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Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership
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Degrees & Programs

Ph.D. Hospitality Administration

Overview of the Program

The Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program emphasizes flexibility, independence and interdisciplinary study to accommodate the needs and research interests of all students. Through the program, students are expected to obtain experience in teaching and research. Graduate faculty will mentor students in both the classroom and research settings.

The Ph.D. objectives are

  • To develop teaching skills for both undergraduate and graduate levels
  • To disseminate information about the hospitality industry
  • To develop theory and add knowledge to the field
  • To identify problems through analysis
  • To identify solutions from competing alternatives through quantitative and qualitative metrics
  • To effectively communicate research outcomes
  • To develop grantmanship capabilities

Steps to Apply

Click here to see the Steps to Apply:

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In addition to these requirements, please see below: 

  1. Submit a Personal Statement
    A three-page, double-spaced essay with one-inch margins detailing career goals, research interests, and/or your justification for pursuing a Ph.D. Consider including Hilton College faculty who align with your interests.
  2. Submit Official GRE or GMAT Score
    a.     Institution code for GRE is 6870 and GMAT is XT1-1C-69
    b.     GRE (gre.org/) or GMAT (gmac.com/) official scores should be sent to the University of Houston. The Hilton College Graduate Program recommends that these exam(s) be completed before submission of the graduate admission application. The admissions committee reviews the quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing sections.
  3. Applicant Interview
    Interviews are required, and candidates chosen for interview by the committee will be contacted by the program.
    Additional Required Admission Documents for International Applicants

Additional Required Admissions Document for International Applicants

  1. Submit Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo Scores (English Language Proficiency - ELP)
    Please refer to English Language Proficiency Requirement for more information on English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements and exemptions based on the country where the degree was earned.
  2. Submit a Letter of Financial Backing Form
    a.     The Letter of Financial Backing form must be supported by a current bank and the amounts listed must be converted to USD.
    b.     Please refer to I-20 & Financial Documents for more information on the I-20 and Financial Backing Form documentation.
  3. Submit a copy of the biometric page of your Passport

Deadlines:

Applications are accepted for the Fall semesters. 

Current deadlines for Fall 2027 is January 15, 2027.

NOTE: Applicants who have completed an M.S. in Hospitality Management or a similar degree with an overall grade point average of 3.2 on a 4-point scale for their last degree will be considered. Review the Hilton College faculty directory and reach out to potential research advisors to initiate contact and discuss shared interests.