Program Overview

Graduates from the PhD in Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management (RHTM) program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, have achieved remarkable success in academia and research. Our alumni secure tenure-track faculty positions at leading universities, contribute to scholarly advancements through peer-reviewed research, and engage in academic leadership roles that shape the future of retail, hospitality, and tourism education.

Our PhD program provides rigorous research training, hands-on teaching experience, and opportunities for funded research collaborations. What sets RHTM apart is its renowned faculty, collegial research environment, and strong academic mentorship. With access to state-of-the-art research facilities, professional development funding, and interdisciplinary collaboration, students graduate fully prepared to excel in academia and make meaningful contributions to their disciplines.

Students specialize in one of two concentration areas:

• Hospitality and Tourism Management
• Retail and Consumer Sciences

Program Mission and Objectives

Our mission is to develop future scholars, educators, and industry leaders who advance knowledge, drive innovation, and shape the future of retail, hospitality, and tourism management. Through rigorous research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and high-quality teaching, the program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to academia and industry by addressing emerging global challenges, consumer behavior trends, and service innovations.

Doctoral students focus on:

• Mastering advanced theories and methodologies to conduct high-impact research addressing critical issues in retail, hospitality, and tourism.
• Gaining teaching proficiency through hands-on classroom experience, mentorship, and instructional responsibilities.
• Forging industry collaborations to apply research insights and contribute to business and policy innovations.
• Advancing academic leadership through scholarly publishing, conference presentations, and professional development.

Admissions and Application Process

New doctoral students begin classes in the fall semester, though spring admission may be considered occasionally based on a case-by-case basis. Applications for both admission and financial aid consideration are due by March 1, with a deadline of February 1 for international applicants. To be considered for an assistantship, all applications must be submitted by February 1.

All application materials must be submitted through the UTK Office of Graduate Admissions via the online application system. Students without prior academic or professional experience in retail, hospitality, or tourism management may be required to complete additional prerequisite coursework.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria for full consideration:

• Completed online Graduate Application for admission through UTK’s Graduate School.
• Non-refundable application fee (payable via credit card or electronic check).
• Master’s degree from an accredited institution (required before enrollment).
• Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended (copies may be submitted at the time of application, but official documents are required upon admission). Applicants must follow Graduate Admissions instructions when submitting transcripts.
• Resume or curriculum vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional experience.
• Personal purpose statement articulating career goals, motivation for pursuing a PhD in RHTM, research experience, and future research goals.
• Writing sample (an independently authored research paper demonstrating academic writing ability).
• Three recommendation letters from former professors or professional colleagues familiar with the applicant’s academic and research potential.
• GRE scores (highly desirable).
• Graduate assistantship statement of interest (optional, for applicants seeking funding).

While professional experience in retail, hospitality, or tourism management is not required, it is highly desirable and strengthens an application.

After admission is offered, official transcripts and degree certificates (if issued separately) must be submitted to the Graduate School.

Office of Graduate Admissions for more details on application procedures.

English Proficiency Requirement

International applicants whose primary language is not English must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency. See the Office of Graduate Admissions for score requirements and additional details.

Frequently Asked Questions