- Due to demand this program starts in Summer and Fall only
- Work in an exciting industry where you provide services for those away from home, either for business or pleasure. Travel and Tourism is one of the world's largest foreign exchange earners among industries, providing employment directly to millions of people worldwide and indirectly
- Travel & Tourism is the first, second, or third largest employer in 32 states AND the world's largest employer, requiring an additional 24 MILLION trained workers by 2010.
- Enjoy hands-on education that includes job shadowing and industry trade shows
- Graduate from one of the most respected programs in the country, one recognized by the Institute of Certified Travel Agents
- Enjoy a 91% graduate success rate for well paying employment in your major
- Receive your associate degree in as little as 15 months in one of the 25 fastest growing career fields in the nation
- Experience online classes with personalized instruction, from professors who have first hand, real-world experience
What kind of work does a Travel and Tourism Operations Associate degree program graduate do?
Central Penn Travel and Tourism Operations graduates enter an exciting and fast paced service industry in a wide variety of diverse positions. These include working for a cruise line, an airline, a corporate or leisure travel agency, and working as a meeting planner or a tour operator. Specific responsibilities include those of a travel or rental car agent, cruise ship reservations and sales, as well as airline reservation or ramp agent.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants entering the Travel and Tourism Operations Program must have a 2.0 GPA (or C average). Recommended preparation includes:
- Geography and math
- Good oral communications
- Computer skills
- Meeting planning
Travel and Tourism Internship
Upon completion of your Travel and Tourism Operations Associate degree program course work, you will participate in a professional internship. This is the last step in your development toward professional success. You will sharpen your skills and personal attributes by directly interacting with professionals in their travel related facilities. The internship gives you the opportunity to use all the knowledge you acquired while attending Central Penn. No matter where you complete your internship, you will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in this high-paying career.
Who will teach me?
The Travel and Tourism Operations faculty at Central Pennsylvania College are highly knowledgeable professionals who bring relevant work experience to the classes. Our professors care about the career success of each student, and they will work with you on an individual basis to help you accomplish your academic goals. These same professors serve as student academic advisors, maintaining personal relationships with students as well as serving as a reference and friend.
Who will I work for?
Through the years Central Penn has developed a close working relationship with many companies and organizations across Pennsylvania. As a result, Central Penn interns and graduates find the door open to them at a number of locations. A partial list of employers of Central Penn Travel and Tourism graduates includes:
- SATO Travel
- American Airlines
- Sandal's Resorts
- US Airways
- Uniglobe World Travel
- Walt Disney World Resort
Salaries will vary with starting positions, however, travel school graduates generally advance very quickly. Additionally, the tourism industry offers many perks for the travel professional. Free or discounted rates are available for airlines, major hotels, sightseeing tours and cruises around the world.
This degree program can be earned online via distance education. For more information about Central Penn College's Travel and Tourism Operations Associate degree program, tuition, or to talk with a faculty member or student, please contact your personal admissions counselor or call 1-800-759-2727.
