Hospitality PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships for Self-funded Students in the UK

A PhD in Hospitality allows doctoral students to explore topics relating to tourism, travel, accommodation and events. A research project in this field has the potential to influence policymakers and leaders around the world, as well as having an effect on best business practices.

What’s it like to do a PhD in Hospitality?

As a research area, Hospitality is closely related to subjects such as Tourism and Event Management. Doing a PhD in Hospitality means that you can focus more closely on particular aspects of the visitor economy, including:

• Catering
• Cruise ships
• Ecology
• Hotel industry
• International tourism
• Public relations
• Sharing economy
• Strategy
• Sustainability

You’ll be given the opportunity to make use of a range of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies during your PhD, which will culminate in a lengthy dissertation that discusses and analyses your findings.

The nature of Hospitality as a subject means that there will be plenty of chances to apply your research in an interdisciplinary manner, with ample crossover between Business, Management, Heritage Studies and Tourism.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for a typical PhD in Hospitality usually involve a Bachelors and a Masters degree in a related subject. You’ll also need to submit a compelling research proposal detailing your study plans. You may also need some professional experience, depending on the programme.

PhD in Hospitality funding options

In the UK, PhDs in Hospitality are funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which provides a tuition fee waiver and a living cost stipend. Depending on the programme, you may submit your own research proposal before being considered for funding, or apply for a project that already has funding attached.

It’s also possible to apply for a PhD loan to help with the costs of a doctorate in Hospitality (although this can’t be combined with Research Council funding). Other options for financial support include university scholarships, graduate teaching assistantships and charities.

If you’re considering a part-time PhD in Hospitality, it may also be worth asking your employer if they’re happy to sponsor you.

PhD in Hospitality careers

A PhD in Hospitality equips you with rigorous research skills and the potential to apply your work in a range of settings, such as hotels, stadia, conference and exhibition halls. You could also seek to influence policymakers and political leaders through the dissemination of your research. Alternatively, a PhD in Hospitality also prepares you for a career in academia or teaching.