The Masters in Tourism Administration (MTA) is a 2-year full-time postgraduate program offered by Catholicate College, Pathanamthitta, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU), Kottayam. This self-financed course is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge in tourism management, hospitality operations, and travel industry dynamics. The total fees for the course is INR 84,000. The program is popular among students seeking careers in the tourism and hospitality sector, offering practical exposure through industry visits and seminars. Admission is merit-based through the MGU CAT (Common Admission Test) 2026.
Admission for the 2026-27 academic year is currently ongoing. The MGU CAT 2026 registration deadline has been extended to April 16, 2026. The exam will be conducted from May 23-26, 2026 in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Counselling and seat allotment are expected to follow in June 2026, with the batch start date tentatively scheduled for July 2026.
Key Points:
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | ₹15,000 |
| Other Charges (Per Year) | ₹12,000 |
| Total Fees (2 Years) | ₹84,000 |
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| MGU CAT 2026 Registration Start | February 20, 2026 |
| MGU CAT 2026 Registration Deadline (Extended) | April 16, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | April 2026 (Tentative) |
| MGU CAT 2026 Exam (CBT Mode) | May 23-26, 2026 |
| Result Declaration | June 2026 (Tentative) |
| Counselling and Seat Allotment | June 2026 (Tentative) |
| Batch Start Date | July 1, 2026 |
| Online Fee Payment | July 5-7, 2026 |
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
| Scholarship | Details |
|---|---|
| Government of Kerala scholarships | for postgraduate students from economically backward communities |
| Merit-based scholarships | offered by the college (subject to availability and eligibility) |
| SC/ST scholarships | as per government norms |
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Placement Rate (PG) | 16.42% |
| Average Package | INR 3 LPA |
| Highest Package | INR 11 LPA |
| Top Recruiters | Byju's, IBM, Naukri.com, Wipro, TCS, TATA, IndiGo, ISRO |
| Typical Roles for MTA | Hotel management, travel agencies, tourism boards, hospitality companies |
The college offers a unique travel and tourism course, which is quite rare in Kerala. Although it does not provide direct placement services, the distinctiveness of the program attracts companies that actively seek its graduates. This results in abundant job opportunities, especially outside Kerala. The course includes a first-semester internship, allowing students to gain practical experience in either the hotel or travel industry, depending on their preference.
Ques. What is the difference between MTA and MTTM courses at Catholicate College?
Ans. While both are tourism-related postgraduate programs, MTA (Masters in Tourism Administration) focuses on the administrative and management aspects of tourism operations, including hotel management, travel agency operations, and tourism board functions. MTTM (Master of Tourism and Travel Management) has a broader scope covering travel management, tour operations, and destination management. The MTA at Catholicate College is a 2-year full-time program with total fees of INR 84,000, making it an affordable option for students interested in tourism management careers.
Ques. Is MGU CAT mandatory for admission to the MTA program?
Ans. Yes, MGU CAT 2026 is the primary entrance examination for admission to the MTA program at Catholicate College. However, candidates with valid NET/JRF qualifications may be exempted from the entrance exam. The exam is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode with 60 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 90 minutes, with no negative marking. Registration for MGU CAT 2026 is currently open with the deadline extended to April 16, 2026.
Ques. What are the career prospects after completing MTA from Catholicate College?
Ans. MTA graduates from Catholicate College have diverse career opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector. They can work as hotel managers, travel consultants, tourism officers, event managers, or start their own travel agencies. The college's placement record shows that PG students have secured positions with major hospitality chains and travel companies. The average package is INR 3 LPA, with some graduates earning up to INR 11 LPA. The NAAC A++ accreditation and industry connections of the college enhance employability prospects.
Ques. Can I pursue MTA if my bachelor's degree is not in tourism or hospitality?
Ans. Yes, the MTA program at Catholicate College accepts graduates from any discipline. The eligibility requirement is a bachelor's degree from a recognized university with minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates). The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training in tourism management regardless of your undergraduate background. Many students from commerce, arts, and science backgrounds successfully complete the program and secure placements in the tourism industry.
Ques. What is the hostel facility and accommodation situation for MTA students?
Ans. Catholicate College provides hostel facilities for both male and female students on an optional basis. The college has three hostels: E. John Philipose Memorial Hostel for male students, and Daniel Mar Philoxenos Hostel and Angelines Hostel for female students. The annual hostel fee is approximately INR 6,000. Hostels are supervised by resident wardens and provide basic amenities. Students can also arrange private accommodation in Pathanamthitta, which is a well-connected city with reasonable rental options.
Ques. How is the college located and what are the transportation facilities?
Ans. Catholicate College is situated on a hilltop in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, at Basil Hills, Makkankunnu (PIN: 689645). While the scenic location provides a positive academic environment, the walking distance from the main road can be considerable. The college is well-connected by road and public transport. Regular bus services connect Pathanamthitta to major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kottayam. The college is approximately 2 hours from Kochi and 1.5 hours from Thiruvananthapuram, making it accessible for students from across Kerala.
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