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Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management

(N/812/8/0101) (08/26) (MQA/PA 11244)

Duration

Full Time: 3-5 Years | Part Time: 4-10 Years

Intakes

Ongoing

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Programme Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Tourism and Hospitality Management program of Lincoln University College, Malaysia (LUC) is designed to be one of the strongest research-based programs in the world. The program, which includes a strong element of statistics and research design, prepares students for careers in major research universities or research-based agencies. Upon graduation, students are expected to have a curriculum vitae which includes teaching experience, publishing experience in research journals, and a record of presentations to industry and research societies. From uncovering the environmental, social and economic impacts of tourism to investigating theories and models of services marketing and management, students use their time to make powerful connections between ideas and contribute scholarly research.

Sl.No. MQA Subject Code Subject Name Credits
1 PHDTHM101 Research Methodology 3
2 PHDTHM102 Data Analysis and Thesis Writing 3
3 PHDTH103 PhD in Tourism and Hospitality Management Research Work on any one of the following specialties: NA
    1. Travel, Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality Business Operation Management
· Hotel Management
· Human Resource Management

· Knowledge Management
· Organizational Behaviour
· Customer Behaviour
· Service Marketing
· Tour Operation Management
· Tourism and Hospitality Laws and Legislations
· Culinary Arts
    2. Travel, Tourism & Leisure Management
· Application of Technology in Tourism
· Economics of Tourism
· Poverty Alleviation via Tourism
· Social & Cultural Impacts of Tourism
· Special Interest Tourism
· Sport, Leisure & Event Management
· Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
· Tourism Heritage Management
· Parks and Recreational Managements
· Tour Guidance Behavior Management
· Hotel and Restaurant Programme
    3. Tourism & Hospitality Business Development Management
· Entrepreneurship
· Leadership and Innovation
· Environmental Management
· Real Estate Development
· Tourism e-Business Management
· Bar Service
· Bartending/Mixology
· Hotel/ Motel and Restaurant Services
· Walting and Bar Service
    4. Food and Beverage Management
· Restaurant Management and Marketing
· Gastronomy and Food Studies
· Food safety and Hygiene
· Institutional Food Service Operation and Management
· Food Service Innovation and Technology
· Food and Hospitality Services
· Food Serving
    5. Tourism and Hospitality Education and Training

Entry Requirements :

  1. A Recognized Master’s Degree in Hospitality and Tourism or related (Level 7, MQF) disciplines accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate; or
  2. Other qualification equivalent to a Master’s Degree (Level 7, MQF) that are accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate.

For International students, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 500 or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.0 or its equivalent if a student does not meet this requirement, HEPs must offer English proficiency courses to ensure that the student’s proficiency is sufficient to meet the needs of the program. This is normally conducted through an assessment process.

Students desirous of making a career in the field of Tourism and Hospitality Management and want to do some form of research in this field are well suited to this course.
After completion of this course the students are expected to find jobs and work as:

  1. Manager
  2. Research Analyst
  3. Research Consultant

The program gives students the time and resources to delve into the Tourism and Hospitality industry, to engage in rigorous research, and to publish their findings. The program also lends itself to fascinating and revealing research about society, the economy and the marketplace. The 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. The program also develops strong research skills that enable graduates to conduct and publish scholarly research with competence and confidence.

About The Program
What is the Master in Tourism Management program all about?

At Lincoln University College, our Master in Tourism Management program is tailored for students looking to succeed in the vibrant tourism sector. We prioritize building a solid foundation in essential management principles and operational competencies, equipping our graduates to excel in today’s competitive tourism landscape. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, students will gain the skills necessary for various roles in the industry, whether in hotel management, event planning, or sustainable tourism. Our program is designed to support you in reaching your career aspirations.

Our seasoned faculty offers a thorough combination of practical and theoretical training, ensuring students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for success in different areas of the hospitality industry. This well-rounded approach equips our graduates to manage hospitality operations confidently and effectively, setting them up for leadership positions in their careers.

The focus of a Master in Tourism Management program typically revolves around preparing students for leadership and managerial roles in the tourism and hospitality industry. Key areas of focus include:

  1. Strategic Tourism Management: Understanding the strategic frameworks and decision-making processes necessary to manage tourism organizations effectively.
  2. Sustainable Tourism: Emphasizing responsible tourism practices that balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and social equity.
  3. Marketing and Branding: Developing skills to market and brand tourism destinations, services, and experiences globally.
  4. Event and Destination Management: Focusing on the planning, organizing, and promotion of events, as well as managing tourist destinations to enhance their appeal.
  5. Tourism Economics and Policy: Analyzing the economic impact of tourism on local and global economies, as well as understanding the policies that govern tourism industries.
  6. Cultural Heritage and Tourism: Exploring how cultural heritage is preserved, promoted, and leveraged for tourism, along with the management of heritage sites.
  7. Technology and Innovation in Tourism: Understanding the role of new technologies, digital marketing, and innovation in shaping the modern tourism landscape.
  8. Risk and Crisis Management: Preparing for risk mitigation and crisis management in tourism, including managing issues such as pandemics, natural disasters, and political instability.
  9. Leadership and Human Resources: Developing leadership, communication, and human resource management skills specific to tourism enterprises.

The goal is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to manage tourism operations, develop tourism products, and contribute to the growth of the global tourism industry.

The  Master in Tourism Management is designed to prepare students for careers in international markets by offering International case studies on business challenges and solutions across different economies.

Career support for Master in Tourism Management students include:

  • Career services: Lincoln Business School provide dedicated career services that help students connect with multinational employers through recruitment events, recruitment agency and career fairs.
  • Alumni networks: Strong global alumni networks are common in Lincoln Business School, allowing students to connect with graduates working in diverse industries worldwide.
  • Faculty in Master in Tourism Management program often have extensive international experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge from global corporations, international research, and consulting roles. 
  •  Lincoln Business School boast a diverse faculty with professionals who have worked in multinational corporations across continents and industries.  This global expertise ensures that students gain a real-world understanding of how business is conducted across different cultures and regions.

A Master in Tourism Management (MTM) program is ideal for a variety of individuals, especially those looking to advance their careers in the tourism, hospitality, and related sectors. Specific groups of people who should consider this program include:

1. Tourism and Hospitality Professionals

Individuals already working in the tourism and hospitality industry, such as hotel managers, event planners, travel agents, and tour operators, who want to advance to higher management or leadership roles. The program provides advanced knowledge in strategy, marketing, and sustainable practices.

2. Career Changers

People from different industries looking to switch careers into tourism or hospitality management. MTM provides the skills and knowledge to make this transition, focusing on global tourism trends, management techniques, and industry-specific insights.

3. Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

Those interested in starting their own business in the tourism or hospitality sector. This program offers tools for creating, managing, and marketing tourism-related businesses, including hotels, resorts, travel agencies, and ecotourism ventures.

4. Public Sector Employees in Tourism

Individuals working in government agencies or public organizations involved in tourism development, policy, and planning. The MTM helps develop the strategic and policy-related skills needed for promoting destinations, managing tourism infrastructure, and developing sustainable tourism strategies.

5. Event Managers and Planners

Professionals in the event management industry who want to deepen their understanding of destination and event tourism, as well as the operational and marketing challenges involved in managing tourism-related events such as festivals, conventions, and large-scale gatherings.

6. Sustainable Tourism Advocates

Those passionate about environmental sustainability and social responsibility who wish to work in areas that balance tourism development with sustainable practices. The program provides insights into eco-tourism, responsible tourism, and ways to minimize tourism’s negative impacts.

7. Cultural and Heritage Managers

Individuals involved in managing cultural heritage sites or community-based tourism who want to develop skills in preserving and promoting these sites as sustainable tourism destinations.

8. Recent Graduates

Graduates from undergraduate programs in tourism, hospitality, business, or related fields who wish to enhance their knowledge and skills for a higher-level career in tourism management.

9. International Development Workers

Professionals involved in international development programs that include tourism as a component of economic development, community engagement, or cultural preservation.

This program is suitable for anyone with a passion for the travel and hospitality industry who seeks to gain specialized knowledge, leadership skills, and the strategic insight needed to succeed in the ever-evolving global tourism sector.

  • The upcoming intakes for the Master in Tourism Management program are in March, July, and November.
  • These multiple entry points provide flexibility for applicants to start the program at a time that best suits their schedule.
Admission
What are the minimum academic qualifications required for admission into the Master in Tourism Management program?

A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0 (or equivalent) from a recognized institution. Degrees from non-business disciplines are also accepted.A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0 (or equivalent) from a recognized institution. Degrees from non-business disciplines are also accepted.

Preferably candidates should have 2 to 5 years of professional work experience, with good leadership potential.

  • No, an undergraduate degree in any field is usually acceptable for admission. However, degrees in business, economics, or related fields may provide a stronger foundation for some of the core concepts in the Master in Tourism Management program.
  • Applicants from non-business backgrounds may be required to take foundational business courses or demonstrate their capacity to handle the program’s academic rigor.

Master in Tourism Management programs do not require GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores as part of the admission process, particularly if the applicant has significant work experience or a strong academic record.

The typical documents required for the Master in Tourism Management program application include:

  • Academic transcripts from all institutions attended.
  • Updated resume or CV outlining work experience, academic qualifications, and professional achievements.
  • Letters of recommendation (usually 1 to 3), often from academic or professional references.
  • A statement of purpose or personal essay explaining your motivation for pursuing the MBA and your career goals.
  • GMAT/GRE scores (if required by the program).
  • Proof of English proficiency (for non-native English speakers).

Master in Tourism Management programs may require an admissions interview. If the program includes an interview, it will typically be conducted after an initial review of your application. The interview may be in person or online and is used to assess your motivation, communication skills, and fit for the program.

Yes, our Master in Tourism Management program allow current undergraduate students to apply during their final year, provided they submit proof of degree completion before the program starts. You will need to meet all other entry requirements and provide your final academic transcript upon graduation.

There is typically no minimum age requirement for Master in Tourism Management program. However, many programs prefer candidates who have accumulated some professional experience, which may result in students being in their mid-20s to early 30s.

A successful candidate for Master in Tourism Management program typically has:

  • A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
  • Professional experience (preferably 2-5 years, though not mandatory for all programs).
  • Strong leadership potential demonstrated through work experience, extracurricular activities, or volunteering.
  • A clear career vision and motivation to succeed in global business, which is expressed through the personal essay or statement of purpose.
  • English proficiency (if applicable) and possibly GMAT/GRE scores (if required by the program).
  • In most cases, Master in Tourism Management does not have strict prerequisite courses, especially for applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.
  • However, for students coming from non-business backgrounds (such as liberal arts, engineering, or the sciences), some programs may require you to complete foundational business courses either before or during the early stages of the program.
  • These foundational courses typically cover:
    • Accounting: Basic financial and managerial accounting principles.
    • Economics: Microeconomics and macroeconomics to understand business environments.
    • Finance: Introduction to financial management and corporate finance.
    • Statistics: Business statistics or quantitative methods for data analysis.
    • Management: Principles of management, including organizational behavior and leadership.
Program Structure and Duration
How long does the Master in Tourism Management program take to complete?
  • Full-Time Study: 1.5 years
  • Part-Time Study: 3 years

The Master in Tourism Management program at Lincoln University College requires students to complete 48 credit hours to graduate.

Kindly refer to our brochure by clicking on the link    https://www.lincoln.edu.my/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Master-in-Tourism-Management.pdf

The timetable is typically made available four weeks prior to the start of the semester. Students can easily access and review their schedules through the LLS student portal, ensuring they have ample time to prepare for the upcoming semester.

English Proficiency
What is the English proficiency requirement?
  • International students must have proof of good proficiency in verbal and written English. For example, International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or its equivalent.
  • If a student does not meet this requirement, HEPs must offer English proficiency courses to ensure that the student’s proficiency is sufficient to meet the needs of the program.

Yes, the Intensive English Program is available for students who don’t meet the requirement. Successful completion allows for admission to degrees.

Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

Submit them along with your application or by the deadline outlined by the university.

Accreditation
Is the Master in Tourism Management degree accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)?

Yes, Master in Tourism Management is accredited by MQA and Ministry of Education, Malaysia.

  • Yes, accreditation significantly impacts global employability.
  • Accreditation ensures that the Master in Tourism Management program meets international standards of quality and rigor.
  • Employers worldwide often prefer graduates from accredited programs as they know the education received is of a high standard.
  • Additionally, accredited programs provide students with a competitive edge in the global job market, increasing their chances of securing roles in multinational companies and enhancing their career prospects across various industries and countries.
  • Yes, the Master in Tourism Management program is designed to meet current industry standards. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with the latest trends and demands in global business practices, ensuring that students gain relevant skills and knowledge.
  • This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to handle real-world challenges in global markets and are equipped with the competencies sought by employers worldwide.
  • Yes, accreditation from MQA and Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education strongly supports further education and certifications.
  • Graduates from accredited programs are more likely to be accepted into advanced academic pursuits like Ph.D. or Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) programs, as these accreditations assure academic rigor and quality.
  • The accreditation for the Master in Tourism Management program by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) is typically reviewed and updated every 3 to 5 years.
  • This regular review ensures that the program maintains high academic standards and stays current with industry developments and best practices.
  • The MQA periodically assesses the curriculum, teaching methods, and overall quality of the program to ensure it continues to meet national and international educational standards.
  • This helps to keep the program relevant, ensuring that students are equipped with up-to-date skills and knowledge for the global business environment.
Career Prospects
Once I complete my Master in Tourism Management program, what are the wide array of career opportunities in both leadership and specialized roles within organizations I can venture into?

Graduates of a Master in Tourism Management (MTM) program have a wide range of career prospects in various sectors of the tourism and hospitality industry, as well as related fields. Some of the most common career paths include:

1. Tourism Manager

  • Role: Overseeing tourism operations for companies, government agencies, or NGOs.
  • Sectors: Destination marketing organizations, tourism boards, and travel agencies.
  • Key Responsibilities: Developing tourism strategies, improving customer experience, and promoting tourism destinations.

2. Hotel or Resort Manager

  • Role: Managing the operations, staff, and overall guest experience in hotels, resorts, or lodges.
  • Sectors: Hospitality, luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and large hotel chains.
  • Key Responsibilities: Financial management, guest relations, and ensuring high service standards.

3. Event and Conference Planner

  • Role: Organizing large-scale events, conferences, festivals, and conventions.
  • Sectors: Corporate events, tourism festivals, and trade shows.
  • Key Responsibilities: Event logistics, budgeting, and coordinating with vendors and clients.

4. Tourism Marketing Manager

  • Role: Creating and implementing marketing strategies to promote tourism destinations, services, or products.
  • Sectors: Destination marketing organizations, airlines, and travel agencies.
  • Key Responsibilities: Branding, digital marketing campaigns, and tourism product development.

5. Travel Consultant/Agent

  • Role: Advising clients on travel options, organizing travel packages, and providing personalized itineraries.
  • Sectors: Travel agencies, online travel platforms, and tour operators.
  • Key Responsibilities: Customer service, travel bookings, and tour package sales.

6. Sustainable Tourism Specialist

  • Role: Promoting and developing tourism that focuses on environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
  • Sectors: Ecotourism companies, NGOs, and government agencies.
  • Key Responsibilities: Designing eco-friendly tourism projects, consulting on sustainable practices, and working with local communities.

7. Destination Manager

  • Role: Overseeing the development and marketing of a tourist destination.
  • Sectors: Destination management organizations (DMOs), tourism boards, and municipalities.
  • Key Responsibilities: Managing tourism infrastructure, creating tourism policies, and promoting destinations to travelers.

8. Cultural Heritage Manager

  • Role: Managing tourism at cultural heritage sites, ensuring their preservation while promoting them to visitors.
  • Sectors: Museums, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and cultural tourism organizations.
  • Key Responsibilities: Conservation efforts, visitor management, and educational programming.

9. Tour Operator/Travel Entrepreneur

  • Role: Developing and managing tours, excursions, and travel-related businesses.
  • Sectors: Private tourism companies, adventure travel agencies, and niche tour operators.
  • Key Responsibilities: Tour design, marketing, and customer service.

10. Tourism Policy Analyst

  • Role: Analyzing tourism policies, regulations, and trends to help shape national or regional tourism strategies.
  • Sectors: Government agencies, international organizations, and tourism think tanks.
  • Key Responsibilities: Policy development, research, and advising on tourism regulations.

11. Academic or Researcher in Tourism

  • Role: Conducting research and teaching in the field of tourism management and development.
  • Sectors: Universities, research institutes, and tourism consultancy firms.
  • Key Responsibilities: Tourism research, lecturing, and publishing in academic journals.

12. Cruise Line Manager

  • Role: Managing the operations and guest experience on cruise ships.
  • Sectors: Cruise lines, luxury yacht companies.
  • Key Responsibilities: Crew management, guest relations, and coordinating on-board activities.

13. Airline Manager

  • Role: Managing airline operations, customer service, and logistics.
  • Sectors: Airlines, private aviation companies.
  • Key Responsibilities: Flight scheduling, passenger experience management, and logistical coordination.

14. Resort Developer or Consultant

  • Role: Advising or leading the development of resorts and tourism infrastructure.
  • Sectors: Real estate development, consultancy firms, tourism boards.
  • Key Responsibilities: Project planning, feasibility analysis, and tourism infrastructure development.

15. Risk and Crisis Manager in Tourism

  • Role: Developing and implementing plans to handle risks such as natural disasters, pandemics, or security threats that affect tourism.
  • Sectors: Tourism companies, government agencies, and crisis management firms.
  • Key Responsibilities: Risk assessment, crisis response planning, and safety training.

16. Tourism Development Specialist

  • Role: Working with governments, NGOs, or international agencies to develop tourism in emerging or underdeveloped regions.
  • Sectors: International development agencies (like UNWTO, World Bank), NGOs, and local governments.
  • Key Responsibilities: Project management, community engagement, and sustainable development planning.
  • Malaysia: Starting salaries range from MYR 60,000 to MYR 100,000 per annum, depending on experience and industry.
  • International: Salaries vary widely; research specific regions for accurate figures.
Tuition Fee and Scholarship
What are the tuition fees for local and international students?

For details about the tuition fees, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

For details about our scholarship opportunities, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Yes, for details, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Alumni Network
Can I access the alumni network?

Yes, as a graduate of the Master in Tourism Management program, you will have lifelong access to our global alumni network, which includes thousands of professionals across various industries and regions. The alumni network offers invaluable resources for networking, career opportunities, and continuous learning, and we host regular alumni events and reunions to help you stay connected.

Our Master in Tourism Management program has produced many distinguished alumni who have gone on to lead and innovate in their fields. For example, some of them have become CEOs of global firms, and some working as partner in major consulting firms. We also have alumni who have become successful entrepreneurs, launching startups such in the fintech industry. Some of them have joined prestigious universities in Canada, New Zealand, or Germany for further studies. Our alumni continue to make significant impacts in various sectors worldwide.

Our graduates pursue careers across a wide range of industries, including hotel & hospitality, tourism, finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer goods, and non-profit sectors. Many graduates also find opportunities in emerging fields such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. The diverse skill set provided by the Master in Tourism Management prepares students to succeed in both traditional and rapidly evolving industries.

Yes, there are numerous ways for alumni to stay engaged with the Master in Tourism Management program. Alumni are invited to participate in networking events, mentorship programs, guest lectures, and alumni reunions. We also encourage alumni to contribute to the growth of the program by serving on advisory boards, offering internships, and recruiting new graduates for their organizations. Additionally, our alumni have lifetime access to career services and continued learning opportunities through workshops and webinars.

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