Why should I apply?

The PD trajectory allows you to develop as a person, as a professional and as an innovator. Furthermore, the PD candidate makes a relevant contribution to society and the LTH domain with the results of the research. Following and completing a PD trajectory will lead to a broader career perspective.

What qualifications do I need?

The PD candidate must be in the possession of a Master’s degree, shows proof of a substantiated vision on the LTH sector and has an excellent motivation to complete the trajectory successfully. Furthermore, the candidate shows knowledge and experience with relevant quantitative and/or qualitative methods for data collection and analysis and possesses the level of English needed for completing a PD trajectory.

How can I apply?

First, you have to choose a research topic and a University of Applied Sciences of your preference. That determines who is going to guide you through the application process. Although the program will start in January 2023 you can download the Professional doctorate Proposal Form and start working on your PD proposal.

Potential candidates will be invited to an introductory interview in which the proposed research plan will be presented and discussed. This moment also serves as the first impression of the candidate’s suitability for the program. Following the interview, the candidate is expected to formulate a detailed research proposal supported by the supervisory team applicable to the candidate which shall be assessed by the Graduate Committee of the LTH Network.

What theme do I have to address?

Complexity and dynamics in the tourism and leisure sector are increasing due to the global connection with other industries, combined with sustainability issues, igitization, area development, and the impact of COVID-19. The research in het PD focuses on both negative influences of tourism, such as overtourism and crowds, and on tourism’s positive influences on society. Positive influences include crossovers with the healthcare industry.

The following eight cross-sectoral themes have been identified by the LHT domain for development of new knowledge and interventions by PD’s:

1. Sustainability
2. Optimising the contribution of LTH to major society challenges
3. Resilience
4. Meaningful experiences
5. Key technologies and data
6. Governance
7. Financing
8. Human capital

These research themes require applied practice based research approaches, based on testing and validation of interventions, in collaboration with LTH industry stakeholders.

When can I start?

The LTH-PD Program will commence in January 2023 and run for seven years to give candidates, who start later, the chance to finish the program. You can already express your interest.