PolyU and University of Surrey Sign an Agreement on Joint PhD Programme Framework

HUNG HOM, Hong Kong - Oct. 31, 2019 - PRLog -- The first programme will be launched in the research fields of hospitality and tourism, with further programmes to follow in other disciplines.

Under the cotutelle model, the PhD students in both universities will have the privilege of broadening their international exposure and network during their studies. They will also be involved in research projects that are supervised by their home and host universities. This is the first joint PhD programme leading to dual awards between PolyU and a global leading institution in Europe.

Citing the example of the first programme in the agreement, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at PolyU and the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Surrey will provide joint thesis supervision and award of a dual degree to doctoral candidates. The students will spend no less than 18 months at each institution and must fulfill all requirements set by each. However, they only need to complete one doctoral thesis. Upon completion of the programme, they will receive a dual PhD degree with separate award parchments.

The signing ceremony, presided over by Professor Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, and Professor G.Q. Max LU, President and Vice-Chancellor of Surrey, was held at PolyU on 17 October. The ceremony was witnessed by senior management and representatives of both institutions.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Professor Teng stated, "Collaboration between academic institutions is a prevailing global trend in higher education. The sharing of resources and expertise between universities can greatly benefit their educational and research programmes.  This agreement provides an excellent opportunity for our PhD students to participate in world-class research led by internationally leading experts in their fields at both universities."

Professor Lu said, "It is fantastic to see the collaboration between two strong institutions to begin the dual PhD programme in hospitality and tourism management – world-leading disciplines in both universities. I hope other complementary fields will follow suit soon to further enhance our respective reputations globally."

PolyU and Surrey have a longstanding partnership that dates back to 2009. The wide range of collaborative activities includes joint research projects in the field of hospitality and tourism management, as well as more than 60 student exchanges in disciplines including construction and environment, design, engineering, hotel and tourism, language studies, logistics and marketing.

Full Press Release: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/web/en/media/media_releases/index.html