Master of Philosophy in Tourism Management

Purpose

This Degree is aimed at preparing graduates for managerial roles in national and international hospitality and tourism organisations, such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, theme parks and cruise lines. Graduates research and study the management, marketing and development of hospitality and tourism industry organisations at regional, national and international levels. They conduct research to resolve problems and provide scientifically grounded management and financial guidelines and directives for future development, leadership and decision-making in the Hospitality and Tourism industry. They also analyse current investment patterns of hotels, restaurants, cruise lines and resorts to discover potential tourism markets and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Rationale

The economic, social and environmental impact of tourism is vital to creating a vibrant and sustainable economy which improves the quality of life. The Hospitality and Tourism industry is one of the main drivers of the future economy of Southern Africa, which has become a world class tourism destination. The hospitality and associated industries have experienced exceptional growth. Thus there is great demand for appropriately trained managers and researchers in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry.

The Master of Philosophy in Tourism Management was created parallel to the Master of Commerce in Tourism Management. The Master of Philosophy in Tourism Management is meant to cater for learners who do not have a commercial background but wish to enrol for a qualification in Hospitality and Tourism. The proposed research Master's Degree presented here has the full support of the local Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a number of prominent hotel groups, as it is attuned to identify the future needs of the hospitality industry.

Learners are expected to show

• An understanding of the relevant theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques and the ability to apply such knowledge in a particular context.
• An ability to critically review gathered information and apply management processes in specialised contexts in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
• Specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems, drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and appropriate method.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Applicants who do not meet the admission criteria as stipulated, but who can demonstrate experiential or work-based learning at an equivalent level may be considered for RPL, provided a proper assessment of the prior learning has been conducted. The process will be implemented in strict adherence to the relevant institutional RPL Policy.

Access to the Qualification

Learners must be in possession of a relevant Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Tourism and/or Hospitality Management, or its equivalent, at NQF Level 8.

The qualification consists of one compulsory module at NQF Level 9, worth 180 Credits.

Module

• Hospitality and Tourism Management: Dissertation.

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge, insight and understanding of the principles, practices and procedures prevalent in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry, especially applied to a developing and emerging market context such as exists at present in South Africa.
2. Apply newly acquired insights, techniques and procedures in a professionally competent manner.
3. Conduct independent research and present the findings in a form that can be disseminated effectively to others.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

The Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are embedded in the qualification and will be assessed appropriately.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Specialist knowledge of the field of Hospitality and Tourism Management is applied.
• The most prevalent theories, fundamental concepts and principles, as well as their current applications, are evaluated and critiqued.
• Clear and coherent understanding of the processes and procedures related to Hospitality and Tourism Management is demonstrated during interactions.
• Appreciation of the business dynamics that exist in Hospitality and Tourism as manifested in the private sector of the economy is expressed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Current processes and methods of knowledge production are evaluated.
• Strategies for the processing and management of information for purposes of review and insight are designed and implemented.
• Combined efforts to address common issues are applied.
• The impact of the Hospitality and Tourism Industry on the economic development of the region is analysed.
• Appropriate responses to external and internal forces affecting the Hospitality and Tourism Industry are implemented.
• Principles and procedures to identify potential in a business are applied fairly, promptly, impartially, reasonably and consistently, without discrimination.
• Systems to ensure that proceedings and actions taken are ethical, in accordance with specific requirements and that confidentiality is maintained as required, are monitored.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• The research methods, techniques and technologies selected show evidence of a clear understanding of relevant research theory and practice.
• Information retrieved from resources of academic and professional discourses generated in the field of Hospitality and Tourism Management is collected, produced and communicated to a range of audiences.
• Research reports which critically and coherently describe theoretical arguments, the research process, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations, are presented.
• Specialised skills are applied to make interventions and to address the intended and unintended consequences of such interventions.

Integrated Assessment

All internal and external assessment and moderation takes place in accordance with institutional policy. Candidates are required to engage in a research project and to submit an extended research report. Programme coordinators are responsible to ensure that assessment practices are explicit, valid, reliable and in line with the policy. Assessment of the submitted research report will focus on learner ability to identify and collect information effectively, how it is analysed and presented. Assessment will also cover the application of knowledge in different situations and the development of strategies and approaches to address specific identified problems in the Hospitality and Tourism environment.