Associate Degree in Specialized Business: Travel & Tourism Management
Majors Overview May 7, 2013Although Associate in Specialized Business programs in tourism and travel management are rare, individuals who are interested in this field should consider pursuing other associate degrees, including Associate of Science (A.S.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.). An associate degree program in tourism and travel management will provide students with the skills needed to obtain management positions in the tourism and travel industry.
Associate Degree Program in Tourism and Travel Management
An associate degree program in tourism and travel management will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to work in the tourism and travel industry, such as marketing, advertising, and sales of travel products. Some colleges and universities may require students to obtain work experience by working with hospitality organizations. Associate degree program graduates should have the administrative skills to promote, develop, and research tourism in particular regions, localities, and destinations. In general, students who want to enroll in an associate degree program in tourism and travel management are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Program coursework will include domestic and international travel markets, computer-based reservations and ticketing, travel foods, and travel theory. Students will also learn how to analyze visitors’ experiences and strategically design marketing plans. Individuals may learn how to prepare and research travel and tour packages using relevant technology, such as cost-controlling techniques, as well as studying cruise and tour brochure design, regional sightseeing, religious customs, and group sales pricing. Course topics may include the following:
•Operations of the front desk
•Overview of gourmet culture
•Laws of travel, restaurants and hotels
•Tourism leadership
•Travel attractions and entertainment
•Cost control in the hospitality industry
•Workplace psychology
•Service marketing
•Management of customer service
•Geography
Career Options
Graduates may find leadership positions with various destination marketing organizations, such as:
•Visitors bureaus
•Cruise companies
•Travel agencies
•Tourism development agencies
Information on Continuing Education
Associate degree program graduates who want to further their education should transfer their credits to a four-year bachelor degree program in hospitality management with a focus on tourism and travel management. In addition, graduates may pursue master degree programs in hospitality management or tourism administration.
