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Feeling overwhelmed by the choices for travel agent schools in Virginia Beach, VA?
We’ve reviewed top programs that can jumpstart your career in the travel industry. This guide breaks down the essential details about each school, saving you time and effort in your search.
Find the best fit for your goals and get started on the path to becoming a successful travel agent.
Ed2Go – Travel Agent Training Program
When it comes to Travel Agent Schools in Virginia Beach, VA, Ed2Go offers a popular online option with its Travel Agent Training Program. This program is designed to provide comprehensive education and training for aspiring travel agents.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible Online Learning: The program spans six months and includes 100 course hours. It’s entirely online, providing flexibility for you to study at your own pace.
- Inclusive Curriculum: Topics covered range from “Introduction to the Travel Industry” and “Basic/International Geography” to more specialized areas like “Destination Geography” and “Introduction to Air Travel.”
- Industry Specific: You’ll gain knowledge in key areas such as airline and ground transportation, cruises, hotels and resorts, tours, and specialty travel.
- Certification Preparation: The course prepares you for the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test sanctioned by the Travel Institute, a valuable certification in the industry.
- Practical Skills: It includes modules on career development as well as sales and marketing for travel—a must-have for excelling as a travel professional.
Materials & Delivery:
- Study Materials: The course uses textbooks like “Travel Career Development” and “Exploring the World” along with corresponding workbooks. These materials can be shipped physically or provided digitally.
- Technology Requirement: Accessible via PC, Mac, or Chromebook, ensuring you can study regardless of your device preference.
Costs & Financial Support:
- Tuition: The program costs $2,245, covering all instructional materials and the TAP test voucher.
- Financial Aid: While the course does not offer federal aid like FAFSA or Pell Grant, some states provide funding, and financing options are available through participating schools.
The Ed2Go Travel Agent Training Program not only provides a solid educational foundation but also prepares you for an industry-recognized certification, enhancing your employability. For more detailed information, visit the Ed2Go program page.
What to Look for When Choosing a Travel Agent School
Choosing the right travel agent school is a crucial step toward a successful career in the travel industry. Here are some essential factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the school is accredited by a recognized body. Accreditation is a quality assurance that the program meets certain academic and professional standards.
- Course Content: Evaluate the curriculum to see if it covers essential industry topics such as geography, sales and marketing, customer service, destination knowledge, and industry-specific software training. A well-rounded curriculum will better equip you for the diverse demands of the travel profession.
- Certification Preparation: Opt for programs that prepare you for industry-recognized certifications, such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test offered by the Travel Institute. Certification can enhance your employability and credibility in the industry.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the tuition fees and what they cover, such as instructional materials and certification exam vouchers. Also, check if the school offers financing options, scholarships, or if your state provides funding for the program.
- Flexibility: Look for schools that offer flexible learning schedules, especially if you are working or have other commitments. Online, self-paced programs can provide the flexibility needed to balance your studies with other responsibilities.
- Career Support Services: Investigate whether the school offers career support services such as job placement assistance, career counseling, and networking opportunities. These services can be invaluable as you start your career.
- Student Reviews and Success Stories: Research student reviews and success stories to get a better sense of the program’s effectiveness and the career outcomes of its graduates.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a travel agent school that aligns with your career goals and provides a solid foundation for entering the travel industry.
Conclusion
Selecting the right travel agent school in Virginia Beach, VA, can significantly impact your future career in the travel industry. Programs like the Ed2Go Travel Agent Training Program offer flexibility, comprehensive education, and valuable certification preparation to help you achieve your professional goals. Start exploring your options today and take the first step towards an exciting career as a travel agent.
What to Look for When Choosing a Travel Agent School
Choosing the right travel agent school is a crucial step toward a successful career in the travel industry. Here are some essential factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the school is accredited by a recognized body. This guarantees that the program meets certain academic and professional standards.
- Course Content: Evaluate the curriculum to see if it covers essential industry topics such as geography, sales and marketing, customer service, destination knowledge, and industry-specific software training. A well-rounded curriculum will better equip you for the diverse demands of the travel profession.
- Certification Preparation: Opt for programs that prepare you for industry-recognized certifications, such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test offered by the Travel Institute. Certification can enhance your employability and credibility in the industry.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the tuition fees and what they cover, such as instructional materials and certification exam vouchers. Also, check if the school offers financing options, scholarships, or if your state provides funding for the program.
- Flexibility: Look for schools that offer flexible learning schedules, especially if you are working or have other commitments. Online, self-paced programs can provide the flexibility needed to balance your studies with other responsibilities.
- Career Support Services: Investigate whether the school offers career support services such as job placement assistance, career counseling, and networking opportunities. These services can be invaluable as you start your career.
- Student Reviews and Success Stories: Research student reviews and success stories to get a better sense of the program’s effectiveness and the career outcomes of its graduates.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a travel agent school that aligns with your career goals and provides a solid foundation for entering the travel industry.
Bryant & Stratton College – Travel & Tourism Program
One notable option among travel agent schools in Virginia Beach, VA, is Bryant & Stratton College’s Travel & Tourism Program. This program is designed to prepare students for various roles within the travel and tourism industry.
Program Highlights
- Degree Path: Offers an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) degree in Travel & Tourism. This degree path provides a broader scope of study beyond just travel agent training.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers a wide range of topics including customer service, marketing, sales, travel operations, and destination geography.
- Industry Connections: Students gain insights into the industry through a network of travel professionals and opportunities for internships.
- Hands-On Training: Incorporates practical experiences such as simulated travel bookings and client interactions to prepare students for real-world scenarios.
Financial Aspects
- Tuition: Varies depending on the number of credit hours and residency status.
- Financial Aid: Offers various forms of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
For more details, visit the Bryant & Stratton College Travel & Tourism Program.
Centura College – Travel and Tourism Specialist Program
Another great program in Virginia Beach is Centura College’s Travel and Tourism Specialist Program. This program is tailored for those looking to enter the travel industry with thorough preparation.
Program Highlights
- Certificate Program: Earn a certificate as a Travel and Tourism Specialist in a relatively short period.
- Focused Curriculum: Emphasizes key areas such as travel reservation systems, tour operations, destination geography, and customer service.
- Flexible Learning: Offers both online and on-campus classes to accommodate different schedules.
Financial Aspects
- Tuition Costs: Relatively affordable with various payment plans available.
- Financial Aid: Federal financial aid, scholarships, and military benefits are available for eligible students.
For more information, check out the Centura College Travel and Tourism Specialist Program.
ECPI University – Travel & Tourism Management Program
ECPI University provides another strong choice among travel agent schools with its Travel & Tourism Management Program. This program is built to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the travel industry.
Program Highlights
- Degree Program: Offers an Associate Degree in Travel & Tourism Management.
- Broad-Based Curriculum: Covers all essential topics including marketing, tour operations, geography, and specialized travel services.
- Career Preparation: Includes career services such as job placement assistance, resume building, and interview preparation.
Financial Aspects
- Tuition: Fees are competitive and detailed on the university’s website.
- Financial Aid: A variety of financial aid options are available including grants, loans, and scholarships.
Explore further by visiting the ECPI University Travel & Tourism Management Program.
Summary of Travel Agent Schools in Virginia Beach, VA
Here’s a concise overview to help you compare the travel agent schools in Virginia Beach, VA:
- Ed2Go – Travel Agent Training Program
- Bryant & Stratton College – Travel & Tourism Program
- Centura College – Travel and Tourism Specialist Program
- ECPI University – Travel & Tourism Management Program
By considering your specific needs and career ambitions, you can choose a school that offers the right blend of flexibility, cost, support, and quality education.
Conclusion
Selecting the right travel agent school in Virginia Beach, VA, can significantly impact your future career in the travel industry. Programs like the Ed2Go Travel Agent Training Program, Bryant & Stratton College, Centura College, and ECPI University offer flexibility, comprehensive education, and valuable certification preparation to help you achieve your professional goals. Start exploring your options today and take the first step towards an exciting career as a travel agent.