Doctor of Philosophy in Hospitality and Tourism

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Hospitality and Tourism at Sunway University is a research-based program that allows students to explore topics they are passionate about within the hospitality and tourism sectors. This program is particularly valuable for those pursuing careers in the hospitality field, as it not only enhances current or future employment prospects but also contributes new knowledge to specialized areas in hospitality, tourism, and service industries.

The PhD program strengthens research skills through seminars led by renowned international scholars, research methods training, and independent research under expert supervision. Students benefit from unique research opportunities and collaborations with national and international partners within ASEAN and beyond. Graduating with a PhD sets students apart in their field, positioning them at the forefront of academic and industry advancements. Additionally, students can join the Asia Pacific Centre for Hospitality Research (APCHR), becoming part of a respected international community of scholars shaping the future of hospitality and tourism.

Entry Requirements

1. A Master’s Degree (Level 7, MQF) or its equivalent in hospitality, tourism, or related fields as accepted by the University’s Senate; OR
    
2. Applicants who have a Master’s in a field that is not related to hospitality and tourism may be accepted if:
   • The first Degree is in hospitality, tourism or a related field; OR
   • they have three (3) years of working experience in the hospitality and tourism-related industry.
      
3. Candidates whose master’s or first degree is not related to the fields of hospitality/tourism and without working experiences in the relevant fields, must undergo appropriate prerequisite courses prior to registering the programme.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose medium of instruction for their Bachelor’s / Master’s degree was not English will be required to provide evidence of language ability of:   

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.0 or equivalent; OR
• TOEFL: 100 (internet-based); OR
• PTE Academic: 70 overall

Research Proposal (needed for application)

Applicants are required to submit a 1,000-word research statement (excl. references), which includes the following:

1. A working title for the proposed research project
2. Introduction and nature of research (incl. your motivation to study this topic), which includes
   • Research background
   • Problem statement
   • Research objective(s)
   • Research question(s)/hypothesis
3. Literature review
4. Research methodology
5. Proposed research schedule
6. List of references

Research Methodology

All PhD students will enroll in the ‘Research Methods for Hospitality and Tourism’ subject, which advances students’ understanding in and application of developing, conducting, and disseminating their own research. 

Thesis

PhD candidates will be empowered to complete an in-depth study on a particular research topic in the form of a thesis, substantiated by a series of academic milestones including a proposal defense and a viva voce, where the research outcomes ultimately contribute to the knowledge base of hospitality and tourism and its scholarly and professional communities.

Professional Development Activities

Additional required academic activities are regular consultations with the supervisory team, regular progress reports, participation in research seminars, the completion of a research ethics workshop and training programme, a conference presentation, and the submission of a manuscript to an academic journal. 

Areas of Research

We have a team of dedicated Supervisors with expertise in areas of research including (but not limited to):

• Hospitality and service management
• Food, health, and well-being
• Sustainability in tourism and the service industries
• Events and destination management
• Mobilities