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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125458  Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Doctoral Degree  Field 11 - Services  Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Gaming and Leisure 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 10  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0638/26  2026-03-10  2029-03-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-03-10   2033-03-10  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management is to equip learners with advanced research skills, enabling them to contribute to the body of knowledge in tourism and hospitality management. It also enable learners to produce original research that contributes to the understanding of complex issues in tourism and hospitality management. Furthermore, the qualification will equip learners with the following advanced skills, knowledge and competencies:
  • Enhance career opportunities for qualifying learners in academia, industry, and government.
  • Develop leadership and management skills, enabling qualifying learners to take on senior roles in the tourism and hospitality industry.
  • Foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation in research, enabling graduates to develop innovative solutions to complex problems in the tourism and hospitality industry.
  • Contribute to sustainable tourism development by producing qualifying learners who can develop and implement sustainable tourism practices.

    The qualification aims to:
  • Produce highly skilled researchers who can contribute to the growth and development of the tourism and hospitality industry.
  • Provide advanced research training in tourism and hospitality management.
  • Foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation in research.
  • Develop researchers who can address complex challenges facing the tourism and hospitality industry.
  • Contribute to the development of a research culture in the institution and the wider academic community.

    Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners are expected to:
  • Demonstrate advanced research skills and knowledge in tourism and hospitality management.
  • Contribute to the body of knowledge in tourism and hospitality management through original research.
  • Take on senior roles in academia, industry, and government.
  • Develop and implement sustainable tourism practices.

    Rationale:
    The Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management is designed to address the growing need for advanced research and expertise in the tourism and hospitality industry. The qualification aims to produce highly skilled researchers who can contribute to the growth and development of the industry in South Africa and beyond. Tourism is a vital contributor to the South African economy. With the introduction of a Ph.D. in Tourism and Hospitality Management in the institution will contribute to the production of the next generation of highly skilled individuals who will be at the cutting edge of scholarship in the discipline and who can join the workforce as academics and researchers, thereby contributing to efforts to optimise the administration of the State. With the extensive value chain and labour absorption capacity, research is acknowledged as a tool for economic development, playing a significant role in responding to the country's socio-economic challenges. It is envisaged that this proposed qualification will equip the doctoral qualifying learners with advanced practical and applied understanding, knowledge, and skills in the field of Tourism and Hospitality Management. Furthermore, the research is a very powerful tool for a university that wishes to be relevant to its surroundings and engaged with its unique African context. Research and Postgraduate learners assist in the creation of a research culture and act as role models for younger learners. Among these is the provision of employment to individuals of varying skills levels, the employment of women, including in rural areas, and ensuring the geographic spread of tourism benefits. The sector is also a significant foreign exchange earner. It further impacts the wider economy through its significant forward and backward linkages with other economic sectors.

    According to the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sports Sector Education Training Authority (CATHSSETA), the Tourism and Hospitality sector was regarded as one of the fastest-growing sectors of South Africa's economy. The tourism industry is therefore seen as a panacea for many economic and social ills in South Africa. While the COVID-19 pandemic has brought travel and tourism to a standstill, with massive financial costs to providers, the recovery of tourism, travel, and hospitality in South Africa will require the provision of a new generation of hospitality and tourism practitioners.

    The qualification is designed for:
  • Academics and researchers seeking to advance their careers in tourism and hospitality management.
  • Professionals working in the tourism and hospitality industry who wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge.
  • Individuals seeking to pursue a career in research and development in the tourism and hospitality industry.

    The qualification is expected to attract learners from South Africa, across the African continent, and internationally.

    The qualification addresses the needs of various stakeholders, including:
  • Industry stakeholders: The tourism and hospitality industry requires advanced research and expertise to address complex challenges and opportunities. The qualification will produce highly skilled researchers who can contribute to the growth and development of the industry.
  • Government stakeholders: Government agencies responsible for tourism development and management require research-based evidence to inform policy and decision-making. The qualification will produce researchers who can provide high-quality research outputs to support government decision-making.
  • Community stakeholders: Local communities benefit from sustainable tourism development, which requires advanced research and expertise. The qualification will produce researchers who can contribute to sustainable tourism development and community engagement.
  • Academic stakeholders: The qualification will contribute to the development of a research culture in the institution and the wider academic community. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution's RPL policy is guided by the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (Amended March 2019). The policy aims to provide alternative access to higher education, promote lifelong learning, and redress past inequities.

    RPL for Access:
    RPL for access will be used to provide alternative routes into the Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management. This type of RPL is applicable for this doctoral degree, as it allows for the recognition of prior learning experiences that demonstrate a learner's ability to undertake doctoral-level research.

    RPL for Credit:
    RPL for credit is not applicable for the Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management, as all 360 credits are allocated to the research thesis.

    RPL Process:
    The RPL process for the Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management involves the following steps:
  • Initial application: Applicants submit an initial application for RPL, providing detailed information about their prior learning experiences.
  • Applicants complete an RPL application form and pay an application fee.
  • The application is assessed by an assessor, who advises the applicant on how to gather and present evidence to demonstrate that they have met the stated learning outcomes.
  • The assessment is undertaken against explicit assessment criteria, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
  • The outcome of the RPL process is documented, including a written report by the assessor and a recommendation regarding status recognition and admission.
  • The final decision regarding the recognition of status and admission is made by the Dean and reported to the Registrar's Office, Faculty, and Senate.

    Appeals Process:
    Appeals concerning the outcome of RPL results will be considered by the DVC (Teaching and Learning) and Registrar, and the decision will be final.

    Entry Requirements:
  • A Master of Tourism and Hospitality Management or a related field at NQF level 9. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework, Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 10, totalling 360 Credits
  • Research-based thesis, 360 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of tourism and hospitality management concepts, theories, and principles.
    2. Design, implement, and disseminate original research in tourism and hospitality management.
    3. Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to solve complex issues in tourism and hospitality industry.
    4. Demonstrate expertise in research methodology and design.
    5. Communicate complex research findings effectively to various stakeholders including academics, industry professionals, and policymakers.
    6. Demonstrate leadership and management skills in research and academic contexts including the ability to supervise and mentor learners.
    7. Contribute to the development of new knowledge and innovation in tourism and hospitality management through their original research.
    8. Demonstrate a commitment to ethical research practices and academic integrity including the ability to identify and address potential ethical issues in research. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate breadth and depth of knowledge in tourism and hospitality management.
  • Ability to critically evaluate and synthesise complex concepts and theories.
  • Understanding of the relationships between tourism and hospitality management and other disciplines.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Demonstrate originality and significance of the research contribution.
  • Provide clarity and coherence of research design and methodology.
  • Ability to collect, analyse, and interpret data.
  • Quality of the research findings and implications for practice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify and analyze complex problems in tourism and hospitality management.
  • Develop and evaluate alternative solutions to complex problems.
  • Communicate complex ideas and solutions effectively.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply knowledge of research methodologies and designs relevant to tourism and hospitality management.
  • Select and apply appropriate research methods and techniques.
  • Evaluate the strengths and limitations of different research methodologies and designs.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Provide clarity and coherence of written and oral communication.
  • Communicate complex research findings to academic and non-academic audiences.
  • Ability to use visual aids and other presentation tools effectively.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Lead and manage research projects and teams.
  • Mentor and supervise students.
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders, including learners, colleagues, and industry partners.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply originality and significance of the research contribution.
  • Identify and address gaps in existing knowledge.
  • Develop and implement innovative solutions to complex problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Work independently and as part of a team.
  • Manage time and prioritize tasks effectively.
  • Communicate effectively in written and oral forms.
  • Use technology and software relevant to research and academic contexts.
  • Show commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT:
    The assessment strategy for the Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management is designed to evaluate students' conceptual understanding and applied competencies in conducting original research in the field of tourism and hospitality management.

    Assessment Approach:
    The assessment approach for this qualification is summative, with all 360 credits based on the research thesis. However, formative assessment is embedded throughout the qualification to support students' progress and development.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment is used to monitor learners' progress and provide feedback on their work. The following formative assessment activities are embedded in the qualification:
  • Learning Agreement: Learners and supervisors agree on and co-sign a Learning Agreement, which outlines the expectations of both parties and the supervisory process.
  • Monthly Meetings: Formal meetings between students and supervisors are held monthly, with mid-year and end-of-year reporting.
  • Research Proposal: Learners submit a research proposal, which is assessed and provides feedback on the research design and methodology.
  • Literature Review: Learners submit a literature review, which is assessed and provides feedback on the student's understanding of the research topic.
  • Progress Reports: Learners submit regular progress reports, which are assessed and provide feedback on the learner's progress.
    Draft Chapters: Learners submit draft chapters of their thesis, which are assessed and provide feedback on the learner's writing and research skills.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment is used to evaluate learners' achievement of the exit-level outcomes. The research thesis is the most appropriate tool to assess learners' ability to integrate their knowledge and skills and complete a piece of original, independent research.

    Assessment Criteria:
    The assessment criteria for the research thesis are based on the following aspects:
  • Scope of Research: The delineation of appropriate research objectives, aims, and hypotheses.
  • Literature Study/Review & Theoretical Framework: The relevance, contemporary nature, and authority of the scientific sources and theories consulted by the candidate.
  • Research Design and Methodology: The extent to which the research design is a logical progression from the research objectives/aims/hypotheses.
  • Presentation and Discussion of Findings: The accurate interpretation and discussion of findings, well substantiated by the results of the analysis.
  • Conclusions and Recommendations: Logical conclusions based on the results and appropriate recommendations/proposals for future research.
  • Technical Presentation: The overall linguistic and technical presentation of the thesis.

    The research thesis is the most appropriate tool to assess learners' achievement of the exit level outcomes, allowing learners to demonstrate their ability to integrate their knowledge and skills and complete a piece of original, independent research. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality Management is designed to meet international standards and comparability. The qualification is aligned with professional standards and comparable accredited qualifications offered in other parts of the world and the SADC region.

    Professional Standards:
    The qualification is aligned with the following professional standards:

    United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Tourism Education Standards:
    The qualification meets the UNWTO standards for tourism education, which emphasise the importance of research-based education and training. UNWTO standards are the guidelines, frameworks, and recommendations developed by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) (now UN Tourism) to promote sustainable, responsible, and accessible tourism globally. These standards cover diverse areas, including standardized tourism statistics (like the International Recommendations for Tourism Statistics and Tourism Satellite Account), universal design for information, policies for sustainable investment, and guidelines for safe and hygienic operations in the tourism sector.

    International Association of Scientific Experts in Tourism (AIEST) Standards:
    The qualification meets the AIEST standards for tourism research and education, which emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

    Comparable Accredited qualifications:
    The qualification is comparable to the following accredited qualifications offered in other parts of the world:

    Country: United Kingdom (UK).
    Institution: University of Surrey (US).
    Qualification title: Hospitality, Tourism, Transport and Events PhD.
    Duration: three to four years.

    Entry requirements:
  • Typically requires a master's degree with distinction in a relevant discipline.

    Purpose:
    A learner will take on a structured, supervised programme of scholarly research, leading to a thesis that makes an original contribution to the field and is suitable to be published in a series of high-quality, refereed journal articles.

    Research Areas:
  • Focus areas include the visitor economy, competitiveness, economic modeling, and digital transformation.

    Assessment
    Final assessment will be based on the presentation of your research in a written thesis, which will be discussed in a viva examination with at least two examiners. Learner will have the option of preparing your thesis as a monograph (one large volume in chapter form) or in publication format (including chapters written for publication), subject to the approval of your supervisors.

    Similarities:
  • University of Surrey (US) and South African (SA) qualifications require a master's degree in a relevant field.
  • Both qualifications aim to develop learners through a structured, supervised research programme.
  • Both allow for research aligned to high-quality publication standards.

    Country: Australia.
    Institution: University of Queensland (AQ).
    Qualification Title: Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism and Hospitality.
    Duration: three to four years.

    Entry requirements :
  • Master of Philosophy (or another research master's degree),
    Or
  • Bachelor's degree from an approved university with at least honours class IIA or equivalent,
    Or
  • Coursework master's degree with an overall grade point average of 5.65 on the 7-point UQ scale, which includes relevant research experience.

    Purpose/rationale:
    A PhD takes 3 to 4 years full-time. Under guidance, A learner will develop advanced research skills and knowledge in their chosen field. The thesis is a substantial document that makes an original contribution to your field of research. Thesis may involve an alternate format. You'll need a strong academic background, and you may need to submit a research proposal and other documents to support your application. About 1,000 PhD candidates join UQ each year, researching a wide range of topics.

    Similarities:
  • University of Queensland (AQ) and South African (SA) qualifications involve the completion of a major research thesis that makes an original contribution to the field.
  • Both qualifications are designed to develop high-level research competence.
  • Both acknowledge the importance of tourism and hospitality to economic development.
  • Both qualifications require learners who completed a master's degree in the relevant field of study. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation Possibilities:
  • Doctor of Management in Food Service Management, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation Possibilities.
  • National Occupational Certificate: Food and Beverage Service Attendant, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A. 

    NOTES 
    N/A. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. University of Mpumalanga 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.