SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Higher Certificate in Tourism Management

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
118318	Higher Certificate in Tourism Management
ORIGINATOR
MANCOSA Pty (Ltd)
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate	Field 11 - Services		Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Gaming and Leisure
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2021-10-05	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2031-06-30

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 Higher Certificate in Tourism Management is to afford undergraduate learners quality education and skills that they are able to implement within the tourism sector. The qualifying learners will have the appropriate knowledge to successfully bridge the gap of a quality workforce in the tourism sector. The qualification is developed to produce quality professionals who are inducted into the workplace. This objective can be achieved with a qualification that provides adequate theoretical knowledge within the context of the South African Tourism Industry.
The following exit level outcomes will be achieved by the learners upon successful completion of this qualification:

Evaluate and apply the foundation concepts and principles adopted within in tourism industry and the contribution of the tourism industry to the economy.

Explore and apply sustainable tourism development theories and the process of implementation of these theories.

Explain the concepts and processes of marketing a tourism destination and further assess the challenges thereof.

Analyse and apply Information Communication Technology concepts and their importance to the tourism industry.

Examine the role of small business development and entrepreneurship within the tourism industry and the economic contribution it will have on the tourism industry.

The qualification is intended to develop learners for the workplace as employees and as job creators and provides greater career opportunities in entry-level positions of different functional roles in the tourism sector. On obtaining the qualification, qualifying learners should be able to obtain profitable employment throughout South Africa and consequently contribute positively towards the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of the tourism industry.

Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be equipped to handle the activities in a tourism industry environment to efficiently gain entry-level work placement within functional areas related to destination marketing, business communication and hotel management. Apart from the core, functional knowledge the learner also demonstrates an understanding to successfully analyse environmental, socio-cultural and economic issues, therefore understanding different types of tourists and distribution systems within the tourism sector.

Furthermore, the qualification is directed at those currently employed within the tourism industry as well as those aspiring to enter into the tourism industry, specifically focusing on post-matric learners who aim to enter into this industry. The qualification aims to develop learners with practical skills required to effectively perform their duties. The qualification aims to develop potential entrepreneurs within the tourism industry who will effectively contribute to the economy of the country and enhance the effective application of skills and knowledge within the fast-paced tourism industry whilst addressing issues of unemployment in South Africa.

Rationale:
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Annual Report (2017) "It is important to consider the extent to which tourism has been recognised as a force for development at an international and national level". Therefore, developing and offering this qualification will ensure that learners are empowered with sufficient knowledge and skills to effectively contribute towards the developmental growth of the tourism industry both nationally and internationally.

The Tourism sector has had a tremendously positive impact on the global economy (Dogan, Seker and Bulbul 2015). Therefore, learners must be sufficiently equipped to contribute to this viable economic industry. According to World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) research (March 2018), in the next 10 years, exponential growth in job creation in the sector is expected, which would pave the way for greater demand for a qualified workforce. However, the reality is that the global tourism sector has been challenged with the issue of both attracting and retaining quality workforce due to lack of skilled workforce as a result, facing a negative impact in capitalising on the projected demand.

Tourism has been identified as one of the key economic sectors to combat unemployment in South Africa which is one of the leading socio-economic challenges in the country. With reference to South Africa, the President stated that (Sate of the Nation Address, 2019) "we are focusing our attention, our policies and our programmes on the key parts of the economy that are labour intensive these include agriculture, tourism and the ocean economy".

The qualification will also provide learners with the necessary entry-level knowledge about tourism management, destination marketing, information technology and entrepreneurial skills required to thrive in the tourism industry.
The qualification is designed to equip learners with the skills to function within the fast-paced developing tourism industry. The institution facilitates a distance delivery of education, which allows learners to either retain their full-time employment or seek employment complementary to their academic journey, thus contributing positively contributing towards the economy.

Some of the career opportunities will be available to the learner include and not limited to include Events Coordinator, Destination Marketing Officer, Guest Relations Officer, Accommodation Coordinator, Tour Group Operator, Tourism Marketing Coordinator, Tourist Information Centre Coordinator, Travel Agency Coordinator, Tour Coordinator, Customer Service Coordinator, Hotel Operation Coordinator or Administrator.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes informal, formal learning and work experience. The RPL policy provides processes and procedures by which RPL is conducted at the institution. The institution's RPL Policy will be applied to ensure transparency and consistency of the process. The learner must demonstrate Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) plays an important role in ensuring equitable access and participation in Higher Education. The institution uses RPL for access, advance standing and credits.

RPL for access:

Learners who do not meet the minimum admission requirements of a particular qualification, could, under certain conditions, apply for admission based on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Recognition of Prior Learning learner must comply with all the requirements stated in the qualification and the institutions RPL.

RPL for credits:

Credit is granted for RPL when in the assessment of the institution's selection committee, the learner's knowledge and skills correspond to the learning outcomes of the qualification or specific module for which credit is applied.

Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification study achieved.

Where prior learning is recognised for advanced standing, credit will be given for prior certificated learning in accordance with established practice at South African higher education institutions.

The fundamental underlying principle of the recognition of prior learning (RPL) at the institution is the granting exemption for modules for which it is determined a potential learner meets the exit criteria.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to higher certificate studies.
or

National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to higher certificate studies.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5,120 Credits:

Introduction to Tourism Management, 20 Credits.

Sustainable Tourism Development Theories, 20 Credits.

Tourism Destination Marketing, 20 Credits.

Introduction to Information Technology, 20 Credits.

Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development, 20 Credits.

Operations Management for Tourism and Hospitality, 20 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles adopted within the tourism industry and the tourism industry contribution to the economy.
2. Understand sustainable tourism development theories and the process of implementation of these theories.
3. Comprehend the concepts and processes of marketing a tourism destination and further analyse the challenges.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of Information Communication Technology concepts and their importance to the tourism industry.
5. Understand the role of small business development and entrepreneurship within the tourism industry.
6. Demonstrate knowledge of the operational management techniques and processes required within the tourism industry
7. Understand the practical skills and competencies required within the tourism industry in the 21st century.
8. Recognise and understand the opportunities for entrepreneurship and small business development in the tourism industry.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Examine key concepts and fundamental processes to gain an understanding of the theories used within the tourism environment.

Explore tourism demand and supply to understand how the tourism industry contributes to the economy.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Explain sustainable tourism development guidelines to evaluate the importance of sustainable tourism development.

Examine the impact of tourism on the environmental, economic and social factors to understand the environmental impacts that tourism poses to the environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Assess the nature of tourism as a service product to differentiate the marketing planning process and adapt the marketing strategies within the tourism industry.

Explore challenges of marketing a destination, and the local community perceptions to understand the relationship between destination management and marketing.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Apply technological innovation and development to understand how best the tourism industry can utilise technology to advance.

Develop Information and Communication Technology (ICT) competency skills to enhance the use of technology in the tourism sector.

Develop computer applications software and skills to enhance the use of technology in the tourism industry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Examine definition and conceptual fundamentals of entrepreneurship to understand the role of entrepreneurs and small business development within the tourism industry.

Describe various steps involved in starting a business from inception to growth to outline the process of a business plan.

Examine the importance of equipping the workforce with tactical skills to understand the importance of entrepreneurship as a tool to combat unemployment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Explain organisational culture to show an understanding of managing change and diversity within the tourism industry.

Identify process flow for the operation of tourism and hospitality entities to ensure effective management of the operational process.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Assess customer relations management and good service quality to elucidate on how to manage guest services in the tourism industry.

Understand interpersonal and conceptual skills to comprehend operational management.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Identify and assess various entrepreneurial opportunities to explain how people can establish businesses within the tourism industry.

Identify and discuss socio-economic challenges or problems facing host destinations to enhance social entrepreneurship.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The following international qualifications were found to be comparable with this qualification:

Country: Ireland-Dublin
Institution: ISB International School of Business Dublin
Qualification Title: Certificate in Applied Tourism and Events Management
Purpose of Qualification
This qualification is designed for undergraduate business learners who have a particular interest in Tourism and Event Management. This is a study abroad programme for three months. Learners study these subjects in the context of Ireland which adds to their previous knowledge in these areas. They continue to build on their knowledge and skills in the areas of management, communication and economics in a multi-cultural context.

Similarities/Differences Similarities:
Both these Tourism qualifications (Higher Certificate in Tourism Management and Certificate in Applied Tourism and Events Management) equip learners with the vital knowledge as required by the Tourism industry globally. Both qualifications cover Tourism Marketing which is crucial to understanding demand and supply within this industry. Management Principles and Operation Management is also necessary for learners to grasp the unique service sector of the tourism industry. Similar to the MANCOSA's qualification business and communication skills will be covered within the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development module to ensure that learners attain the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently establish and manage viable businesses within the tourism industry. Both the MANCOSA and the ISB International School of Business Dublin programmes have six modules each incorporated into the curriculum.

Differences:
The ISB International School of Business Dublin modules are unique and important to contextually understand the tourism industry in their country. Furthermore, this qualification is offered only for a semester whereas the MANCOSA's qualification will be offered in one year.

Country: Canada
Institution: Saint Andrews, New Brunswick Institution: New Brunswick Community College (NBCC)
Qualification Title: Certificate in International Travel and Tourism
Purpose of Qualification:
International Travel and Tourism professionals know that personal growth starts with fresh scenery and a sense of adventure. They explore new social, geographical, and cultural terrains. The qualification combines classroom work, industry attachments, practical work experience, and international travel. While most other travel and tourism qualifications include a branded packaged tour for the learners. Learners gain marketing and sales skills to develop and implement tourism destination products in the areas of sport, culture, adventure, entertainment, recreation, food, education, and history. International Travel is both a science and art; experts are needed to fulfil dreams today.

Similarities:
Both qualifications are offered for one year, with two similar modules; Sustainable Tourism Development, Travel and Tour Agency Entrepreneurship modules which contribute to the curriculum for these qualifications.

Differences:
The proposed qualification offers six modules whereas the New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) offers learners an option of up to nineteen modules for this particular qualification. The proposed qualification is offered for one year with two semesters whereas the New Brunswick Community College offers the qualification for two years with four semesters.

Country: Kerry- Ireland
Institution: Institute of Technology (TRALEE)
Qualification Title: Higher Certificate in Arts in Travel and Tourism
Purpose of Qualification:
The Higher Certificate in Arts in Travel and Tourism is organised around a number of themes - tourism, travel industry, business and personal development to build your knowledge and skills as the semester's progress. The department is deeply immersed in the tourism industry, and the learners benefit from the wide range of facilities and attractions in the area. Familiarisation trips to sample the tourism product, as well as industry guest speakers, are important features of the qualification. Learners who successfully complete the qualification can transfer to the third year of the Bachelor of Arts in Travel & Tourism Management. This qualification has been designed to provide learners with professional knowledge and skills which can be applied to a variety of career opportunities within a range of tourism businesses.

Similarities:
Both qualifications have similar modules however, they are named differently but have the same core concepts:

TRALEE offers Tourism Principles and MANCOSA offers Practices and Introduction to Tourism Management.

TRALEE offers Business Applications and MANCOSA offers Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development.

TRALEE offers Global Destination Geography MANCOSA offers Tourism Destination Marketing.

TRALEE offers Tourism Marketing MANCOSA offers Tourism Destination Marketing.

TRALEE offers Digital Marketing MANCOSA offers Tourism Destination Marketing.

TRALEE offers Travel Information Systems MANCOSA offers Introduction to Information Technology.

TRALEE offers Leadership and Teambuilding and MANCOSA offers Tourism Operations Management.

Differences:
The Higher Certificate in Arts in Travel and Tourism offered by the Institute of Technology is a two-year qualification that is divided into four semesters. The new qualification is offered in one year and is divided into two semesters. The Institute of Technology offers five credits for each module and the proposed qualification offers twenty credits for each module.
the Institute of Technology is a two-year qualification that is divided into four semesters. The new qualification is offered in one year and is divided into two semesters. The Institute of Technology offers five credits for each module and the proposed qualification offers twenty credits for each module.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Higher Certificate in Events Management, NQF Level 5.

Higher Certificate in Marketing, NQF Level 5.

Vertical Articulation:

Diploma in Tourism, NQF Level 6.

Diploma in Tourism Management, NQF Level 6.

Diploma in Marketing Management, NQF Level 6.

Diploma in Event Management, NQF Level 6.

Bachelor of Arts in Tourism Management, Level 7.

Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Management, Level 7.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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