The tourism and hospitality industry is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector that plays a vital role in global economies. The OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management is a comprehensive qualification designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge and skills required to succeed in this competitive industry.
Regulated by Ofqual and internationally recognized, this combined diploma is equivalent to the first two years of an undergraduate degree. It provides a robust foundation for those aspiring to pursue careers or further education in tourism, hospitality, event management, and related fields.
The OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management offers an in-depth exploration of key industry principles, including customer service excellence, event planning, sustainable tourism, and operational management. The course is designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills, preparing learners to meet the demands of diverse roles within the sector.
With its flexible, assignment-based learning approach, the diploma suits professionals, students, and career changers seeking to enhance their expertise while balancing other commitments.
This diploma integrates core topics in tourism and hospitality management, focusing on industry trends, customer experience, business operations, and strategic planning. Learners will engage with subjects that cultivate leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities essential for success in the field.
The OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management offers a comprehensive and flexible qualification for anyone looking to excel in the vibrant tourism and hospitality industry. With its internationally recognised status and practical focus, this diploma prepares learners to meet industry challenges and advance their careers confidently.
Enroll today to begin your journey toward becoming a skilled professional in tourism and hospitality management.
OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management
The OTHM Level 5 Extended Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management comprises twelve mandatory units, totaling 240 credits. The qualification requires 2,400 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT), with a recommended minimum of 1,200 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
To successfully complete the diploma, learners must attain 240 credits, consisting of 120 credits at Level 4 (six units) and 120 credits at Level 5 (six units).
Level 4 Mandatory units:
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Academic Writing and Research Skills | 20 | 100 |
| 2 | Business Environment for Tourism and Hospitality | 20 | 100 |
| 3 | Services Marketing in Tourism and Hospitality | 20 | 100 |
| 4 | Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality | 20 | 100 |
| 5 | Events Management | 20 | 100 |
| 6 | The Development of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry | 20 | 100 |
Level 5 Mandatory units:
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Digital Marketing Management for Tourism and Hospitality | 20 | 100 |
| 2 | Operations Management | 20 | 100 |
| 3 | Management Accounting | 20 | 100 |
| 4 | Management of Human Resources | 20 | 100 |
| 5 | Customer Relationship Management | 20 | 100 |
| 6 | Contemporary Issues in Tourism and Hospitality | 20 | 100 |
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on heir studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes of OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management
Academic Writing and Research Skills
- Understand the concept and purpose of academic research and writing.
- Understand how to conduct academic research.
- Be able to demonstrate critical thinking skills.
- Understand how to construct a reliable and valid academic argument.
Business Environment for Tourism And Hospitality
- Know about the nature and role of public sector organisations in the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Know about the nature and role of private sector organisations in the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Be able to analyse the internal environment in which tourism and hospitality businesses operate.
- Be able to analyse the external environment in which tourism and hospitality businesses operate.
Services Marketing in Tourism and Hospitality
- Understand the principles of services marketing in the tourism and hospitality industry
- Know about the components of the marketing mix.
- Know about the principles of consumer behaviour in the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Understand the nature and importance of customer service in the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality
- Understand sustainability and the sustainable development concept.
- Understand the impacts of the tourism and hospitality industry on destinations.
- Understand the principles of sustainable tourism.
- Understand sustainability initiatives in tourism and hospitality businesses
Events Management
- Understand different types of events.
- Understand the different types of events that take place within the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Understand the characteristics of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE) sector
- Understand the impact that events can have on tourism destinations.
The Development of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry
- Understand the main factors affecting the development of the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Know about the factors affecting consumer demand within the tourism and hospitality industry
Digital Marketing Management for Tourism and Hospitality
- Understand the principles of digital marketing management.
- Know about the role and function of digital marketing management in tourism and hospitality businesses.
- Understand the digital marketing environment for tourism and hospitality
- Be able to conduct market research in the digital environment for the tourism and hospitality industry.
Operations Management
- Know about the ways in which effective operations management can benefit tourism and hospitality businesses.
- Understand processes, systems and planning methods used in operations management.
- Understand the role of operations management in tourism and hospitality.
- Understand the principles of visitor attraction management in the tourism industry.
Management Accounting
- Know about the context and purpose of finance and accounting in the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Be able to prepare financial statements for different types of businesses.
- Be able to interpret financial statements.
- Understand how a tourism or hospitality business could manage its working capital and revenue management.
The Management of Human Resources
- Understand the purpose and objectives of human resource management.
- Understand the functions of human resource management.
- Understand how internal and external factors impact the human resource management function.
- Understand modern development in human resource management function in a business.
Tourism and Hospitality Customer Relationship Management
- Know about customer relationship management in the tourism and hospitality industry
- Understand the nature of customer decision making.
- Understand the importance of teamwork in the context of managing customer relations.
- Understand how to effectively monitor and communicate levels of customer service.
Contemporary Issues in Tourism and Hospitality
- Understand contemporary issues that are influencing the development of the tourism and hospitality industry
- Understand the impacts of contemporary issues on the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Understand the impact of current trends on the development of the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Understand the impacts of change on the tourism and hospitality industry.
Benefits – OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Builds Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Prepares learners to effectively engage with customers, colleagues, and stakeholders in diverse settings. - Ofqual-Regulated and Internationally Recognised
This qualification meets UK standards and is widely accepted by employers and academic institutions around the world. - Comprehensive Curriculum Covering Key Industry Areas
Provides in-depth knowledge of tourism, hospitality, event management, customer service, and sustainable practices. - Equivalent to Two Years of Undergraduate Study
Offers 240 credits, giving learners a strong academic foundation comparable to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. - 100% Assignment-Based Assessment
Enables flexible study without the pressure of exams, ideal for working professionals and busy learners. - Enhances Career Opportunities
Prepares learners for a wide range of roles including hospitality manager, event coordinator, tourism officer, and more. - Supports Academic Progression
Acts as a pathway to Level 6 qualifications, bachelor’s degrees, or professional certifications in tourism and hospitality. - Develops Practical and Leadership Skills
Equips learners with effective management, strategic planning, and customer service skills essential for the industry. - Flexible Learning Options
Available through online and blended learning formats, allowing learners to study at their own pace and convenience. - Focus on Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
Encourages environmentally and socially responsible management practices aligned with current global trends.
The OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management is designed for a broad range of learners passionate about building a career in the vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors. This course is ideal for:
- Aspiring Tourism and Hospitality Professionals
Individuals seeking foundational knowledge and practical skills to enter the industry confidently. - Current Industry Employees
Hospitality workers, event coordinators, and tourism staff aiming to formalize their experience with a recognised qualification. - Career Changers
Those looking to transition into tourism, hospitality, or event management from other fields. - Students Planning Further Education
Learners intending to progress to higher education qualifications such as Level 6 diplomas or bachelor’s degrees in related subjects. - Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Individuals wanting to develop strategic and operational expertise to manage or launch businesses in tourism or hospitality. - International Learners
Students worldwide seeking a UK-regulated, globally recognised qualification with flexible learning options. - Professionals Seeking Flexible Study
Those who require an assignment-based course structure that fits alongside work or personal commitments.
This diploma suits anyone eager to develop leadership, management, and customer service skills tailored to the dynamic tourism and hospitality industry.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignments & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignments and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to OTHM External Quality Assurance Versifier (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, OTHM will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the OTHM Level 4 and Level 5 Combined Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management.
