Science Sports Tourism and Destination Management
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Would you like to understand how tourism, sport and leisure interact – and how this gives rise to innovative, sustainable offerings? If you are interested in one of the most dynamic sectors of the global economy and also have an affinity for physical activity, nature and social developments, the Master’s degree programme in Sports Tourism and Destination Management could be the right choice for you.
The degree programme is aimed at graduates with some prior knowledge of tourism, sport or leisure who wish to deepen their expertise in a targeted manner. The focus is on a physical activity-oriented approach to tourism, which differs significantly from traditional tourism studies programmes. You will engage with the development of offerings for a variety of settings – from alpine regions and coastal areas to urban recreational spaces.
If you think in an interdisciplinary way, want to develop sustainable solutions and aim to take on responsibility in an international environment later on, this Degree programme offers you a sound academic foundation. The full-time programme is organised in a compact format and requires a high degree of personal initiative and time commitment.
Key facts
Duration of study
4 Semesters
Commencement of studies
Winter semester
Workload
120 Credit Points
Application deadline
- 31st of May (Non-EU)
- 15th of July (GER & EU)
Qualification
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Language of instruction
German
Fees
approx. 335€ (Semester fee)
University places
30 places per cohort
Admission Requirements
The Admission Requirements for this Master’s degree programme are a successfully completed Bachelor’s degree in which at least 180 credit points under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) have been earned, or an equivalent successfully completed degree. The following requirements also apply to the degree programme referred to in sentence 1 of the Admissions Regulations:
- A Bachelor’s degree programme with a predominant focus (i.e. at least 90 credit points) on either Sport science, tourism studies, natural sciences, geography, economics or life sciences.
- Evidence of a relevant level of study in statistics and methodological skills (usually at least 10 credit points).
- If you did not obtain your degree in a German-speaking country, you must provide evidence of sufficient proficiency in German.
- To take part in the practical sports components of modules TDM1 and TDM9, you must provide evidence of a sports medical check-up carried out during the first semester of the programme.
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save_altAdmissions Regulations 2026Download "Admissions Regulations 2026"Pdf, 327 KB
Degree Structure and Content
On the Master’s degree programme in Sports Tourism and Destination Management (TDM), you will acquire academically sound yet practical skills to develop and implement sustainable sports tourism offerings. The programme focuses on integrating economic, environmental and social perspectives.
The programme is modular in structure and spans four semesters. Over the first three semesters, you will deepen your specialist knowledge in areas such as tourism economics, destination development, sustainable sports spatial planning, and health and society. This is complemented by modules on research methods, resource management and the legal framework.
A particular strength lies in the programme’s practical orientation: Field trips, project work and practical exercises enable you to apply theoretical knowledge directly and gain insights into real-world professional fields. A compulsory work placement helps you gain initial professional experience and build a network of contacts.
The fourth semester is set aside for your Master’s thesis. Overall, you can expect a challenging, interdisciplinary programme that requires analytical skills, a structured approach to work and a high degree of self-organisation.
Programme-specific documents
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save_altModule handbook TDMDownload "Module handbook TDM"Pdf, 1 MB
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save_altCurriculum schedule TDMDownload "Curriculum schedule TDM"Pdf, 208 KB
Career Opportunities and Professional Perspectives
Here are your options at GSU and your career prospects after graduation.
Further options at GSU
A Master's degree in Sports Tourism and Destination Management opens up a wide range of career prospects in a growing and increasingly professionalised field. Thanks to the combination of academic qualifications and practical skills, you will be well prepared for strategic and operational roles.
Typical areas of employment include tourism organisations, sports tourism companies, consultancy agencies or the public sector, such as ministries and government departments. Roles with tour operators, in nature reserves and protected areas, or with event organisers are also possible. Furthermore, the Degree programme provides a solid foundation for self-employment, for example in developing your own tourism products.
If you are aiming for an academic career, the degree also qualifies you for roles in research and teaching, as well as for subsequent doctoral studies.
Overall, you will benefit from an interdisciplinary profile that enables you to help shape sports tourism in a responsible, sustainable and economically successful manner.
Any questions?
International Office
Main Building, first floor
E-Mail: masterapplication@dshs-koeln.de
Phone: +49 221 4982-2160
International Office: Consultation hours
- Mon - Fri: 9 - 11 am
- Mon, Wed, Thu: 2 - 3 pm
Student Advisory Service: Guidance and academic advice
Main Building, first floor
E-Mail: studienberatung@dshs-koeln.de
Phone: +49 221 4982-2520
Student Advisory Service: Consultation hours
Via phone:
- Mon - Fri: 9 - 11 am
- Mon - Thu: 2 - 3 pm
On site:
- Mon & Wed: 9 - 11 am
- Mon & Wed: 2 - 3 pm
Cancellation of consultation hours:
- Mon, 31.08.2026, 10am - 11am
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