Many people who want to go into the travel and tourism industry have never had the benefits of academic travel and tourism curriculum explained to them, so they do not understand why it is so important to get an education in order to excel in this industry. Although becoming a travel agent or working for an airline doesn’t necessarily require a degree, many employers in these and other industries prefer educated applicants, and some jobs require it. If you are passionate about this industry and have the education to prove how qualified you are, you will be more likely to get the tourism jobs you’ve dreamed of.
Travel and tourism curriculum varies depending on the school you’re attending, the degree or certificate you’re going after and the specialization you are studying. You will most likely take courses in business and management as well as classes about travel consulting, accounting, restaurant and hospitality operations, communications, international travel and more. If you earn a bachelor’s degree from a traditional four-year university you will also need to take general courses in subjects like math, science, English and history to graduate.
Although this type of degree or training program is not required for many of the available tourism jobs, it will prepare you for a more lucrative career and make you a more attractive applicant when you begin looking for employment. The curriculum will vary depending on whether you are looking for basic credentials or a certificate or degree, but in any case you will learn valuable lessons about the industry. You will also have opportunities to complete internship programs that provide hands-on experience in the tourism industry. For this reason you may want to consider attending school in an area where travel and tourism are popular.
There are travel and tourism curriculum programs at online universities, vocational schools, community colleges and traditional four-year colleges and universities. It would be wise to explore all your options and choose the best path for your particular career goals. With the right training, a rewarding career in the travel and tourism industry awaits.
