PhD in Hospitality & Tourism Management

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.

About the Program

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.

Research

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

Academics

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.

Coursework

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