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PHD in Hotel And Catering Management at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Hotel and Catering Management at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This PhD program in Hotel and Catering Management at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on advanced research within the dynamic hospitality sector. It explores critical areas like sustainable tourism, service quality, culinary innovations, and strategic management, addressing the growing complexities and opportunities in the Indian and global markets. The program aims to foster analytical and critical thinking skills essential for significant contributions to academic and industry practices.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in Hotel Management, Hospitality Management, Tourism, or allied fields, seeking to pursue an academic or research career. It also caters to industry professionals with substantial experience who aim to conduct in-depth research, generate new knowledge, and influence policy or strategic direction within the hotel and catering industry. Candidates must demonstrate a strong aptitude for independent research and scholarly inquiry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles as professors, researchers, consultants, or senior strategic managers in the Indian hospitality industry or academia. Potential career paths include university faculty positions, research analysts in hotel chains, or policy advisors for tourism boards. Salary ranges vary widely but can be competitive, starting from INR 8-12 LPA for entry-level academic positions and significantly higher for experienced professionals in consulting or industry leadership roles, with strong growth trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on understanding various research paradigms, quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, R), and ethical considerations. Participate actively in workshops and seminars to solidify foundational knowledge.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Library databases, Online courses on Coursera/edX for research statistics, Reference books on research methods
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methodology is fundamental for any academic or research role, ensuring the validity and reliability of your future thesis and publications.
Identify Research Niche and Advisor- (Semester 1-2)
During the initial phase, explore diverse research areas within Hotel and Catering Management. Engage with potential supervisors, discuss their ongoing research, and identify a research gap that aligns with your interests and the faculty''''s expertise. Prepare a preliminary research proposal.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Faculty research profiles, Research journals in hospitality management, Brainstorming sessions with senior scholars
Career Connection
Choosing a relevant and impactful research area early on sets the trajectory for your entire PhD, making your work more valuable to industry and academia and improving post-PhD career prospects.
Build a Strong Academic Network- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, research group meetings, and university-wide academic events. Connect with fellow PhD scholars, faculty members, and visiting experts. Seek mentorship beyond your primary supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, Academic conferences (national/international), Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to collaboration, future job opportunities, and provides diverse perspectives on your research, crucial for navigating the academic and industry landscapes in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Literature and Theory- (Semester 3-4)
Beyond coursework, conduct an exhaustive review of existing literature, theories, and empirical studies specific to your chosen research area. Systematically organize your findings, identify theoretical gaps, and refine your research questions. Consider using citation management software.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Mendeley, Zotero for citation management, VISTAS e-journals and databases
Career Connection
A profound understanding of your field establishes your credibility as an expert, critical for publishing in top-tier journals and for impactful presentations at conferences.
Present Research at Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Prepare and present your preliminary research findings, literature review, or methodology at national and international conferences. Use the feedback received to strengthen your research design and presentation skills. Aim for at least one presentation per year.
Tools & Resources
Call for Papers from reputed conferences (e.g., AHLA, ICHM), Presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote), Mentorship from supervisor for abstract submission
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your visibility, allow you to receive critical feedback, and build a network of scholars in your specialized field, which is vital for academic career progression in India.
Develop Advanced Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Depending on your research methodology, develop advanced skills in statistical software (e.g., AMOS, SmartPLS for SEM) or qualitative analysis software (e.g., NVivo). Attend specialized workshops to master these tools, ensuring robust data analysis for your thesis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python, NVivo tutorials, Workshops offered by VISTAS or external training institutes, Online data science platforms
Career Connection
Proficiency in advanced analytical tools is highly sought after in both academia and industry, differentiating you as a researcher capable of rigorous and insightful analysis.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize High-Impact Publications- (Semester 5-6 (and beyond))
Strategically aim to publish chapters of your thesis or related research papers in peer-reviewed journals listed in UGC-CARE list or Scopus/Web of Science. Focus on quality over quantity, targeting journals with a good impact factor in hospitality or management.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List, Scopus/WoS database, Journal finder tools, Supervisor guidance on manuscript preparation
Career Connection
Publications are the cornerstone of an academic career. High-impact publications significantly boost your CV, enhancing your chances for faculty positions and research grants in India and abroad.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva- (Semester 5-6 (and beyond))
Diligently work on thesis writing, ensuring clarity, coherence, and adherence to academic standards. Prepare thoroughly for your Pre-PhD Viva-Voce and final Thesis Defense, anticipating questions and practicing your presentation. Seek mock defense opportunities.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Thesis Writing Guidelines, Peer review by research group, Mock defense sessions with faculty
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD journey, marking your transition into an independent researcher and validating your expertise for future professional roles.
Explore Post-Doctoral and Career Opportunities- (Semester 6 (and ongoing))
Actively research post-doctoral fellowships, academic faculty positions, or industry research roles. Tailor your CV and cover letter to specific opportunities. Leverage your network for leads and mentorship in navigating the job market.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., HigherEdJobs), Networking with senior academics and industry leaders
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and exploration ensure a smooth transition from your PhD into a fulfilling and impactful professional role, leveraging your specialized research expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master’s degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate (or an equivalent grade in a point scale wherever the grading system is followed) in the relevant field of study. A relaxation of 5% of marks (from 55% to 50%) shall be allowed for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layers)/Differently-Abled and other categories as per UGC guidelines.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Full-Time)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDCRM001 | Research Methodology | Core (Mandatory Coursework) | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Report Writing and Ethics |
| PHDEHMXXX | Elective Course relevant to Specialization | Elective (Coursework) | 4 | Advanced Topics in Hotel Management, Catering Operations and Innovations, Hospitality Marketing Research, Strategic Management in Hospitality, Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality |
