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The Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership at the University of Houston is set to introduce a new online doctorate program this fall, reinforcing its status as a leader in hospitality education.
“Our new executive doctorate program underscores our goal to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation in hospitality education,” stated Dennis Reynolds, dean of Hilton College. “Our graduates will garner tools and academic training that will help them create future leaders of the global hospitality industry and harness new opportunities.”
The Doctorate in Global Hospitality Leadership (DGHL) is designed as a three-year program aimed at educators and professionals with significant industry experience who possess a master’s degree in hospitality management or an equivalent advanced degree. Participants will engage in three courses per semester focusing on real-world research applications while working towards their dissertations in the third year. The program's fully online format allows candidates to continue their professional careers uninterrupted.
“This is the ideal time to launch our new degree because of the dynamic evolution of our industry. Never before have we seen such innovation in technology and service customization. Simply stated, our graduates will play a major part in revolutionizing this new era in hospitality management,” added Reynolds.
Hilton College’s DGHL program stands out as the first of its kind in Texas and among the few offered by a Tier One public research university. It targets professionals and executives aiming to expand their careers through applied research within hospitality businesses, opening doors for growth into teaching, consulting, and senior leadership roles. Additionally, it prepares current educators and university administrators for tenure-track faculty positions globally.
“Many faculty members in hospitality institutions don’t have doctorates, hindering their career progress,” noted Priyanko Guchait, Ph.D., professor and DGHL program director. “They want to conduct research or acquire tenure-track positions, but they cannot quit their current jobs for a full-time Ph.D. program. Our DGHL solves both issues and gives candidates a competitive edge.”
Among those enrolled is Kiran Wadhwa from Long Island, New York, who runs a catering and event planning business. Wadhwa expressed enthusiasm about joining the program: “As someone who has spent over a decade in the hospitality industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of hospitality in bridging cultures and creating meaningful connections,” she said. “This program represents an incredible opportunity to not only deepen my understanding of the global hospitality landscape but also to contribute to its future growth.”