Undergraduate qualifications

Higher Certificate in Tourism Management

Qualification code: 98226
NQF level: 5
Total credits: 120
SAQA ID: 101434
APS/AS: 15
Maximum time to complete this qualification:  3 years

Purpose statement:
The primary purpose of the qualification which is closely tied to the rationale is to introduce learners to the tourism field. This qualification is designed to enable students to join the tourism industry sector at the entry level. This qualification will enable qualifying learners to: Have a fundamental understanding of tourism management theory and principles. Perform basic duties under supervision in the field of tourism management, for instance, general front office duties, do travel bookings, and provide customer care in this context. Understand how travel and tourism organisations gain competitive advantage to achieve their aims. Know the principles and benefits of good customer service in travel and tourism organisations. Be able to demonstrate the skills, qualities and behaviours needed for effective performance in the tourism workplace.

Admission requirements

Qualification admission requirements

Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.

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 HG or E symbol on SG in the language of teaching and learning,
or
a National Certificate (Vocational) with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning in terms of the NSC.
Applicants who would like to apply for admission through recognition of prior learning (RPL) must be at least 30 years old; have completed at least Grade 10; and have at least five years' relevant work experience in the study field in which they would like to apply for admission to a qualification. For more information on RPL criteria visit: http://www.unisa.ac.za/rpl

Student fees and funding your studies

Application fee

Pay the application fee once you've received your student number:

  • R150 for online applications
  • Use the 8 digit student number you receive from Unisa AND the application fee reference number (ie YOUR 8 digit STUDENT NUMBER 5370810030)
  • Send the proof of payment to susdepid@unisa.ac.za
  • Visit www.unisa.ac.za/paymentinfo for banking details and payment information

Please note that this application fee is non-refundable even if you decide not to study through Unisa, do not qualify for admission to Unisa or cannot be offered a space due to limited spaces available.


Student fees

Click here to find out more about Unisa's student fees, and the bursaries and loans for Unisa students.

Apply for admission

Apply for admission to undergraduate qualifications for the 2026 academic year between 18 August and 10 October 2025.      

Please take note of the following:

  • All applications for admission must be submitted online. 
  • Admission to a qualification is not automatic. It will depend on whether you comply with the admission requirements and if space is available.

Registration

Unisa will send the necessary information about registration dates and the registration process to all successful applicants who have confirmed their acceptance of Unisa's offer. Visit www.unisa.ac.za/register for registration information.

Curriculum / modules