Higher National Diploma in Tourist Guiding

Prospective students will study Maltese history, starting from prehistory to modern and contemporary periods. Students are also offered the possibility to study a foreign language. The course includes visits to the main historical sites in Malta and Gozo, in which students practice guiding techniques. Links between sustainability and tourism will also be explored in modules on the natural environment and sustainable tourism that are included in this course. Students will also directly engage with the industry by shadowing professional tourist guides on the job.

• Understand the role of the tourist guide and manage the complex concepts of well-organised tours
• Be creative in the design and management of historical and thematic tours
• Evaluate and anticipate customer expectations during the implementation process of tour guiding
• Understand and explain the detailed historical and cultural context of various itineraries and sites
• Manage small tour groups and ensure safety and customer satisfaction at all times

Prerequisites

• A combination of a minimum of 3 Advanced and Intermediate levels, of which one needs to be an Advanced level (MQF/ EQF level 4) pass. These qualifications must add up to a minimum of 44 points as per the matrix provided on the pages at the back of the prospectus AND pass at grade 5 (SSC&P level 3) or better in SEC examinations in English, and Mathematics. The successful completion of the Princes’ Trust program and full ECDL are considered equivalent to one O level. OR
• An ITS Diploma in Events Operations, Rooms Division, Travel and Tourism, Food Preparation and Production, and Food and Beverage Service and Climate Friendly MQF/EQF Level 4 (or equivalent). OR Apply as a mature student, at least 23 years of age by the beginning of the academic year applied for, and subject to proficiency and/or aptitude tests as per direction of the ITS. The ITS also reserves the right to subject the candidate to an interview and/or an RPL procedure prior to acceptance.
• Minimum age required: 16 years.
• Any person, who intends to guide in Malta, requires a license issued by the Malta Tourism Authority authorising him/her to act as a tourist guide. ITS students who successfully complete an HND in Tourist Guiding can apply for a tourist guiding license issued by the Malta Tourism Authority.

Possible Career Opportunities

• Freelance Tourist Guide
• Gallery Site Officer
• Museum Interpretation Officer
• Tourist Information Centre Manager

* Fees

• EU/EEA Nationals with a Valid Maltese ID Passport or Maltese ID Card or Maltese Residence Permit following Courses on Campus and Online €0 per semester
• EU/EEA Nationals with a valid EU Passport and/or EU ID card opting to follow courses online only, where applicable n.a per semester
• Non-EU Nationals residing in Malta following Full-Time Courses €1300 per semester
• Non-EU Nationals following Full-Time Courses Online only, where applicable n.a per semester

Duration

• Full Time 3 Semesters + Praticuum
• Part-Time 5 semesters + Practicum

About the Institute of Tourism Studies
The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS), established in 1987, is Malta's leading tourism and hospitality educational institution. ITS offers a broad selection of study programmes taught by experienced and dedicated lecturers. The campus provides multiple specialised labs and kitchens to ensure that students receive the essential theoretical and practical education.

The Institute of Tourism Studies, located close to the Malta International Airport and sister campus in Qala, Gozo, currently offers programmes of study ranging from Foundation Programme (MQF Level 2) to Masters Degree Programmes (MQF Level 7) level. ITS has a signed academic affiliation with the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (EAHM), ranked one of the top ten institutions globally in the field of Tourism and Hospitality Management.

In addition to the agreement with EAHM, ITS has secured contracts throughout the years with various top international universities and institutions to ensure students not only graduate from a reputable institute but in the process have the opportunity to study at these institutions. Students can obtain a more comprehensive experience and develop skills to meet diverse international standards.

ITS works closely with the highly esteemed Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences in Finland and Institut Lyfe (formerly known as Institut Paul Bocuse.) in France to offer its degree programmes in Bachelor in International Hospitality Management and Bachelor in Culinary Arts, respectively.

The Institute of Tourism Studies prides itself on offering students theoretical knowledge and extensive hands - on experience throughout the ITS training restaurants, kitchens, and hospitality laboratories. ITS students also gain opportunities for further training through the Local Industrial Trade Practice and International Internship, which is included in the students' programme of study.

With various programmes available at multiple levels, covering the necessities of the tourism and hospitality industry, students can be sure they have the best opportunity to specialise in areas suited to their abilities and interests.