International Institute of Tourism Studies at George Washington University

The George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies (IITS) is a small organization located in Washington, DC. With a team of four employees, IITS has generated $2.5 million in revenue. As a renowned institute dedicated to tourism education and research, IITS has been at the forefront of guiding businesses, communities, governments, and nonprofits towards sustainable tourism practices for over three decades. IITS offers a range of professional certificate programs focusing on crucial tourism sectors like destination management, event management, and cultural heritage tourism. These programs aim to equip the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in these dynamic fields. Beyond traditional education, IITS provides graduate students enrolled in the Master of Tourism Administration with valuable hands-on experience through consulting projects in diverse destinations, such as Indonesia, Mexico, and Cuba. IITS distinguishes itself through its collaborative approach, partnering with key stakeholders in government, business, academia, and the nonprofit sector. This collaborative spirit allows IITS to contribute to the development of a sustainable tourism industry that balances visitor interests with the well-being of destinations. Their commitment to research and education positions IITS as a thought leader in the field, driving positive change within the tourism sector. For further information or inquiries, interested individuals can visit IITS' website at business.gwu.edu/research/iits or contact them via email at [email protected]. The institute also encourages exploration of their blog, located at blogs.gwu.edu/gwsb-iits/, for insights and updates on their work.