A University of Central Lancashire student is spending a year in Cyprus as part of her tourism course.

Sofia Nawaz is presently studying The International Tourism Management student degree at the university.

Tourism is currently one of the world’s fastest growing industries and the course will equip students with a range of transferable professional and managerial skills, which can be used to meet the ever changing demands of this dynamic business.

The degree focuses on employability, and students can take advantage of a paid internship on the sandwich route, which can provide opportunities to work in a supervisory capacity within the travel and tourism sector throughout the world.

The course also offers optional international opportunities including field trips, overseas placements and work experience. A number of students spend their first year in Preston, the second year in Cyprus, an optional third year on placement abroad and their final year back in Preston.

International Tourism Management student, Sofia, is studying at the UCLan Cyprus Campus for a year.

Sofia, a former Marsden Heights Community College student, said: “UCLan stood out to me because of the amazing lecturers, facilities and worldwide industry connections.

“UCLan has offered me incredible opportunities such as travelling to Blackpool and meeting the Merlin Entertainment team, as well as the head of Blackpool’s Merlin Cluster, Ian Hawking.

“Whilst there, we were able to visit all of the Merlin attractions and feedback our experiences to the Merlin group. So far, I have had a fantastic experience and made great friends.”

Sofia continued: “I would recommend UCLan to anyone as the opportunities are endless and the tourism student community is extremely tight knit and welcoming. My experience at UCLan has made me more independent.

“I have developed a range of skills which I know will benefit me in my future career as well as my personal life.”

The university runs related programmes in Hospitality Management and Event Management. They also offer one-year top-up degrees for those who already have a HND or Foundation Degree, as well a range of related Masters courses for those who wish to enhance a current degree qualification.

For more information about UCLan courses you can visit the campus or contact 01772 892400.