ONTARIO COLLEGE DIPLOMA

Tourism and Travel

Program #0224X01FWO
2 Year(s)

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This two-year Ontario College Diploma program is designed to develop the multi-faceted skills required to work in the travel industry. Students acquire an understanding of the travel business, become familiar with the world's tourist areas, and develop the marketing and communication skills necessary to function effectively in a travel organization. Emphasis is placed on understanding travel industry technology, fare assessment, selling techniques, customer relations, guidelines and regulations, and product knowledge.

The travel industry is hectic, fast-paced, and continually changing. The nature of the work demands that candidates have strong interpersonal and communication skills and be willing to work with the public. Maturity and a willingness to accept responsibility are also essential.

The program is divided into four levels of 15 weeks each. A considerable amount of time in the program is devoted to practical application on the computerized reservations system. Students take courses in airline systems, tours, computer reservations, and tourism geography in all four levels. Other subject areas include English, travel selling techniques, corporate travel, and the use of technology for research of travel-related topics. During the second year, students continue to integrate theory with practical experience by operating Algonquin's Campus Travel agency. This is enhanced by a two-week work placement in a travel organization.

As mandatory licensing is now required in Ontario, students must successfully complete the TICO (Travel Industry Council of Ontario) examination prior to the placement component in Level 04 of the program.

Graduates are encouraged to apply to write the Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors (CITC) national certification examination for the Certified Travel Counsellor (CTC) designation. The success rate of Algonquin students on this examination ranks among the highest in Canada.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:
  • Are interested in the culture and geography of different areas of the world.
  • Have strong language (oral and written) skills.
  • Are team players, like to work with others, and are interested in providing superior service to clients.


Every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. For the most current information, please visit our web site at www.algonquincollege.com. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable, or campus location at any time.