Program Overview

Higher National Diploma in Tourist Guiding (Part-Time)

MQF Level

5

Study Mode

Blended

ECTS

120

Duration

Part-time 5 semesters + Practicum

Course Information

The Higher National Diploma in Tourist Guiding is a part-time program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in tourist guiding. Students will study Maltese history, from prehistory to modern and contemporary periods, and have the opportunity to study a foreign language. The course includes visits to main historical sites in Malta and Gozo, where students will practice guiding techniques. The program also explores links between sustainability and tourism, including modules on the natural environment and sustainable tourism.

Programme Learning Outcomes

• Understand the role of the tourist guide and manage complex concepts of well-organized 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 detailed historical and cultural content of various itineraries and sites.
• Manage small tour groups and ensure safety and customer satisfaction at all times.

Entry Criteria

• 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.
• Passes at grade 5 (SSC&P level 3) or better in SEC examinations in English and Mathematics.
• The successful completion of the Princes' Trust programme and full ECDL are considered equivalent to one O level.
• 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).
• 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.

Possible Career Opportunities

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

Course Dates

This course is starting on the 29th Sep 2025.

Course Modules

• HND5120 Field Visits Part 1
• HND5114 Principles and Practices of Tourist Guiding
• HND5127 History of Art 1
• HND5061 Prehistoric sites
• HND5128 History of Art 2
• HND5130 French Period
• HND5121 Field Visits Part 2
• HND5117 Interpretation of Sites and Artefacts
• HND5108 Mediterranean Studies
• HND5109 Knights' Period
• HND5081 Sustainable Tourism for Tourist Guides
• HND5067 Work placement
• HND5064 British Period
• HND5074 Natural Environment of Malta
• HND5008 Research Methodology
• HND5076 Modern European History
• HND5122 Field Visits Part 3
• HND5129 Storytelling on the Move
• HND5079 Trekking and Countryside Walks
• HND5068 Maltese Culture
• HND5125 Maltese Commerce for Tourist Guides
• HND5116 Digital Technologies for Tourist Guiding and Heritage Interpretation
• HND5131 Malta as a Filming Destination
• HND5082 Contemporary Malta
• HND5077 First Aid
• HND5071 Field Visits - Foreign Language
• HND5078E Field Visits - English
• HND5119 Digital Communication and Marketing for Tourist Guiding
• HND5132 Long Essay and Tour
• HND5115 Classical - Medieval
• HND5126 English for Tourist Guiding
• HND5057 Foreign Language B2

Fees

All prices are equivalent to a semester of studies. Local and International Internships are exempted from fees.

This course is eligible for the Get Qualified scheme, whereby one can get up to 70% tax rebate of the course fee. For more information on this scheme, please contact Get Qualified. The scheme is subject to the T&Cs of the managing authority/body.