Aims and Characteristics

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Hotel and Tourism Management programme is designed for students pursuing applied research in their advanced education. Its objective is to provide a theoretical and research base that prepares graduates for research and education positions in hospitality and tourism.

This programme offers advanced research training based on individual interests and career aspirations, which allows students to develop their ability to complete significant research in a specific area of hospitality or tourism. The intellectual and supportive environment fostered by the School encourages academic staff and students to collaborate to conduct research and disseminate information through scholarly publications, conference presentations, and research seminars. Graduates will make positive contributions to the growth and enhancement of hospitality and tourism research and education.

Joint PhD Programme with University of Surrey

In addition to the regular PhD programme, our School is also inviting applications for Joint PhD programme with University of Surrey.  To be admitted to the Joint PhD programme, applicants will need to fulfill the entrance requirements set by both PolyU and Surrey, no matter which university would be the home institution.  Tuition fee shall be paid to the home institution annually throughout the three years of study.  For details about the PolyU studentships, please refer to the details at this link: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/gs/prospective-students/fellowship-scholarship-schemes/.  Interested applicants for the Joint PhD programme will need to make an application to both PolyU and Surrey.  When making an application to PolyU via the e-Admission system (http://www.polyu.edu.hk/admission), applicants should inform PolyU SHTM by email (sarah-hy.chan@polyu.edu.hk) their application numbers so that PolyU SHTM can input the “Joint PhD Programmes indicator” for their applications to the system.  When making an application to Surrey, applicants will need to clearly state in the application form that they are applying for this dual degree programme. For submitting the Dual PhD application to Surrey and the application procedures with them, please contact the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management of Surrey for information.

The School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) does not normally admit students for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programme.