The Higher Certificate in Tourism Management at the University of South Africa (UNISA) is a National Qualifications Framework level 5 open distance learning qualification of 120 credits, with a maximum of three years to complete. It introduces students to the tourism and hospitality industry, covering tourism operations, destination knowledge, customer service, and the structure of the South African tourism sector. Students build the foundational skills to support the delivery of tourism products and services under supervision and to provide quality experiences to local and international visitors. It also provides a base for students who intend to progress to a diploma or degree in tourism or hospitality management.
Admission requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of teaching and learning, or a Senior Certificate (SC) with at least an F symbol on the higher grade or an E symbol on the standard grade in the language of teaching and learning, or a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) at level 4 with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning. The admission point score (APS/AS) for this qualification is 15. A recognition of prior learning route is available for applicants who are at least 23 years old, have completed at least Grade 10, and have at least three years of relevant work experience. The SAQA identification number for this qualification is 101434.