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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Tourism Studies 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
115093  Bachelor of Tourism Studies 
ORIGINATOR
University of Zululand 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 11 - Services  Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Gaming and Leisure 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to provide qualified learners with information and skills within an inter-disciplinary tourism environment to be able to demonstrate evidence of independent cognitive and applied research skills. The learners will be prepared to enter both the public and private tourism sectors as entry-level non-professionals. They will be able to utilise and apply critical thinking skills and problem-solving techniques within a tourism industry environment.

Learners will be able to demonstrate current and future tourism trends; apply recreation and tourism development, marketing and management principles; understand and demonstrate how to plan, organise, lead and control entrepreneurial initiatives in tourism; and differentiate and apply different research methodologies within tourism settings.

Rationale:
Essentially, tourism is a growing field which faces complex problems in terms of achieving sustainable development. Tourism development managers need to have an opportunity to equip themselves for better strategic positioning in the tourism industry, and there is currently a shortage of tourism development managers. The South African government indicates that tourism is one of six growth pillars that can contribute to poverty alleviation and job creation.

Therefore, this qualification will deliver learners to satisfy the growing need of tourism developers and managers in the industry and develop professionals who are versed in research and practical grounding. The qualification is designed in consultation with relevant industry partners to ensure the qualification meets the needs of the industry. Also, the Department of Recreation and Tourism at the institution has built partnerships with academic and professional bodies to ensure that the qualification is relevant to both practice needs and theoretical development.

The qualification is uniquely positioned since it combines elements of Recreation and Tourism Management for increased understanding of tourism as a multifaceted environment and links thereof. The qualification will provide learners with research skills and placement opportunities within specific tourism industries in the final year. Learners that complete the qualification successfully can pursue a career primarily within research institutions, policy institutions, government, tourism and hospitality industries and civil society organisations. Mostly both the public and private sectors have expressed a need for highly specialised professionals with a multidisciplinary background. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The Institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value, and the institution will endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant. Prospective learners may apply for RPL by following the Institutions procedures. There are no differences in the RPL processes and procedures (as per policy) between the distance education mode and the existing accredited qualifications that the institution offers.

The following principles are relevant:
  • Through RPL a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that they continue their studies at the institution.
  • Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied by the Faculty.
  • RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements.
  • Following the policy and guidelines of the institution; is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience; is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required level.
  • Takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification and is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel to the Dean's Committee and is finally decided upon by the Dean's Committee.
  • Where a learner's academic qualification does not satisfy the formal entrance requirements, the learner may apply for admission through RPL, and an application may be granted subject to such conditions as may be considered to be appropriate.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling 384 Credits.

    Total Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 144 Credits:
    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 112 Credits:
  • Introduction to Tourism, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Development, 16 Credits.
  • Computer Literacy 1, 16 Credits.
  • Business Tourism & Entrepreneurship, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Management, 16 Credits.
  • Computer Literacy 2, 16 Credits.
  • Introduction to Recreation, 16 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 5, 16 Credits (Choose/Select one):
  • English 1 Part A, 16 Credits.
  • Sounds, Words & their Dynamics, 16 Credits.
  • Practical Afrikaans 1, 16 Credits.
  • Beginners German 1A, 16 Credits.
    And
  • English 1 Part B, 16 Credits.
  • Sounds, Words & their Dynamics, 16 Credits.
  • Practical Afrikaans 1, 16 Credits.
  • Beginners German 1B, 16 Credits.

    Total Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 112 Credits:
    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 80 Credits:
  • Tourism Marketing A, 16 Credits.
  • Recreation & Tourism Events Management A, 16 Credits.
  • Recreation Management, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Marketing B, 16 Credits.
  • Recreation & Tourism Events Management B, 16 Credits.

    Total Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 32 Credits:
    Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 16 Credits (Choose/Select one):
  • English 2 Part A, 16 Credits.
  • Sounds, Words & their Dynamics, 16 Credits.
  • Afrikaans Morphology & Lexicography, 16 Credits.
  • Intermediate German 2A, 16 Credits.
    And
  • Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 16 Credits (Choose/Select one):
  • English 2 Part B, 16 Credits.
  • Translation, Sociolinguistics & Heritage, 16 Credits.
  • Afrikaans Prose & Drama, 16 Credits.
  • Intermediate German 2B, 16 Credits.

    Total Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 128 Credits:
    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 112 Credits:
  • Tourism Research A, 16 Credits.
  • Information Technology & Distribution Channels, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Practices & Customer Services, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Research B, 16 Credits
  • Tourism Experiential Learning A, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Experiential Learning B, 16 Credits.
  • Tourism Experiential Learning C, 16 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 7, 16 Credits (Choose/Select one):
  • NGO Sector, Development & Underdevelopment, 16 Credits.
  • Introduction to Hospitality Management, 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate evidence of independent cognitive and applied research skills in the inter-disciplinary tourism environment.
    2. Utilise and apply critical thinking skills and problem-solving techniques within the tourism industry environment.
    3. Demonstrate current and future tourism trends; apply recreation and tourism development, marketing and management principles; understand and demonstrate how to plan, organise, lead and control entrepreneurial initiatives in tourism; and differentiate and apply different research methodologies within tourism settings.
    4. Understand and apply sustainable tourism planning principles.
    5. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of sustainable tourism management strategies. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply research skills are applied within tourism environments.
  • Show the underlying meaning of the principles of quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
  • Apply research methods to solve problems appropriately.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Solve problems.
  • Make strategic and operational decisions by using critical and creative thinking in the field of tourism environment.
  • Produce research reports that will inform decision making.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Apply knowledge and skills within diverse tourism sectors and be able to plan and organise tourism events and business initiatives.
  • Apply qualitative, or qualitative or mixed methods to tourism environments.
  • Apply appropriate research techniques to solve research problems in a tourism environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse the principles that govern tourism planning in various geographical settings.
  • Analyse the strategic importance of tourism planning to achieve sustainable tourism development.
  • Analyse specific case studies relating to tourism development and evaluate the weaknesses and strengths.
  • Compare tourism planning guidelines and contrast for different tourism niche markets such as ecotourism, mass tourism, and adventure tourism.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply appropriate managerial and practical skills and expertise.
  • Apply appropriate marketing strategies and fundamental techniques.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The integrated assessment takes the form of an appropriate variety of assessment methods for example: written and oral tests, examinations, problem-solving assignments, projects, presentations, case studies, portfolios, visual diaries, journals, fieldwork and the assessment of competence through simulated and actual work-integrated learning. This variety of assessment methods help to increase assessment opportunities and encourage academic success of the learners. It also provides the opportunity for all learners to excel in one or more methods of assessment, creating a culture of success. We encourage continuity and alignment across the different modules which include the integration of principles into Tourism Studies. These practices ensure transparency, reliability and validity in assessment. The qualification will be awarded to a learner who has provided evidence to the satisfaction of the assessors that the qualification, as detailed in the stated exit level outcomes, has been achieved, either through education and training within the learning qualification. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification was compared to two international universities offering similar qualifications. The Auckland Institute of Studies offers a Bachelor of Tourism Management which is designed for learners seeking employment in professional roles in the tourism industry leading to future leadership positions. Learners are required to integrate relevant theory, analytical tools and applied skills to implement best practice across a broad range of tourism management functions. The qualification is designed to meet the needs of learners seeking positions of responsibility in the growing domestic and international tourism sectors. Learners will gain an in-depth knowledge of a range of tourism topics, and a strong foundation in the critical aspects of management, marketing and economics, to prepare them for managerial roles in the tourism industry.

    The qualification offered at the Auckland Institute offers overlapping themes related to tourism management and marketing/events which are critical to the qualifications. There is also an overlapping module/s related to English proficiency to enable learners to communicate better within the industry. A key difference in the modules of the international qualifications is the combination of tourism and hospitality modules to provide learners with a more comprehensive knowledge base of how the industries merge.

    Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies - Tourism Development and Management. The qualification focuses on tourism development and management to provide learners with planning and development skills that are needed to enter the largest industry in the world. They will also be exposed to the businesses of sustainable tourism, heritage tourism and meeting and convention planning. Learners will also be prepared for successful careers in the fast-growing travel and tourism industry.

    This qualification is similar to this qualification offering a combination of recreation and tourism development and management modules to provide the learner with a broader knowledge base to prepare to enter the workplace. Events management and marketing are also overlapping modules in both the qualifications. Some of the modules differ between the qualifications because each focus on specific knowledge relevant for the country (e.g. Wilderness and parks in America). The Arizona State University qualification also offers unique modules such as interdisciplinary studies. However, the incorporation of recreation and tourism development modules within this qualification will expose learners to development of concepts incorporating the social sciences, humanities and geography. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Tourism Management, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Tourism Development, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Recreation and Tourism, NQF Level 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Originator Pre-2009
    NQF Level    		 NQF Level Min Credits Learning Prog End Date Quality
    Assurance
    Functionary    		 NQF Sub-Framework
    115497  Bachelor of Tourism in Ecotourism Management  University of Zululand  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  360       HEQSF 
    115498  Bachelor of Tourism Studies in Events Management  University of Zululand  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  360       HEQSF 
    115499  Bachelor of Tourism Studies in Indigenous Tourism Development  University of Zululand  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  360       HEQSF 
    115500  Bachelor of Tourism Studies in Outdoor Recreation Management  University of Zululand  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  360       HEQSF 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.