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Tourism and Travel Agent


If you love to wander, you can combine work with pleasure by being a travel agent. Furthermore, your career will get you reduced rates on travel and lodging.

Since many people can make reservations themselves online, you'll have to offer added service such as researching destinations, negotiating prices, and planning long trips. Finally, agents sometimes promote travel for resorts, cruise lines, and specialty travel.

Fast Facts:
  • Mean Income (2008): $32,470
  • Number of Positions: (2008) 86,420
  • Projected Job Growth: Little or none expected from 2006-2016
  • Related Occupations: Travel guides, tour guides and escorts
Since job growth is limited, prospects are best if you specialize in specific destinations, luxury travel or special types of group travel, like music groups.

A high school diploma is a must; however, many travel agencies prefer applicants who have college degrees. Career training is available at many vocational schools, community colleges, and online schools. Business or travel experience, along with good computer and communication skills, are also beneficial.

If you love people, are organized, and love to travel, you'll love this job.

Strayer University

Get the right foundation for your future with a degree from Strayer University. Evening, weekend and online classes are all available to meet the needs of busy adults.

Programs:
  • BBA: Hospitality and Tourism Management
  • MBA: Hospitality and Tourism Management

Penn Foster Schools

Earn an accredited degree or diploma from Penn Foster Career School, the world's largest and most respected distance learning institution. Get FREE information today.

Programs:
  • Travel / Tourism Specialist

Penn Foster Career School

Earn an accredited degree or diploma from Thomson Education Direct, the world's largest and most respected distance learning institution. Get FREE information today.

Programs:
  • Travel / Tourism Specialist

Ashworth College - US

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth University, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:
  • Travel Agent

Ashworth College - Canada

Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth University, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

Programs:
  • Travel Agent Program

Penn Foster Global - Scranton

Start your new career today with Penn Foster Global. Choose from over 80 quality distance education programs in Health Services, Business, Technology, Education and more.

Programs:
  • Travel and Tourism Specialist