The University’s Institute for Tourism, Travel and Culture (ITTC) has launched a Higher Diploma in Food Culture, a six-semester part-time evening course, starting in October and ending in May 2016. Lecture sessions will be held mostly between 5.30 and 8.30pm, three days a week.

The diploma focuses on the study of food at an academic level, in particular the history and anthropology of food and drink and their cultural aspects, and the communication and interdisciplinary aspects of sociological and psychological theories linked to food and drink consumption. It includes sessions on methods of product communication and marketing strategies, as well as food and drink journalism.

It includes study units on food science and technology, nutrition and health, agri-tourism, organic farming and fieldwork. Students also carry out supervised individual research on specific aspects of the course.

The institute is also offering the third edition of its programme of studies leading to the MA in Tourism. The programme aims to promote a better understanding of current issues facing the tourism, culture, heritage and the leisure sector.

The three-semester course starts in October with an intensive four-month programme of taught courses and practicum. This is followed by two semesters of individual research and supervision in developing and writing a dissertation of approximately 50,000 words.

Applications may be made online through www.um.edu.mt. For further information, contact the ITTC at ittc@um.edu.mt or call 2340 2722.