PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (Doctor of Philosophy in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management)

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism About

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism is an advanced degree program that focuses on the study of leisure, recreation, and tourism as they relate to social, cultural, environmental, and economic factors. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and leadership in the parks, recreation, and tourism industry.

The curriculum of a PhD program in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism typically includes a combination of coursework, research, and practical experiences. Students will study topics such as tourism planning and development, sustainable tourism practices, recreation management, park and wilderness management, and environmental issues related to recreation and tourism.

Students in this program will also have the opportunity to conduct original research and contribute to the field through scholarly publications and presentations. Graduates of a PhD program in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism may go on to work as professors, researchers, consultants, or policy-makers in the fields of recreation, parks, and tourism.

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Highlights

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Entrance Exam

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must typically hold a master's degree in a related field, such as Parks and Recreation Management, Leisure Studies, or Tourism Studies.
• A minimum GPA requirement may be set by the university or program, and applicants may need to demonstrate research experience or potential.

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Duration

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for a PhD program in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism may include academic qualifications, research experience and potential, relevant professional experience, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Some programs may also require a personal interview.

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism How to Apply

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Application Process

1. Prospective students can typically find the application form and instructions on the university's website or through the online application system.
2. They will need to provide personal and academic information, transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample.
3. Application fees may vary by institution and program.

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Fee Structure

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Syllabus

• Theoretical frameworks and research methods in parks, recreation, and tourism
  
• Tourism planning and development
• Sustainable tourism practices and environmental issues related to recreation and tourism
• Recreation and park management
• Park and wilderness management
• Cultural and heritage tourism
• Marketing and promotion of tourism destinations
• Leadership and management in the parks, recreation, and tourism industry
• Policy and governance related to parks, recreation, and tourism

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Job Scope

University Professor/Researcher: Many PhD graduates pursue academic careers as professors or researchers at universities and colleges. They teach courses in parks, recreation, and tourism studies, conduct research on topics such as sustainable tourism, outdoor recreation management, and leisure behavior, and publish scholarly articles in academic journals.

Tourism Development Specialist: PhD holders may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or consulting firms as tourism development specialists. They collaborate with local communities, businesses, and government agencies to develop tourism strategies, promote destination marketing, and enhance visitor experiences while preserving natural and cultural resources.

Parks and Recreation Director: Some PhD graduates become directors or managers of parks and recreation departments at the local, state, or national level. They oversee the planning, development, and management of parks, trails, recreational facilities, and leisure programs, ensuring equitable access and participation for all community members.

Environmental Conservationist: PhD holders can work as environmental conservationists or natural resource managers, focusing on the protection and preservation of parks, wildlife habitats, and natural landscapes. They conduct research, develop conservation plans, and implement sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts and promote biodiversity conservation.

Community Engagement Specialist: Graduates may specialize in community engagement and outreach, working with diverse populations to increase participation in parks, recreation, and tourism activities. They organize community events, lead educational programs, and collaborate with local stakeholders to address community needs and enhance quality of life.

Outdoor Adventure Educator: Some PhD holders pursue careers as outdoor adventure educators or program coordinators, leading experiential learning programs, adventure trips, and outdoor recreation activities. They teach outdoor skills, promote environmental stewardship, and facilitate personal and group development through outdoor experiences.

Destination Management Specialist: PhD graduates can work in destination management organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, or tourism boards, promoting destinations as tourist attractions and facilitating visitor experiences. They develop marketing campaigns, organize events, and collaborate with stakeholders to enhance destination competitiveness and sustainability.

Leisure and Wellness Consultant: Individuals with a PhD in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism may offer consulting services to businesses, healthcare facilities, and community organizations to promote leisure and wellness initiatives. They design and implement programs to improve physical activity, mental health, and overall well-being through leisure-based interventions.

Cultural Heritage Manager: PhD holders may specialize in cultural heritage management, working for museums, heritage sites, or cultural organizations to preserve and interpret cultural resources. They develop exhibits, educational programs, and interpretive materials to engage visitors and promote cultural understanding and appreciation.

Policy Analyst/Advocate: Graduates can work as policy analysts or advocates for organizations focused on parks, recreation, and tourism policy. They research policy issues, analyze legislation, and advocate for policies that support sustainable tourism development, outdoor recreation access, and environmental conservation at local, national, and international levels.

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Career Opportunities

Graduates of a PhD program in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism may pursue a variety of career opportunities, including:

1. Professor or researcher in a university or research institution
2. Consultant in the parks, recreation, and tourism industry
3. Policy analyst or government official in local, state, or federal agencies
4. Director or manager in the parks, recreation, and tourism industry
5. Entrepreneur in the tourism industry

PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism Top Colleges

Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism include:

Admission Process for PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism

1. Application for the entrance exam 
2. Result declaration
3. Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
4. Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
5. Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
6. Course work examination
7. Result declaration of coursework
8. Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
9. Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
10. A registration letter shall be issued
11. Research work started by scholar
12. 6 progress reports shall be submitted
13. Soft copy thesis submit
14. plagiarism report check by the university
15. Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
16. After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
17. After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
18. Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Document Required for PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD in Parks Recreation and Tourism

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.