D_PTEM

Campus

Duration of Programme

Enrolment Option(s)

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

2-5 years, full-time; 4-6 years, part-time

Semester 1

360

10

After successful completion of this qualification, the doctoral degree will be awarded during CUT's official graduation ceremony. The minimum admission requirement for the Doctoral degree is a cognate 180 credit NQF Level 9 Master's degree. In cooperation with CUT, the student must present a suitable research project in his/her field of specialisation. The student must have obtained an average of 65% at the master's degree level. 

A PhD in Tourism equips individuals with the highest level of expertise in the field, opening up various advanced career opportunities across various sectors. Here are some of the key career paths available:

Academic Careers

• University Professor: Teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in tourism-related programs. Professors also conduct and publish research, contributing to the academic knowledge base.
• Researcher: Leading research projects within universities or research institutions, focusing on tourism economics, sustainability, or policy development. Researchers often publish their findings in academic journals and present them at international conferences.
• Academic Administrator: Taking on leadership roles within educational institutions, such as Department Head, Dean, or Program Director, where you can shape the curriculum and direction of tourism studies.

High-Level Research and Consultancy

• Tourism Research Director: Overseeing large-scale research initiatives, either within academic institutions or for private sector companies, government agencies, or NGOs. This role involves setting research agendas and applying findings to real-world tourism challenges.
• Consultant: Providing expert advice to governments, international organisations (e.g., UNWTO, World Bank), and private companies on tourism development, sustainability, and strategic planning. Consultants often work on high-impact projects, influencing policy and industry practices.
• Policy Advisor: Advising government bodies and international organisations on tourism policies and strategies, ensuring they align with economic, social, and environmental goals.

Leadership Roles in International Organisations

• Executive Director: Leading international or national tourism organisations, such as the World Travel & Tourism Council, focusing on global tourism strategy, advocacy, and policy development.
• Program Director: Managing tourism development programs within international agencies, particularly those aimed at promoting sustainable tourism in developing regions.

Industry Leadership and Strategic Roles

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Chief Operations Officer (COO): Leading major tourism companies, such as hotel chains, airlines, or travel corporations, where strategic decision-making and industry expertise are crucial.
• Director of Strategic Development: Overseeing the long-term strategic planning and growth of tourism businesses or government tourism departments, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and market expansion.

High-Level Consultancy and Advisory Roles

• Sustainability Consultant: Specialises in sustainable tourism practices and advises businesses, governments, and NGOs on minimising environmental impact while maximising economic and social benefits.
• International Development Consultant: Working on tourism-related projects that foster economic development, particularly in emerging markets, often through organisations like the World Bank or the United Nations.

Government and Public Sector Roles

• Tourism Policy Maker: Developing and implementing tourism policies at the national or regional level aimed at promoting tourism growth while ensuring sustainability and cultural preservation.
• Urban and Regional Planner: Specialising in tourism development, ensuring that tourism projects align with broader urban planning goals and contribute to sustainable development.

Publishing and Thought Leadership

• Author and Speaker: Writing books, articles, and reports on tourism topics, sharing insights and research findings with a global audience. Thought leaders often publicise, contributing to conferences and industry events.
• Editor of Academic Journals: Manage the editorial process for leading tourism journals, guide the direction of research in the field and ensure the publication of high-quality scholarly work.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Tourism Entrepreneur: Use your deep industry knowledge to start your own business, whether it is a consulting firm, a tech startup focused on tourism solutions or a niche travel company.
• Innovation Specialist: Working within tourism corporations or as an independent consultant to drive innovation in tourism products, services, and experiences.

Cultural and Heritage Management

• Cultural Heritage Manager: Leading initiatives to preserve and promote cultural heritage sites, ensuring they are managed to attract tourists while protecting their historical and cultural significance.
• Museum or National Park Director: Managing major cultural or natural attractions, focusing on visitor engagement, education, and conservation.

Global Tourism Leadership

• Advisor to International NGOs: Working with non-governmental organisations on projects that promote tourism as a tool for cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and community development.
• Global Policy Influencer: Engaging in global discussions and policy-making processes that shape the future of tourism, particularly in areas like climate change, economic development, and cultural exchange.

 A PhD in Tourism opens doors to prestigious and influential roles in academia, research, consultancy, government, and industry leadership. With this advanced qualification, you can significantly impact the tourism industry globally by developing innovative strategies, shaping policies, leading organisations, or contributing to tourism studies' academic and theoretical foundations.