Master of Management Sciences in Tourism and Hospitality Management

This programme is typically designed to deepen the knowledge and skills needed to manage and lead within the tourism and hospitality industries. Therefore, this degree is aimed at those wishing to develop a career in industry. It focuses on providing practical knowledge that can be used within the workplace.

Additional Admission Requirements

The minimum admission requirements for a master's degree are an appropriate NQF level 8 Postgraduate Diploma, Honours degree, and NQF level 8 (480 credit) Professional degree in tourism or hospitality.

The student must have obtained at least a 60% average at the NQF level 8 Postgraduate Diploma or Honours degree NQF level. Holders of NQF level 8 (480) Professional degrees must obtain at least 60% average at the fourth-year level of study.

In addition to the above, the student must have accumulated 24 credits of course in Research Methodology at NQF level 8 with a minimum score of at least 60%. Admission to a master's degree will be subject to a review process.

Career Opportunities

A Master's in Tourism provides advanced knowledge and skills that open up various career opportunities across various industry sectors. Here are some of the potential career paths:

Senior Management Roles:

• Hotel Manager/Director: Overseeing the operations of a hotel or resort, ensuring profitability, guest satisfaction, and staff efficiency.

• Tourism Board Executive: Working within a governmental or private tourism board, promoting destinations, developing tourism strategies, and managing large-scale tourism projects.

• Operations Manager: Managing the day-to-day operations of tourism businesses such as tour companies, travel agencies, or attractions.

Strategic Planning and Development:

• Destination Manager: Developing and implementing strategies to attract tourists to specific destinations, focusing on sustainability and economic impact.

• Tourism Development Consultant: Advising governments, NGOs, or private companies on sustainable tourism development, infrastructure planning, and market trends.

Marketing and Public Relations:

• Tourism Marketing Manager: Creating and executing marketing campaigns to promote destinations, hotels, or travel services, both domestically and internationally.

• Social Media and Digital Marketing Specialist: Managing online presence and campaigns to engage potential tourists through digital platforms.

Event Management:

• Event Planner: Specialising in organising and managing large-scale events, such as festivals, conferences, and cultural events that attract tourists.

• Convention Services Manager: Working in hotels or convention centres to coordinate large meetings and events, ensuring all details are meticulously planned.

Academic and Training Roles:

• Lecturer/Instructor: Teaching tourism-related subjects at universities or colleges, sharing industry knowledge and experiences with students.

• Training and Development Manager: Developing and delivering training programs for tourism professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Entrepreneurship:

• Travel Agency Owner: Start your travel agency by specialising in niche markets such as ecotourism, adventure travel, or luxury tourism.

• Tour Operator: Creating and selling travel packages, offering unique experiences to tourists.

Sustainable Tourism Roles:

• Ecotourism Specialist: Focusing on tourism that conserves the environment and benefits local communities, often working with conservation organisations or NGOs.

 Sustainability Coordinator: Implementing sustainable practices within tourism businesses or destinations, ensuring minimal environmental impact.