Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
Formal or specialized training is becoming increasingly important for travel agents. Few agencies are willing to train people on the job. Many vocational schools offer three to twelve week full-time programs, as well as evening and Saturday programs. Travel courses are also offered in public adult education programs and in community and four-year colleges. A few colleges offer a bachelor's and a master's degree in travel and tourism. Although few college courses relate directly to the travel industry, a college education is sometimes desired by employers. Courses in computer science, geography, foreign languages, and history are most useful. Courses in accounting and business management also are important, especially for those who expect to manage or start their own travel agencies. Several home-study courses provide a basic understanding of the travel industry. The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) and the Institute of Certified Travel Agents offer a travel correspondence course. Travel agencies also provide on-the-job training for their employees, a significant part of which consists of computer instruction. These computer skills are required by employers to operate airline reservation systems.

Job Outlook:
Employment of travel agents is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Many job openings will arise as new agencies open and existing agencies expand, but most will occur as experienced agents transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. There will be approximately 191,000 travel agents by 2005.

Sources of Additional Information:

For further information on training opportunities, contact: