Both face-to-face and online GSTC Sustainable Tourism courses are led by expert GSTC trainers, and cover the training curriculum developed by the GSTC, using the GSTC Criteria as the framework. In addition, both face-to-face and online classes satisfy the training requirement towards earning the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism. In these ways, the two are equivalent to each other in terms of content.

There are, however, key differences in terms of the learning experience. Face-to-face classes are 3-day-long intensive training offered in a classroom setting, allowing for face-to-face interaction with the trainer and with fellow training participants. Online classes are offered over the course of four weeks with weekly lessons and activities. See more information on the 4-week online course format here.