The purpose of the Ph.D. in Tourism and Hospitality is to develop the applied competence of the postgraduate student on an advanced level in research, analysis, interpretation, and understanding of Tourism and Hospitality.

Academic research for this study program should display the complexities of the tourism and leisure industry and explain to managers how to address its challenges and responsibilities. The emphasis should be put on the relationship between leisure, recreation and tourism, on management theories and on planning and management approaches in different recreation and tourism contexts.

The Doctoral Program in Tourism seeks to create a new research Program, under the umbrella of the Bologna Treaty, and pursues the following objectives:

The success of a research institution is largely due to its provision and training of young scholars. To provide leadership in developing future scholars in hospitality and tourism management, the SHTM offers research programmes leading to the Ph.D. in Hotel and Tourism Management degree. The School’s Ph.D. programme is designed for those who want to base their research on theoretical insights. It offers advanced training based on individual interests and career aspirations, allowing students to develop the ability to complete significant research in specific areas. Research collaboration between academic staff and students are encouraged by the School’s intellectual and support environment, with the results disseminated through scholarly publications and conference presentations. The critical mass of globally recognised researchers, together with the attractive stipend for research students and the unique “East meets West” environment, make our highly competitive research programmes very successful. Many of our Ph.D. graduates are now serving as faculty members in universities worldwide.

The hallmark of a world-leading doctoral programme is not only the research it generates but also the extent to which it provides graduates with outstanding career opportunities. The SHTM prepares students for leadership positions in their chosen careers by offering the world’s first professional D.HTM degree. The D.HTM programme has been designed for academics, senior industry executives and senior staff in governmental and non-governmental hospitality and tourism organisations. Since its inception in 2007, the programme attracts a range of professionals interested in augmenting their careers, from experienced practitioners and government representatives to academics. Its specific Asian focus, unique combination of subjects and research, and flexible delivery pattern enables industry professionals to develop their skills while remaining in the workforce.

Not all postgraduate Programs are offered every year. Please consult the relevant faculty's student administration concerning the presentation of this Program.

PhD. In Tourism Management is a qualification that will prepare students in such a fashion where they can become efficient workers as well as researchers in the field of Tourism. The main focus is upon explaining different techniques that are normally applied for carrying out tourism management.

Candidates pursuing the PhD in Hospitality and Tourism must develop an independent thinking approach and a unique expertise in their own research interest. Independent research requires diligent and thorough investigation into a topic with the aim of formulating new and original ideas, findings and theories.

The University of South Carolina’s Ph.D. program in Hospitality Management produces world-class leaders 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.