Travel Agent Training (Exam Cost Included)

Together, travel and tourism make up one of the world's largest industries. While some travelers manage to book their own trips, travel agents still play a major role in luxury, corporate, and group travel. With the industry positioned to grow, there's never been a better time to train to become a travel agent. This online course will prepare you to work in the fast-paced travel industry. You will gain a deep understanding of both travel and tourism, so you can help clients research, plan, and book their trips.

What you will learn

• Everything you need to know about the travel industry, including airline and ground transportation, hotels and resorts, cruises, tours, specialty travel, and more.
• All about the international and domestic travel destinations that you are most likely to recommend and sell to your clients.
• How to market yourself as a Travel Professional
• Customer service skills needed as a Travel Professional

How you will benefit

• Upon completion of this course, you will be able to sit for the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, offered by the Travel Institute (formerly ICTA)
• Through our partnership with Travel Placement Services (TPS), students who successfully complete the course are eligible to be connected with a TPS representative.
• You will have the knowledge you need to get started in your travel career.

1. Introduction to the Travel Industry
2. Professional Skills
3. Basic/International Geography
4. Destination Geography
5. Introduction to International Travel
6. Introduction to Air Travel
7. Transportation
8. Career Development
9. Sales and Marketing for Travel

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader .
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

• Travel Career Development and accompanying workbook
• Exploring the World, Geography for the Travel Professional and accompanying workbook

Please note: You will receive a digital book if the physical book is on backorder.

Prerequisites:

There are no specific prerequisites for this course. This course is for you if you want to enhance your travel industry knowledge or jump-start your career in the travel industry.

Helene K. Liatsos

Helene K. Liatsos is a consultant for small businesses, travel agencies, and home-based business startups with more than 25 years of experience. Along with a successful career in the travel industry, working with airlines, hotels, and travel agencies, Helene established her own business management company, Home Office Management Experts, and was awarded the 2004 Home-Based Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. As a QuickBooks Certified Advisor, she provides bookkeeping, payroll and QuickBooks training services. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Can I register for a course if I am an international student?

Yes, Hope Training Academy courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.

Does this course prepare for a certification?

The Travel Agent Training course will prepare you to sit for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test, offered by the Travel Institute (formerly ICTA), the registration fee for this test is included with this course. The Travel Agent Proficiency or TAP test is the first step towards professional recognition. The test allows students to demonstrate that they have mastered the basics of the travel industry – selling skills, basic geography, and the items/products sold by travel counselors.

When can I start the course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

How long does it take to complete this course?

This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive six (6) months to complete the course.

What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

The course instructor will be available by email to answer any questions and provide feedback on your performance. Occasionally, your course may be supported by a team of industry experts. You will also receive support from the student advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a certificate of completion. In addition, you will receive an exam voucher for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test, offered by the Travel Institute (formerly ICTA), after successful completion of the course and financial obligation.

Am I guaranteed a job?

This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.

Can I get financial assistance?

This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.

What is a certified travel agent?

A certified travel agent has earned one of the available industry certifications, such as Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC). While they are not required to work in the industry, travel agent certifications can add prestige to your resume. This course provides fundamental knowledge if you are planning to seek a CTA certification.

I enjoyed that it was at my own pace given my busy work schedule. The facilitator was helpful throughout the course.- B.T., University of Central Florida

Everything was exactly how it was stated. The course was easy to follow, my facilitator responded in a timely fashion, and the support was phenomenal.- T.E., Cuyahoga Community College

I enjoyed the course and found it helpful in preparing me for a job in the travel industry.- A.K., University of Vermont

The facilitators were helpful and timely in answering any questions or concerns. The courses were easy to follow and complete.- T.O., Palm Beach State College

I enjoyed my course! This was the first time I have done an online course and I loved that it was independent work you can do at your own pace to finish whenever fits your schedule. Everything was perfect with me!- M.A., George Mason University