Postgraduate Studies

IFTM introduces Doctor of Business Administration programme to shape future industry leaders

中文摘要 / Summary in Chinese
IFTM is set to launch its newest doctoral degree offering in the upcoming academic year. The Doctor of Business Administration programme aims to play a pivotal role in educating the future cohort of industry leaders, consultants, policymakers, and scholars, not only for Macao but also on a global scale

In a strategic move towards academic enrichment, IFTM is introducing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme. Open for applications, the offering is expected to launch in academic year 2024/2025, marking the Institute’s second doctoral programme alongside the existing Doctor of Philosophy in Hospitality and Tourism Management.

The primary goal of the DBA programme is to provide high-quality research opportunities to professionals and senior management executives, cultivating leaders capable of driving positive change in the business and service sectors, not only in Macao but also across the Mainland and beyond. This is the view of Dr. Jenny Guan Jieqi, the IFTM Coordinator for Hotel Management Programme, who has been involved in the preparatory work for the DBA offering.

Applications from professionals in various fields are welcomed, including from public departments, non-profit organisations, or associations, with a minimum of 3 years of management experience or equivalent, highlights Dr. Guan. Upon successful completion, graduates are expected to possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and mindset to excel either as industry executives, consultants, policymakers, or scholars.

Dr. Guan emphasises that the new doctoral programme is designed to transcend industry boundaries, providing a platform for students to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This approach encourages the exchange of opinions and discussion on practical cases, contributing to a genuinely multicultural environment and the overall development of the business sector, she says.

The DBA programme integrates academic study, advanced research methodologies, and practical application within the context of the business and service sectors. Students can choose from 4 specialisations, including International Hospitality Management, International Tourism Management, International Event Management, and Digital Marketing and Analytics. Alternatively, they have the option not to select any specialisation.

During the study period, students are expected to complete 8 courses (comprising 6 core courses and 2 elective courses). They must submit a doctoral thesis and successfully defend it by the end of the third year of their studies, in order to meet graduation requirements. Classes, scheduled on Fridays and weekends, aim to enable students to strike a balance between work, life, and study during their enrolment, says Dr. Guan.

IFTM offers the DBA programme in both Chinese and English languages, providing flexibility for students to choose their preferred language for lectures, courses, and thesis. Prospective students can explore numerous scholarships and grants available via IFTM.

For detailed information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the IFTM Admission website or contact the Institute’s Admission and Registration Division.