Abstract

This research explores the experience of Saudi students at RIT who are enrolled in the Hospitality and Tourism Management graduate program. It focuses on investigating the educational needs and expectations of the students for the purpose of program development in regard to the courses offered and the teaching methods used. The data of this study were collected using interviews, which resulted in a large amount of data being collected. The key areas that the interviews sought to explore were reasons for choosing the US and RIT, learning and educational experiences, and social and cultural interactions with faculty. It was found that the majority of students had positive experiences at RIT, but they suggested a more directed program. Students aiming for PhDs were provided different views as those students aiming for industry. This research provides recommendations among which are adding research focus courses and practical training, along with other courses, such as entrepreneurship and restaurant operations.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Saudi Arabian students--New York (State)--Rochester--Attitudes; Graduate students, Foreign--New York (State)--Rochester--Attitudes; Tourism--Study and teaching--Research--New York (State); Rochester Institute of Technology--Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management--Public opinion

Publication Date

6-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Hospitality-Tourism Management (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Hospitality and Tourism Management (CAST)

Advisor

Richard Lagiewski

Advisor/Committee Member

Carol Whitlock

Comments

Physical copy available from RIT's Wallace Library at LB2376.5.S33 A54 2015

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

HSPT-MS

Download

Share

COinS