colleges that offer travel agent courses

The 10 Best Schools For Becoming a Travel Agent: Degree and Job Info

Find your perfect school.

Do you like to travel? If so, you should consider pursuing employment as a Travel Agent. What better way to combine your hobby with a career, right? If you are interested, check out our guide below and get started today!

Methodology

If you’re ready… Get ready for take-off… into an exciting new career in travel. These fine schools display the best programs for those interested in the field based on the following:

• Provides a comprehensive program in the field of travel, primarily for those interested in becoming a Travel Agent or would like to focus on Hospitality Management and the like,
• Displays proper accreditation to become a qualified Travel Agent,
• The curriculum ensures that the program covers topics such as travel industry regulations, booking procedures, customer service, sales, and marketing,
• Provides possible internship opportunities that offer internships with travel agencies or other related organizations to give students hands-on experience,
• Provides learning options, such as on-campus and online formats,
• Offers job placement services and networking opportunities.

To learn more, see our Methodology page.

10 BEST SCHOOLS FOR A TRAVEL AGENT DEGREE

Casper college.

(Online) Associate in Hospitality And Tourism Management

Casper College’s online associate in hospitality and tourism management degree is a 63-66 credit program that allows students to graduate without visiting the campus. Students who finish the program, taught by faculty members with industry expertise, can exhibit a current understanding of products and services supplied by various tourism/hospitality industry segments.

Students will also learn how to explain tourism/hospitality products and services that are distributed, advertised, and sold, appreciate the value of service in tourism/hospitality, display destination knowledge, and correctly use the specialist vocabulary used by industry professionals.

Students will be asked to contact local and regional business leaders for interviews, visits, evaluations, planning, and analytical-based projects.

Courses relevant to travel careers are:

• Introduction to Hospitality and Tourism Management
• Hotel Operations Management
• Sales and Customer Relationship Management
• Convention Sales and Management
• Tourism Management
• Legal Environment of Business 

The goals of this degree include delivering exceptional client service, managing accommodations, developing novel income streams, and conducting economic analysis, all of which are important in becoming a travel agent.

Check out Casper’s Online Associate In Hospitality And Tourism Management , see if the requirements meet your standards, and start making your dream come true. 

Highline College

(On-campus) Associate of Applied Science degrees in Hospitality and Tourism Management

An Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Highline College is one of the best degrees to help you become a successful travel agent. Each student is given the option to work with a HOST advisor to create their specific degree plan. Because you will specialize in your chosen job route, you will only attend classes directly related to your path.

A Flight Certificate program, also offered at Highline College, is intended for those who are interested in the aviation industry and its three focus areas:

• Airport operations and management

Individuals who complete this course of study will be adequately schooled in the logistical parts of the three aforementioned focus areas, resulting in a comprehensive understanding of the flight business. This course option includes all of the elements required to succeed as a professional in the aviation, airline, or airport industry.

Program courses include:

• Travel Geography
• Customer Service Operations
• Airline and Aviation Operations
• Airport Operations
• Travel Counselor
• Destination Marketing Organization

Highline College’s Flight Certificate is one of the most well-known certificates for those looking for work in a travel agency. This degree and certificate will undoubtedly enhance your resume. Learn about the school’s Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management and Flight Certificate program .

Georgia Piedmont Technical College

(Online) Associate In Marketing Management 

Marketing and branding tactics, finding new ways to sell products and services, and remaining competitive are critical components of sustaining a positive client relationship in the travel agency industry. These topics are covered in the Associate in Marketing Management online program at Georgia Piedmont Technical College for aspiring professional travel agents.

The online associate in marketing management degree at GPTC offers several concentration options, including retail management and entrepreneurship. Students acquire hands-on experience by participating in a marketing internship or practicum.

Core courses include:

• Professional selling
• Business regulations and compliance
• Digital technologies in business

Pursuing this marketing degree is one approach to honing your customer service and sales abilities. It provides a curriculum that will assist you in understanding consumer behavior, needs, or desires and developing solutions to address them.

The career center at the college fosters favorable results by assisting students in developing resume writing, interviewing, and job-hunting skills. Go to the Associate In Marketing Management page to learn more if you’re ready to join GPTC’s nearly 100 percent success record after graduation.

Westchester Community College

(On-campus) AS in Marketing

The Associate of Science in Marketing program combines hands-on experience with academics to prepare students for a career in marketing and various industries in the twenty-first century. The program includes hands-on class projects with real-world applications, a core set of general education courses, and specialized marketing courses in consumer behavior, advertising, professional selling, and strategic marketing management.

Students will work in groups to develop new product developments, sales presentations, and advertising media plans, all critical components when selling tickets or vacation packages. The curriculum is intended to prepare students for transfer to SUNY and private four-year institutions.

Students can join the American Marketing Association and the Marketing Club and gain experience in internship positions in manufacturing, consumer goods, services, retailing, distribution, advertising, promotion, direct marketing, e-commerce, international marketing, and many other industries.

Program electives include:

• Entrepreneurship
• Professional Selling
• Digital Marketing
• Market Research
• Market Internship

An aspirant travel agent with a marketing degree may work with a tour company, cruise line, or resort. Visit Westchester Community College and begin your career with one of the best AS in Marketing programs available.

Seminole State College of Florida

(On-campus, hybrid, and online) AA in Advertising/Public Relations

Advertising and public relations are critical in generating more revenue for any travel company. Travel agencies require public relations to help them gain recognition and establish a brand for themselves. This AA degree teaches you marketing communications, how to deal with various types of customers, and how to defend your company’s reputation.

Professors who are specialists in their fields will also teach you how to create, develop, and launch campaigns. You’ll get hands-on experience with television and digital design projects here. This AA in Advertising/Public Relations is a great place to start a variety of vocations.

Available courses include:

• Principles of Public Relations
• Research Methods for Communication
• Digital Editing
• Advertising
• Interpersonal Communication
• Principles of Marketing
• Client Engagement

With 60 credit hours to complete, you will gain competencies needed in real-life circumstances, prepare to communicate the right message to clients to build long-term connections and discover how to develop travel promotion plans.

Students must collaborate with Student Affairs advisors, counselors, or specialists to ensure that required courses are taken and entry requirements for their desired college/university program are met.

Get a strong start as a travel agent at Seminole State College of Florida . 

Community College of Baltimore Country

(Online) Travel Agent Training Certificate

Community College of Baltimore Country has designed the Online Travel Training Certificate for students seeking a career in this rapidly growing industry. The program constitutes airline, ground transportation, hotels and resorts, cruises and tours, international and domestic travel, reservations and pricing, specialty travel, and other topics.

This certificate leads to a Travel Agent Proficiency qualification, recognized internationally by the travel industry, and ranges from entry-level travel agent knowledge to senior management for agencies or tour operations. ​

This online curriculum is divided into two modules, with students having up to six months to complete the course material. The first lesson is intended to teach students how to begin a travel career and the basic and destination geography that a travel agent is most likely to recommend and sell to their clients. Introduction to the travel industry, basic geography, professional skills, and destination geography are among the topics to be covered.

The second lesson will teach you how to establish a travel job and domestic and worldwide travel locations. The travel business will be discussed, including airlines, ground transportation, hotels and resorts, cruises, excursions, specialized travel, and more.

Jumpstart your travel career with a Travel Agent Training Certificate and be competitive in the industry. 

LeTourneau University

(On-campus or online) AS in Airport Management

The airport management associate degree program prepares students for careers in airports and related client businesses and industries. Students are immersed in real-world learning environments. Furthermore, LeTourneau University’s Associate of Science in Aviation Management degree blends the finest of LETU’s nationally known aviation program with excellent business training, resulting in a program poised to drive you into leadership positions in the aviation sector.

The associate degree in airport management program was created with a strong career focus in mind, giving graduates the knowledge and skills needed to enter the profession in entry-level employment. Many graduates of the associate degree in airport management program have gone on to work in airport management at surrounding airports, start their travel agency, work in national organizations, and even travel internationally.

As an airport manager and analyst student with a special focus on airport operations, you will gain extensive experience. This degree major will further provide you with the knowledge needed to handle the many areas of airport operation. Your courses will teach you how over 40,000 airports and airfields worldwide make daily and anticipated business choices.

Classes include:

• Aviation Management
• Flight Science
• Aviation Safety Factors

Check out the AS in Airport Management and get ready to build a strong foundation in various functional areas of aviation.

University of Massachusetts Amherst

(Online and on-campus) BS in Hospitality and Tourism Management

UMass offers one of the best Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and has been a doorway to student achievement for over 75 years!

Through coursework, industry leaders, hands-on experience, and international travel, you will discover how to be a great leader. The curriculum covers managerial areas such as lodging, food and beverage, customer experience, events, clubs, and revenue and data analytics. Take advantage of experiential learning opportunities by attending HTM Career Day and Marriott Meals, among other similar events.

The HTM major includes upper-level elective courses that allow you to tailor your academic curriculum to your own goals, interests, and needs. Among the HTM electives are:

• Convention Sales
• Club Management
• Beverage Management
• Special Event Management

Another advantage is that UMass offers this curriculum both on-campus and online. UMass Amherst grads are in high demand for careers! Ninety-five percent of alumni get employed by top firms such as Hillstone Restaurant Group, Encore Boston Harbor, Marriott International, and even Expedia and Twitter shortly after graduation!

Get your hospitality degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst , and open the door to a rewarding career in travel agencies.

Boston University

(On-campus) BS in Hospitality Administration

This degree is for students who enjoy traveling and learning about various cultures. Boston University’s Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration program requires overseas travel, which is advantageous for aspiring travel agents. You will firsthand experience what it is like to travel, and you will have a better understanding of the do’s and don’ts, which you can subsequently share with your clients.

You can specialize in either hospitality marketing, event management, hospitality real estate development, or revenue management. You will complete a blend of fundamental courses and SHA core and optional courses, including Hospitality Sales Management and Private Club Management, as part of this 128-credit hour program.

Hospitality Concentrations helpful in being a travel agent include:

• Hospitality Marketing
• Event Management
• Revenue Management & Analytics
• Hospitality Accounting & Finance
• Hospitality Entrepreneurship
• Hospitality Retailing

You will engage in the study abroad program in addition to two 400-hour work experiences – a fantastic opportunity! You can finish the dual degree, include hospitality management as a minor, or even take advantage of the 4+1 option, which allows you to complete both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years.

Visit BUS’s BS in Hospitality Administration and learn more about the program along with their admission requirements. 

Arizona State University

(On-campus) BS in Tourism Development and Management

The Bachelor of Tourist Development and Management degree program at the W.P. Carey School of Business teaches students the marketing tactics and sound business foundations required for success in the tourism sector and allied professions. It covers core courses in tourism planning, convention sales and management, tourism and recreation policy, tourism marketing, and community development.

Students must take an honors thesis course and complete one- to twelve credits of internship work in the tourist industry to complete the program. Graduates can find a job in resorts, commercial recreation firms, tourism development corporations, and travel agencies.

This degree program offers the following concentrations:

• Tourism Development and Management (Meetings and Events)
• Tourism Development and Management (Resort and Hotel Leadership)
• Tourism Development and Management (Sustainable Tourism)

Visit ASU’s BS in Tourism Development and Management , learn more about this degree, and see if it fits your standards. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Aren’t vacations supposed to be fun and relaxing? Planning a trip can be stressful. You must secure a plane ticket, get a hotel reservation, plan activities, and everything in between. Most people let Travel Agents handle the arrangements to avoid stress.

What a fun industry to consider if you like to travel… or help others enjoy their vacations! There are many travel industry jobs to consider, such as: 

• Travel Agent
• Director of Tourism
• Event & Meeting Planner
• Spa Manager
• Cruise Ship Director
• Amusement Park Worker
• Casino Worker
• Recreation Director
• Flight Attendant
• Customer Service Agent
• Hotel Manager

Travel Agents wear many hats. They help their clients plan trips for business or pleasure. They offer valuable advice about travel destinations, as well as the best attractions and hotels. 

Travel Agents also assist with: 

• Setting a travel budget
• Getting the best deals
• Planning excursions
• Book reservations 
• Provide proper documentation requirements, such as health, passport, or security details
• Researches group rates and travel package deals

As a Travel Agent, you very well may get to visit the destinations in which you are trying to market to others. As you experience destinations yourself, you will know what to recommend based on what you see.

Generally, travel can be categorized into two categories, such as: 

• Corporate – Focuses on making travel arrangements for employees who need to go on business trips. They arrange for travel and hotel accommodations while business is being conducted.
• Fun & Leisure – Focuses on making dream vacations coming true for individuals or families. They book air flights, rental cars, hotel accommodations, day excursions, amusement park attractions, and much more! 

To enter into a career as a Travel Agent, you will need a high school or equivalent education. In some instances, employers may require a certificate from a technical training program in the field. Often, you can locate a program at your local community college or online. 

If you would like, you can also earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism. 

According to the BLS , Travel Agents earned $46,400 per year, as of May 2022. The highest 10% earned upwards of $64,100 annually.

Between 2022 and 2032, the BLS estimates a job growth rate of 3%, adding 8,600 new options over the next decade.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on the travel agency, things are on the upswing… which is contributing to the increased job growth rate.

While licensure is not required, earning certifications will help you exhibit your skills and knowledge. There are a couple to consider, such as: 

• Travel Agent Proficiency Test
• American Society of Travel Advisors

Perhaps first and foremost, you must like to travel yourself. That’s the fun part, right? However, while working with clients you will need to excel in communication, organization, and sales skills. You also need to be detail-oriented, personable and have excellent customer service skills.

Related Article: The 40 Highest Paying Jobs With a Trade School Education

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

A Complete Guide to Travel Agent Schools, 2024 [+Comparison Chart]

Travel agent schools are one of many travel agent training , education, and professional development opportunities. With so many choices, the decision can be mind-boggling.

Never fear. HAR's (Host Agency Reviews') goal is to de-boggle your mind. We'll help you decide if a travel school is right for you, give you a list of questions to ask before you take the plunge, and help you decide which travel agent school is best for you!

⭐️ HAR Article Highlights: ⭐️

Travel agent school preamble.

• A Comparison Chart of Travel Schools

Is a Travel Agent School Right for Me?

• How Do I Pick the Right Travel Agent School for Me?
• Alternatives to Travel Schools

Completing a travel agent school is not a requirement to enter the industry.

In fact, no specific schooling is required to become a travel advisor . No diploma, no certification or professional certificate, no degree, no fancy letters after your name. Nada. You don't need any of it.

The most important consideration is the quality of the education and how the travel agent school will equip you to succeed as a travel agent.

If/when you pick a travel agent school, the most important consideration is the quality of the education and how the travel agent school will equip you to succeed as a travel advisor.

Wondering what a travel agent does ? We got you.

One of the challenges of choosing a travel school is that there is no standardization or quality control. There's no organization that comes out and says, "Hey, you know, in order to be a credible travel agent school, you need to hit all these marks."

What this means is that you are the one that needs to assess whether or not a travel agent school meets your educational needs.

Sound overwhelming? That's what we're here for! To help you create your own metric to decide if attending a travel agent school is the best choice for you!

Travel Agent Schools: Infographic + Comparison Chart

I released a few messenger pigeons to gather information on school programs. Below is an infographic that offers a list and comparison of travel agent schools, plus tools to help you decide if travel agent school is best for you and (if so) to help you decide which one fits your needs.

Before I launch in, it's important to note that the comparison chart only includes programs that are travel-agent-specific . I didn’t include hospitality, tourism, or events management programs. Those areas of study are a different beast entirely.

Here’s the info our messenger pigeons had in tow 🐦🐧. As it turns out, messenger pigeons have impeccable infographic-creating capabilities. Sign in below to download our comparison chart!

Now that you have the lay of the land of what's out there, we're going to dive into how to decide which program would be the best fit for you.

Here are a few things to help you determine whether or not a travel agent school is a good decision for you. (You can think of it as an un-failable quiz!):

1. are you totally new to the industry?

If you're really working from ground zero, a travel agent school is great way to help you get your bearings. Not only that, but if you do your due diligence and choose a great travel agent school, you stand to save some time by getting all the basic industry info you need in one place (rather than trying to cobble together your own education).

2. Do you want to earn a general degree or professional certificate?

If you want to earn an Associate's degree or a professional certificate then a travel agent school could be a great option for you. If you're in the market for a general degree, you'll want to be sure the travel school you choose is accredited.

If you're in the market for a general degree, you'll want to be sure the travel school you choose is accredited.

How can you tell if a school is accredited?

• Check out our travel agent school comparison chart , which indicates if a travel agent school is accredited. Don't see your school of choice on our chart? Drop me an email at [email protected] so I can add the school to our chart!
• Check on the travel agent school's website to see if they're accredited. (You can usually find this in the About [School] section . . . they'll want to brag about their accreditation, so it will be there if they have one!)

If you're looking to earn a professional certificate, you won't need to pick an accredited school, but you'll want to choose a program that's industry-recognized (more on that later).

3. Does the idea of a structured program & Peer Support motivate you?

A travel agent school can also be a good option if you find If you thrive off of the structured support of a set program—a syllabus, class schedule, homework, evaluation, deadlines, quizzes, etc.

Each travel agent school will be structured differently, so if there are some aspects of the school structure that are important to you, make sure that the travel school fits the bill for you.

Most of the travel agent schools are online, but this isn't necessarily at the expense of tight-knit peer communities. One way to evaluate a travel school is to check and see if they have active online groups of alums. You can also ask programs how much contact students have with one another during the course (we'll get more into the nitty gritty of evaluating schools soon.)

4. Is a Travel School in Your Budget?

The tuition for travel agent schools listed in this article ranges from $495 to $15,900. That's quite a range. In terms of making a sound financial investment, consider these questions:

1. How much do I want to spend on a travel school?

2. Is the travel school affordable?

3. Does it seem to offer a good value?

4. Is it a good value for what it offers (for example, you might consider how much it costs per credit or contact hours, rather than focusing on the total sticker price) .

5. Is it comparable in price to other training programs?

6. Can I pay in installments?

7. Can I get any scholarship, aid, loans?

One thing to factor in your decision is the income potential for a travel agent. How do you know what kind of income to expect? Our travel advisor research papers have income info for employees as well as self-employed travel advisors (both independent and hosted travel agents).

If you're thinking of starting up your own agency , we have info on how much it costs to become a travel agent that can help you benchmark.

5. Do You Have Time?

Travel agent schools are a time commitment as well as a financial commitment.

Like tuition, the duration of travel school programs varies significantly—from four weeks to two years . Additionally, the time you need to invest in your coursework will also vary.

Travel agent schools are a time commitment . . . Like tuition, the duration of travel school programs varies significantly—from four weeks to two years.

If you want to take the time to get your bearings the industry before you dive in, a travel school could be idea. If you want to start selling travel yesterday and are willing to learn as you go, it might not be the best fit (or you might explore a short or self-paced program.)

time to tally your score.

Yay! You finished your unfailable quiz!

If you answered yes to a majority of the questions, a travel school could be a great fit and you should probably keep exploring! So keep reading!

If you answered no to a majority of these questions, you should still keep reading because, let's face it, you're really thorough and you want to ensure you not missing out on any info!

But if you want to take a shortcut to explore alternatives, go here !

Listen to Lu Maggiora, chat on her travel agent school success story in Travel Agent Chatter Vol. 7:

Make a Travel Agent School Short List

A travel school is a good option for you?! *High five!* Now the kicker is this, how do you decide what program might be best for you?

Here's a list of questions to ask of your travel agent school programs to help you narrow it down:

1. Who teaches in the program and what is their background in the industry?

I'm going to be honest here.

There's a lot of travel agent training and education programs out there, and you deserve a program with someone at the helm who's invested in the travel industry. Look at their background, and gauge the industry engagement of the people who run and teach at the school.

There's a lot of training and education programs out there, and you deserve a program with someone at the helm who's invested in the travel industry

The most important quality of a travel agent school is the quality of its education, and choosing one with deep industry roots is a good indication that you'll be in good hands.

This means they should be going to travel industry events and have had real-life experience in the world of travel agents.

2. If you want a general degree, is the school accredited?

If you want a general degree in addition to earning a professional certificate at a travel agent school, you want (I'll go ahead and say need ) to pick a school that is accredited.

Here's another thing to consider: Do any of the credits from the travel agent certificate go toward the general degree? Hopefully the answer is a resounding yes (the more credits that apply to your degree, the merrier).

3. is the TraveL School's certificate recognized within the industry?

Most travel agent schools result in some kind of professional certificate.

in most cases, a travel agent certificate itself is not going to give you instant access to a higher pay scale. But a good program will help you cultivate professional skills, which will translate to a higher pay scale.

If you want to become an independent contractor, you may also want to consider if a host agency accepts the certificate in lieu of the host's education program (more on that later). How would you know that if a host is willing to make this accommodation? You can post a question on their host profile on this very site!!!

Click here to compare travel agent schools to host education programs.

4. Is their curriculum current, thorough and useful?

Evaluating the strength of a travel school's curriculum may seem hard if you have no industry experience. But I'm here to give you a few pointers on how to gauge if it's up to snuff for what you need:

• Does it cover a variety of topics? Does it go into as much depth as you need such as marketing, sales strategies, legal & regulatory topics, an industry overview, trip planning? Is there any focus on some popular niches such as destination specialty, cruise, etc (especially if it aligns with what you want to do).
• Does it focus on topics that you don't need? Okay. I'm about to say something controversial: Unless you want to be a corporate agent , you don't need a curriculum that focuses on GDS (Global Distribution System) . There. I said it. You can throw flaming bags of dog poop on my porch, but I stand behind this because A.) 99% of the time, GDS is not the right tool for the job for leisure agents and B.) It's a waste of your time and money to spend so much time learning a tool you probably won't use. Do you want to be familiar with what it is? Sure. But if you're going to sell leisure, you don't need 20% of your coursework dedicated to it.

Looking to be a corporate advisor? Take a listen to the stories of two advisors focused on corporate:

• Is it current? When is the last time the travel agent school updated their curriculum? Do they talk about current issues in travel? If you're not sure just by perusing their site, give them a holler and ask.
• Do specific areas of focus align with what you want to do? Some travel agent schools will have specific areas of study that might be optional. This may include focusing on a particular destination or niche . This is fabulous . . . unless you don't really care about that area of study. So if a program has an entire unit on, let's say, Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic, that's not going to be very helpful to you if you primarily want to book adventure trips to Alaska and the Arctic regions. But there's an exception . . .
• Does it prepare you to become an independent contractor or an employee? A curriculum will be very different based on whether or not you want to become an employee or an independent contractor . If you want to work for a retail location as an employee, familiarity with GDS may be an asset; a broad overview of cruise lines and popular destinations like Jamaica, Mexico and Europe is likely critical. But if you're going to be an independent contractor, it's important that the area of study aligns closely with what you want to sell. It might seems like choosing a niche is putting the cart before the horse, but homing in on a specialty can help you choose a travel agent school.

5. What are the program goals & do they succeed?

You have a good handle on your goals, but how do they align with the goals of a travel school? More than that, does the travel agent school achieve the goals they set out for themselves as a program? Here's a few questions to consider.

• What are the goals of the program (and does it fit with your professional goals)? Is it to prepare you for the Travel Institute's TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test? (Here's a hint: If prepping for the TAP test is your primary initiative, you can get a study guide for the TAP test and take it on your own for what could be a fraction of the cost to attend a travel school.) Is it to eventually support you with job placement? Is it to make you an expert on selling cruises? Is it to give you a broad overview of the industry? (Another hint: If that's the case, check out the American Society of Travel Advisor's (ASTA) Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor course written by HAR's founder which will be much more cost effective.)
• Does the travel school have follow-up employment services? Will they continue to support you once you're out in the world? How do they do that?
• Are their alumnae ending up where you want to end up? Are their alumnae doing the jobs (or creating the jobs) that you want to do? (Check out HAR's travel jobs board for opportunities.)
• What does their data say? Beyond graduation/completion rate, how long does it take their students to get settled into the industry?

Alternatives to Travel Agent School

Maybe you've gotten this far and decided that a travel agent school is not right for you. But you don't need to throw your arms up in surrender just yet because there are other options.

What are they you ask? Read on!

1. Travel Agent Certification:

Certifications allow you to add fancy letters after your name that will (hopefully) be recognized by the travel industry.

They're often provided by organizations such as  travel consortia , accreditation organizations ( more here on travel agent accreditation options ), and travel industry membership groups such as Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) or The Travel Institute .

A comparable example to travel agent certification might be like a CPA (certified professional accountant). You can still be an accountant without your CPA, but it helps potential clients know that you're the real deal. If you're looking for certification (in addition to/ rather than training) we have a resource for you!

We have an in-depth article on travel agent certifications that you can find here .

2. Host Travel Agent Education Programs:

Host agencies and travel consortia also have loads of education opportunities. In fact, some of the travel agent schools listed above were founded by folks who run host agencies. (They're busy!)

What the heck is a host agency and travel consortium? At its most basic, a host agency is an umbrella organization that an independent agency (that’s you!) can align with for better commissions , support, and marketing/tech tools.

A travel consortium is a collective of host agencies, travel agencies, and/or travel advisors that join forces to combine resources in order to increase their industry footprint. This gives them more including buying potential with preferred suppliers , perks, & more favorable commission agreements.

Read about the host agency and consortia education programs out there.

School's Out for the Summer

Yay! Your education on travel agent schools is complete. You can now consider yourself well prepared (if not over-prepared) to decide if a travel school is for you, and (if it is), which option is your best choice.

Have you gone to a travel agent school? Let us know the good, bad, and ugly in the comments below!

⭐️ Don't Miss HAR's Travel Agent Training & Education Series! ⭐️

• Travel Agent Training and Education: This is the motherboard for all travel agent training options.
• A Guide to Host Agency and Consortia Education: Details on host and consortia education, plus a comparison chart.
• Travel Agent Certification: Want to read up on what certification options are out there? This is for you.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in Dec. 2019. We annually update and republish this article to include the latest information about travel agent school programs. The article was updated and republished on the post date listed at the top of the article.

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Best Trade Schools

Home » Programs » Travel Agent Programs

Travel Agent Programs

Becoming a travel agent is a popular career choice among well-traveled individuals with customer service experience and exceptional trip-planning skills. Completing a travel agent program through a trade school or community college can help aspiring travel agents prepare for rewarding careers in the tourism and travel industry.

Education & Training

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Several trade schools offer travel agent certificates, diplomas, and degree programs that teach students the ins and outs of the industry. Those hoping to run their own travel agency or work with high-profile clients might consider getting a travel agent degree to gain a more in-depth understanding of the hospitality and tourism field.

How Long Does it Take to Complete Travel Agent Training?

100 course hour programs, such as the ones above, are designed to be completed in 6 months.   If you enroll in a diploma program that offers an official certification exam at the end, you might complete your courses in 1 to 2 years.

How Much Does it Cost?

Expect to pay between $2000 to $3000 for a decent online training program.

What is the Training Like?

During travel agent training, many employees and students start by learning how to use industry-specific software and databases to plan vacations and business trips. You might also receive training on particular sales techniques that encourage customers to purchase travel bundles and all-inclusive resort packages.

What Do You Study in Travel School?

Many travel agent schools and trainers also teach:

• Effective customer service protocols
• Different approaches to corporate and luxury travel planning
• Itinerary creation
• Domestic and international travel regulations
• Travel insurance coverage options

Are Travel Training Programs Legit?

Yes, but you should look for a program offered in conjunction with a local school that you can trust.  A legit program will also prepare you for the Travel Agent Proficiency test from the The Travel Institute.

If you don’t have any experience, enrolling in an online travel agent course is an excellent way to acquire skills vital to the job and bolster your reputation with prospective clients and employers.

How Much Do Travel Agents Make?

On average, full-time travel agent jobs pay about $46K to $50K per year. However, you might be able to negotiate a higher wage if you have a travel agent degree or work for a high-profile company.

Self-employed travel agents usually make more than others, earning roughly $70,000 per year or more, depending on their rates and clientele.

Below are wages and salaries per state:

source: data.bls.gov

Occupation:Travel Agents(SOC Code413041); Period:May 2022

Career Overview

How do travel agents get paid.

Travel agents typically have a standard service fee that each client must pay when booking a trip. If a traveler requires extra accommodations in addition to the basic service package, the agent may choose to increase their rates. On a corporate level, travel agents sell travel packages and bundles to make money through resort, airline, and cruise line commissions.

What are the Qualifications to be a Travel Agent?

A high school diploma is the minimum requirement for becoming a travel agent. However, some companies might also prefer applicants to have previous customer service experience. To give yourself an advantage over other candidates for travel agent jobs, you might consider getting an official travel agent certificate, diploma, or degree.

Do You Need a Degree to be a Travel Agent?

It is possible to qualify for a travel agent job if your only credentials are a high school diploma and some on-the-job training. However, obtaining a certificate, diploma, or degree from an accredited travel agent school can improve your chances of getting attractive job offers from some of the industry’s top travel agencies.

What Skills are Needed to be a Travel Agent?

While knowing the ins and outs of the travel industry is essential for aspiring agents, they also need a range of interpersonal and intrapersonal skills in order to succeed in travel agent jobs.

Some of the most important traits a travel agent can have include:

• A friendly and professional attitude
• Computer skills, speed, and efficiency
• Problem-solving skills for handling issues that occur during clients’ trips
• Charismatic sales knowledge and techniques
• Money management skills to ensure they stick to the client’s budget
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Attention to detail and organizational skills

If you’re planning to start your own travel agency or work as a freelancer, you’ll need a certain level of business sense, as well. You’ll need to develop effective marketing, advertising, networking, and accounting skills to be a self-employed travel agent.

Is it a Legit Career Path?

Yes, a career as a travel agent is entirely legitimate. Travel agents are pivotal in demystifying their clients’ diverse and often overwhelming options, ensuring a safer, more affordable, and more reputable travel experience. According to the  Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average annual wage for travel agents is $46,400 per year, or $22.31 per hour. With over 65,000 positions opening annually over the next decade, a career as a travel agent is enterprising and lucrative for those seeking to make a difference in a vibrant and diverse field. 

Job Description

What Do Travel Agents Normally Do?

Travel agents perform several tasks in the process of planning trips and vacations. Each time they take on a new client, a travel agent must:

• Collect information about the client’s travel plans, including the reason for the trip, their chosen destination, trip duration, and travel budget
• Research lodgings, restaurants, events, and venues near the travel destination that suit the traveler’s needs
• Communicate with other travel and tourism professionals to find deals and discounts that fit within the client’s budget
• Obtain any required documentation from the traveler, including passports and travel insurance information
• Book flights and hotel stays, purchase event tickets, and make restaurant reservations for the client
• Maintain communication with the traveler throughout their trip to ensure things go smoothly.
• Handle any issues that occur during the trip, including lost passports and missed flights

How to Get a Job as a Travel Agent

After you’ve obtained the necessary education and customer service skills for a travel agent job, you can take the following steps to begin your career in the industry:

• Choose the travel agency you want to work for and research their hiring criteria.
• Take the company’s required training course to familiarize yourself with the practices and policies of that particular agency.
• Create a resume detailing any travel agent school, on-the-job training, or customer service experience you have.
• If applicable, submit a travel portfolio of past vacations and trips you’ve planned.
• Apply for a job with the company OR, if you have the proper amount of experience and business sense, consider opening your own.

Can Travel Agents Work from Home?

While some travel agents work out of traditional office spaces, people in this profession can also perform their duties from home.

An organized, efficient workstation is essential if you plan on working remotely.

Travel agents who work from home will need the following:

• A laptop or desktop computer
• Document filing and recordkeeping software
• Internet service
• A phone to keep in touch with clients and contacts

At-home travel agents also need quiet, comfortable workspaces where they can take phone calls and conduct video meetings without interruption. Quickly responding to all calls and emails is a must for remote travel agents, so they need to be available during all hours of the day and night.

What is the Difference Between a Travel Agent and a Travel Advisor?

While the terms are often interchangeable, a travel agent typically focuses on booking and arranging travel logistics. In contrast, a travel advisor emphasizes personalized and consultative services, offering tailored recommendations based on clients’ preferences.

Travel advisors often build long-term relationships, providing in-depth destination knowledge, curated experiences, and additional assistance beyond essential bookings. The role of a travel advisor involves a more comprehensive and client-centric approach, aiming to enhance the overall travel experience with expert advice and attention to individual preferences.

Do Travel Agents Have Other Career Options?

Many of the skills you need to enjoy a rewarding travel agent career translate to other sectors of the hospitality and tourism industry. For example, travel agents might consider using their expertise to qualify for concierge careers at high-end luxury hotels and resorts.

Others may prefer to become hotel and restaurant managers, tour guides, and event, meeting, and convention planners.

Summary: How to Become a Travel Agent

Although the path to a travel agent career varies depending on your skills, experience, and location, most people become travel agents by taking the following steps:

• Obtain a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Consider gaining customer service experience at another entry-level job or through some type of community outreach.
• Complete on-the-job training OR enroll in one of the following:
• Specialized training courses at a specific travel agency
• Certificate or diploma programs at a travel agent school
• Associate, bachelor, or graduate-level degree programs for hospitality and tourism or a related field
• Earn a Certified Travel Agent/Associate (CTA) credential through an accredited school or certifying agency.

Local Guides

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7 Best Online Travel Agent Training Programs

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

With online studies, your career as a travel agent starts with a laptop, access to the internet, and a click.

If you spend hours daydreaming about the perfect vacation and love being a part of every last planning detail, a career in travel is right for you.

If you want smooth sailing and to help vacationers’ trips go off without a hitch, a travel agent career is for you.

Start turning travel dreams into a reality for clients.

How do you get the certification and training you need to launch a career as a travel agent?

Check out these best online travel agent training programs.

1. Penn Foster

2. the travel institute, 3. stratford career institute, 4. travel agent campus, 5. grand canyon university, 6. iap international association of professions career college, 7. ashworth college, what courses are in an online travel agent training program, can you earn an online travel agent training program certification completely online, how long does it take to earn an online travel agent program certification online, how much does an online travel agent training program certification cost, bottom line, best online travel agent training programs.

Most online courses prepare you to sit for the Travel Agent Proficiency TAP exam to earn your travel and tourism certification.

The TAP test takes two hours to complete.

The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.

Or, continue your education to get your Bachelor of Science BS degree in hospitality.

After obtaining the necessary credentials, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 66,300 jobs in travel await those who pursue them, with an anticipated 3 percent job growth.

Travel agents earn an average of $46,400 annually, or $22.31 per hour.

The American Society of Travel Advisors, ASTA, and The Travel Institute developed the TAP certification examination.

Pass the TAP to launch your travel agent career.

Earn your TAP certification and then continue your education by attaining your Certified Travel Associate CTA certification.

Or, specialize in specific types of travel like the following:

• Family travel
• Accessible travel
• Rural tourism
• Pet-friendly travel
• Cruise lines
• Sustainable travel
• Eco-friendly travel
• Solo travel
• Luxury travel
• Romantic getaways
• Destination weddings
• Honeymoon travel

Take a look at the best options for online travel agent training programs.

Check out the following top online training programs:

Penn Foster Online offers courses at levels from high school to college degrees.

Learn everything you need to understand about the travel and tourism industry through this accredited school.

Penn Foster offers an affordable and accredited online Travel Agent Career Diploma.

The program prepares students for entry-level travel agent careers.

Study at your own pace with access to a dedicated faculty.

The Penn Foster online program prepares students for the TAP Travel Agent Proficiency certification exam.

Studying through Penn Foster also allows you free enrollment in a Destination Specialist course at The Travel Institute to help prepare you for the Destination Specialist certification exam.

Fast-paced learners complete the course in as short of time as nine months.

The average student takes 15 months to prepare for work as a travel agent.

Go on to work in an agency, a tour company, an airline, or any travel agent capacity.

The travel agent certificate online program usually costs $989.

Catch a sale to find it as low as $799.

The Travel Institute has a history of preparing individuals for successful and rewarding careers in the travel industry since 1964.

More than 25,000 students claim success through learning with The Travel Institute.

With more than 50 years of training travel agents, the Travel Institute offers certification as a non-profit organization.

The online program aims to develop travel professionals who will better the industry and benefit travelers.

The online training offers their own TRIPKIT Travel Industry Introductory Program.

The Travel Institute also offers certification courses and training in areas of specialization in the travel industry.

Before deciding on a course, sign up for one of many free Webinars.

Gain a solid foundation of knowledge to kick-start your career in travel in up to 12 months of study.

Become a Certified Travel Counselor CTC for $550.

Or, if you already have five years of industry experience, take the Fast Track course.

The Travel Institute also offers Certified Travel Associate CTA and Certified Travel Industry Executive CTIE courses.

Stratford Career Institute is privately owned and established in 1991.

The Institute offers quality at-home vocational training programs to students in North America.

Stratford foresaw the need for emerging education for busy adults and offers distance learning.

SCI provides the opportunity for students to learn in the convenience of their own home with a flexible schedule.

This online school is a member of the United States Distance Learning Association, the Canadian Network for Innovation in Education, and the International Council for Open and Distance Education ICDE.

SCI also has academic affiliations with Institutional Accountants ICIA and The Travel Institute.

If you love to travel and want to turn travel planning into your career, Stratford Career Institute online offers a comprehensive travel and tourism course.

Learn the basics and then move into more advanced topics.

Delve into sales and marketing with this self-paced course.

Complete the course in a year or shorter.

Some students are ready for the next step after six months.

The Stratford Career Institute Travel and Tourism online course will prepare you to sit for the TAP test.

Learn everything you need about landing a job and continuing work as a successful travel agent for $1,049.

Catch the course on sale for $499 during Black Friday or other sales throughout the year.

The Travel Agent Campus is a highly sought-after travel agent/advisor online training and certification program.

Train with lessons developed by innovators of their independent home-based travel agent learning platform.

Learn from instructors who offer more than 30 years of training to those new to the travel business.

The Travel Agent Campus allows you to work at your own pace.

Learn everything you need to know to earn your online travel agent certification in two weeks.

Or, take less time.

Most students finish the course in about three to ten days.

Pay $995 in full, or break it down into monthly payments.

Once you start your travel career, earn as much as 70 percent to 90 percent commission.

Learn at home about the vast travel industry and tourism at your own pace in partnership with TPI Travel Planners International.

Get started in your career of planning, researching, and booking trips with the help of this online course.

Grand Canyon University GCU offers a private for-profit university.

GCU is the largest Christian university in the world, teaching 70,000 online students and 20,000 on-campus learners.

Take your time and earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management.

By attaining a BS in Hospitality Management, you open doors to a solid career in travel.

With Grand Canyon University, earn your degree after studying 120 credit hours at approximately $485 per credit.

The online courses each last eight weeks and are self-paced.

You may participate in Web chat sessions or view lectures online throughout the courses.

If you have already earned college credit, transfer credit hours to reduce your overall expenses.

Apply for scholarships to save more on tuition costs. Also, enjoy extensive discounted tuition for active military personnel.

Study online to receive your travel consultant certificate from a program featured by Oprah, ABC, CNN, and The Wall Street Journal.

IAP Career College offers a private online career learning opportunity.

This online college allows students to develop skills to advance their careers or start a business.

Learn the principles and techniques of the travel industry through an affordable online program.

IAP Career College online Travel Consultant Certificate Course takes approximately six weeks to complete.

Some students get done faster, by four weeks.

Others take a full 12 weeks to complete.

Work online at your own pace without teaching assistance.

The IAP course costs approximately $377.

Catch a special sale to get it for as inexpensive as $149.00.

Ashworth College offers career education that teaches practical skills employers want without breaking the bank.

This online school is among the most affordable online schools available to gain travel agent certification.

All of the career-focused courses at Ashworth College include books, lessons, study guides, and academic guidance.

Earn your certification among more than 300,000 students who have graduated from Ashworth.

Ashworth College offers an online travel agent training program to prepare you for work in the travel industry.

The course of study covers reservations, customer service, and geography.

Study entirely at your own pace to prepare for the TAP test certification in less than a year.

Earn your travel and tourism diploma to work with planning tours and management positions.

Pay $989 with monthly payments of $799 paid in full.

Ready yourself to take the Travel Institute Travel Agent Proficiency Test after completing the course.

Ashworth College additionally provides a toolkit with resume templates and other resources to help you land a travel career.

Online travel agent training programs offer courses that teach everything you need to prepare you as a travel agent.

Some of the typical courses included in travel agent training programs include:

• Air travel ticketing, reservations, and baggage handling, including North American Air Travel
• Geographic studies, including popular travel destinations, cultures, customs, and top attractions while exploring the world
• Tourism and the History of tourism, including types of tourism and how travel impacts the economy
• TAP Travel Agent Proficiency Certification studies include customer service, consumer-focused professionalism, specialized travel sales techniques, marketing, office skills, and time management.
• Advanced skills in journey pricing and ticketing
• BSP Agent billing reports and agent remittance procedures
• Learn about required documents for international trips
• Intro to Tourism Management to establish a foundational understanding of the tourism business
• Delve into the challenges of the hospitality industry as a career
• Aspects of Transportation Learning how to navigate domestic and foreign transportation systems such as air, railway, or cruises
• Convention and Special Event Planning, including conferences, trade shows, arranging travel, lodging, booking the best venue, and organizing food services
• World Regions, including time zones, weather, and climate
• International Travel Documentation
• Customer-focused selling and understanding customer needs
• Accepting and processing payments
• Travel Insurance
• Car Rentals
• Tour Sales and Niche Marketing
• Hospitality
• Global Distribution System GDS and establishing Passenger Name Record PNR
• Career Options in Travel
• Types of Tours and Tour Operators
• Fares and ticketing
• How to start an at-home travel agency
• Business Ethics and writing skills
• The Art of listening and communicating

Several online colleges, universities, and career training centers offer a complete program to attain the skills needed in the travel industry.

One of the benefits of studying online is that you learn at your own pace.

Earning an online travel agent certification varies in how long it takes .

Spend a few days, two to three weeks, or stretch it out.

Combine your studies with an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s degree, and take two to four years.

Pursue one or all of the travel agent certifications, including the following:

• Travel Agent Proficiency TAP
• The Certified Travel Associate CTA – Requires one year of industry experience or completion of the Travel Agent Proficiency TAP exam.
• Certified Travel Counselor
• Certified Travel Industry Executive
• ASTA Verified Travel Advisor VTA from the American Society of Travel Advisors ASTA
• International Air Transport Association IATA
• Travel Industry Designator Service TIDS
• Certified Cruise Counselor CCC from the Cruise Lines International Association CLIA
• Accredited Cruise Counselor ACC
• Master Cruise Counselor MCC
• Elite Cruise Counselor ECC

Online training costs in the travel industry vary based on how long the program is, whether the institution is accredited, and any specializations you pursue.

It ranges in cost from approximately $100 to about $1,000 to complete certification.

Some online programs include an exam fee, so expect to spend about $2,000 or more.

Once you obtain the certification, expect ongoing studies to maintain the certification.

Agents must earn ten continuing education credits CEUs per year.

Pursue your dream of adventure and love for travel.

Obtain your certification to start work in the travel and tourism industry fast .

Study through the best online travel agent training programs.

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7 Best Online Travel Agent Programs (Complete Guide)

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Many people’s dream job is to travel and get paid!

While travel agents are only sometimes traveling, as they need to help plan and use their resources to set itineraries while getting the best deals, they must be knowledgeable about various places.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent, several educational paths exist to help you reach your goals.

The most common approach is an online travel and tourism diploma program, which is readily available.

If you want to dive deeper into the field, associate and bachelor’s degree programs are available but still require the fundamental core classes and can take up to four years to earn.

On the other hand, a certificate degree can be achieved in under one year.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent and are searching for a reputable online program, keep reading to learn more!

Best Online Travel Agent Programs

Despite being necessary for tens of thousands of travelers worldwide, travel agency positions are relatively niche.

Therefore, only a few online travel agent programs exist, including the following:

American Society of Travel Advisors

The ASTA offers a Verified Travel Advisor certification program, which helps students hone travel and tourism skills while providing a broad industry perspective.

This online, self-paced course is highly flexible, as students can complete the required coursework on their own terms.

Lessons for the primary certification include the following:

• Advanced Public Speaking – improves public speaking capabilities through actionable information.
• Agency Relationships and the Law – learn about your legal obligations to your clients, liabilities, and legal rights.
• Ethics for Travel Advisors – students must review and agree to the 12-point Code of Ethics, which builds client trust.
• Legal Overview for the Travel Agency Industry – taught by an attorney about legal issues surrounding taxes, liability, insurance, fees, and more.
• Marketing YOU! – maximize your value by promoting your business using effective marketing tactics.
• Project Management and Planning for the Travel Advisor – learn how project management and planning are critical to the industry and how to apply these techniques within your business.
• Real-World Sales Tactics – learn tactical solutions for improving your consulting and selling skills.
• The Art and Science of Negotiation – negotiating is a critical aspect of a successful travel business that allows you to get the best prices for your clients.
• U.S. Travel Agency Regulatory Compliance – helps travel advisors avoid costly regulatory mishaps.

The ASTA member program price is $399, the non-member independent travel advisor cost is $627, and the non-member travel advisor price is $789.

For those seeking re-certification, the tuition cost is $179.

Ashworth College

As one of the leading online vocational schools, Ashworth College helps students explore travel and tourism careers.

Their diploma in travel and tourism comprises coursework like The Global Distribution System, Types of Travel, and Travel Geography.

The program begins by teaching students the business fundamentals and ends with how to establish an exciting career as a travel agent or in other travel-related fields.

Program graduates have moved into numerous careers, from corporate travel at significant companies to starting a travel agency business.

Cayuga Community College

The entirely online Tourism Management certificate from Cayuga Community College is a 30-credit-hour program that prepares students for entry-level careers as travel agents, destination marketing organizations, tourism bureaus, tour companies, or working for tourism promotion agencies, hotels, inns, cruise lines, and visitor centers.

This self-paced certificate program allows students to work and attend school on their own schedule.

The faculty teaching these courses is the same online as on-campus, and students can transfer credits from other schools instead of retaking the class.

Colorado State University

CSU offers an online master’s degree in tourism management for those looking to make a career change or advance further in the industry.

This program focuses on developing students’ business management insight, helping them understand global tourism’s environmental and social impacts, and enhancing their knowledge of standard industry practices.

Furthermore, the faculty focuses on new technology, an evolving marketplace, and international events impacting tourism activities.

Throughout the nine-month program, students will learn more about financial management tools and processes, effective communication and marketing strategies, how to use data to guide business strategies, and how to manage resources and people ethically and strategically.

The program has 30 total credits and costs $794 per credit hour, regardless of if you live in-state or out-of-state.

Cruise Lines International Association

CLIA offers numerous online certification programs, including Accredited Cruise Counselor, Certified Cruise Counselor, Master Cruise Counselor, Elite Cruise Counselor, and Travel Agency Executive (TAE), a broader certification beyond cruises.

TAE was developed for management travel agency professionals currently employed by a CLIA Affiliate Agency and may be selling travel products.

To be eligible, candidates must work in a leadership capacity within the travel industry.

Those accepted into the program have two years from enrollment to complete the program and submit the required documentation.

The curriculum includes the following mandatory courses:

• Better Listening Skills for Better Business
• Building Client Loyalty
• Cruise Industry Leadership 501
• Cruise Industry Leadership 601
• Customer Relationship Management
• Effective Cruise Presentations 101
• Marketing 101
• Public Relations 101

Attendees must also select one elective training requirement: three CLIA online courses and live seminars, earning the CTA, CTC, or CTIE designation, or holding an undergraduate or graduate business degree.

Additionally, students must have two personal travel experiences: two cruises of at least two nights or be a CLIA Global Cruise Line Member.

Penn Foster Career School

Penn Foster and Ashworth College typically frequent the same list as best online vocational schools.

Like Ashworth, Penn Foster boasts an excellent travel agent diploma.

If you are passionate about travel, the program prepares you to work for tour companies, cruise ships, airlines, and travel agencies.

Many graduates also opt to open a travel agency business or in a corporate travel position.

The travel agent course prepares students for the Travel Agent Proficiency certification exam.

The curriculum includes Computerized Reservation Systems, Tours and Vacation Packages, Exploring the World, International Travel, World Geography, North American Air Travel, and The Travel Professional.

The school also offers a Destination Specialist course to expand student skills in the field further.

Tuition for the entire program, including materials, is $799, but the school offers flexible monthly payments for those who cannot immediately pay in full.

Stratford Career Institute

The Stratford Career Institute Travel Agent Program was developed for those who love to travel and want to transition that passion into a career.

The course covers basic and advanced topics that benefit aspiring travel agents and novices.

The curriculum includes Destination Geography, Travel and Booking Trends, and Corporate and Leisure Travel.

Students can expect to also learn about sales and marketing techniques, ticket prices and fees, and common fares within the industry.

The Travel Institute

Founded in 1964, The Travel Institute has granted just under 30,000 certifications since its founding.

The school has over 145 approved programs and has been awarded 3,600 scholarships since 2014.

The school offers a Certified Travel Associate (CTA) program, which covers 15 critical study areas developed to focus on the required skills for becoming a North American travel consultant.

To enroll in the program, candidates must have at least one year of industry experience selling travel products and services or pass the Travel Agent Proficiency exam with an 80 percent score.

To earn the certification, candidates must pass the CTA examination with at least a 70% score.

To maintain the certification, candidates must earn 10 continuing education units or more annually and be registered in the Certified Travel Agent Directory, which is a public document.

The skill modules range from travel insurance and planning itineraries to business ethics and business writing.

Best of all, the program can be taken entirely online in digital or digital plus print formats for those who prefer learning using physical materials.

The program offers peer support, one—on—one counseling, practice scenarios, and expert tips via videos from industry executives.

The digital version costs $550, while the digital plus print option costs $650.

What Courses Are in an Online Travel Agent Program?

Travel agent programs vary greatly based on the type and level of the coursework and the industry type.

The most common travel agent courses cover the following topics:

• Advising clients on local activities.
• Booking trends.
• Customer relationship management.
• Determining travel costs.
• Developing alternative travel plans when schedules change.
• Discuss essential information with clients.
• Informing clients about required travel documents.
• Legal aspects of the travel industry.
• Marketing techniques
• Negotiating hotel rates.
• Planning itineraries.
• Project management and planning.

Can You Earn a Travel Agent Certification Completely Online?

Since there is no in-person requirement to become a certified travel agent, all certifications can be completed online.

Depending on the educational level in the tourism industry that you wish to achieve, the school may require an internship to gain firsthand experience in the industry, dealing with clients.

Experts advise students at all levels to enroll in an internship, which can help make you marketable for future potential employers, develop professional contacts, have a higher probability for direct job offers, and expand your transferrable skills.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Travel Agent Certification Online?

The online travel agent certification time commitment ranges based on the educational level you wish to achieve.

More basic certificates can be earned in a few months, whereas bachelor’s degrees in travel and tourism can take four years or more if you plan to enroll in an internship.

The primary difference between the certificate and diploma programs and the associate and bachelor’s degree programs is the latter requires foundational core classes, and the former focuses solely on travel agent topics.

However, the associate and bachelor’s degree programs tend to go more in-depth on many travel and tourism topics and offer additional opportunities to take specialized electives, which could also make you a more marketable candidate.

Also, the more education received, the higher salary you could earn after graduation compared to those with a lower level certification.

How Much Does an Online Travel Agent Certification Cost?

Like the time commitment required for travel agent certification, the cost varies based on several factors, including the training length, the school’s reputation, specialization, and financial aid availability.

The most basic certification programs cost between $330 and several thousand for a program lasting several months to one year.

Specialization programs for those with related training can cost around $550.

For those seeking higher education, an associate degree can range from several thousand dollars per year to over $10,000.

A bachelor’s degree can cost thousands of dollars for the entire program.

Suppose you’re considering a private school for associate or bachelor’s degrees.

In that case, it’s advisable to complete the core classes at a local community college with significantly less expensive credit hours, then transfer in the credits and take the travel and tourism classes at the private school.

This could save tens of thousands of dollars in the long term. Another option is to look for scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities.

As the world reopens, travel and tourism are at an all-time high for adventurers wanting to get outside and explore new cultures.

Although technology continues to improve and create itineraries and plans for travelers at the click of a button, travel agents are still needed due to their professional connections and relationships with hotels, travel and transportation companies, restaurants, airlines, and other travel-related businesses.

Therefore, they continue to be in high demand to get their clients the best possible prices.

For those looking to enter this dynamic and exciting field, there are plenty of online educational opportunities from which to choose.

Schools like The American Society of Travel Advisors and The Travel Institute focus on preparing students for industry certifications.

Ashford College, Penn Foster, and the Stratford Career Institute are some of the best online colleges available, so they use technology so students can succeed.

Cayuga Community College and CSU are more traditional schools with multiple educational levels beyond certificates, and the Cruise Lines International Association emphasizes coursework related to cruise travel.

Many options depend on your academic and career goals, so determine where you want to go next!

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Travel Agent Training Courses & Schools

Would you like to become a travel agent ? If so, you’re in luck! There are plenty of training courses and schools that can help you get started on your new career. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the different types of training programs available and some tips on how to choose the right program for you.

There are many different schools that offer training for travel agents. Some of the most popular ones include:

• The Travel Academy: This school offers an online program that is designed to help students learn the basics of the travel industry. The program includes modules on topics such as air travel, cruise ships, and international tourism.
• The Travel Institute: This institute offers both online and classroom-based courses. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including customer service, sales, and marketing.
• Universal Travel Agent Training Center: This center offers a variety of courses. You can complete the online course in about 90 minutes.
• College of Westchester: The college offers a travel and tourism degree program that includes coursework in customer service, sales, and marketing.
• Oklahoma State University: The university offers a bachelor’s degree in travel and tourism management. The program includes coursework in customer service, sales, and marketing.
• Penn State University: The university offers a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management with a concentration in travel and tourism. The program includes coursework in customer service, sales, and marketing.
• San Diego State University: The university offers a bachelor’s degree in travel and tourism management. The program includes coursework in customer service, sales, and marketing.
• University of Central Florida: The university offers a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management with a concentration in travel and tourism. The program includes coursework in customer service, sales, and marketing.

Certification Programs

• The American Society of Travel Agents: The ASTA offers a certification program for travel agents. The program includes an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales, and marketing.
• The Institute of Certified Travel Agents: The ICTA offers a certification program for travel agents. The program includes an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales, and marketing.

Host Agency Certification

Host agencies are companies that provide support services to travel agents. Many host agencies offer certification programs that can help you get started in your new career. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Travel Leaders: This company offers a certification program for travel agents. The program includes an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales, and marketing.
• Cruise Lines International Association: This association offers a certification program for travel agents. The program includes an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales, and marketing.
• International Air Transport Association: This association offers a certification program for travel agents. The program includes an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales, and marketing.

Now that you know about some of the different training options available, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are a few factors to consider:

• Cost: The cost of training for becoming a travel agent can vary significantly from one program to another. Be sure to compare costs before you make a decision.
• Location: Some programs are offered online, while others are held in classroom settings. Consider your preferred learning environment when making a decision.
• Duration: The length of programs can also vary. Some programs can be completed in as little as a few weeks, while others may take several months. Consider your schedule and commitment level when making a decision.

There are a number of travel agent training courses and programs available to help you get started in your new career. Be sure to consider factors such as cost, location, and duration when making your decision. With the right training, you’ll be well to become a successful travel agent.

School Finder

30 Accredited Online Colleges For Travel and Tourism Degree Programs

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If managing the hustle and bustle of events such as concerts and sporting events sounds exciting, then getting your travel and tourism degree may be the answer to ultimate career bliss. 

Select the perfect program from our list of the best degrees in travel and tourism ! This is the first step to a financially rewarding and fun career. You will actually look forward to waking up and going to work each morning!

You read that right – a managerial career in hospitality and tourism can pay off in more than a high-energy atmosphere. In this career, you can earn a large income, too!

What Will You Learn With a Hospitality and Tourism Degree? 

Think it would be a piece of cake to be a manager at travel agencies, hotels, or tourism programs? Think that education and training are not needed? Think again!

Events are complex undertakings, and running a business is also a complicated task. People managing these entities need to understand what it takes to oversee a large event thoroughly. The education and training you’ll get with  travel and tourism degrees  make the experiences of these events and destinations go off without a hitch.  

We mentioned businesses above because a solid business foundation is essential to work in this field. After all, events, travel, and tourism are all businesses that hopefully make money for business owners.

The other skill set often taught in these programs is the management of different kinds of events. Each has its own unique challenges and obstacles to smooth operation. Most of the colleges for travel and tourism reviewed below put you into an internship or real-world experience in the industry. Nothing truly drives home the gap between theory and how things happen than performing the job for an extended period before you even graduate!

Of course, your learning begins with coursework on essential travel and tourism topics. The degrees discussed below all offer similar courses to prepare you for your career, including:

• Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
• Lodging Operations
• Food and Beverage Operations

A  degree in travel and tourism  also requires that you complete elective courses, which are the classes that allow you to fine-tune your studies to meet your specific needs and occupational desires. For example, you might learn about leadership, accounting, or revenue management. What’s more, you can study travel and tourism as it pertains to specific career opportunities, like working in hotels, restaurants, or even cruise ships or theme parks.

Heck, you can work in this industry on a part-time or full-time basis, at a tourism program near home, or as part of international business travel. The possibilities are endless with an education in this field!

Travel and tourism degrees online are all a little different, though, so before enrolling in a degree, be sure to explore several programs to see which one best fits your needs.

See also: Cheapest Online Business Degree Programs for Undergrads

What are the Best Accredited Online Colleges For Travel and Tourism Degrees?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics to rank each travel degree below.

Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking. Accredited Online College considers several factors for ranking purposes, including the following:

• affordability
• student-to-faculty ratio
• number of programs offered on-campus and online

In other words, we do the heavy lifting for you! Rather than relying on random Google searches like “ degree travel and tourism ” or “ colleges tourism ,” you can rely on our tried-and-true methodology and ranking to quickly see how schools stack up against one another.

To learn more, visit our methodology page. 

Check out the online tourism degree options below!

See Also: 10 Tips for Maximizing Your Learning Experience in Online College

1. University of Central Florida

The online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida prepares you for high-level jobs in the travel and tourism sector. The program is applicable to many management positions in this field, from cruise director to theme park manager to hotel general manager.

You must complete 120 credits to graduate. Of those, most are general travel and tourism courses like marketing, business administration, and management. However, you also have the opportunity to study niche areas in this field, like golf course management.

Moreover, this program is taught by well-respected faculty with real-world experience in this industry. Their expertise will help you further develop your knowledge and skills in preparation for your career after graduation.

Learn more about the accredited tourism program at the University of Central Florida here.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

2. East Carolina University

East Carolina University gives you the power to direct your educational journey by allowing you the choice of concentrating on one of three travel and tourism specialties:

• Lodging Management
• Food and Beverage Management
• Convention and Special Event Management

The lodging management and the food and beverage management concentrations may work well if you want to make your name with a travel and tourism degree online . These specialties are widely applicable to many niches in the travel and tourism industry, including hotels and motels, RV parks, and convention centers, to name a few.

The foundational curriculum consists of 42 credit hours of coursework. This includes:

• Principles of Microeconomics
• Applied Mathematics for Decision Making
• An externship experience (during the second year)
• An internship (during the fourth year)

The Bachelor of Science in hospitality management has a common core curriculum. It is composed of 45 semester hours of coursework.

Each specialization consists of seven courses. You can pursue a business administration minor with an additional 24 semester hours of work.

The entire program is 126 semester hours in length. You’re required to complete all hospitality management courses with a minimum of a C or greater.

Learn more about the accredited travel school at East Carolina University here .

3. Florida International University

This online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management is from the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. This is a well-respected division of Florida International University.

This is a 120-credit hour program. It’s designed to teach you everything you need to know to build a successful hospitality and tourism management career.

If you decide to pursue your educational goals at Florida International University, you can choose to concentrate your studies in:

• Hotel/Lodging Management
• Restaurant/Culinary Management
• Entertainment Management
• Event Management
• Food Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Hospitality Leadership
• Spirits Management
• Travel and Tourism Management

Each concentration area for this undergraduate degree consists of core courses designed to teach you the specialized knowledge needed to make a career out of your passion. 

Learn more about travel degrees online at Florida International University here.

4. Washington State University

The Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Business Management traces its roots back to the 1930s. This was when the school’s hospitality program was first founded.

Today, you can complete this degree online yet get real-life experience that readies you for the world of work. It also gives you the business knowledge to take advantage of opportunities that are likely to come your way.

While working toward your degree, you will work 1,000 hours in the hospitality industry. This work experience provides an opportunity to network with future employers that might offer you that first job upon graduation. The best part is that this work experience is paid! 

The BA in Hospitality Business Management is a 120-credit hour program. The degree is from the Carson College of Business, which is AACSB-accredited. This program requires that you take 25 credit hours in this area of study. This equals nine classes. The rest of your studies include general education courses and electives. Courses include:

• Professional and Career Development for the Business World
• Hospitality Systems
• Career Management

Learn more about the online tourism degree at Washington State University here .

5. University of Utah

The University of Utah’s online campus offers you the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management. This degree opens doors for you to pursue a career in:

• Tourism Marketing and Enterprise
• Hospitality Management
• Sustainable Tourism Management
• Adventure and Nature-Based Tourism

This bachelor’s degree consists of 67 major area credits (of the 122 credits required to graduate). This includes courses like:

• Recreation Programming & Leadership
• PRT Experience & Service Marketing
• Professional Preparation in PRT
• Financial Management in PRT
• Sustainable Tourism & Protected Area Management

One of the things that separates this degree from others is that while pursuing this degree, you can choose to complete a hospitality operations certificate program offered by the American Hotel and Lodging Association.

The certificate program consists of eight courses. Upon completion, you’ll have an internationally recognized certificate. Internships are available if you want to seize opportunities and work in places like Walt Disney World ® Resort. International study abroad programs are also available to you to gain additional experience. 

Learn more about the tourism degree online at the University of Utah here .

6. Northern Arizona University

If you want the freedom of a liberal arts curriculum combined with hospitality-specific coursework, you should consider the Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Northern Arizona University.

NAU allows you to switch from an Arizona community college and transfer up to 75 units of credit into this degree program. Doing so helps you finish your degree on a lower budget.

This degree program aims to help you develop the following:

• hotel and restaurant management content knowledge
• analytical/problem-solving skills
• communication and leadership skills
• critical thinking
• professional responsibility
• technical skills and knowledge

You can get involved in the hospitality industry by joining one of the school’s eight hospitality-related student clubs. Likewise, you’re required to complete 1,200 supervised internship hours in the hospitality field to be eligible to graduate. This field experience significantly extends your learning and experience prior to graduation.

The liberal arts foundation is underscored by the school requiring that you take two semester hours of a modern language. Doing so helps you understand the diversity of the world in which we live and can also equip you with relevant skills for working in this industry.

Learn more about the tourism degree online at Northern Arizona University here .

7. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University gives you all the tools you need to be successful as a tourism and hospitality professional with its Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management degree.

Like many travel and tourism degree colleges , Fort Hayes has a strong business curriculum for this tourism degree. It consists of 24 credit hours of coursework with classes ranging from accounting to marketing to business law. In total, you can expect to take eight business courses in the business core curriculum. 

The tourism and hospitality major consists of 23 credit hours divided into seven courses. This includes:

• Principles and Practices in Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Tourism and Hospitality Marketing
• Service Operations Management
• International Hospitality: Problems and Planning
• Tourism and Hospitality Industry Internship
• Sustainable Tourism and Events
• Beginning Spanish II for Tourism and Hospitality

If you decide to choose this program, you also need to take 12 credit hours of required electives and three classes that comprise the general education cognate portion of the program.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For the Hospitality and Tourism Industry at Fort Hays State University here .

8. Missouri State University

You can pursue either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Hospitality Leadership at Missouri State University.

The Bachelor of Applied Science program is a great option if you already have an Associate of Applied Science in this field or in culinary arts. The Bachelor of Science option is better suited for you if this is your first degree program. Either way, both the BS and the BAS programs prepare you for management positions upon graduation. 

The good news about the BS program is that the number of credits needed to graduate is five less than it used to be. Now, you must complete the typical 120-credit hours of coursework to graduate (down from 125). If you enroll in this university, you must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 throughout your coursework. Moreover, to receive your diploma, you must:

• Complete a public affairs capstone course
• Take a university exit examination
• Take and pass the Missouri Higher Education Civics Achievement Examination with a score of 70 percent or better

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For the Hospitality and Tourism Industry at Missouri State University here .

9. Johnson & Wales University

Johnson & Wales University is a private, non-profit, regionally-accredited school based in Rhode Island. However, you don’t have to attend class on campus because the university offers a robust online learning environment.

One of the many programs you can pursue at Johnson & Wales is the Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management. This is a 120-credit program that focuses on many different areas of tourism and management. For example, you’ll take courses in:

• Technology in the Tourism/Hospitality Industry
• Hospitality Strategic Marketing
• Food Culture and Tourism
• Negotiations and Agreements in Hospitality, Sports, Entertainment, and Event Management
• Destination Management Organization

This program also requires you to take a number of courses in business foundations, including Financial Management, Accounting, and Hospitality Law, among others.

Aside from a wealth of options for your coursework, Johnson & Wales offers multiple start dates throughout the year, opportunities for experiential learning, and the chance to learn from expert faculty members who have real-world experience in the tourism and hospitality fields.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For the Hospitality and Tourism Industry at Johnson & Wales University here .

10. Arizona State University

As a prospective student, you’ll find that Arizona State University comes near the top of your list if you want a bachelor’s program emphasizing business while also concentrating your studies on travel and tourism.

This Bachelor of Arts in Business with a concentration in tourism includes 41 classes. Over the 120-credit hours of coursework, you’ll explore principles of accounting, microeconomics, and business statistics. You’ll also take:

• Marketing and Business Performance
• Global Supply Operations
• Organization and Management Leadership
• Fundamental of Finance
• Cultural Diversity, Global Awareness, and Historic Awareness courses
• Business Law and Ethics for Managers

You must also maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater while earning your bachelor’s degree. 

The prestigious AACSB-accredited W. P. Carey School of Business offers the degree. This school is known worldwide for producing top-notch graduates.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism Management at Arizona State University here .

11. University of Massachusetts – Amherst

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of Massachusetts – Amherst distinguishes itself from the pack as it’s one of the oldest hospitality programs in the world. Not only that but this program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA).

The degree is offered through the Isenberg School of Management. This school develops its core curriculum to support you in gaining critical business skills. To do so, you’ll take courses in the following:

• Business probability
• Corporate finance

The hospitality and tourism management major consists of 10 major-area courses. A hospitality practicum allows you to get work experience in an area specific to your major.

Around a dozen general education courses are required to graduate. This ensures that you get a well-rounded education with a variety of skills that can be utilized in many kinds of jobs. 

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst here.

12. Troy University

You’ll find Troy University’s main campus in Troy, Alabama. But you don’t have to worry about making the trek to Troy while pursuing an online bachelor’s degree. Instead, you can get your degree entirely online in tourism management with a concentration in hospitality, sport, and tourism management.

The hospitality, sport, and tourism management major comprises 51 credit hours of coursework. The concentration requires the completion of an additional 27 credit hours. It consists of classes such as:

• Introduction to Tourism Management
• Introduction to Hospitality Management
• Hospitality and Tourism Marketing
• Hospitality and Tourism Financial Management
• Festivals and Special Events
• Working in Tourism
• Sustainable Tourism

You’ll work closely with and be mentored by Troy faculty throughout the program. The personal connection you have with your professors deepens your knowledge and understanding of course material. This close relationship with the faculty can help in a variety of situations, both while enrolled at Troy University and after graduation when working in the field. 

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at Troy University here .

13. Eastern New Mexico University

With the second-lowest bachelor’s degree tuition rates in New Mexico, Eastern New Mexico University provides one of the best bangs for your buck. This is especially considering the high-quality education you’ll get.

If choosing this school, you’ll work toward a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis on hospitality management. This online course is administered through ENMU’s online learning platform, which uses Mediasite, Canvas, and Collaborate to connect you with your professors and classmates.

If you like seeing the information presented by a lecturer, you’ll be happy to find out that the lectures are recorded and available for online students like yourself to watch at your convenience.

Eastern New Mexico University is dedicated to its students’ success. The school has an Online Writing Center specifically for your online studies. ENMU also has tutoring services, among other resources, that can help ease the journey of earning your bachelor’s degree.

Once enrolled, you can choose among various concentrations, including:

• Applied economics and finance
• General business
• Hospitality management
• Information systems
• Personal finance planning

All told, you must complete 120 credits of undergraduate work, including 38 hours of business foundation courses and 21 hours of business core courses.

Learn more about getting into the hospitality and tourism industry at Eastern New Mexico University here.

14. Purdue University Global

Next in our rankings of tourism colleges is Purdue University Global. Purdue offers an Associate of Applied Science in business administration with the ability to choose a concentration in:

• Customer Service
• Entrepreneurship
• Health Club Operations
• Information Processing
• Meeting and Event Planning
• Office Management
• Retail management

Other options include Sales, Small Business Management, and Sport Entertainment Management.

The wide variety of concentrations associated with travel and tourism allows you to focus your studies on precisely what you want to do upon graduation.

The business major comprises 60 credit hours of coursework, while four courses or 20 credit hours make up each concentration area. The entire Associates of Applied Science in business administration is 90 quarter hours of coursework.

To graduate with the AAS in business administration, you must complete a capstone in management. You can explore other areas of interest throughout the program through the 15-quarter hours dedicated to open electives. 

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at Purdue University Global here .

15. The University of Alabama

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of Alabama is a 120-credit online program that prepares you for many different positions in the hospitality industry.

The curriculum includes coursework in areas like:

• Management of Food and Beverage Operations
• Introduction to Meetings & Event Industry
• Managerial Accounting for the Hospitality Industry
• Hotel Sales & Event Services

With a wide variety of courses, you’ll learn how to implement core travel and tourism concepts in many different applications. Furthermore, you can concentrate your studies on one of the following areas:

• Food and Beverage Management Concentration
• Hotel/Lodging Concentration
• Meetings and Events Concentration
• Sport and Entertainment Event Management Concentration

This degree program requires 50 hours of General Education courses and just under 50 hours of hospitality courses. The remaining credit hours are electives and concentration-area courses. Additionally, you must complete an internship or practicum experience prior to graduating.

As an added bonus, the University of Alabama offers numerous scholarships for online students that can help you graduate with fewer student loans.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism Management at The University of Alabama here .

16. University of South Carolina- Beaufort

This Bachelor of Science from the University of South Carolina – Beaufort was explicitly created for students with more than 45 credits from previous college classes. If you don’t have at least 45 hours, you’ll need to meet this requirement before applying for admission.

This program is 120 credit hours, of which the hospitality management major consists of 57 credits. With at least 45 credits already to your name, you must complete 75 credits to graduate. As a full-time student, you can complete the program in as little as two years because of the admission transfer credit requirement. The university requires you to maintain a 2.0 or greater GPA throughout your studies.

This program focuses on promoting and retaining students in the hospitality industry in the state of South Carolina. If this simply isn’t your future plan, don’t worry! You can still earn a degree through this university.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at the University of South Carolina – Beaufort here.

17. State University of New York – Delhi

If you’ve already completed an associate’s degree, the bachelor’s completion program at the State University of New York – Delhi might be a good fit. This transfer-only program is entirely online and results in a Bachelor of Business Administration in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

This is one of the oldest hospitality programs in the nation. As such, you’ll learn from faculty with expertise in the field who teach a curriculum that balances theoretical studies with technical knowledge.

Some of the features of this program include:

• Learning from the same faculty as on-campus students
• Having a personal concierge for any questions
• Opportunities for in-field learning through internships

SUNY Delhi is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is recognized as a leader in online education.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at the State University of New York – Delhi here .

18. Utah Valley University

The Woodbury School of Business at Utah Valley University gives you a choice in what you’ll spend your time studying. That’s because UVU gives you five different specializations to choose from:

• Revenue Management
• Event Planning
• Culinary Arts

As an online student at UVU, you can rely on a variety of student support services to help you complete your education. Academic advising, academic tutoring, and library access are available for you as an online student. Likewise, you can access the Career Development Center, Accessibility Services, and a network of Utah Valley Mentors to get the most out of your time at UVU.

This is a 120-credit program that requires four years to complete. You might take courses like:

• Hospitality Managerial Accounting
• Hospitality Strategic Management
• Hospitality Finance
• Event Venue and Convention Management

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at Utah Valley University here .

19. University of Wisconsin – Stout

The Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management (HRTM) offered by the University of Wisconsin – Stout focuses on giving you real-world experiences that will be helpful when you graduate.

Additionally, the faculty are seasoned professionals who have worked in the field, so they know what it takes to make it.

The curriculum provides you with a broad understanding of hospitality. It also emphasizes management and business skills by requiring courses like the following:

• Principles of Hospitality Organizational Management
• Introduction to Financial Accounting
• Security and Risk Management for the Hospitality Industry
• Food Service Production and Operation
• Lodging Administration

UW Stout has over 100 agreements with domestic and international businesses. This means you have a wide variety of internships and practical learning experiences available to you in environments most conducive to your learning.

This program also has an extensive network of alumni. By networking with students that have already graduated, you might find the right connections to land your dream job when the time comes. 

You won’t have to wait too long to start your educational journey, either. UW Stout has three start dates each year: fall, spring, and summer.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For the Hospitality and Tourism Industry at the University of Wisconsin – Stout here.

20. California State University – East Bay

California State University – East Bay offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism that allows you to complete your education entirely online.

The academic staff at this accredited travel school is also pretty impressive. There are more than 20 faculty members in the department, each of whom has a unique area of expertise in the travel and tourism industry.

The hospitality and tourism major is composed of eight core classes. These classes include:

• Marketing in HRT
• Serving Diverse Populations
• Introduction to Finance in HRT
• Law, Risk, and Regulation in HRT
• Leadership, Management, and Ethics in HRT

Cal State East Bay offers multiple areas of concentration, too. You can choose from

• Event Planning and Management
• Food and Beverage
• Lodging, Club Management, and Resort
• Recreation Therapy
• Sustainability
• Youth Development Programming

No matter which concentration area you choose, you must complete a six-credit internship prior to graduation.

If you’re interested in hospitality and tourism but don’t know if that is your genuine passion, you might consider Cal State East Bay’s hospitality and tourism minor. Minoring in this field and majoring in business administration, marketing, or management could be a great combination for a future career.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For the Hospitality and Tourism Industry at California State University – East Bay here.

21. Tompkins Cortland Community College

Tompkins Cortland Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management is ideal if you’re starting college and want to complete a two-year degree.

Through a unique program, Tompkins Cortland provides an in-depth understanding of restaurant and hospitality management. The college grows its produce on a farm it owns and delivers it to local restaurants. You’ll learn the ins and outs of the processes required to plant food, deliver it, and get it served on a dinner plate.

The AAS is a 62-credit hour program that can be completed in five terms or a little over a year. Some of the courses you might take include:

• Foundations of Business
• Food Service and Preparation
• Principles of Accounting
• Hospitality Law
• Food and Labor Cost Control

Additionally, you can earn a Food and Beverage Service credential by completing three courses on safe alcohol handling, bartending, and food and beverage service operations.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at Tompkins Cortland Community College here .

22. Robert Morris University

If your goal is ultimately to pursue your MBA, then Robert Morris University has a program for you. Robert Morris has a 4 +1 integrated degree program that enables you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an MBA in five years. That shaves an entire year off how long it would take you if you were to pursue these degrees separately! 

If you pursue this BS in Business Administration, you may be eligible for the Early Law School Admission Program. The Early Law School Admission Program allows you to complete three years of undergraduate studies and three years of law school to graduate a year earlier than normal.

Some of the classes you might take for this degree include:

• Integrated Marketing Communication
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• Human Resource Management

Your studies include major credits, core classes, and electives, all of which total 120 credits to graduate.

The Robert Morris University School of Business is accredited by AACSB.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism Management at Robert Morris University – RMU Online here .

23. Ohio University

At Ohio University, you can earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Hospitality Management. This program offers an asynchronous learning format that gives you maximum flexibility for completing your studies.

You’ll learn about hospitality management in courses like:

• Principles of Customer Service
• Food Sanitation and Safety
• Hotel Operations
• Principles of Tourism
• Marketing Principles

Ohio University further requires that you take a leadership course. You can choose between Leadership in Customer Service or Women and Leadership: Roles and Responsibilities.

Once you complete your degree and graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in many different hospitality fields. This includes hotel and lodging management, food service, and tourism management, to name a few.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Hospitality and Tourism at Ohio University here .

24. North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Administration that’s accredited by a number of organizations, including:

• The Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA)
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
• The Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Like most other programs on this list, this one requires you to complete at least 120 credit hours to graduate. Of those, about 60 credit hours of hospitality and tourism courses are required. Some of those courses include:

• Leadership Colloquium in Hospitality and Tourism
• Hospitality Law and Ethics
• Hospitality Facilities Management
• Procurement in Hotels and Restaurants
• Human Resources Management

You will also get a sound business education with 18 credit hours of courses in the core business curriculum. Over the course of four years, you will log 1,000 hours of internship and work experience.  

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at North Carolina Central University here.

25. University of the Southwest

The University of the Southwest is a private educational institution in New Mexico. It’s dedicated to the principles of providing a flexible education for students while ensuring top-quality education at the same time.

The university offers two programs that focus on the hospitality industry. If you have yet to finish your bachelor’s degree, consider pursuing the Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Hospitality Management.

The curriculum is built on a solid business foundation along with a thorough education in the hospitality industry. You’ll get the attention you need when you need it with the University of the Southwest’s relatively small class sizes and student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1. 

If graduate school is your next step, then you’ll want to consider the university’s MBA with the ability to concentrate on a variety of areas, including:

• Sports Management and Recreation
• International Business

The University of the Southwest even offers a self-designed MBA program.

The MBA curriculum is 36 credit hours and can be finished in one year if you study full time during the spring, summer, and fall semesters. 

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at the University of the Southwest here .

26. Monroe College

At Monroe College, you can pursue one of two hospitality-focused degrees. If you’re a first-year student, the Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management will help you get your feet wet in the industry. But, if a higher degree is what you want, Monroe’s Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality Management might be the way to go.

The BBA program allows you to further specialize your focus on either culinary management and tourism or destination management. The core curriculum is aimed at developing your skills related to:

• Leadership skills
• Specialized knowledge in specific hospitality niches 

The BBA is a 120-credit hour program. Of those, 66 credit hours are hospitality-related coursework. Another 54 credits are used to meet general education and elective requirements to graduate.

Monroe University works hard to create relationships with local hotels and food establishments, so you get internship opportunities at established, reputable hospitality businesses in the New York City area. These internship experiences are vital experiential learning opportunities that help you put your classroom learning into practice. An internship is also an excellent way to network and make connections with potential employers.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at Monroe College here .

27. Norfolk State University

If you’re ready to spend the next four years immersing yourself into Norfolk State University’s Bachelor of Science degree in tourism and hospitality management curriculum it’s sure to change your life for the better. The entire program is 121-credit hours. Students are scheduled into classes two semesters each academic year. This means that in this program you’ll have the summers off to lay back and catch up on some rest and relaxation.  Each academic year students will take 30 to 31 credit hours of coursework. This is around 15 credit hours each semester. So you can expect to be pretty busy taking around five classes each semester. The first year of study is focused on the general academic requirements needed to graduate. Students focus more time on business and hospitality management content in the second year. During the fourth year of study, students will start working in the hospitality field. This will help them gain experience for when they graduate. 

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at Norfolk State University here .

28. Sullivan University

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Sullivan University focuses on critical areas of hospitality, including:

• Customer service
• Production and service of quality and satisfying food and beverages

This BS degree is available in a 48-month and accelerated 36-month program. You must complete 180 quarter credit hours to graduate. You’ll do so in small classes where you get your professors’ focused attention. Classes include:

• Hospitality Industry Entrepreneurship
• Quality Service Management in the Hospitality Industry
• Managing Diversity
• Marketing Hospitality Services
• Cost Accounting

Recognized leaders in the hospitality industry guide your studies. Their real-world knowledge benefits you as you learn how to become a leader in the industry.

Like other tourism schools , Sullivan University stresses the importance of candidates being able to work cohesively and effectively in teams. As such, you’ll have ample opportunities throughout the program to work with your classmates on projects that prepare all of you to be contributing members of a hospitality team.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at Sullivan University here .

29. DeVry University

Whether you want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or technical management, DeVry University allows you to specialize your degree with a concentration in hospitality management. The hospitality management concentration covers topics such as:

• Tourism management
• Customer and personal service
• Meetings and events management
• Foundations of hotel management

With the hospitality management focus, you’ll take classes such as:

• Restaurant Management
• Food Safety and Sanitation
• Casino Management
• Computer Applications for Business

You can complete this program in as little as two years, eight months if enrolled full-time. If you live in the New York area and think a hybrid program may suit your learning style, this degree can be completed as a hybrid program.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at DeVry University here .

30. Oregon State University

Studying hospitality at Oregon State University means learning from industry experts. In fact, this program ranks in the top five in the nation, so your education is in good hands!

This 180-quarter credit hour Hospitality Management program requires four years of full-time study. You’ll learn in engaging online classrooms and also get real-world experience in the hospitality industry. Some of the courses you might take include:

• Advanced Restaurant Management and Ownership
• Service Management
• Hospitality Law and Labor Relations
• Revenue Management and Pricing

As noted above, you’ll get real-world experience as well. This program requires you to complete three separate internships, all of which take place at an approved site in your community. You can also participate in internships in other cities, states, or countries if you prefer.

Another way to add more experience is to include a minor with your major. There are many choices for your minor, but economics or organizational leadership are beneficial for making your resume stand out from the crowd.

Learn more about Accredited Online Programs For Travel And Tourism at Oregon State University here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of salary can i expect after attending an online college for travel and tourism .

Sometimes the low pay of a job you enjoy can stop you from pursuing a career, instead choosing a less fulfilling career with better pay. But for the most part, you’re not going to have this problem in the hospitality and tourism industry.

The travel and tourism industry encompasses many different kinds of jobs and locations, each with its unique compensation. For example, you can work for curse lines or theme parks, in international tourism, or for local travel bureaus. You might also be tasked with online hospitality, destination marketing, or any number of other travel and tourism-related career options.

If you decide to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in travel and tourism, you likely want to pursue a management position. Doing so opens the door to larger salaries. Money isn’t everything, but getting a larger paycheck is something we all want!

Becoming a food service manager may be a promising career if you enjoy planning and coordinating departments that serve food and beverages. Only  18%  of individuals currently working as food service managers have some college. The majority have completed high school or its equivalent. This means earning your degree could give you an advantage when applying for jobs. Food service managers can expect a median income of around  $59,440  per year.  

If the food service industry doesn’t appeal to you, you may be interested in pursuing a career as a lodging manager. Lodging managers are responsible for overseeing the operation of various types of lodging and accommodations. Most  (72%)  lodging managers have at least a bachelor’s degree.

As a lodging manager, you can expect to take home a decent salary of just under $59,430 per year if you choose this career. If you want to make even more money, you might consider becoming a gaming manager or a casino supervisor. These jobs pay a median salary of around $76,910 annually. 

A general and operations manager can work in a variety of settings. If you enter this field, you’d be responsible for a business or organization’s operation and financial success. Only around  30%  of individuals working as general and operations managers have a bachelor’s degree. Another  34%  have some college experience or have completed high school or its equivalent. General and operations managers earn a median salary of around  $97,970  annually. 

See also: 30 Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration

What Requirements Do I Need to Meet to Apply and Be Accepted to a College for Travel and Tourism? 

You have to keep in mind that colleges have different admission requirements. For example, one college might require you to submit a resume in support of your application, while another college might not have that requirement.

Even though each school is different, it’s still possible to outline a list of common requirements that many travel and tourism colleges have for prospective students. For example, common admissions requirements include the following:

• Submitting an application for admission
• Submitting an application fee
• Providing high school transcripts or proof of obtaining a GED
• Passing basic tests in math and language arts or providing satisfactory scores on the ACT or SAT

Remember, the specific requirements vary depending on the type of degree you want to pursue. For example, if you want to enroll in an associate’s degree program, the school will likely not require that you have a specific amount of college credits to transfer into the program.

However, a bachelor’s degree program may or may not require you to earn an associate degree. Master’s degree programs almost always require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s before enrollment.

As another example, an associate’s degree program might have a low GPA requirement for admission, like a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, bachelor’s degree programs usually set a higher bar (say, a 2.5 GPA), while graduate programs set the bar even higher, say, 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Many colleges require you to submit references. References are used to verify your integrity, educational potential, and work experience. References can also speak to the likelihood that you will be successful in your program.

If you’ve attended college and earned credit, you’ll need to submit official college transcripts of previous academic work from all colleges and universities. A high school transcript, diploma, or GED is typically required if you have no college experience.

No matter which degree level, most schools want proof of your proficiency in basic academic subjects, like reading, writing, and speaking English. This requirement ensures that you can comprehend and learn the material presented. Deficiencies in these areas necessitate that you take remedial courses to build the necessary skills for success at the collegiate level.

Be sure to find out the specific admission requirement of the programs you find interesting. This ensures you’re not delayed because parts of the admission packet are missing or incomplete.

Is a Bachelor’s Degree Enough to Get a Good Hospitality Job?

Yes! As discussed above, a bachelor’s degree qualifies you for management positions in many instances. Usually, a bachelor’s degree and a few years of experience or additional training will help you stand out from other applicants.

However, getting a master’s degree in this field opens up additional work opportunities (and higher pay, as noted earlier). For example, your job prospects will be much greater with an MBA than if you have a BA or BS. What’s more, an MBA qualifies you for many jobs outside of travel, tourism, and hospitality.

A doctoral degree is a step higher and, for the most part, is optional for most jobs in this field. However, having a doctorate enables you to explore different areas of travel and tourism. For example, with a Ph.D., you might specialize in hospitality research rather than focusing on a service-related area of this industry.

Additionally, with a doctoral degree, you can pursue employment in higher education. In some cases, a Ph.D. is not required to teach hospitality, but you will likely qualify for more academic jobs if you complete your doctorate.

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, check out The Top 15 Accredited Online Accounting College Degree Programs and The Top 30 Easy Accredited Online Master’s Degrees ! 

How to Become a Travel Agent: The Definitive Guide

If you’re passionate about traveling and working with people, learning how to help people make travel arrangements can lead to a lucrative and rewarding career.

Travel agents assist people who are planning trips and sell transportation and lodging towards different destinations.

They may also advise individuals and groups on what destination to choose and what to visit.

When assisting their clients, travel agents take into account the client’s budget and preferences.

They usually work in travel agency offices but nowadays they may also work from home because this profession includes a lot of phone calls and computer work.

Get information on Travel Agent Training programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

What Does a Travel Agent Do?

Job responsibilities vary depending on the place of employment.

During busy months travel agents may work overtime to accommodate customer’s needs.

Some travel agents specialize in selling vacation packages while others specialize in corporate travels.

Travel agents usually do the following:

• Make travel arrangements for their clients
• Determine their clients’ needs based on budget and preferences
• Plan and arrange excursions, day trips, and tour packages
• Calculate total costs
• Book reservations for their clients
• Give details to clients about the documentation they need
• Advise clients about the destinations, weather conditions, and local customs
• Access travel information through a reservation system called Global Distribution System (GDS)
• Stay in contact with hotel managers, transport companies, and other providers of travel-related services.
• Make alternative arrangements if any incidents occur before or during the trip

Travel agent salaries vary widely depending on the employee’s skills, education, and certifications but also on how many travel packages they sell because many travel agents are paid a fixed salary plus commission on sales.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage reported by travel agents in the United States was $42,350 as of May 2020.

This means that half of all travel agents make less than this amount and half make more.

Salaries vary widely depending on the industry of employment, level of experience, region, and a variety of other factors.

The lowest 10 percent reportedly made less than $25,230 while the highest 10 percent made more than $73,360 annually.

The above numbers include the money travel agents earn from commissions.

The highest paying industry for this profession is Agencies, Brokerages, and Other Insurance Related Activities, a sector where travel agents were reportedly remunerated with $64,540 per year.

The biggest employer for travel agents are companies in the field of Travel Arrangements and Reservation Services.

Travel agents who worked in this sector reportedly made $46,590 per year, on average.

Some travel agents work in the field of Nondepository Credit Intermediation where the average salary for this profession was $46,430- higher than the average across all industries.

Travel agents who work companies that provide management services earned slightly more- with the average calculated at $50,460.

Salaries also vary depending on the state and the local economy.

Travel agents who work in Washington reportedly made $62,040 per year while those in New Mexico, South Dakota, North Dakota, Georgia, Mississippi, and Kentucky make less than $40,000 per year.

The BLS reports that the top-paying metropolitan area for travel agents is San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara CA, where this profession was remunerated with $65,040 per year, on average.

Annually National Average Salary: $46,580

Monthly national average salary: $3,833, hourly national average salary: $22.39, average annual salary by state, annual average salary: top 5 states.

The top earning state in the field is Connecticut, where the average salary is $66,480.

These are the top 5 earning states in the field:

Average Monthly Salary by State

Monthly average salary: top 5 states.

The top earning state in the field is Connecticut, where the average salary is $5,500.

Average Hourly Salary by State

Hourly average salary: top 5 states.

The top earning state in the field is Connecticut, where the average salary is $31.96.

How to Become a Travel Agent

Step 1 finish high school.

The first step if you want to become a travel agent is to finish high school because a high school diploma or equivalent will usually be required by your employer or post-secondary training program.

Step 2 Finish Post-Secondary Training

Travel Agent programs are available at many community colleges, trade schools with classes focusing mostly on:

• Reservation systems
• Regulations regarding international travel

Step 3 Become Certified

Although not all states require travel agents to be certified, you may need a business license before being allowed to sell travel packages.

Becoming certified by The Travel Institute or the International Air Transportation Association can help improve your employment and earning prospects.

Education Requirements

There there are no formal education requirements for travel agents but it’s best to finish a post-secondary training program in order to improve your employment prospects in this highly competitive field.

Training programs are available at many technical schools and community colleges and can last between a few months and a few years depending on the type of credential/degree you are seeking.

Many certification programs are also available online giving you the opportunity to learn at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.

Ashworth College-Online Travel Agent Training Program

A training option that offers you the opportunity to learn from anywhere, this online certification program offered by Ashworth College gives you access to online reservation software simulations, online libraries and labs, and many other perks.

The curriculum covers a variety of topics, such as:

• North American Aviation and Airports
• International Travel
• World Tours
• The Hospitality Industry
• Meetings and Marketing
• Building an Itinerary

The program costs $699 if paid in full or $899 if paid in monthly installments.

Community College of Baltimore County – Travel Agent Training, Continuing Education Certificate

This online training program covers all the important topics you need to know before starting a career in the travel industry.

Students learn about:

• Hotels and Resorts
• Airline Industry
• Ground Transportation
• International and Domestic Travel
• Reservations and Pricing
• Specialty Travel

The International Air Transportation Association (IATA)

IATA offers different types of travel and tourism training for all professional levels: from entry-level travel agents to senior management.

All courses lead to an internationally recognized IATA accreditation.

Two of the courses offered by IATA are BSP Essentials for Travel Agents (e-learning) and Geography and Travel Planning (e-learning).

The BSP Essential Course costs $399 and covers a lot of information about the Billing and Settlement Plan.

The Geography and Travel Planning course costs $100 and teaches students how to plan travel itineraries, read maps, use city and airport codes, sell travel packages, and help them understand different modes of transport.

Video About The Career

Certification Requirements

Although this is not a requirement, becoming certified by the International Air Transportation Association will give you an internationally recognized credential.

You can also improve your employment prospects by taking the Travel Agent Proficiency Test administered by The Travel Institute.

The Institute offers different levels of certification:

• Certified Travel Associate
• Certified Travel Counselor
• Certified Travel Industry Executive

You need 12 months of industry experience before becoming a Certified Travel Associate.

With an online full payment plan you will need to pay $450- this includes access to online materials and testing fees.

If you want to purchase the classes in print, this will cost you $550.

You will need a minimum of 5 years of experience in the industry before applying for the Certified Travel Counselor credential.

Course materials and exam fees for this certification level sum up to $550.

After gaining 5 years of experience in the field you can also become a Certified Industry Executive if you pass an exam.

The program materials and testing fees sum up to $550.

There are also other credentialing institutions, such as the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) who offer certification for specific fields or types of travel services.

CLIA also offers four levels of certification:

• Elite Cruise Counselor

It is important to mention that some states may require a business license if you want to sell travel services so it’s best to check the requirements that are applicable in your area before starting a career in this field.

Employers also offer on-the-job training on the computer software that is used within the travel industry.

Average Training Program Duration: 0-6 Months

Popular programs, job outlook.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for travel agents will be declining 26 percent from 2019 to 2029.

This decline will be caused mostly by the fact that many travelers choose to book their trips using the Internet.

However, some people prefer to use the services of a travel agent that helps them filter through the multitude of information and options that are available.

Travel agents who are certified and experienced are expected to have the best job prospects.

If you have the first-hand experience of living in a foreign country, this can help you find employment in an agency that prefers travel agents who are specialized in specific destinations.

Employment Growth Projection: 5%

That's a higher than average projected growth of 3,300 jobs.

Travel Agent: Interest Over Time

Should you become a travel agent, overall satisfaction: medium.

When asked if they are happy with their career choice, travel agents rate their career happiness 3 out of 5 stars, which puts this profession in the bottom 32 percent of all careers, according to Career Explorer.

Average Salary: Medium

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary reported by travel agents in the United States was $42,350 as of May 2020- which means that half of all workers in this profession earned less than this amount while half earned more.

Salaries for travel agents vary depending on a variety of factors and are heavily influenced by the number of travel services they sell.

The lowest 10 percent of all travel agents earned less than $25,230 (which is much less than the national average) while the top 10 percent made more than $73,360.

However, salaries are also determined by the region of employment and a variety of other factors.

According to BLS, Washington is the top-paying state for travel agents.

In this state, the median annual wage reported by workers in this profession is $62,040.

Other states where salaries were above $50,000 are Arizona, District of Columbia, California, and Massachusetts.

There are also places, such as South Dakota, Georgia, or Mississippi, where salaries were below $40,000 per year.

Job Growth Outlook: Low

If you want to start a career as a travel agent you should know that this profession is projected to decline in the future as more and more people prefer to book their vacations through dedicated websites and mobile applications.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for travel agents is projected to decline 26 percent from 2019 to 2029.

Job openings may stem from the need to replace travel agents who retire.

Education Duration: 0-6 Months

As mentioned above, if you are a good communicator who’s passionate about sales, traveling and enjoys working with people, you can start a career in this profession a few months after finishing college.

However, becoming certified and earning a degree in the field will surely help you improve your earning prospects and will give you an advantage over the other applicants for a travel agent position.

Personal Skills Needed

To be able to perform well at your job, as a Travel Agent you will need many personal skills:

• Good Communication Skills
• Customer Service Skills
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Good Time Management Skills
• Organizational Abilities

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. how much training do i need as a travel agent.

Education and certification requirements vary depending on the type of job you are targeting and the location where you want to practice.

Some states require travel agents to hold a business license and licensing requirements also vary depending on the state so it’s best to contact your state’s licensing agency to find out more on this subject.

A diploma or certificate from a trade school can help you find a job in the field and program duration varies between a few months and 2 years depending on the school and the curriculum.

Becoming certified by the Travel Institute is another way to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.

Experience requirements for certification vary between 1 year and 5 years, depending on the credential you are targeting.

Another credentialing institution is The Cruise Lines International Association.

Q. Where Can I Find Employment as a Travel Agent?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, travel agents held approximately 82,000 jobs in the United States, 72% of them working for companies that provide travel arrangements and reservation services.

The same institution reports that 17 percent of all travel agents are self-employed.

Other industries where travel agents held jobs are:

• Nondepository credit intermediation
• Management of companies and enterprises
• Credit intermediation and related activities
• Travel accommodation

The states with the highest employment level for travel agents are Florida, California, New York, Texas, and Illinois.

Q. How Much Does It Cost to Become a Travel Agent?

Training costs vary depending on the program you choose and the duration.

Shorter online programs are available and these are usually less expensive and offer you the opportunity of learning at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.

The Travel Institute offers certification programs that cost $450 in the online format and $550 in print.

If you want a more in-depth understanding of this field, a two-year associate’s degree program in travel and tourism can improve your employment prospects and help you advance in your career.

In-state students who are enrolled in associate’s degree programs pay between $4,000 and $5,000 per year, on average while out-of-state students pay between $8,000 and $9,000.

Four-year bachelor’s degree programs in travel and tourism are also available at some colleges and universities.

Travel Agent Information by State

Similar careers, certified interior designer, certified personal trainer, data entry clerk, floral designer, professional translator, purchasing manager, wedding planner, administrative assistant, athletic trainer, aviation manager.

One aspect I found particularly useful is the detailed explanation of different types of travel agents, from corporate to leisure and everything in between. Understanding these distinctions can help you decide which path suits your interests and skills best. The guide also does a great job of highlighting the importance of technology in today’s travel industry. Familiarizing yourself with booking systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and social media marketing can greatly enhance efficiency and reach.

Having worked as a travel agent for several years, I can attest to the value of the information presented in this guide. It provides a realistic overview of what it takes to succeed in this field. The recommendation to start by working with a host agency is excellent advice. Host agencies provide support, training, and access to booking systems and suppliers, which can be incredibly helpful when you’re just starting out. The guide also emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand and marketing yourself effectively, which is crucial in attracting and retaining clients. Using social media, creating a professional website, and soliciting client testimonials can all help build your reputation. This guide is a must-read for anyone serious about becoming a travel agent.

The Journal

Travel Advisor Resources

Travel Agent Education: What Are the Options?

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora Travel

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/travel-agent-education

Travel agent education: do you need it before becoming a travel agent? Does a modern host agency such as Fora require prior education? We have answers — and you might be surprised to learn that travel agent careers today look a lot different than they did at the turn of the century.

Want to share your passion for travel and earn money while doing it? Apply to become a Fora Advisor today.

What does travel agent education look like?

There’s more than one answer to this question. Traditionally, dedicated travel agent schools provided the necessary education to begin selling trips. However, online travel agencies like Priceline.com dramatically disrupted the industry with the advent of the internet, forcing a divide among people-led travel agencies.  Traditional travel agent schools still exist, but smart alternatives now exist as well. 

Fora offers online travel agent training in lieu of the outdated approach to travel agent education (learn how to become a travel agent online ). Our curriculum is taught by expert travel professionals with considerable experience, and it’s constantly evolving with the industry, which can’t be said about traditional education choices that often teach from textbooks from the 20th century.

(If you don’t need to attend a travel agent school, how do you become a travel agent ? Our guide breaks it down in detail.)

What’s the highest level of education available for a travel agent?

Technically speaking, there are universities that offer degrees in related fields, plus tons of travel agent certification programs offered by vocational schools. But there’s also no universal travel agent education system — it’s not like law or medicine, where a governing body has set regulations. Instead, every agency has its own set of requirements.

At Fora, our courses are split between basic and advanced tiers. Unlike most schools and agencies, though, there’s no additional charge for higher tiers of education — nor is it required that you pursue anything beyond the basic training. Although, it can be a great way to distinguish your business. 

So you don’t need to attend a school for travel agent education to start your career?

Some travel agencies do require prior education. But to become a Fora Advisor , it’s unnecessary. This means you can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in tuition fees 

Speaking of, how much does it cost to become a travel agent , anyway? We can’t speak for every agency out there, but our membership only costs $299 annually or $49 monthly, which doesn’t even approach the cost of tuition at antiquated travel agent schools. Moreover, our membership comes with a lot more (comprehensive training, an in-house integrated booking platform, 1:1 support, community, mentorship...).

Historically, how long did it take to complete travel agent school?

The average travel agent school takes around six weeks to complete. Fora Advisors typically finish their first tier of training within a couple weeks — all the while, they’re able to sell trips from day one. 

Advanced Fora courses take longer, but they’re also completely optional. Even better, all courses can be taken at your leisure. Compared to how long it takes to become a travel agent at other agencies — and the fact that you can start earning money right away — makes this a much better deal.

Do you ‘need’ any degree to become a travel agent?

The need for prior travel agent education, degrees and extensive travel experience is among the most common myths about becoming a travel advisor .

So what does it take to become a travel agent ? A a bit of entrepreneurial grit and a love for travel puts you a lot of the way there (but our guide has more intel — or keep reading for the highlights).

Nowadays, travel agent training (like ours) is a superior alternative to traditional schooling

Our travel agent training keeps up with the times. How? Courses are taught by actual travel advisors and experts, and any time the industry experiences something new, they’re among the first to know.

Traditional travel agent education is slow to adapt, with stagnate curriculums. We also offer marketing courses taught by our in-house marketing professionals — in case you want to learn how to market your travel business like a pro . 

Can’t wait to start your contemporary travel agent education? Sign up to become a Fora Advisor .

If not prior education, what do you need to become a travel agent?

You don’t need prior travel agent education to join Fora. Is there anything you do need?

Great communication & interpersonal skills help

While it’s not exactly mandatory, great interpersonal skills can really make the difference between becoming a successful travel agent and failing to win clients. 

It’s not just about putting on a friendly face. You need to be able to decipher what a client actually wants out of their vacation, a skill that often takes practice to develop.

Some agencies still require prior travel agent certification — we do not

Many other travel agencies require formal travel agent education and / or certifications to sign up. 

We don’t. Our Fora Advisors are hard workers and self-starters. They learn and advance their careers with us regardless of their background — and we hope that most continue to learn as the industry evolves. Add it to the list of reasons to become a Fora Advisor .

Some places have additional requirements to become a travel agent

One point that’s worth mentioning: some states and countries do have extra requirements before you can legally sell travel within their borders. 

A common example in the United States is a California seller of travel registration (and Fora has such registration). If you become a Fora Advisor , you can operate under our registration, which is as simple as filling out a quick form.

Travel agent education FAQs

Have more questions about travel agent education? Here are a few answers to FAQs.

If you enroll in travel agent education through a school anyway, will it boost your career?

It would be arrogant to assume that traditional travel education doesn’t offer anything worthwhile. But we are confident that your money and time would be better spent elsewhere.

It’s possible that this education could benefit you at other agencies. However, it’s anyone’s guess if it will actually boost your career and / or how much you can make as a travel agent .

(BTW: check out our article on Fora travel advisor salaries if you’re curious to know how much you can earn with us.)

Do specific travel agent niches require additional travel agent education, informal or otherwise?

Once again, you don’t need formal travel agent education prior to selling trips. But you can make the argument that some travel agent jobs and niches do require additional training, at least. For example, Fora offers training courses for some niches (like cruises or group bookings, for instance) that require more nuanced booking protocols. 

Is there a way to get hands-on or on-the-job travel agent training?

At Fora, you can start booking travel right away while taking basic and advanced classes. If you encounter an issue you’re not ready to solve on your own, our support team and community of travel advisors can help you.

(What types of travel niches exist? There are corporate travel agents , luxury travel advisors , cruise travel agents …)

Skip the antiquated travel agent education — become a Fora Advisor instead

To sum things up: you don’t need formal travel agent education to become a Fora Advisor . Our in-house programs will teach you all you need to know to become a successful travel advisor.

Want to do more research before you commit? We get it. Check out these travel advisor resources , too:

How Do Travel Agents Get Clients? Fora's Top 5 Tips

How to Become an Independent Travel Agent in 2023   

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent  

How Do Travel Agents Get Paid (& Why Fora Does It Differently)  

How to Be a Successful Travel Advisor: Insider Tips from the Pros  

5 Types of Bookings You Can Make as a Fora Advisor (That Aren’t Hotels!)  

Book a Cruise With a Virgin Voyages Travel Agent

Are you the go-to person for travel tips?

Transform your passion for travel into your dream job. We'll set you up with everything you need to succeed as a travel advisor. From training to top-notch tech, marketing assets, community, commission tracking & payments (and more), we've got you.

• (604) 736-8000

[email protected]

Travel Agent Certificate Online

Learn everything you need to know to become a Travel Agent! Canadian Tourism College’s Travel Agent Certificate can be completed entirely online.

Not able to come to one of our campuses for your program? Canadian Tourism College’s Travel Agent Certificate is offered online.

This ACTA 3-star endorsed online program is a great entry point to a new career as a Travel Agent/Consultant or for anyone interested in developing a home-based business as an independent agent.

Since 1980 CTC has been offering high-quality hospitality and tourism education in British Columbia. Some of our perks include:

• You create your schedule: online courses let you balance your priorities and work when it’s best for you.
• Instructors are industry experts: all of our instructors have experience working in the field they teach.

CANADIAN TOURISM COLLEGE has achieved the National Standard set by The Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA) and has qualified for Three Star Endorsement for the Travel Agent Certificate Program. Click here to view our certificate.

Travel Agent Certificate - 16 courses

Courses include Fares and ticketing, Developing Specialty Vacation Packages, and more!

All amounts are in Canadian dollars.

Program Costs

All amounts are in Canadian dollars. The following fee schedule may be subject to change without notice. Tuition and fees may be subject to change pending approval.

Ready to Apply?

Registration is simple. The required registration documents are:

• Completed registration form which you can request by contacting us at 604-736-8000 or 1-877-731-9810.
• Copy of your high school diploma or equivalent
• Copy of Government Issued Photo ID
• Payment (We can send you the credit card authorization form upon request)

To Apply Online please visit our secure online application form: Online Program application form.

Once you register, you will receive an orientation e-mail from your assigned instructor with your login information. Your questions will be answered via e-mail.

Please note that students must complete their online program within 12 months.

Canadian Tourism College (CTC) has been preparing students for exciting careers in travel and tourism for over 40 years. CTC offers Hospitality, Travel and Tourism, and Flight Attendant diploma and certificate programs taught by industry professionals.

Get In Touch

200 – 1111 Melville St. Vancouver, BC V6E 3V6

604-736-8000

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