Tourism research:
In its key fields of travel behaviour, effects of travel (on society, economy and ecology) and strategic development (of destinations and institutions), the institute is the first point of contact in Germany. The Institute conducts interdisciplinary research and combines expertise from various disciplines under one roof. In this way, the issues examined are considered and classified comprehensively.

Creating benefits:
By transferring its research results, the institute promotes the exchange between science, business and society. The knowledge gained also creates practical benefits for all sectors of the economy associated with tourism. In addition, the methods developed serve to improve the public’s understanding of tourism phenomena and thus develop tourism sustainably.

Fostering future specialists:
Discussion and solution approaches to tourism issues are also directly incorporated into teaching at the West Coast University of Applied Sciences. As a result, students learn from current and real examples at a high scientific level.

Grown and proven:
The institute emerged from the Institute for Management and Tourism. Since its foundation in 2006, it has developed into the largest in-house institute for tourism at a German university. This significance was reflected in its re-dedication as the German Institute for Tourism Research in 2020. As Director of the German Institute for Tourism Research, Professor Dr Bernd Eisenstein will ensure the continuation of the successful work of the IMT, which he founded and directed.

Further information on the German Institute for Tourism Research can be found on the institute's own website.