International Institute of Tourism Studies

For more than 30 years, the International Institute of Tourism Studies (IITS) at the GW School of Business has been a global leader in tourism education and research. At IITS, we're putting tourism on a path to social good — protecting places, creating opportunities, and increasing livelihoods in low-income communities. As thought leaders in education and research, we are... 

Collaborators: In partnership with leaders in government, business, academia and nonprofits, we're building a sustainable industry that balances visitor interests with destination well-being.

Educators: Our professional certificate programs in destination management, event management, and cultural heritage tourism are preparing the next generation of doers, leaders and thinkers in these growth fields.

Researchers: We offer students enrolled in the Master of Tourism Administration access and opportunity to participate in hands-on consulting projects. Indonesia, Mexico, Cuba... we provide graduate students with the opportunity to go beyond the confines of the classroom and make a difference.

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Sustainable Tourism Destination Management

Event Management

Cultural Heritage Tourism

Blog Highlights

IITS publishes blog posts detailing the ways we've recently contributed to a more responsible and resilient future for the people and places that depend on visitors. Explore recent articles below, or visit the blog to view each post in its entirety.

Latest News

Experts Talk Threat of Overtourism and Possible Solutions

"We need a fresh model for governance of tourism if we are going to change things," said Seleni Matus, director of GW's International Institute of Tourism Studies.

Can the World Be Saved From Overtourism?

CNN Travel speaks with three overtourism experts at the International Institute of Tourism Studies' World Tourism Day Forum.

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