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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. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: |
| Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Management |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 125035 | Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Management | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| Boston City Campus (Pty) Ltd formerly Boston City Campus and Business College (Pty) Ltd | ||||
| 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 | |
| Registered | EXCO 0836/25 | 2025-11-13 | 2028-11-13 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2029-11-13 | 2034-11-13 | |||
| 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 South African tourism industry has proven its resilience and is currently undergoing a paradigm shift as it rebuilds and restructures itself after the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Management is to equip graduates with the conceptual understanding, knowledge, theory, skills, methodology, and capacity to function effectively in the tourism and commercial industry in the 21st century. This qualification will respond to the much-needed graduate skills and capabilities required by industry stakeholders. The qualification will provide graduates with a well-rounded, broad education that equips them with a strong knowledge base, the required theory, and methodology of disciplines in Tourism Management as a field of study. Ultimately, graduates will be able to take responsibility, incorporate sustainable development in decision-making, and show initiative in academic and professional contexts. Graduates will enter the working environment or post-graduate studies with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the tourism industry and the ability to propose innovative solutions, and they will ultimately play a leading role in shaping the future of tourism. The qualification incorporates values, knowledge, and skills in the core areas of accounting and economics, as well as advanced knowledge in management and tourism. Theoretical depth is further maintained by means of incorporating relevant content in a range of supporting areas, including ethics, information technology, legal principles, legislation and regulations, entrepreneurship, marketing, and research methodology. Theoretical depth incorporated in the qualification will enable learners to have a sound knowledge base for further or continued studying, as well as to exit with sufficient knowledge of the tourism industry, effectively enhancing graduates' employability. The qualification will therefore produce effective tourism practitioners who will have the ability to adapt to change in physical, temporal, technological, and procedural spaces. Graduates of the qualification are prepared for post-graduate studies, managerial positions in the tourism industry, and the ability to start and operate a new venture. Rationale: The tourism industry is complex, dynamic, and resilient, and holds great value for the South African economy. Currently, the tourism industry contributes approximately 3.7% towards the gross domestic product (GDP). In 2017, the number of international visitors to South Africa was 14 975 675, while the number of tourism practitioners was 722,013. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a ripple effect on the South African economy, impacting tourism as well. The tourism industry's GDP contributions decreased to 2.2% in 2020, along with the number of inbound tourists, which decreased by 19.5% between 2020 and 2021. However, the resilience of this industry is evident in the number of tourists in 2023. For January 2022, the number of inbound and domestic tourists was 1 201 647. In January 2023, the number of inbound and domestic tourists increased to 2 746 648. The number of foreign arrivals increased by 131.8% from January 2022 to January 2023, thereby shedding a positive light on the performance and dynamic nature of the tourism sector. Given this growth, the tourism industry has been emphasised as a labour-absorbing industry and one with the ability to decrease unemployment, which currently stands at 32.7% (Stats SA, 2023B), among South African youth. However, a critical issue faced by the tourism industry is education and skills development. The development of tourism skills is a concern for the strong tourism industry. In a post-pandemic Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) environment, this holds. When considering human capital theory, it becomes apparent that skills development encompasses three core elements of knowledge and experience, namely educational attainment, tacit knowledge, and industry-specific skills. A wide range of skills is valuable in furthering the practitioner's professional identity in the tourism industry, such as the ability to communicate with a wide audience while solving complex problems and reporting on industry trends. With technology and innovation increasingly playing a role in the post-pandemic tourism industry, graduates in tourism should have a comprehensive understanding of their role within the industry. Considering the industry needs, the Sector Skills Plan 2020-2024 indicates that occupations exist in the Tourism and Travel industry that can be classified as "hard to fill', such as Business Analyst, Marketing Consultant, and Hotel Manager. The reported reason for these occupations not being easily filled is largely due to a lack of suitably qualified candidates at a degree and/or post-graduate level. Rising occupations have also been identified within Tourism, Travel, and Hospitality that further broaden the scope for employment opportunities within this field. Such rising occupations include Business Development Managers, Guest Relations Officers, Travel Accommodation Inspectors, Online Travel Agents, Sustainability Consultants, Trends/Market Analysts, and Operations Managers. This is substantiated by the positions that are recruited for on job portals such as PNet and Careers24 at the time of writing, which include Product Manager/Coordinator, Travel Manager, Business Analyst, Operations Consultant, and General Manager. Various internships in fields such as Hospitality and Travel Management are also available to build experience before entering the industry as a working professional. While these occupations highlight the need for a bachelor's degree in the field of Tourism Management, it is also important to consider the graduate skills deemed as lacking by the industry stakeholders. These include cognitive skills, language and literacy skills, numeracy skills, adaptability, analytical skills, and advanced computer and software skills. Higher education institutions in Southern Africa are uniquely positioned to address the skills gap and assist the industry in overcoming the critical issues identified above. There is a limited number of Bachelor of Commerce degrees in Tourism Management currently being offered, and fewer institutions offer the qualification in the distance mode of learning. In line with institution's vision to "enhance, uplift and continuously improve the quality of education and training in Southern Africa," offering this qualification will contribute to bridging these gaps. Graduates from the qualification will possess not only a strong theoretical base but also the capabilities and skills to operate in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary, and complex environment. The institution recognises the need for suitably qualified graduates to ensure the sustainability of the tourism industry. Therefore, the qualification will provide quality and relevant education and training to all learners by equipping graduates with the necessary knowledge, theory, skills, and experience in the important disciplines of Tourism Management, ensuring a holistic and integrated understanding of the industry. The qualification will empower graduates with appropriate operational and management tools and techniques to demonstrate initiative and take responsibility within the workplace to successfully operate and manage tourism enterprises, thereby addressing socio-economic issues in the workplace. The qualification will provide an option for articulation for those learners wishing to further their learning and careers. With the groundwork in place, graduates are empowered for post-graduate studies in Tourism or Management through a research component, thereby also promoting the concept of lifelong learning. Therefore, the development of this qualification is an important objective for the institution and one that will further the institution's mission and vision. |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Boston's existing RPL policy and practices will be applied in relation to the BCom (Tourism Management). The principles of recognising learning that has already taken place will be applied at a modular level. The institution follows the CHE's Policies on the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment (CHE, 2016), and in accordance with the policy, learners applying for admission to the programme via RPL can only be exempted from a maximum of 50 % of the programme modules. Learners need to be able to demonstrate their prior learning either through evaluation/verification and/or assessment. Each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and learners will enter a discussion with the RPL advisor to determine the requirements for the RPL assessment/portfolio of evidence. Although learners are rigorously assessed, as per the principles of RPL, there is no guarantee that a learner will gain admission into a programme or receive exemptions from modules. RPL for access: In addition to the admission criteria, the institution recognises that many learners who have not achieved a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent prior qualification (e.g., Senior Certificate without endorsement) can benefit from higher education. In keeping with the objectives of the Ministry of Higher Education and Training to support wider and more diverse access to higher education within the higher education system, potential candidates who do not meet the technical benchmark for admission to the programme may be considered for candidacy under the institution's recognition of prior learning (RPL) arrangements. While the institution is making provision for RPL, it is adhering to the guidelines set by the CHE (CHE, 2016), and only 10 % of a cohort will be allowed to a qualification on an RPL basis. Academic Committee and Registrar: Administration will adjudicate all applications. The outcome of the applications will be communicated to learners in writing (via email). Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Or Or Or Or Or |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6, and 7, totalling 372 credits.
Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 122 Credits: Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits: Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 130 Credits: |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Demonstrate understanding of and the ability to utilise information technology systems and platforms and apply this knowledge to the tourism industry.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical principles, theories, functions, and strategies underlying the business environment in a local and global context. 3: Demonstrate an understanding of the principles and theories of Tourism Management in a local and global context. 4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the methods and procedures in entrepreneurship, economics, and quantitative business methods to solve problems in unfamiliar and variable contexts in the tourism environment. 5. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of accounting and financial management, formulate decisions, and act based on such principles. 6. Demonstrate knowledge and application of tourism governance, laws, and ethics. 7. Demonstrate integrated knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of marketing and communication in a tourism context. 8. Demonstrate integrated knowledge and understanding of principles, theories, and strategies in the key sectors of the tourism industry. 9. Demonstrate competence in the ability to analyse, structure, and present material logically and coherently. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9: INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT The institution applies an integrated assessment approach, as outlined in our Higher Education Assessment and Moderation Management Policy. Assessment is designed to support learner learning and ensure the achievement of learning outcomes through a combination of formative and summative methods. These methods are appropriate to the programme NQF levels and ODeL mode of provision. Formative assessments are used throughout the learning process to provide feedback and guide learner development, while summative assessments evaluate the achievement of exit-level outcomes. Integrated assessment ensures that theoretical knowledge and practical competencies are assessed in a coherent and meaningful way, often through contextualised tasks such as case studies, projects, and simulations. Assessment practices are moderated internally and externally to ensure fairness, reliability, and academic integrity. The assessment strategy is structured to reflect the complexity and progression of the qualification, supporting the development of applied competence and preparing learners for the world of work. |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| There are several tourism-related qualifications available at higher education institutions internationally, offered across a range of levels (Higher Certificates to postgraduate qualifications). Many of the qualifications focus on Tourism Management, Business Management, Financial Management, Tourism Marketing, and Sustainable Tourism Development, offering a combination of theoretical and practical learning. Some focus on the broader field of Tourism Management, and a limited number also include Hospitality Management, International Tourism Management, Event Management, and Human Resource Management. Experiential Learning and Placement for Work Integrated Learning experiences are included in some, but not all, qualifications.
Country: New Zealand Institution: University of Otago Qualification Title: Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Tourism NQF Level: NZQF Level 7 Credits: 360 Credit points Duration: Three years, full-time contact mode Entry Requirements: completed at secondary school level (NCEA) would be an advantage. Rationale: The tourism sector offers the opportunity to drive change and innovation, while focusing on sustainable practices and mutual benefit for local communities. It is as dynamic as it is diverse. Tourism is a critical element of the New Zealand economy and has been earmarked by the Prime Minister as a key sector of the economy that continues to play a leading role in New Zealand's economic development. It is about unlocking the potential of tourism places, managing natural and built resources, understanding heritage and cultural issues, developing events, and co-creating experiences that leave a lasting impression on locals and visitors alike. The study of tourism is about understanding tourism and hospitality and being well placed to manage tourism - be it at the level of business, destination, or government - for sustained success. Tourism is also about practical things like hospitality, planning, managing, and marketing. Being part of the Bachelor of Commerce, learners will gain solid skills in business alongside knowledge of the societal and environmental implications of tourism. By the end of a degree, learners will enter a resilient industry with multiple dynamic opportunities for graduates. Qualification structure: The following modules are compulsory: Year 1: Year 2: Year 3: Similarities: Country: Australia Institution: University of South Australia Qualification Title: Bachelor of Business in Tourism and Event Management NQF Level: Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Level 8 Credits: 108 units Duration: three-year full-time Entry Requirements: Or Purpose: To provide learners with a broad and coherent knowledge and skills of business management for a professional career within the tourism management sector, one of the world's fastest-growing and in-demand industries. Graduates from this qualification may pursue career opportunities within a diverse range of global hospitality and tourism businesses, including hotels, resorts, tour companies, travel agencies, visitor centres, theme parks, visitor attraction sites, convention centres, events companies, restaurants, and cafes and bars. Learning outcomes: Qualification structure: Learners undertake the UniSA Business core courses, the required courses in Tourism, Event and Hospitality Management, and appropriate electives. The qualification requires completion of courses totalling 108 units. Compulsory Modules: Year 1: Year 2: Year 3: Assessment requirements for this qualification include at least one online exam. The online exam software has system compatibility requirements, specifically that tablets, hybrid devices, and mobile devices are not supported. Similarities: Differences: Conclusion: The SA qualification compares favourably with internationally recognised qualifications. Similar to its counterparts, the SA qualification is designed to integrate foundational business knowledge with specialised tourism competencies, ensuring a well-rounded and industry-relevant qualification. The SA qualification is specifically tailored to support distance learners. While the standard duration is three years, learners may take longer to complete the qualification, depending on their individual work and study capacity. This flexible structure compares well with the duration and delivery modes of the international offerings The SA qualification aligns well with international practices in terms of content, structure, duration, and entry requirements. Its design reflects an intentional balance between accessibility and academic integrity, with a curriculum that is both comprehensive and responsive to contemporary trends in tourism and business education. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| This qualification allows for the following articulation possibilities.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: Diagonal Articulation: |
| 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. |
| 1. | Boston City Campus (Pty) Ltd formerly Boston City Campus and Business College (Pty) Ltd |
| 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. |