phd in travel and tourism management

PhD: Hospitality and Tourism Management Concentration

This program will prepare you for a career in research and teaching at institutions throughout the United States and abroad.

The coursework includes several hospitality and tourism management courses as well as a group of research design and statistics courses. You will also complete courses in supporting fields of inquiry such as psychology, sociology, management, marketing, etc. The program typically requires four years to finish, including courses, a second-year paper, a comprehensive exam, and a doctoral dissertation. Applicants with strong hospitality and tourism management backgrounds are preferred. Incoming students are expected to have both good written and oral communication skills, as well as the analytical skills required to master research methods and statistics.

Admission requirements

We prefer the GMAT, but we do accept the GRE test as a substitute. In either case, the exam must have been taken within 5 years of the time of application to WSU.

Desired prerequisites

In general, you must meet the following prerequisites to be accepted into the program:

• A master’s degree (M.S., M.A. in a related discipline, or MBA), although outstanding applicants with bachelor’s degree will be considered
• A GPA higher than 3.25 on a 4.00 scale
• Hospitality and/or tourism related background (educational or professional)
• Interests and goals that complement faculty interests and the program’s goals
• Letters of recommendation supporting your candidacy for admission
• A substantial industry experience (strongly preferred)

While applicants may have diverse profiles, an educational or business background that reflects an understanding of and interest in hospitality and tourism management is advantageous. Students with an MBA or business experience, in particular, are preferred. Because the program is focused on graduating students qualified to teach at high-quality, research-oriented institutions, you should have good command of the English language, both spoken and written, and have a reasonable level of skill in mathematics to facilitate the mastery of research methods and statistics. You should also have competencies in hospitality and tourism management in addition to accounting, economics, finance, management, marketing, operations management, and computer skills.  If you are deficient in any of these areas, additional coursework and preparation beyond the major course of study may be required. Your advisory committee will determine these requirements.

General Competency

The requirements for this program follow the Ph.D. Program in Business Administration Policies and Procedures and Program Requirements in the Carson College of Business. The concentration in Hospitality and Tourism takes advantage of existing course and seminar offerings in the other five business disciplines to offer a diverse and flexible high-quality program. The program requirements for the concentration in Hospitality and Tourism Management are designed to develop proficiency in the student’s major field of study with applications in hospitality business management.

Research tool requirements

A minimum of 4 research tool courses to be selected by the student with the approval from his/her Ph.D. committee.

• ANOVA (e.g., Psych 511, Stat 507, Stat 512, or Soc 522)
• Regression/Econometrics (e.g., Psych 512, Soc 521, Stat 530, Stat 533, Stat 535, EconS 511, or EconS 512)
• Psychometric Theory (e.g., Psych 514 or Stat 520)
• Multivariate Statistics (e.g., BA596, Mktg 594, Stat 519, MgtOp519, or MgtOp591) or Applied Structural Equation Modeling (Psych 516)

These suggested courses above may be substituted for other courses that treat each of the above topics in a comprehensive fashion, as approved by the student’s program committee. Although four research tool courses are required, additional research courses may be taken as part of the student’s supporting field requirements.

Major field requirements

These courses will enable you to develop proficiency in your primary area of study.

• HBM 591: Seminar in Services Management
• HBM 592: Seminar in Current Issues in Travel and Tourism
• Mktg 593: Behavioral Research Methods Seminar
• BA 598: Research and Professional Development Seminar (1 credit course)
• HBM 600: Independent Study (Second-year Research Project)

Business electives

You are required to complete at least 2 of the following graduate-level business courses:

• EconS/Fin 596 Advanced Topics in Financial Economics
• MGTOP 516 Time Series
• HBM 581 Services Management
• IBUS 580 International Business Management
• MGMT597 Seminar in Organizational Behavior
• MGMT597 Seminar in Organizational Theory
• MGMT597 Seminar in Strategic Management
• MIS 572 Database Management Systems
• MIS 574 Telecommunications and Networking in Business
• MIS 582 Systems Analysis and Design
• MKTG 590 Seminar in Consumer Behavior
• MKTG 591 Seminar in Marketing Management
• MKTG 592 Seminar in Marketing Foundations

These suggested courses above may be substituted for other courses as approved by the student’s program committee.

Supporting field requirements

Coursework in the area of specialization is intended to provide necessary skills and knowledge to conduct research in a chosen field. Courses must be related to an area of study selected by the student and approved by the doctoral student’s committee. Supporting doctoral level coursework may be selected from areas such as (but not limited to) research seminars in anthropology, psychology, sociology, economics, management, international business, information systems, marketing, communication, etc. Additional coursework in HBM may also be taken, with approval from the doctoral student’s committee.

PhD Research Credit Requirements

In addition to major field requirements, business electives, and supporting field requirements, the Ph.D. in Hospitality and Tourism Management requires additional research credits associated with the development of the final dissertation. A minimum of 32 (800 level) research credit hours is required.

Sample PhD Program in Business Administration With Concentration in Hospitality and Tourism Management

Based on 9 credits per semester in the first year of study**.

• BA 598 (1 credit course)
• Business Elective

Start preparation for 2nd Year Research Project

• Supporting Field Course
• HBM 600 (2nd Year Research Project)

Preparation for Comprehensive Exams

• Comprehensive Exams

Full-time Research (Dissertation and Other)

• Courses cannot be counted twice under any of the above-mentioned requirements.
• No more than 9 hours can be taken as independent study courses.

Annual Review and Written and Preliminary Exams

The goal of the annual reviews and the exams is to assess the candidate’s overall mastery of the core body of knowledge in the field and the degree of preparation to undertake research independently or with minimal supervision. The Ph.D. Program area coordinator and committee along with appropriate advisors will annually review the progress of the students in terms of publications and research effort. The Preliminary Exam (scheduled sometime during the third year in the program) will test the candidate’s knowledge in five areas:

• Hospitality and tourism management major field requirements: Hospitality and Tourism Management core knowledge includes a thorough understanding of hospitality and tourism, and behavioral research methods.
• Business electives: The student should be able to demonstrate an appropriate level of understanding of theories and research methods aligned with those business disciplines chosen for further study, including finance, information systems, international business, management, operations, and/or marketing.
• Hospitality and tourism research: The student should be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of hospitality and tourism research, including explanatory theories and past research findings. In addition, the candidate is expected to demonstrate command over the relevant literature from his/her supporting field.
• Hospitality and tourism research methods and statistics: The student should also have an extensive knowledge of statistics and the research methodologies that can be employed to study hospitality and tourism phenomena from a behavioral standpoint.
• Oral and written communication skills: Given the program’s focus on producing hospitality and tourism scholars who can be successful at other accredited, peer or better research universities, the student is also expected to show a high level of written and oral communication skills exhibited in the written and oral comprehensive exams, research presentations at national/international conferences, and publications in hospitality & tourism journals.

Jenny Kim, PhD Professor School of Hospitality Business Management Todd Hall 331C [email protected] 509-335-4706

Program at a glance

Degree offered: Doctor of Philosophy Number of faculty working with students: 9 Number of students enrolled in program: 8 Students with assistantships/scholarships: 100% Industry experience preferred Priority application deadline: January 10

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Ph.D. in Hospitality Management

The University of South Carolina’s Ph.D. program in Hospitality Management produces world-class leaders who are trained at the highest level of hospitality and tourism research and education to serve in critical roles with industry and academic institutions around the world.

Ph.D. Program Highlights

• USC is ranked among the top 12 programs in the U.S. for hospitality and tourism management.
• South Carolina’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is home to world-renowned faculty and research centers  — providing exceptional opportunities for graduate student research and publications .
• Ph.D. students have the opportunity to get involved in funded grants and industry research projects and work with institutes and faculty.
• The program allows doctoral students to teach, providing experience needed for industry and entry-level faculty positions.
• The School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is home to three top-tier journal editors: Ercan Turk, Ph.D. — Tourism Analysis; Robin DiPietro, Ph.D. — Journal of Foodservice Business Research; Miyoung Jeong, Ph.D. — Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education.
• Our graduate students have found positions at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, University of Houston, and University of Central Florida, just to name a few.

Atop the SEC

The University of South Carolina ranks among the top 12 schools in the U.S. and atop the SEC for hospitality and tourism management according to the ShanghaiRanking's 2022 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

Career Success

Diego Bufquin earned his Ph.D. from USC in 2015 and is now a professor of practice at Tulane University's A.B. Freeman School of Business.

Current Ph.D. Students

Here to Help

Want more information or to speak with someone regarding our Ph.D. in hospitality management? Fill out our form and our program director will reach out to you.

Admissions Process

The application deadline for the Ph.D. program is Jan. 15.

All applications for the Ph.D. program must be submitted online through the Graduate School . Applications will be reviewed and assessed individually by the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management's graduate faculty based on the applicant's:

• Academic record (work done at a master's level)
• Professional experience
• TOEFL / IELTS scores (for international students)
• Promise of ability to adequately pursue advanced study and research
• In-person and / or phone interviews
• Identification of School of Hospitality and Tourism Management faculty member(s) willing to champion their application process. Please contact hospitality and tourism faculty whose research interests align with yours.

Degree Requirements

The Ph.D. in hospitality management is based on a four-year period of residential study following the completion of a master’s degree with an undergraduate or graduate degree in hospitality and tourism management or related fields. The Ph.D. program requires 60 credit hours. To finish the Ph.D. program, a student must successfully complete a qualifying exam, comprehensive exam, propose and complete a dissertation study, and successfully pass a final examination on the dissertation administered by the advisory committee.

Additional information and details on degree requirements can be found at the  academic bulletin .

Conferences

Ph.D. students regularly collaborate with our faculty and present their research findings at major conferences such as the 28th Annual Graduate Education & Graduate Student Research Conference in Hospitality and Tourism hosted by The Collins College of Hospitality Management at Cal Poly Pomona over Jan. 5-7, 2023.

Assistantships and Fellowships

Assistantships and fellowships are awarded to graduate students on a competitive basis. A fellowship makes you a vital part of the college through teaching, research and other meaningful educational experiences. Stipend rates are competitive, tuition reductions are included and assistance is provided for research conferences. Visit the Graduate School to  learn more about assistantships .

Get in Touch

Kawon (Kathy) Kim, Ph.D.

Ph.D. Program Director and Associate Professor School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

[email protected] 803-777-0451 Close-Hipp 631

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Hospitality and Tourism Management Graduate Program

White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

The hospitality and tourism management graduate program offers world-class postgraduate programs for industry professionals seeking to move ahead in their careers and aspiring academics seeking to gain the knowledge and skills to be researchers and teachers.

PhD Program

The PhD program is designed to be one of the strongest research-based programs in the world. The program — which includes a strong element of statistics and research design — prepares you for careers in major research universities or research-based agencies. Upon graduation, you are expected to have a curriculum vitae, which includes teaching experience, publishing experience in research journals, and a record of presentations to industry and research societies. The program has limited enrollment to allow you to develop exceptionally close working relationships with faculty.

Potential Careers

• Research Analysts
• Policy Analysts
• Consultants

Program Highlights

• The school’s research centers allow cooperative research across individual projects, leading to strong contributions in the industry.
• You will have numerous opportunities to work one-on-one with faculty developing, conducting and analyzing research that deals with real problems in the hospitality industry.

Master of Science Program

The Master of Science program offers one of the most up-to-date and integrated blends of theory, technology and applications in the hospitality industry. You will have a choice of thesis or non-thesis plans of study in our residential program. Core courses will advance your understanding of this dynamic industry while exploring how to conduct research and analyze information. If you choose to complete the online program , you will complete courses designed specifically for mid-career professions in the hospitality and tourism industry.

• Communication coordinator
• Vice president of operations
• Special events coordinator
• Production specialist
• Operations manager
• Corporate recruiter
• Planning specialist
• Research fellow
• Area manager
• The thesis or capstone project is designed to integrate your key learnings and demonstrate your understanding.
• Small classes are designed to maximize learning and engagement with world-class faculty.
• Immersive coursework in issues requiring integration, insight and critical thinking encourage the illumination and creation of new knowledge.

Program Quick Facts

Degree Type : Master’s, Doctoral

Program Length : Master’s: 2 years Doctoral: 3-4 years

Location : West Lafayette, IN

Department/School : White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Plan of Study

Graduate Student Handbook

Graduate Research

In the hospitality and tourism management master’s and doctoral programs, you’ll gain significant exposure to research , working directly with the school’s faculty to explore important issues facing the hospitality industry — from sustainability and responsible travel to food safety and employee well-being.

Research Opportunities

• Food service operations
• Healthy eating and menu nutrition labeling in the hospitality industry
• Food safety
• Sustainable tourism
• Responsible travel
• Employee well-being
• Visitor economic behavior
• Tourism experience design and marketing
• Traveler experience, wellness and technology
• Visitor harassment

Research Areas

• Hospitality and service management
• Tourism management and community development
• Sustainability and innovation

Research Facilities

• Arthur Avery Foodservice Research Laboratory
• Center for Hospitality and Retail Industries Business Analytics
• Purdue Tourism and Hospitality Research Center
• Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Travel Lab
• Visitor Harassment Research Unit

Faculty by Research Area

Consumer behavior and individual well-being, hospitality and service management, tourism management and community development, sustainability and innovation, branding and experience design, application procedure for residential programs.

Thank you for your interest in our top-ranked graduate programs. Before you continue with the electronic application for admission, please familiarize yourself with the minimum requirements for admission to the graduate residential programs in the White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. It is important to recognize that although satisfaction with these basic requirements does not guarantee graduate admission, failure to satisfy these requirements may lead to automatic denial of admission.

Starting the Application

Required Application Materials

These are documents that are required to support a successful application. Supporting documents should be uploaded to the electronic application or mailed directly to the graduate program. See the sections below for more details. Supporting documents include the following unless otherwise noted:

• Transcripts

The admission committee is looking for transcripts with a GPA of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. Prospective PhD students need a transcript that shows completion of a master’s degree. You can upload offical copies directly to the application portal. An official transcript bears the original signature of the registrar and/or the original seal of the issuing institution. If transcripts are not in English, an English translation will need to accompany the transcript.

You must provide physcial copies of the official transcripts and/or academic records if you are admitted and choose to enroll. Official documents should be submitted to:

Office of Graduate Admissions Purdue University Graduate School 155 South Grant Street, YONG 170 West Lafayette, IN 47907

• GRE Test  OR GMAT Test  (optional) 

Due to COVID-19 constraints, the GRE/GMAT is optional. The admissions committee values these tests and highly recommends applicants take and send their scores as part of their application package for a holistic review.

We encourage inclusion of Official GRE (Graduate Record Examination)  OR  GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) report of scores taken within the last five years. Applicants may submit results from either the GRE or GMAT, but most students use the GRE. 

GRE (minimum)  | verbal and quantitative score of 290 or higher (each: minimum of 145) | code  1631 . For information and test dates visit  www.gre.org .

GMAT (minimum) | total score of 550 (verbal and quantitative sections) | code  1RZ-NJ-46 . For more information visit  www.mba.com .

• English Proficiency  (a requirement for International Students)

International applicants whose native language is not English are required to provide proof of English proficiency for admission to all degree graduate programs.

TOEFL iBT (minimum) | Writing 18, Speaking 18, Listening 14, Reading 19 | Total 80 | code  1631 . For further information, visit  www.toefl.org .

TOEFL Essentials (minimum) | Writing 8, Speaking 8, Listening 8, Reading 8 | Total 8 | code  1631 . For further information, visit  www.toefl.org .

IELTS (minimum) | Writing 6, Speaking 6, Listening 6, Reading 6.5 | Overall brand score of 6.5.   For more information, visit  www.ielts.org .

• Recommendation letters  

HTM requires three letters of recommendation: two from academia and one from an employer.

When you create an online application to the Purdue Graduate School, you will be asked to input the names and emails of your recommender. Once you click “Send to Recommender,” your recommendation providers will receive an email with instructions on submitting their recommendation online. The Purdue University Graduate School strongly encourages you to provide an email address affiliated with an academic institution, professional organization or employer. If there is not an affiliated email, please be sure to inform the individual writing your letter that they must be on business letterhead to assure they are valid. Once the online recommendation is submitted the graduate program to which you applied will have access to view your online recommendation.

• Current Resume

HTM’s application review committee is looking for a minimum of one year of work experience in a related area or two completed internships (internships must total six months or more).

Assistantships  that HTM offers are typically determined based on past work experiences and career goals outlined in the resume. Preference will be given to admitted applicants with related work experience that meet the needs of HTM.

• Diversity Essay 

The application portal will ask for a diversity letter. In this document you should describe your leadership; work experience; service experience; or other significant involvement with racial, ethnic, socio-economic or educational communities that have traditionally been underrepresented in higher education. You should then describe how these experiences would promote a diversity of views, experiences and ideas in the pursuit of research, scholarship and creative excellence. You should feel free to discuss your own personal experiences in the essay.

• Statement of Purpose

A statement of approximately 500 words is encouraged that explains your interest in undertaking or continuing graduate study; your reasons for wanting to study at Purdue; and your professional plans, career goals and research interests. You also may explain any special circumstances applicable to your background and elaborate on your special abilities, awards, achievements, scholarly publications and/or professional history.

•   Pay Application Fee

A $60 application fee applies for domestic students, and a $75 application fee applies for international students.

Jonathon Day | Doctoral Program Director

For questions regarding the hospitality and tourism management doctoral graduate program, please contact [email protected] .

Alei Fan | Masters Program Director

For questions regarding the hospitality and tourism management masters graduate program, please contact [email protected] .

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University of Hawai‘i ® at Mānoa 2024-2025 General Catalog

Shidler college of business: school of travel industry management.

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Administration

George Hall 346 2560 Campus Road Honolulu, HI 96822 Tel: (808) 956-8946 Fax: (808) 956-5378 Email: [email protected] Web: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/

Dean: V. Vance Roley

*Graduate Faculty

*L. Shulga, PhD (Director of MS Program)—hospitality management *J. Agrusa, PhD—hospitality *A. Berbekova, PhD—tourism *J. Chi, PhD—transportation economics, transport policy, applied economics J. C. Crotts, PhD—sales, service operations management *I. Lin, PhD—hospitality marketing and management, and consumer behavior J. Patoskie, PhD—community/resort planning, tourism marketing *K. Seo, PhD—hospitality fi nance and accounting *D. Spencer, PhD—tourism policy, planning and management *Y. Xu, PhD-hospitality *H. Wen, PhD—information technology systems, e-commerce, e-consumer behavior, e-marketing, hotel operation management, supply chain management

Emeritus Faculty

D. J. L. Choy, PhD F. Collison, PhD J. Liu, PhD P. Sheldon, PhD

General Information

The School of Travel Industry Management (TIM) is recognized as a leading educational institution in hospitality, tourism, and transportation management. TIM pioneered the concept of integrating all aspects of the travel industry under a single discipline. Built on a foundation of management science, TIM draws on a broad range of disciplines to provide high quality education at the undergraduate and graduate levels to current and future professionals. 

The visitor industry in Hawai‘i provides TIM students many opportunities to gain experience in the field and to study applications of theory to practical business situations. TIM works closely with local, national, and international business organizations, as well as with various government and private professional organizations. 

In addition to Hawai‘i’s travel industry environment, students benefit from a curriculum that has an international perspective with special emphasis in the Asia-Pacific region. The global importance of tourism and the increasingly interdependent nature of economic and political systems require a fundamental and multidisciplinary understanding of international issues. TIM’s distinctive curriculum and outstanding faculty, the success and importance of tourism as the leading industry in Hawai‘i, and the international focus of the programs provide students a unique educational environment and experience.

As a professional program within a land-grant institution, the School of Travel Industry Management has linked its mission with the state’s economic interest in tourism, Hawai‘i’s largest economic sector. The mission of TIM, as a leading regional professional institution, is to develop and disseminate hospitality, tourism, and transportation concepts, knowledge, and skills through global leadership in teaching, research, training, and outreach. These activities contribute to economic, sociocultural, and environmental sustainability, including supporting and enriching host cultures. 

With this mission, the school’s objectives are threefold: (a) to prepare individuals for leadership and professional positions in the travel industry through education and training, (b) to generate new knowledge in the travel industry through research and graduate education, and (c) to provide service to the community, nation, Asia-Pacific region, and beyond.

Within its mission and objectives, TIM strives for the following goals:

• Instruction–to provide high-quality education at the undergraduate and graduate levels on a statewide basis;
• Research–to conduct basic and applied research relevant to the travel industry; and
• Service–to be the leading travel-industry center for information resources and continuing professional education and training serving the state and the Asia-Pacific region.

Accreditation

TIM is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Schools of Business (AACSB).

Undergraduate Certificate: travel industry management Bachelor’s Degree: BS in travel industry management Master’s Degree: MS in travel industry management PhD Degree: Business Administration (TIM Concentration)

TIM Office of Student Academic Services George Hall 346 2560 Campus Road Honolulu, HI 96822 Tel: (808) 956-8946 Fax: (808) 956-5378 Email: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/ Website: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/advising/

Academic advisors assist students with the selection of courses appropriate to their career goals, identifying career goals that are appropriate to their interests, understanding UH Mānoa policies and procedures, and identifying co-curricular activities and/or work experiences to help them develop skills and abilities outside the classroom. 

Mandatory academic advising is required for all freshmen, sophomores, and new TIM students. All students are encouraged to see an advisor at regular intervals to plan for graduation in a timely manner. For graduate advising, see Director of TIM MS Program.

Seniors must complete a pre-graduation check and file a diploma application prior to their final semester. Individual advising sessions for graduating seniors are held each semester.

Academic Policies

Good academic standing.

Undergraduate TIM students must meet the following requirements to maintain good academic standing:

• . Cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 for all courses attempted at UH Mānoa for a grade. Transfer credits and courses completed under the CR/NC option are not included.
• A GPA of at least 2.0 in the upper division TIM core and 2.0 in the TIM emphasis.
• Satisfactory progress toward completion of degree requirements. This means students must enroll in courses required for the degree and complete these courses with acceptable grades.

A student who fails to meet any one of the academic standing requirements at the end of any semester is placed on probation. Probationary students must achieve a current (semester) GPA of at least 2.0 to be allowed continued registration. Failure to correct academic deficiencies may lead to suspension and eventual dismissal from UH Mānoa.

Withdrawal from Courses

Withdrawal deadlines are specified by UH Mānoa each semester, and students should take note of the relevant deadlines at the start of the semester.

Undergraduate Program

Areas of emphasis.

TIM offers two areas of emphasis within the BS program: hospitality management and tourism/transportation management. These emphases are a selection of courses, which constitute a more focused study in one area of travel industry management of interest to the student. The undergraduate instructional program is committed to the development of competent management personnel for the travel industry through a curriculum that enables students to develop leadership abilities to solve problems of a dynamic industry. 

The global nature of the curriculum provides insight into the role and responsibilities of the industry within state, regional, national, and world perspectives, as well as the nature of service-based enterprises, business ethics, and societal constraints. In addition, practical knowledge regarding operational aspects of the industry enables students to develop “reality skills” within the field.

Hospitality Management

The hospitality management emphasis is intended to provide students with the ability to apply problem-solving, decision-making techniques, and critical-thinking skills to meet current and future industry challenges. Students will study the relationship of the various constituencies (customer, owner, staff) in the management and operation of hospitality businesses, including lodging and food service establishments, as well as event management enterprises. 

Courses in this area cover the following areas: management of hotel and food & beverage establishments; food quality management; hospitality financial control; events management; principles of sales and marketing hotels and resorts with a focus on public relations; advertising, pricing, and yield management; operating a commercial food-service facility either as a freestanding operation or as a part of a hotel, club, entertainment/recreation complex, or institution; resort development and management of hotel facilities and design; resort development and management and quantity/quality of food productions. 

Graduating seniors take a capstone course in strategic management in the travel industry.

Tourism/Transportation Management

This emphasis focuses on strategic issues related to the tourism and transportation industries. Students can take a combination of tourism and transportation related courses or choose courses that focus on one of these two areas. Tourism management courses cover destination management; travel distribution systems; marketing and management principles within specific types of businesses, geography, and sociocultural aspects of tourism; and sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and destination management by cultural values. In transportation management courses, students will gain an understanding of the characteristics and importance of transportation systems (both domestic and international); major transportation modes; government, promotional, and regulatory activities in U.S. transportation; the role of transportation in tourism; the transportation systems that impact the economics of both Hawai‘i and the U.S.; supply chain management; and the management of firms in various transportation modes. Course topics include government regulation and promotion, distribution and industry trends; tourist-related transportation systems, surface passenger transportation systems, and air transportation and the cruise business. 

Graduating seniors take a capstone course in strategic management in the travel industry

For information on a Bachelor Degree Program Sheet, go to programsheets/ .

Program Learning Objectives for the BS Degree

• Knowledge and Global Perspective Identify and demonstrate skills relevant to the operational areas of hospitality and tourism management.
• Effective Communication a. Demonstrate effective written communication skills. b. Demonstrate effective oral communication skills.
• Leadership and Teamwork a. Demonstrate effective leadership skills, or traits of a leader. b. Work productively, respectfully, and professionally as a team member.
• Critical Thinking a. Analyze situations and develop alternative options to resolve identified issues. b. Synthesize appropriate information to develop reliable, valid, and logical arguments.
• Ethics and Stewardship a. Apply ethical behavior. b. Evaluate the importance of host cultures to the global hospitality industry and utilize sustainable practices.

Admission Requirements

Change/declaration of major.

Applications are available on the TIM website: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/undergraduate . Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 for all work attempted at UH Mānoa.

New Freshman and Transfer Applicants

New students must meet UH Mānoa admissions requirements. Please refer to the admissions website: manoa.hawaii.edu/admissions .

Transfer Credits Policy

Please refer to the UH Manoa Policy for Transfer Credits at policies.html#mini-three .

Definition: Transfer credits are credits received for previous courses completed at another institution of higher education that articulate with UH Mānoa courses.

Eligibility: Declared majors may request an evaluation of credits taken at other institutions of higher education through the Office of Admissions and Office of the Registrar.

All students are reminded that:

• A minimum of 30 credits must be taken at UH Mānoa.
• All courses at the TIM school that are designated at the “upper division” (300/400 level) cannot be satisfied with a course transferred from a two-year school.
• A minimum of 25 upper division TIM credits must be taken at UH Mānoa.

Application Procedures

Application information, including deadlines and requirements, is available on the TIM undergraduate website: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/undergraduate .

School Requirements

To earn the bachelor of science degree, students must complete the following requirements:

• One course in Written Communication FW: ENG 100, 100A, 190 or ESL 100 or AMST 111.
• One course in Quantitative Reasoning FQ: BUS 250, NREM 203, MATH 203, 215, 241, or 251A
• Two courses in Global and Multi-Cultural Perspectives (FG): TIM 102 for FGB and one course designated FGA or FGC
• COMG 151 or 251 for DA
• Any course designated Literature DL. or designated Humanities DH
• Any course designated Biological DB
• Any course designated Physical DP
• Any course designated Lab DY
• Any course designated DS other than ECON
• four semester sequence of a single language (or proven competency via language requirement waiver or completion of 202/212);
• participation in a study abroad or international exchange program of 12 credits or more during a fall or spring semester;
• 12 credits of international culture/area courses to be chosen from an approved list of culture courses available on: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/undergraduate ; or
• four semesters of language and culture study. The language and culture do not need to match, but culture courses must be from the same culture.
• Fulfill the UH Mānoa General Education Focus Requirements. See the “Undergraduate General Education Requirements” section.
• Complete the TIM lower division requirements (13 credits): TIM 101, 102; ACC 200, 210; and ICS 101 or (LTEC 112 and 113).
• Complete the internship program, (TIM 100, 200, and 300 or 400B or 400C), including 800 hours with at least one internship in the student’s area of emphasis and one in the U.S.;
• Statistics (BUS 310, ECON 321, NREM 310 or SOCS 225).
• TIM 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306.
• Hospitality Emphasis (21 credits): TIM 313, 314, 333, 401 or 403, 431, one hospitality elective, and one Tourism/Transportation course.
• Tourism/Transportation Emphasis (21 credits): TIM 350; one of (TIM 321, 324, 420 or 425); 431; three Tourism/Transportation electives; and one hospitality course.
• Earn a minimum of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
• Complete at least 45 credits of upper division course work numbered 300 or higher.
• Complete at least 25 upper division credits in UH Mānoa.

For more information, please refer to the TIM Program Requirements Sheet and the UH Mānoa Catalog course descriptions.

Multiple Majors and/or Degrees

TIM students may pursue a multiple major/degree in the Shidler College of Business or another UH Mānoa college/ school. Applicants for multiple major/degrees must have a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA and submit a statement of purpose and academic plan. Applicants must apply separately and be accepted to both colleges and/or schools. For more information, contact a TIM advisor.

Certificate in Travel Industry Management

The certificate consists of 5 courses that provide basic fundamentals in travel industry management for non majors.

Students must apply to the certificate program prior to enrolling in upper division TIM courses. Please refer to the TIM Certificate website for more information: shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/undergraduate .

Graduate Program

The master of science (MS) degree program in travel industry management is designed to provide a specialized education through coursework and research to master a broad set of interdisciplinary skills and knowledge. Students develop analytical abilities and the critical thinking skills necessary for careers in the travel industry. Students are also expected to engage in understanding and execution of research activities. 

The program prepares students for careers and leadership roles in the travel industry, including tourism, hospitality, and transportation management, as well as areas covering the entire industry such as information technology, international hospitality management, strategic marketing, and global tourism analysis. Students can also explore specific topics of interest, including sustainable tourism, electronic commerce, services marketing, and management, among others. In addition, the program and faculty have a strong emphasis and expertise in travel and tourism in the Asia-Pacific region. Students come from diverse academic backgrounds, which contributes to a rich and stimulating classroom environment. There are, however, certain subjects that students must be familiar with in order to work from a common knowledge base in our courses. These subjects are: 1) introductory economics, 2) introductory financial and managerial accounting, and 3) introductory statistics. Completion of these courses at either the undergraduate or graduate level is required for graduation but not admission, and options are available for meeting this requirement.

The MS in travel industry management is designed for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree and a demonstrated interest in the travel industry. 

Minimum admission standards include a GPA of at least 3.0 in the baccalaureate work and in the last two years of undergraduate work. Applicants must attain a satisfactory score on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The GMAT is preferred. Students should take the GMAT unless it is not available. Where applicable, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) also is required. The minimum acceptable TOEFL score is 560. 

Three letters of reference are required addressing the ability of the applicant to succeed in graduate study and to make future contributions to the travel industry. In addition, two years work experience or equivalent is preferred.

Degree Requirements

The MS is a 30-credit program. Both Plan A (thesis) and Plan B (non-thesis) options are available. Plan A and Plan B students must earn 21 credits in the following required core courses: TIM 601, 602, 603, 605, and 606.

Plan A (Thesis)

In addition to the 21 credits in required core courses, Plan A candidates must complete: three elective courses (9 credits) approved by the graduate chair; and TIM 700 Thesis Research (6 credits).

Plan B (Non-thesis)

In addition to the 21 credits in required core courses, Plan B candidates must complete: four elective courses (12 credits) approved by the graduate chair; and TIM 694 Professional Paper (3 credits).

PhD Travel Industry Management Concentration

Travel Industry Management (TIM) School offers a doctorate of philosophy in Business Administration, Travel Industry Management concentration. The program is individualized and designed to prepare students for a career in research and teaching with the focus on Asia-Pacific with a special emphasis on innovation, destination management and marketing, sustainability in hospitality, and tourism and transportation. 

For admission to the PhD in Travel Industry Management, the candidate applicant should meet the criteria listed on the PhD website. The deadline for application is January 31. (Note that admission to the doctoral program is not automatic, and will be determined on a case-by-case basis by a faculty committee.) For further detailed information, please contact the PhD Program in Business Administration at (808) 956-6723 ; email: [email protected] ; web: shidler.hawaii.edu/phd .

Instructional and Research Facilities and Programs

Professional development programs.

The TIM school’s professional development programs are designed to improve managerial skills, exchange professional experiences, develop interrelationships among sectors of the travel industry, and increase awareness of the social, cultural, and economic implications of policy decisions. The Executive Development Institute for Tourism (EDIT) is held each year offering an intensive two-week program for executives and professionals in international tourism. TIM invites industry professionals to continuous learning by participating in the Hawai‘i International Hotel and Hospitality Institute (HIHI) offering series of three days to one-week courses, occasionally held, for those with one or more years of experience in the hospitality field. TIM services also include planning, coordinating and conducting custom short-and long-term education and training programs for tourism and hospitality professionals, government leaders, universities and Edu-tourism programs to expand on participants’ travel and learning experiences while in Hawai‘i and within the Asia Pacific region.

Gee Technology Learning Center

The TIM school’s state-of-the-art information technology center houses an executive video conference suite, a multi-media IT training lab, and the Leong Hop and Bernice C. Loui computer lab.

The Sunset Reference Center

With more than 10,000 items, including books, reports, statistical publications, article reprints, and subscriptions to more than 200 periodicals, the Sunset Reference Center has a comprehensive collection of specialized resource material on tourism in Hawai‘i. The Sunset Reference Center provides research material for students, supports the research activities of faculty, and serves as a major resource center for the Asia-Pacific region.

ECO-Hawai‘i Educational & Community Outreach

ECO-TIM is designed to extend TIM’s expertise in and commitment to responsible tourism to the broader community in Hawai‘i through community outreach, service, and continuing education. This program works with community associations, individuals, small- and medium-sized enterprises, and government organizations to provide outreach services and continuing education activities. Activities include outreach projects, lectures, courses, exhibits, forums, conferences, briefing notes, and internet-based information exchange.

Student Organizations

The TIM school has eight student clubs that provide opportunities for students to interact with their peers, meet industry leaders, and practice management skills through a wide variety of activities. These clubs are Travel Industry Management Student Association, Club Managers’ Association of America (UH Chapter), Pacific Asia Travel Association (TIM Satellite Chapter), Young SKAL, American Hotel & Lodging Association Student Chapter, Eta Sigma Delta, Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International Student Chapter, and Meeting Professionals International Student Chapter.

Honors and Awards

The TIM school provides scholarships and awards to qualified students. For a list of these scholarships, see the “Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid” section of the Catalog as well as the STAR scholarship website.

Eta Sigma Delta

Membership in this international honor society for hospitality management is available to undergraduate and graduate students who have achieved outstanding academic records.

Outstanding Student Awards

These awards are given annually to students who have achieved outstanding academic and service performance. Awards include: Distinguished Student in TIM, Special Senior in TIM, Special Junior in TIM, and Outstanding Graduate Student in TIM.

For Honors Program information, see the “Honors” section of this Catalog . Students may apply for UH Mānoa undergraduate research awards.

Dean’s List

For Dean’s List information, see the Academic Honors in the “Undergraduate Education” section of this Catalog .

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PhD Hospitality, Tourism, Transport and Events

Our academics shape the agenda for scholarship and practice in hospitality, tourism, events and transport, and carry out cutting-edge research in topics ranging from lifestyle, travel, entrepreneurship, food and culture, to the digital economy and artificial intelligence. We will challenge you with new ideas to develop you as a critical researcher, as well as helping you build a solid grounding in research methodologies. 

Key course information

January 2025 - full-time, january 2025 - part-time, april 2025 - full-time, april 2025 - part-time, july 2025 - full-time, july 2025 - part-time, october 2025 - full-time, october 2025 - part-time, why choose this programme.

• We have an outstanding reputation in the sector and run the largest hospitality, tourism and events PhD programme in the world.  
• We are ranked 1st in the UK and 2nd in the world for hospitality and tourism management in the Shanghai Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023 . We are 1st in the UK and 15th in the world for hospitality and leisure management in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 . We are also ranked 1st for tourism, transport, travel and heritage in the Complete University Guide 2024 . 
• Surrey Hospitality and Tourism Management is ranked 10th for research outputs with 93% of our research being rated as world-leading (4*) or of internationally excellent (3*) quality by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 . The University of Surrey is 33rd in the REF UK rankings for overall research quality. The University is now also ranked in the top 20 in the UK for the overall quality of research outputs – research papers and other published works. 
• We belong to TECHNE , an  Arts and Humanities Research Council  (AHRC)-funded doctoral training partnership, which provides access to comprehensive academic and professional training programmes, as well as the possibility of funding for your studies. 
• We see doctoral students as important collaborators and we aim to connect you with senior executives and policymakers from around the world, offering opportunities for future learning and valuable connections. Watch our video about  postgraduate research in Surrey Hospitality and Tourism Management  with academic supervisor,  Dr Brigitte Stangl , and her PhD student, Lori Hoy, discussing how they work together.

Programme details Open

What you will study.

Our PhD programme takes around three to four years of full-time study. You’ll take on a structured, supervised programme of scholarly research, leading to a thesis that makes an original contribution to the field and is suitable to be published in a series of high-quality, refereed journal articles.

You’ll be assigned two supervisors with expertise in your area; normally one will be an expert in your subject, and one who is an expert in methodology. Your supervisors will guide you through your PhD, from developing your project through to your analysis and writing your thesis. You’ll normally meet with your supervisor every four to six weeks.

There’s no formal teaching as part of your PhD programme, but you’ll benefit from a range of support and learning opportunities in addition to your supervision meetings. These include a tailored weekly programme of formal research training in research methodology and career development. You’ll have the chance to present and discuss your research at our weekly research seminars.

You’ll also be able to take any of our MSc modules and join our range of interactive workshops that run throughout the year, exploring topics such as personal effectiveness, information skills, presenting research and job skills. You’ll also be able to qualify as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy by completing the Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching.

We encourage our students to attend international conferences and training courses. We can support your travel costs to these events.

Your final assessment will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners. You have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.

Stag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught. 

Research areas Open

Research themes, competitiveness of the visitor economy.

• Economic modelling and forecasting
• Innovation, entrepreneurship, risk and uncertainty
• Future of work and labour mobility
• Visitor  decision-making, behaviour and destination marketing.

Find out more about the Centre for Competitiveness of the Visitor Economy (COVE) .

Sustainability and wellbeing in the visitor economy

• Sustainability evidence-based policy making
• Industry’s acceptance of responsibility for sustainable development
• Sustainable development and entrepreneurship
• Sustainable and efficient transportation
• Sustainability marketing, product design and communication.

Find out more about the  Centre for Sustainability and Wellbeing in the Visitor Economy (SWELL) .

Digital transformation in the visitor economy

• Digital transformation in tourism, hospitality and events, including new media and consumer behaviour, new business models and disruptive innovation, transformation in business operations and performance
• Smart systems in tourism, hospitality and events, including artificial intelligence and robotics, sensors and internet-of-things
• Technology for social good in tourism, hospitality and events, including technology facilitating health and wellbeing, social isolation and loneliness, inclusion and accessibility
• Data science and innovative methodologies in tourism, hospitality and events, including biometric research, data analytics and pattern recognition in big data.

Find out more about the  Centre for Digital Transformation in the Visitor Economy (DIGMY) .

Discover more about our hospitality, tourism management research .

Academic staff Open

See a full list of all our  academic staff  within Surrey Hospitality and Management.

Support and facilities Open

Research support.

The professional development of postgraduate researchers is supported by the Doctoral College , which provides training in essential skills through its Researcher Development Programme of workshops, mentoring and coaching. A dedicated postgraduate careers and employability team will help you prepare for a successful career after the completion of your PhD.

You’ll be allocated your own office space and computer, and be given access to academic and business databases and a range of online research tools and resources.

Hear from our students Open

Ikram Nur Muharam

Student - Hospitality, Tourism, Transport and Events PhD

"I must say that I am very fortunate to have two supervisors who are not only experts in their fields, but also have warm personalities."

Pablo Pereira-Doel

"The multiculturality at the University of Surrey is great and it is a very welcoming place. After living in London for several years, I really appreciate the quietness of Guildford , while being a stone’s throw away from the Surrey Hills."

Entry requirements Open

Uk qualifications.

Applicants are expected to hold a masters degree at a minimum of a distinction level in a relevant discipline from an approved university.

If you do not hold such a degree, you may be admitted, providing you hold a first-class (1st) bachelors degree from an approved university or a professional or other qualification deemed by the University to be appropriate.

English language requirements

IELTS Academic: 7.0 or above with a minimum of 6.5 in each component (or equivalent).

These are the English language qualifications and levels that we can accept. 

If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses , designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.

Selection process

Selection is based on applicants:

• Meeting the expected entry requirements
• Being shortlisted through the application screening process
• Completing a successful interview
• Providing suitable references.

Fees and funding Open

Fees per year.

Explore  UKCISA’s website for more information if you are unsure whether you are a UK or overseas student. View the  list of fees for all postgraduate research courses.

• Annual fees will increase by 4% for each year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100 (subject to legal requirements).
• Any start date other than September will attract a pro-rata fee for that year of entry (75 per cent for January, 50 per cent for April and 25 per cent for July).

Additional costs

There are additional costs that you can expect to incur when studying at Surrey.

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate doctoral course.

Application process

Applicants are advised to contact potential supervisors before they submit an application via the website. Please refer to section two of our  application guidance .

After registration

Students are initially registered for a PhD with probationary status and, subject to satisfactory progress, subsequently confirmed as having PhD status.

Apply online

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Select your course

Choose the course option you wish to apply for.

Create an account and sign into our application portal.

Hospitality, Tourism, Transport and Events PhD

Full-time, January 2025

Part-time, January 2025

Full-time, April 2025

Part-time, April 2025

Full-time, July 2025

Part-time, July 2025

Full-time, October 2025

Part-time, October 2025

About the University of Surrey

Accommodation

We have a range of housing to suit all requirements and budgets. There are more than 6,000 rooms available (en-suite, single-sex, studio flat, shared or single).

Student life

At Surrey we offer a friendly university campus set in beautiful countryside, with the convenience and social life of bustling Guildford on your doorstep.

Need more information?

Contact our Admissions team or talk to a current University of Surrey student online.

Code of practice for research degrees

Surrey’s postgraduate research code of practice sets out the University's policy and procedural framework relating to research degrees. The code defines a set of standard procedures and specific responsibilities covering the academic supervision, administration and assessment of research degrees for all faculties within the University.

Download the code of practice for research degrees (PDF) .

Terms and conditions

When you accept an offer to study at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to follow our policies and procedures , student regulations , and terms and conditions .

We provide these terms and conditions in two stages:

• First when we make an offer.
• Second when students accept their offer and register to study with us (registration terms and conditions will vary depending on your course and academic year).

View our generic registration terms and conditions (PDF) for the 2023/24 academic year, as a guide on what to expect.

This online prospectus has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies.

Whilst we have done everything possible to ensure this information is accurate, some changes may happen between publishing and the start of the course.

It is important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us. Read our full disclaimer .

PhD in Hospitality & Tourism Management

• Concentrations
• Newsletters

Students in Isenberg’s PhD program in hospitality and tourism management engage in research that furthers society’s understanding of the unique industry.

From uncovering the environmental, social and economic impacts of tourism to investigating theories and models of services marketing and management, students use their time at Isenberg to make powerful connections between ideas, introduce thoughtful and provoking analysis, and contribute scholarly research.

Message from the Coordinator

The hospitality and tourism industry lends itself to fascinating and revealing research about society, the economy and the marketplace. Our PhD program in Hotel and Tourism Management (HTM) gives students the time and resources to delve into the industry, to engage in rigorous research, and to publish their findings.

Our PhD graduates become top scholars, professors and researchers at the leading hospitality and tourism programs in the US and abroad. Our graduates are successful because our program offers:

• One-on-one mentoring and advising by renowned faculty.  Students will work closely with faculty on multiple research projects. 
• The opportunity to specialize in one focus area.  Our concentrations include marketing/consumer behavior, leadership, information technology and social media, operational research and finance.
• Real-world preparation   for careers in academia.  All candidates teach graduate-level classes at Isenberg and have 100% responsibility in their classrooms.

Additionally, students in our program also graduate with a PhD in Management, making them more marketable in the job field and more knowledgeable in the classroom.

While our program is rigorous and highly selective, our learning environment is collaborative and supportive. We welcome applicants who are self-motivated, committed, and independent initiators and team players.

Irem Onder Neuhofer Associate Professor and PhD Coordinator

Isenberg’s PhD in hospitality and tourism management is a full-time, residential program that prepares candidates for academic careers in hospitality and tourism. The program develops strong research skills that enable graduates to conduct and publish scholarly research with competence and confidence.

Students can study any area of interest that applies to hospitality and tourism and gain real-world teaching experience that allows them to excel in university teaching in their areas of interest.

Isenberg has a strong focus on research.  Faculty are working in a wide variety of research domains, investigating such areas as:

• Hotel and Destination Branding
• Service Experience Management
• Impact and Performance Studies in Tourism and Hospitality Operations
• Quality-of-Life and Tourism and Hospitality Research
• Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality
• Strategic Management and Finance
• Revenue Management

HTM PhD Program Overview

Watch our video to hear about the program from the students and professors in this active teaching and research community.

Students generally complete a PhD in HTM within 4-5 years. Students must take core courses in theory and research methods, as well as electives and minor classes. In addition, our doctoral students must pass a qualifying and comprehensive examination. Students also teach at Isenberg. During the final years, students are responsible for creating and defending a dissertation.

Here's a sample of required HTM courses:

• Foundations of Organizational Behavior and Theory
• Research Design
• Multivariate Analysis
• Structural Equation Model
• Seminar in Tourism Theory and Research
• Seminar in Hospitality Research
• Services Marketing/Management Research

YEAR 1: Coursework, including statistics, research methods, and theory courses, and research electives; Qualifying exam

YEAR 2: Coursework, including marketing and management courses, research electives and minor area courses; Comprehensive exam

YEAR 3: Additional coursework as needed; Development of dissertation proposal; Teaching

YEAR 4-5: Dissertation research

HTM Doctoral Students

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• MS in Travel and Tourism Management

Master's in Travel and Tourism Management

100% online, on-site, and hybrid study options.

One of the largest industries in the world, travel and tourism management has rapidly expanded in recent years. Post-pandemic travel will create a whole new range of opportunities and will require nuanced skill sets to meet pent-up consumer demand and changing industry standards. Beginning in Fall 2021, the Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality will offer the NEW MS in Travel and Tourism Management , designed to provide students with a deep understanding of this fast-growing industry, while equipping them to adapt to emerging trends including sustainable tourism, cultural heritage tourism, and bleisure travel. This innovative degree will afford the benefits and resources of studying at NYU , while immersing you in New York City—the world’s premier destination for international travel.

Degree Advantage

• 36-credit program of study
• Prepares you for a range of travel and tourism jobs
• Core curriculum and electives focus on trends in travel and tourism, tourism planning, digital marketing, visitor management, travel technology, and destination branding 
• Internships at leading hotels, resorts, media companies, and travel agencies
• Study abroad opportunities and industry site visits
• Full- or part-time study options
• 100% online, on-site, and hybrid degree options available
• New Hospitality Innovation Hub for students, start ups, and industry partners
• Tisch Center Scholarships

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

You can find the full curriculum details for this program on this page of the University Bulletin. All other content, including this web page is for informational purposes only.

Explore Graduate Opportunities at NYU SPS

Join an upcoming online session to learn more about our graduate degree programs including the MS in Travel and Tourism Management. As an attendee of an Explore Graduate Opportunities at NYU SPS session, you will meet members of our team and have the opportunity to ask questions about the program and application process.

6:00 PM until 7:30 PM EDT  

Who Should Earn the MS in Travel and Tourism Management?

Whether you just earned your undergraduate degree, are working in another field and are thinking about career change or are already working in the travel and tourism industry, earning this degree will challenge you to discover new ways of thinking about destinations and how technology can support them. It will equip you with the skills needed to attract and retain visitor markets and manage tourism effectively and sustainably.

ALUMNI SUCCESS STORY

Maria tuttocuore ‘02.

Maria Tuttocuore was already working in the travel industry when she decided to pursue a master's degree. She sensed that earning a degree in the field of travel and tourism would better position her for success by providing her with hands-on experience in the field and the opportunity to network. During her time at the Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, she completed two internships—one at Leading Hotels of the World and the other at the New York State Division of Tourism . She credits these two experiences with opening the doors to a job at the Monaco Government Tourist Office , where she was promoted to a senior executive sales & marketing position. Her experience in luxury travel and extensive knowledge in destination marketing and leisure trade led her into launching her own travel destination marketing and management company UNICA Journeys LLC based in New York City. Today she represents and consults a varied portfolio of international luxury travel companies.

Learn From Travel and Tourism Faculty Experts

Faculty members are respected experts in areas such as cultural tourism, sustainable tourism, corporate travel management, among other specialities. From working at tourist bureaus, to developing destination marketing campaigns, to managing attractions, their expertise is invaluable in providing insights into the latest travel and tourism trends. Their support and deep dedication is what makes earning a degree from the Tisch Center transformational.

Expand Your Horizons Through Study Abroad

A major advantage of the MS in Travel and Tourism is the opportunity to participate in Global Field Intensives (GFIs). These travel experiences provide international business perspective and attune students to changes in the industry, including the rise of sustainable tourism, which focuses on developing stellar travel and tourism experiences, while monitoring impacts on the environment and local residents. Recent GFIs include trips to: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Prague, and Berlin.

Connect Through Invaluable Networking Opportunities

The MS in Travel and Tourism Management provides unsurpassed networking opportunities through the annual NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference ; the Grossinger-Bergman Distinguished Lecturer Series, fireside chats with the likes of Roger Dow , president and CEO of the US Travel Association; and industry site visits. These enlightening opportunities make earning a Tisch Center degree a game-changing education and professional experience.

Internships and Job Opportunities

Through the Tisch Center of Hospitality and the NYU Wasserman Center for Career Development at NYU SPS , MS in Travel and Tourism Management students have the opportunity to complete internships that provide the hands-on experience needed to accelerate their careers. Many of these internships evolve into permanent jobs. Our graduates go on to careers at tourism bureaus, destination marketing firms, online travel agencies, and attractions, as well as other travel and tourism organizations including the following:

• Arena Destination Marketing • Dubai Tourism Authority • Myriad Travel Marketing • NYC & Company

• Skylark • Tourico Holidays • Visit Britain

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is travel and tourism management.

Travel and tourism management involves the coordination, planning, marketing, and delivery of travel services. Examples of travel and tourism organizations and entities include destinations, attractions, airlines, cruise lines, museums, cultural institutions, and travel and tourism related booking services. The tourism sector includes both leisure travel and business travel.

How does this degree differ from other travel and tourism degrees?

The MS in Travel and Tourism Management differs from other travel and tourism degrees due to its focus on business, technology, and entrepreneurship. The degree’s curriculum is delivered by academic scholars and business professionals. You will be able to immediately apply what you learn in the field of travel and tourism in New York City, the world’s top travel and tourism destination.

What can you do with a travel and tourism degree?

Earning a travel and tourism degree will allow you to begin or advance your career in the global tourism industry. It will prepare you for travel and tourism jobs and leadership roles in the public, private, and voluntary sector, including those with destination management organizations, online travel agents, tour operators, attractions, and transportation companies.

What types of travel and tourism jobs are available?

There are a multitude of travel and tourism jobs and career opportunities available, because the sector is so large and varied. Examples of travel and tourism employers include national and regional tourist offices, travel intermediaries, airlines, cruise lines, theme parks, travel technology companies, and nature tourism providers.

What are the advantages of earning a master's of travel and tourism management in NYC?

The advantage of earning your master’s degree in travel and tourism management in New York City is that you will be studying in one of the world’s leading travel and tourism destinations. New York City is a transportation hub, and is home to world-famous tourist attractions including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, the 911 Memorial & Museum, the High Line, and Broadway, among so many others. The City becomes your professional base for establishing your career in a destination that attracts millions of tourists each year.

• Become a Student
• Life at Purdue

Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management

Gain essential skills in executive management, leadership and analytics -- all while staying current on hospitality and tourism industry trends. Learn from leading instructors, tackle real-world challenges, and join a top-ranked program to become a customer experience expert and distinguish yourself in the competitive field of hospitality management.

Ready to Become a Boilermaker?

Leverage innovations to become an effective engineer while delivering customer service excellence..

Elevate your career with Purdue’s online Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management program. Offered by the White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality, Purdue’s innovative program is designed for managers in tourism, events, hotels or restaurants. Gain essential skills in executive management, leadership and analytics — all while staying current on industry trends.

Learn from leading researchers, tackle real-world challenges and join a #1-ranked program to become a customer experience expert (UniversityHQ, 2023). Become an experience engineer and stand out in the dynamic field of hospitality and tourism management.

The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The  Office of the Bursar  website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our  tuition calculator  to estimate tuition costs.

Program Specifics

Learn more about the master of science in hospitality and tourism management.

Learn from Purdue’s acclaimed hospitality and tourism faculty – experts in hotel and restaurant management, customer service innovation and more. Tailor your leadership skills for the unique challenges of the hospitality field, acquire global perspectives for managing diverse organizations, and refine your communication and critical-thinking skills.

REQUIRED CORE COURSES

• Leading People in Service Industries (HTM 50600)
• Integrated Marketing Communications for Service Industries (HTM 50700)
• Cultivating a Service Excellence Mindset (HTM 50800)
• Service Experience Design (HTM 50900)
• Strategic Revenue Management in Service Industries (HTM 51000)
• Strategy in Service Industries (HTM 51300)
• Business Analytics for Service Industries (HTM 51400)
• Consumer Behavior (HTM 50400)
• Hotel Asset Management and Investment (HTM 50500)  
• Cultivating a Service Mindset for Healthcare Professionals (HTM 55300)
• Designing the Patient Experience for Contemporary Healthcare Systems (HTM 55400)
• Investing in Healthcare Human Capital (HTM 55500)
• Other Electives – Students will have the opportunity to choose curated electives to support specific career goals. Please speak to your enrollment counselor for details.

Career Outcomes

Top Job Titles

• General Managers
• Guest Service Representatives
• Food and Beverage Managers
• Night Auditors
• Receptionists

Top Industries

• Hotels and Motels
• Limited- and Full-Service Restaurants
• Event Management

Source: LightcastTM (2023). Unique job postings for July 2022-2023. Projected growth for years 2023-2033.

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Travel and Tourism Management (MS)

Program description.

Over the decades, tourism has experienced continued growth and deepening diversification to become one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world. The sector offers a range of exciting employment opportunities in areas such as destination planning and marketing, visitor management, entrepreneurship and tourism development. Taught by faculty members who are leading industry practitioners, the program is structured to meet the needs of working professionals and full-time students, allowing opportunities for either part-time or full-time study in any semester. Typically, students complete the degree within 1.5 years of full-time study or in 2-3 years of part-time study.

The Master of Science in Travel and Tourism Tourism Management curriculum applies business and marketing theories to industry-specific cases and scenarios, and is constantly updated to reflect the latest industry trends. This 36-credit, full- or part-time program of study consists of a sequence of core courses, an internship, electives in specialized areas, and a capstone project whereby students carry out a leadership analysis for industry organizations. It is international in scope, and reflects the opportunities and challenges tourism managers face in today’s globalized world.

Learning occurs both in the classroom and in the industry—through various networking opportunities, lecture series, research projects, and optional internships—providing you with valuable pathways to reach your goals, whether you are just beginning your career as a graduate student or you have been working in the industry for years.

If you have relevant work experience, you may be eligible to waive a core course with departmental approval. Waivers permit you to take additional courses in selected areas; they do not reduce the number of credits required for the degree.

All applicants to the School of Professional Studies (SPS) are required to submit the  general application requirements , which include:

• Application Fee
• College/University Transcripts
• Statement of Purpose
• Degree Requirements
• Recommendations
• Kira Talent Assessment
• Degree-Specific Requirements
• English Language Assessment
• Pearson Versant English Placement Test
• International Transcript Evaluation
• International Student Visa Requirements

See  degree specific application requirements for instructions specific to this program.

Program Requirements

The program requires the completion of 36 credits, comprised of the following:

Sample Plan of Study

Full-time plan of study.

Part-Time Plan of Study

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will:

• Select appropriate quantitative and qualitative methods and technology tools to conduct tourism research (e.g., business performance, impact assessment).
• Critically assess the validity and reliability of tourism information and data.
• Assess the impacts of tourism on communities and destinations, and applying sustainable tourism principles to tourism development and management.
• Solve complex business problems by conducting a comprehensive analysis of organizational and managerial situations, providing appropriate alternatives and effective recommendations.
• Identify and manage opportunities and risks at the enterprise and destination levels by applying strategic problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills.
• Apply knowledge from the core disciplines (e.g. marketing, finance, consumer behavior, planning) to travel and tourism management and operations.
• Evaluate the use of existing resources and of allocate new and existing resources strategically to achieve sustainable development and business growth.
• Apply interpersonal, cultural and global awareness skills to successfully manage teams and visitors in a travel and tourism context.
• Apply collaborative, communication and teamwork skills to foster innovation and diversity of thought in team projects.
• Present data and ideas effectively in written and oral formats in various business contexts (sales and marketing, planning, community engagement, strategic management).
• Articulate the historical development and current trends shaping the past, present and future of the travel and tourism sector.

NYU Policies

School of professional studies policies.

University-wide policies can be found on the New York University Policy pages .

Additional academic policies can be found on the  School of Professional Studies academic policy pag e . 

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Course type

Qualification, university name, doctorate degrees in tourism and travel.

12 degrees at 10 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

Related subjects:

• Doctorate Tourism and Travel
• Doctorate Tourism
• Doctorate Tourism Management

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Marketing, Events and Tourism, MPhil/PhD

University of greenwich.

Our marketing, events and tourism research degree (MPhil/PhD) allows you to undertake rigorous and critical exploration of one or more of Read more...

• 1.5 years Full time degree
• 2.5 years Part time degree

Tourism Studies PhD

University of glasgow.

Based at Dumfries Campus, our staff are experts in tourism policy, planning and sustainable development. Areas of specialism Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

PhD Tourism and Hospitality

University of plymouth.

The tourism and hospitality department offers a supportive research environment that provides opportunities for candidates to succeed in Read more...

• 4 years Part time degree: £3,030 per year (UK)

Business and Management, Tourism, Hospitality and Events PhD

Canterbury christ church university.

Recently completed or current PhD student theses Leadership, governance and social capital in the third sector; Extended internal market Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £2,872 per year (UK)

Tourism Management PhD

University of west london.

Research in the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism (LGCHT) focuses on exploring risk, resilience, and innovation within the Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £3,995 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,000 per year (UK)

MPhil/PhD in Marketing, International Business and Tourism

Manchester metropolitan university.

Discover your research degree study options, including areas of expertise for our academic supervisors. Our research degrees will help you Read more...

• 6 years Part time degree

PhD Tourism

University of lincoln.

Doctoral candidates pursue original research with the goal of making a significant contribution to knowledge in, and understanding of, Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,830 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,415 per year (UK)

PhD (Direct) Aviation and Tourism (Centre for Enhancement of the Environment and Innovation)

Buckinghamshire new university.

BNU welcomes applications for research degrees across a wide range of disciplines, including Nursing, health and wellbeing; Art, design, Read more...

• 24 months Full time degree: £4,800 per year (UK)
• 48 months Part time degree: £2,800 per year (UK)

International Tourism & Hospitality Management PhD by Published Works

University of northampton.

If you are a graduate in tourism, hospitality and events, or a similar discipline, this International Tourism & Hospitality Management PhD Read more...

• 1 year Part time degree: £3,500 per year (UK)

Events, Tourism and Hospitality PhD

Leeds beckett university.

We welcome proposals from home, EU and International applicants to come and study for a PhD at our school. You will join a team of over Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,392 per year (UK)

PhD Aviation and Tourism (Centre for Enhancement of the Environment and Innovation)

• 30 months Full time degree: £4,800 per year (UK)
• 60 months Part time degree: £2,800 per year (UK)

International Tourism & Hospitality Management PhD

• 2 years Full time degree: £5,500 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,775 per year (UK)

Course type:

• Full time Doctorate
• Part time Doctorate

Qualification:

Related subjects:.