Online Hospitality / Tourism Degree

Hospitality / Tourism Degree Overview

Career Outlook for Jobs in Hospitality and Travel

Travel agents account for just over 105,000 workers in the U.S. in 2008. However, there is a growing popularity for travelers to make vacation plans online. This means that agents with the best chance for success in this industry are able to adapt their travel consultations and services to the web. Other opportunities will open up for those specializing in serving niche markets, such as working with corporate clients or group bookings. Exotic and luxury travel is another area that is growing in popularity and this type of clientele is likely to seek out the expert assistance of a travel agent.

Approximately 59,800 people were employed as lodging managers in 2008. The demand for workers is expected to increase by five percent to the year 2018. This is slower than average for all types of occupations. Employment opportunities will come from existing employees retiring or changing careers. The job market will be more favorable to applicants who do not limit their search to one geographic region or type of accommodation.

Hospitality and Travel Salary Forecast

An entry-level travel agent can expect to be paid between $22,000-$38,000 per year (salary and commission). At the five-year mark, the pay range increases to $29,000-$40,000 per annum. A senior travel agent with 20 years or more of experience will be making $32,000-$45,000 annually.

Salaries for hotel managers vary, depending on the size of the property and the individual’s level of experience. A new grad may be hired as a management trainee earning $24,000 per year. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for hotel managers was just over 45K per year.

However, Salary isn’t the only thing to look at when considering a career as a lodging manager. Along with base salary, a number of employers in this industry pay a commission based on sales. This figure can increase the basic compensation by up to 25%. Other perks associated with this job may include profit sharing, paid meals and accommodation. Managers working at first-class hotels and resorts can earn six-figure incomes.

Hospitality and Travel Education Requirements

An Associate’s degree in Hospitality and Travel will help to prepare a student for work as a travel agent. People who want to work with visitors after they reach their destination should be looking at pursuing a Bachelor’s degree program. A four-year program opens up more career options to graduates.

Associate’s Degree Curriculum:

• Hospitality and Travel A person enrolled in a two-year educational program will take courses similar to the following:
• Introduction to Hospitality
• Hospitality Law
• Hospitality Marketing
• Tourism Practices

Travel Selling Bachelor’s Degree Curriculum:

Hospitality and Travel A four-year degree program will include Students who choose to enroll in a Bachelor’s degree program will take a certain number of general studies courses as well as ones which are directly connected to their area of study. Here are some examples:

• Customer/Guest Service Management
• Destination Geography
• Destination Management Organization
• Dynamics of Tourism
• Essentials of International Food and Beverage
• Food Safety and Sanitation Management
• The Hospitality Field
• Hospitality Financial Management
• Hospitality Law
• Hospitality Sales and Meeting Management
• Hospitality Strategic Marketing
• International Policies of Tourism
• Negotiations and Agreements
• Technology in the Tourism/Hospitality Management Industry