQF Level 8.

Career opportunities

The holder of this qualification may work as a Conservationist, Protected Area Manager, Research Assistant, Environmental Health Supervisor, Tour Guide, Project Manager, Environmental Campaigner/Lobbyist, Cultural Ambassador, Game ranger, Tour operator, Service Agent, Natural Resource Manager and Wildlife and Parks Manager / Administrator. Employment opportunities may be found in the following public and private entities such as Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism; Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources; Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and SME Development (a subsection on environmental related); Ministry of Higher Education (subsection on research); Namibia Commission of Research, Science and Technology; International University of Management; UNAM; NUST;UNDP; Environmental Investment Fund; CUVECOM; OKACOM; KAZ; WWF; Mines; Municipalities and local authorities; and many organizations both locally and internationally. Important of all opportunities is research and consultancy.

Qualification structure