UTM’s PhD programme draws new batch of aspiring researchers
UTM’s strong global ranking for universities in tourism and hospitality, international academic environment, distinguished faculty, and extensive industry links are among the key factors attracting the latest cohort of aspiring PhD students.
A new cohort of PhD students for the 2024/25 academic year has recently arrived at UTM, marking the beginning of their academic journey in tourism and hospitality. Drawn from diverse backgrounds—spanning academia and the tourism industry—these aspiring researchers have chosen UTM for its worldwide acclaim, industry connections, global environment, and extensive resources.
Greeted by faculty members during an orientation event on 22 January, these new students expressed their ambitions to explore their research interests over the next three years. Their areas of focus include smart tourism, artificial intelligence, fandom tourism, virtual celebrity studies, and avitourism—the latter referring to travel centred on birdwatching in natural habitats.
Among the new entrants is Jason Zhou Jiangyi, an English lecturer at Guangdong Huali College, who holds a master’s degree in hospitality management from Oxford Brookes University.
Having relocated to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in 2019, after studying and working in the United Kingdom for several years, Mr. Zhou sees a PhD at UTM as a stepping stone for his academic career and entrepreneurial aspirations in the sector. “UTM is a formidable player in the industry with a strong reputation, and I’ve received many recommendations from friends about the University,” he said.
Distinguished faculty and industry insights
Vivian Li Xu, a lecturer at the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi), echoes this sentiment. Having earned her bachelor’s degree in tourism from the Macau University of Science and Technology and a master’s degree in international hotel management from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, she was drawn to UTM by the calibre of its faculty.
“The curriculum may not differ significantly across universities, but what sets UTM apart is its faculty—many of whom are linked to the industry and can provide students with the latest insights,” Ms. Li explained.
Before joining THEi, she gained experience at integrated resort operators and academic institutions in Macao and Mainland China. During this time, she completed pastry courses and obtained the Macao Occupational Skills Recognition System (MORS) certification in Waiter/Waitress (Western Restaurant Service) at UTM—an experience that left her with a fond impression of the University.
“I believe that after completing my PhD at UTM, my research abilities will be significantly enhanced, alongside my industry expertise,” she added.
For Silvia de Almeida, a part-time lecturer at several universities in Macao—the decision to pursue a PhD at UTM was also influenced by the faculty’s expertise and industry ties.
“The staff and faculty at UTM are very friendly and helpful,” she said, holding a master’s degree in international integrated resort management from the University of Macau, as well as bachelor’s degrees in law and business from Australia. “A PhD is a challenging journey, so having a knowledgeable and supportive team around you is crucial.”
“UTM offers many practical experiences for students, which are of paramount importance in the tourism and hospitality sectors,” she noted.
International environment with Chinese and Western knowledge
Launched in 2019, UTM’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in Hospitality and Tourism Management has a normal duration of three years per intake. For Ariel Li Aijing, who worked in cultural and tourism authorities in Mainland China, one of the key factors in choosing UTM was its international environment. The University’s third-place ranking in Asia on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 for Hospitality and Leisure Management also played a role in her decision.
Having obtained a master’s degree in hospitality with tourism management from the University of Birmingham, she believes UTM’s advanced resources will further expedite her academic journey.
Echoing this perspective is Chris Pang Keyou, a recent graduate of the master’s programme in international tourism management at UTM. She appreciates the University’s international outlook, allowing students to develop a strong understanding of both Chinese and Western knowledge and their applications
“UTM is one of the most professional universities in tourism education worldwide. Its courses and practices effectively guide and inspire students in their academic research on tourism,” she remarked.
