"International Spa Management? Is that even a real degree?"
You may have heard this statement before (or in my case, A LOT), but this degree at The University of Derby, Buxton is so much more than being a therapist and massaging people - you actually learn to manage :0
The course is basically a business management degree focused within the spa industry so there is a mixture of management and spa modules. A handful of these include, finance, the international spa concept, business development and entrepreneurship, international spa design and practical sessions.
Head over to The University of Derby website to find out more on all the modules:
- 3 year BSc (3 year course graduating with a Bachelor of Science with an optional placement year in-between 2nd and 3rd year)
- 2 year FdSc (2 year course graduating with a Foundation of Science)
The 2 year foundation degree can then do a 'top up' onto the BSc degree and complete their final year after they have completed their 2 years (so don't stress if you don't manage to get onto the BSc!).
As well as academic studies, the course provides you with the ability the learn practical skills where you will be trained in high end brands such as Caudalie, ishga and [comfort zone] where you will learn a whole range of body and facial treatments. The course also gives you the opportunity to work in the award winning Devonshire Spa where you can put all your skills, both practical and academic, to the test (whilst getting paid ;) ).
Throughout your time studying International Spa Management, you get to go on filed trips to different spas around the UK which are all covered by your course fees! In the past, visits have included Thermae Bath Spa, Champneys Springs and The Dorchester Hotel down in London. Every single trip has been an amazing and valuable opportunity to experience spa as a guest as well as making networks within the industry! There are also opportunities each year to go on international trips during the 2nd semester (but keep an eye out for future posts all about past trips both international and national :P).
International Spa Management is a wonderful degree that sets you up for the real world and provides you with skills and attributes that industry leaders are seeking. Once you have completed the degree, there are many different career avenues you can go down, other than the obvious spa manager, because there is so much more you can do with this degree. Seeing as it is a business degree, you can become a manager of any business (even your own) or you can go into the finance or HR departments, become a spa trainer or you can even go into the hotel and leisure industry - it's never ending!
Spend the day with us at our next Open Day in April where you can find out more :D
Corrin,
The Spa and Wellness Blog