Leeds Beckett University launches 2026 Commonwealth Scholarship Opportunity

Certified by the UNWTO TedQual programme and delivered within a school holding a 5-star QS World University Ranking, this course empowers early to mid-career professionals to implement sustainable practices that enhance local quality of life while conserving global environments and cultures. Five high-calibre students from The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, or Sierra Leone will be selected.

Programme Overview and Impact

The curriculum integrates analytical theory with practical application. It is designed to support practitioners in their efforts to deliver responsible tourism in practice. The programme adopts a hybrid model of distance learning and face-to-face delivery, including a fully funded annual field trip. Previous field trips have visited Kenya and The Gambia whilst this year’s cohort will be visiting Ghana. Funded by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), these scholarships cover all tuition fees and field trip expenses (transport, accommodation, and subsistence), supporting the UK’s international development goals, excellence in higher education and sustaining the principles of the Commonwealth.

Expert Perspectives

Dr. Lisa Gorton, Course Director, emphasises the evolution of the field:

"The industry is shifting beyond basic sustainability toward regenerative and responsible tourism models. Addressing climate change and resilience requires leaders who can move beyond 'doing no harm' to actively improving destinations. This course equips managers to embed these ethical strategies into marketing, operations, and destination planning to meet the growing global demand for accountability."

Dr. Peter Robinson, Head of the Centre for Tourism and Hospitality Management, adds:

"Securing this funding allows us to bridge the educational gap for professionals who lack local access to such specialised training. These scholarships foster the expertise necessary to deliver effective tourism policies that drive local economic development and poverty reduction."

How to apply

The MSc Responsible Tourism Management is designed for part-time study over three years, allowing professionals to apply their learning directly to their current roles.

Applications must be submitted via the Commonwealth online application system.

For further information on the application process visit Commonwealth Distance Learning Master's Scholarships - Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (fcdo.gov.uk).

In addition to the Commonwealth application, candidates must also apply for a place on the MSc Responsible Tourism course at Leeds Beckett University before the deadline. Apply now

If you have any queries about the course, the scholarships,  or your application, please email Dr Lisa Gorton (Course Director) (l.gorton@leedsbeckett.ac.uk) at Leeds Beckett University. We can also put you in touch with our in-country partners for more local enquiries.

Deadline for applications: 16:00 BST, 31 March 2026.