The Highlights of the Graduation Thesis Defense of Class 27 Students from the Faculty of Tourism

On May 24, 2025, the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University organized the graduation thesis defense for Class 27 students from four majors: Travel and Tourism Management, Hotel Management, Restaurant and Food Service Management, and Tourism.

Dr. Tran Thi Thuy Trang, Head of Travel Department and Coordinator of this year’s Graduation Thesis Defense, stated that in 2025, the number of students defending their theses had doubled compared to 2024. She emphasized: “This is a very positive and encouraging sign, showing that students are increasingly engaged in scientific research and pursuing meaningful topics that not only bring value to themselves but also hold practical significance. These studies address social issues and lay a strong foundation for students to pursue higher education research in the future.”

The graduation theses focused on three main themes:

(1)        Application of technology and digital solutions in the tourism, hospitality and restaurant business
(2)        Development of community-based tourism and sustainable tourism
(3)        Destination development and the creation and enhancement of tourism products and services

With the thesis “Enhancing the Quality of Experiential Learning for Students of the Faculty of Tourism, Van Lang University”, Nguyen Dinh Do – Valedictorian of this year’s Graduation Thesis – achieved the highest score of 8.9. The Council praised the research for its strong practical value for Travel and Tourism Management students. The research surveyed 183 students, aiming to improving the quality of experiential learning within the curriculum, thereby providing students with opportunities for practical exposure and enhancing their professional skills for future careers.

Trinh Thuc Nghi, with the thesis “Factors Influencing the Willingness to Pay for Vietnamese Restaurants Listed as Michelin Selected”, achieved a score of 8.8. The research examined the relationship between service quality, customer satisfaction, and electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) behavior at Michelin Selected restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City. Data were collected through a survey of 216 customers who had experienced services at Michelin Selected restaurants in the city. The findings showed that service quality positively influences customer satisfaction, and satisfaction plays a mediating role in the relationship between service quality and eWOM. The study contributes to extending the application of the Stimulus–Organism–Response (S-O-R) model to the high-end restaurants sector in Vietnam and provides practical recommendations for marketing strategies based on customer experience and eWOM.

Truong Pham Tu Uyen, with the thesis “Enhancing Tourist Experience through the Application of Digital Technology at Ho Chi Minh City Destinations”, achieved a score of 8.7. The thesis highlights the application of digital technology as one of the fastest-growing and prevailing trends at present and in the future, bringing convenience and added value to tourists. By surveying 186 visitors, the study investigated tourists’ experiences when applying digital technology at various destinations in Ho Chi Minh City. The findings proposed three solution groups: (1) Personalization of experiences; (2) On-site technology applications; and (3) Development of workforces with expertise in management and advanced technological competence.

Overall, the graduation theses of Class 27 students from the Faculty of Tourism were highly appreciated for their practical significance. The students effectively applied their accumulated knowledge to address issues in a scientific manner. Faculty supervisors also provided many positive evaluations of the students’ research process. Most students demonstrated initiative in exploration and learning, showing discernment in resource selection and thoroughness in data presentation and analysis.

The graduation thesis serves as a testament to the students’ perseverance and achievements in learning and research. Successfully completing the thesis reflects their serious academic attitude and determination toward their chosen field of study. For the Class 27 students from the faculty, this journey marks not only an academic milestone but also an unforgettable period of dedication and growth in their pursuit of knowledge and research.

News : Faculty of Tourism
Photos: Van Lang Photographers