Online travel agent certificates are
available through a number of U.S. schools. Students learn to place
travelers in their preferred destinations, in addition to studying
geography and the history of the travel industry.
Online Certificates for Travel Agents
Through an online
travel agent
certificate program, students explore various methods of travel,
including airlines, boats and trains, and different types of
accommodations. They learn to coordinate tours and examine the various
requirements for travel to and within foreign countries. Aspiring travel
agents also become familiar with computer reservation software. While
formal education isn't required for this field, the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics (BLS) reports that most employers prefer hiring individuals
with travel agent training (
www.bls.gov). Most online travel agent certificate programs can be completed within six months to a year.
Certificate programs for prospective travel agents are available
completely online and usually are self-paced. Students typically access
courses through an educational server.
Distance education students in this field must have a computer and
access to the Internet. They also need e-mail access. Students generally
need Acrobat Reader and Flash Player to watch videos and participate in
online activities.
List of Common Travel Agent Courses
Travel agent certificate candidates take courses related solely to
the travel industry, so there are no general education requirements.
Overview of the Travel Industry Course
Students explore the history of the travel industry and current
responsibilities of travel agents. They also study geography and
technology used by travel agents.
Marketing in Travel Course
How do travel agents sell a vacation to prospective clients? Future
travel agents study ways to market their services and find clients.
Travel Products Course
Travel agents often are responsible for all aspects of a trip,
including transportation to, from and within a destination,
accommodations and entertainment, including tours. They must be able to
make recommendations to clients and seek out the best deals.
Travel Agent Training Course
Students are introduced to the various computer software programs,
including Apollo, Galileo, Sabre and Amadeus, used by travel agents to
make plane, hotel and train reservations. They also learn to read
timetables and schedules.
The BLS predicted that job opportunities for travel agents would
decrease by one percent between 2008 and 2018. The median annual salary
for travel agents was $30,790 in May 2009, according to BLS figures.
Continuing Education
After completing an online certificate program, students might choose
to pursue an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree program in
travel,
hospitality or business, all of which could enhance their careers. Some of these programs are available online.
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