PhD Tourism and Hospitality

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to develop the applied competence of the postgraduate student on an advanced level in research, analysis, interpretation and understanding of Tourism and Hospitality. Through a doctoral dissertation or doctoral by articles, the student will show evidence of independent research through quantitative or qualitative methods or a combination of both. This will contribute towards solving complex problems in society for the sustainability of the Tourism and Hospitality industries. The programme will assist in the continuing academic and professional development of postgraduate students.

Admission Requirements

Rules of access (traditional format):
A minimum of 70% average for MTech / Masters on NQF Level 8/9 in Tourism or Hospitality or any other associated field is the selection criteria determined by the Department. A portfolio of evidence needs to be submitted for evaluation and approved by the departmental research and higher degrees committee.

Rules of access (article-based format):
A student who is in possession of a Masters qualification in Tourism & Hospitality (on NQF level 9) with a minimum of 75% or higher may apply for admission to this format. However, if the average is between 70% and 75% and the student is still considered to be able to conduct research involving a collection of articles then a motivation needs to be provided by the School/Department’s Higher Degrees Committee. In addition, the student must have completed a module of Research Methodology (on NQF level 8 or 9) as part of a postgraduate qualification with an average of 60% or higher. Student number constraints may limit the number of intakes for the next year and necessitates a selection process consisting of selection interviews and a research proposal exercise. Finalisation of registration for the programme (and /or continued registration) is subject to the applicants complying with School/departmental specific requirement. Such requirements usually include preparatory work leading up to a research proposal that is approved by the School/department. Possible examples or preparatory work are pre-reading, literature reviews, concept development and successful completion of short courses aimed and and/or knowledge developments. Candidates may also be required to successfully defend their research proposals at special School/departmental session. The Dean of the College of Business and Economics may refuse a student admission to the Doctoral qualification if of the opinion that the students’ academic background is insufficient for the proposed studies.

More Information