Hotel and Tourism Management

The Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic hospitality and tourism industries. Designed to equip graduates with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, the programme prepares students for a wide range of careers in hotel operations, tourism planning, event management, and related sectors. The curriculum combines core business and management principles with specialized courses in hospitality operations, tourism development, marketing, and customer service excellence. Students have the opportunity to engage in industry internships, providing hands-on experience and fostering professional networks within Hong Kong’s vibrant hospitality scene and beyond. The programme emphasizes innovative thinking, cultural awareness, and sustainable practices, ensuring graduates are capable of adapting to global hospitality trends and challenges. Faculty members are experienced industry professionals and academics committed to delivering high-quality education, mentorship, and research. Through a blend of lectures, workshops, case studies, and real-world projects, students develop critical problem-solving skills, leadership qualities, and a global perspective essential for career success. The programme also offers opportunities for international exchange, internships, and participation in industry competitions, enriching the student learning experience. Graduates of this programme are well-positioned to pursue employment in hotels, resorts, travel agencies, event organizations, and tourism development agencies worldwide. They possess the knowledge, skills, and professionalism required to excel in competitive and evolving markets, making them valuable assets to the hospitality and tourism industries.

The DHTM programme offers two streams of study and an integrated study option to better cater to the needs of students. The 'Industry' stream includes two high level management subjects, while the 'Academic/NTO' stream has a stronger emphasis on research and teaching. The integrated study option allows students to complete one subject from each of the specialism streams.  

Students need to complete 5 Compulsory Subjects, 2 Subjects from the Specialist Streams on offer, 2 Elective Subjects, a Residential Workshop and a Thesis.

Core Areas of Study

The programme consists of Compulsory Subjects, Specialist Subjects, Elective Subjects and a Thesis.

Compulsory Subjects

• Theories & Concepts in Tourism
• Environmental Analysis & Strategies in Hotel & Tourism Management#
• The Asian Paradigm in Hospitality Management
• Quantitative Research Methods for Hotel & Tourism Management
• Qualitative Research Methods for Hotel & Tourism Management

Specialist Subjects under 'Academic/NTO' Stream

• Hotel & Tourism Management Research Seminar
• Hotel & Tourism Management Education

Specialist Subjects under 'Industry' Stream

• Innovations in Hospitality Management Solutions#
• Hotel & Tourism Senior Executive Seminars

Elective Subjects

Students can select 2 subjects:

• Specialist Subjects 
• Independent Study in Hotel & Tourism Management
• Structural Equation Modeling
• Subjects from the MSc in International Hospitality Management and MSc in International Tourism and Convention Management
• A maximum of 1 Doctoral level subject from outside the SHTM with approval of the Programme Leader
• Students who have not successfully completed an MSc level Research Methods subject must take HTM582 - Research Methods as one of their elective options.

Thesis

The Thesis is divided into 2 parts, a proposal (Thesis I) and the formal thesis (Thesis II). Theses must be submitted in English.

Requirements

• An MSc in Hotel and Tourism Management or the equivalent; 
  PLUS
• A minimum one year of full-time teaching experience in tourism and/or hotel management at a recognised post-secondary institution plus at least one year of work experience at the supervisory or managerial level in the hotel, tourism or related industries;
  OR
• Substantial and relevant work experience (of normally not less than four years at the supervisory or managerial level in the hotel, tourism or related industries);
  OR
• At least five years of teaching experience in tourism and/or hotel management.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 92 for the Internet-based test, or 580 for the paper-based test, or 237 for the computer-based test OR
• Band Score of at least 6.5 overall in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• A self-recommendation letter that includes a self-introduction and covers career aspirations and reasons for pursuing study in the programme;
• Copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended;
• Two letters of recommendation; and
• A Master’s degree graduation certificate 

Scholarships

Teaching Postgraduate Studentship (TPS)

The SHTM offers Teaching Postgraduate Studentship (TPS) to selected full-time D.HTM students. The awards are competitive and granted based on academic merit, financial need, previous research and work experience. TPS recipients are expected to participate in teaching, research, administration and other School activities.

Financial Support for Conference Attendance

The SHTM provides financial support on a competitive basis for D.HTM students to attend international conferences to present their research findings. The maximum support offered for an accepted paper is HK$10,000 to cover registration, travel and accommodation expenses related to conference attendance.

Non-means-tested Loan Scheme (NLS)

The NLS offers interest-bearing loans to local full-time and part-time students to cover tuition fees. These loans are not means tested, which means that there is no assessment of family income and assets. Both government-funded and self-financed students can apply before the deadline set by the government. For details, please visit www.sfaa.gov.hk 

Continuing Education Fund (CEF)

Three courses (HTM6002, HTM6004 and HTM6010) have been included on the Continuing Education Fund (CEF) list of reimbursable courses. Eligible applicants will be reimbursed 80% of their fees, subject to a maximum sum of HK$10,000 (whichever is the less), on successful completion of a reimbursable course. For details, please visit www.sfaa.gov.hk

Disclaimer: 
PolyU reserves the right to change or withdraw the TPS/financial support for conference attendance at any time. In case of any dispute/disagreement, PolyU’s decision is final. 

The Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Hotel & Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic hospitality and tourism industries. The programme aims to equip students with solid foundational knowledge in hotel and tourism management, complemented by practical skills and industry insights. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects including hospitality operations, tourism marketing, event management, food and beverage management, hotel finance, and human resources management. Students also gain understanding of sustainable tourism development and attention to international standards, ensuring they are prepared for the global nature of the industry.

The programme emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, industry projects, internships, and site visits. These opportunities allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop problem-solving skills, and build professional networks. Providing a well-rounded education, the programme also includes courses in communication, leadership, and ethics, fostering personal growth and professionalism. Students are encouraged to develop cross-cultural competencies, which are vital in the multicultural hospitality sector.

Graduates of this programme are equipped to pursue various career paths in hotel management, tourism planning, event management, and other related fields. The degree often leads to managerial positions in hotels, resorts, travel agencies, and event organizations, both locally and internationally. The university's strong industry links and partnerships with leading organizations in the hospitality sector facilitate internship placements and job opportunities, giving students a competitive edge in the employment market. Additionally, the programme supports students interested in entrepreneurship within the hospitality and tourism industries.

The academic staff consists of experienced faculty members with backgrounds in academia and industry, ensuring that the teaching is industry-relevant and up-to-date with current trends and standards. The programme is designed to meet the needs of a globalized industry, focusing on innovation, sustainable practices, and technological advancements that influence service delivery and management in the hospitality sector. With a focus on student-centred learning, the programme encourages active participation and critical thinking, preparing graduates to be adaptable leaders capable of driving future developments in hotels and tourism organizations.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Hotel & Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University provides a rigorous academic foundation coupled with practical training and industry exposure, aiming to develop competent, confident, and innovative professionals ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry.