To study Hospitality and Tourism Management in South Africa, you need to meet specific academic and institutional requirements. This article outlines the necessary high school subjects, admission criteria, and recommended institutions for pursuing a degree in this field.

High School Subject Requirements (Grades 10-12)

Choosing the right subjects during high school is crucial for preparing for a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Here are the key subjects you should focus on from Grade 10 to 12:



Core Subjects

  1. English Home Language or First Additional Language: Proficiency in English is essential as it is the medium of instruction in most institutions.
  2. Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: While some institutions accept Mathematical Literacy, having Mathematics can be more advantageous, especially for understanding financial aspects of the industry.
  3. Life Orientation: A mandatory subject that provides essential life skills and knowledge.

Recommended Elective Subjects

  1. Tourism: Provides foundational knowledge about the tourism industry, including travel, hospitality, and customer service.
  2. Hospitality Studies: Focuses on practical skills and theoretical knowledge related to hospitality services, including food preparation, service, and management.
  3. Business Studies: Offers insights into business management principles, which are valuable in managing hospitality and tourism enterprises.
  4. Geography: Understanding geographical concepts and regions is beneficial for tourism management.
  5. Consumer Studies: Covers aspects of consumer behavior, which is useful in understanding market dynamics in the hospitality industry.

Basic Admission Requirements

To be eligible for a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, you need to meet the following basic requirements:

  1. National Senior Certificate (NSC): Completion with a Bachelor’s pass.
  2. Subject Scores: Typically, a minimum of 50-60% in subjects such as English and Mathematics.
  3. Admission Points Score (APS): Each institution has its own APS system, usually ranging from 24 to 28 points.

Additional Criteria

Different universities and colleges may have unique requirements, including:

  • Higher Education Institution Requirements: Check the specific requirements of the institution you are applying to.
  • Work Experience: Some institutions prefer or require prior work experience in the hospitality or tourism industry.
  • Interviews and Assessments: Certain programs may require you to undergo an interview or complete an assessment.

Recommended Universities to Study Hospitality and Tourism Courses

South Africa offers a variety of institutions where you can study Hospitality and Tourism Management. Some of the top institutions include:

Application Process

To apply for a Hospitality and Tourism Management program, follow these steps:

  1. Research: Look into various institutions and their specific requirements.
  2. Prepare Documentation: Ensure you have your NSC, transcripts, and any other required documents.
  3. Apply Online: Complete your application on the institution’s online portal before the deadline.
  4. Submit Supporting Documents: Include your CV, proof of work experience, and letters of recommendation if required.
  5. Await Response: If shortlisted, you may need to attend an interview or complete further assessments.

Career Prospects

A degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management opens up numerous career opportunities, such as:

  • Hotel Management: Overseeing hotel operations and ensuring guest satisfaction.
  • Tour Operator: Planning and organizing travel itineraries and packages.
  • Event Management: Coordinating and managing events like conferences and weddings.
  • Travel Consultant: Assisting clients with travel plans and bookings.
  • Restaurant Management: Managing the operations of dining establishments.

Pursuing a career in Hospitality and Tourism Management can be highly rewarding, offering diverse career paths and opportunities to work in dynamic environments. Selecting the right high school subjects, such as Tourism, Hospitality Studies, Business Studies, Geography, and Consumer Studies, is a critical step toward achieving your goals in this vibrant industry.