The Certificate in Tourism Development and Planning provides professional training in the theory and practice of economic development based on tourism attractions and services. While designed to meet the needs of those engaged in economic development and planning, it is open to all students, including those enrolled in Tourism and Hospitality degrees. Courses examine tourism from community and regional perspectives and prepare students to work for and with town offices, state agencies, and other government and non-government entities to develop, plan and market tourism opportunities. Case studies and projects allow students to learn from and apply their knowledge to real-world situations in Maine and beyond.

Requirements

Completion of 12 credits as described below with a grade of C- or better in each. TAH courses at the 200-level and above normally have the prerequisite of TAH 101, but this may be waived at the discretion of the instructor based upon professional experience or previous coursework.

All students must complete the following course:

• TAH 241    Tourism & Community Development

Students then select three of the following courses, at least one of which must be at the 300 level or higher, and one of which must include a research, service or professional project.

• TAH 211    Tourism Product Development
• TAH 231    Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality
• TAH 261    Introduction to Cultural Tourism
• TAH 311    Event Planning and Management
• TAH 341    Tourism, Development & Sustainability
• TAH 406    Research in Tourism & Hospitality
• TAH 407    Field Study in Tourism & Hospitality
• TAH 408    Practicum in Tourism & Hospitality
• TAH 409    Tourism & Hospitality Internship
• TAH 415    Trends and Innovation in Tourism & Hospitality

Students may select one of the following courses in place of one elective above.

• ESP 200    Environmental Planning
• ESP 305    Community Planning Workshop
• GEO 209    Introduction to Land Use Planning
• GEO 203    Urban & Regional Development
• GEO 210    Planning Maine Communities

As part of at least one of their courses in the certificate, students must complete a project that involves original research, service learning, and/or professional experience directly related to the certificate. The certificate coordinator will assist the student with selection of a project that meets the student’s personal goals and interests.