Do you dream of a career in travel, hospitality, or ecotourism? Whether you want to manage a luxury resort, design unforgettable travel experiences, or promote sustainable tourism, a qualification in Tourism Management is your gateway to a global industry. South Africa’s leading Universities of Technology offer a variety of Tourism Management programmes tailored for 2026, combining business skills, travel knowledge, and hands-on training.
Here’s your complete guide to the best universities offering Tourism Management courses:
1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – Western Cape
Faculty: Business and Management Sciences
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Tourism Management
Why Choose CPUT?
CPUT offers both foundational and advanced qualifications, blending tourism operations, destination marketing, and customer service. Students get exposure to local and international tourism trends and work-integrated learning.
2. Central University of Technology (CUT) – Free State
Faculty: Management Sciences
Programme Offered:
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Duration: 2 years
- APS Requirement: 27 points
- Required Subjects: Life Orientation, Mathematics
Why Choose CUT?
CUT’s programme is designed for students who want to work in tour operations, destination planning, and travel consultancy. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on industry training and practical business skills.
3. Durban University of Technology (DUT) – KwaZulu-Natal
Faculty: Management Sciences
Programmes Offered:
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Ecotourism (Midlands Campus)
Why Choose DUT?
DUT is perfect for students passionate about eco-friendly travel, nature conservation, and community-based tourism. The Ecotourism and Hospitality & Tourism programmes equip students with sustainability practices and event management skills.
4. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Gauteng
Faculty: Management Sciences
Programme Offered:
- Diploma in Tourism Management
Why Choose TUT?
TUT offers hands-on experience in event planning, hospitality, travel operations, and heritage tourism. The university collaborates with tourism boards and agencies for industry exposure.
5. Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – Gauteng
Faculty: Human Sciences – Tourism & Integrated Communication
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Tourism Management
- Master of Management in Travel and Tourism Services
Why Choose VUT?
VUT provides a full academic progression from diploma to master’s level. Their programmes emphasize research, tourism policy, and international marketing, making it ideal for future leaders in the tourism industry.
What You’ll Study in Tourism Management:
- Travel & Tourism Operations
- Sustainable & Ecotourism
- Event & Hospitality Management
- Destination Marketing
- Tourism Law and Ethics
- Customer Relationship Management
Career Paths in Tourism Management:
- Travel Consultant or Tour Operator
- Destination Marketing Officer
- Events Manager
- Guest Relations Manager
- Ecotourism Coordinator
- Hotel or Resort Manager
- Tourism Research Analyst
Conclusion:
Tourism Management is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, especially in a beautiful and travel-rich country like South Africa. Whether you’re aiming for local tourism development or international travel services, these universities provide the qualifications and practical experience you need to succeed.