The term ‘tourism’ sparks excitement as it connects us to various travel activities in various cultural places, historical sites, monuments, and so on. If these words excite you too, then you must enjoy traveling. Today, pursuing a career in the tourism industry can lead to plenty of travel opportunities. In the digital age, the tourism sector is booming and evolving rapidly so it is very easy to take courses online.
A career in the tourism sector can offer you a dynamic and rewarding experience with endless opportunities. Over the last decade, the tourism industry has seen very rapid growth in the field of ecotourism, adventure travel and experiential tourism. Therefore, there is a vast pool of opportunities in this field. Taking an online course can equip you with the right skills, education and mindset to begin a satisfying adventure.
Why should you choose tourism as a career?
In recent years, the tourism industry has grown dramatically and made significant contributions to the national economy. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism contributed $121 billion, equivalent to 6.4% of India’s GDP, in 2011. Between 2011 and 2021, there was an annual growth rate of 8.8%. The sector also supported 39.3 million jobs, accounting for 7.9% of total employment.
From 1990 to 2011, this industry’s GDP grew by an impressive 229%. There is no doubt that this sector will experience the average annual growth rate of 7.7 over the next 10 years. Our country is rapidly growing in this domain as it boasts a diverse range of tourist destinations and a rich cultural history.
Tourism experts earn an average salary of ₹16.6 lakhs. With its rich cultural and history assets, our country has the potential to become a top worldwide tourism destination in the coming years. The Indian tourism sector is expected to play a critical role in generating economic growth as the economy expands and India’s appeal as a travel destination continues to rise.
If you’re looking to pursue a career in tourism, starting with an online course is a great choice. Here are eight simple steps to get you started on this wonderful trip.
8-Step Guide to Online Tourism Courses
1. Identify Your Goals and Interests
First of all, you must define your desired goals, why you want to take a course in the tourism field and which domain you want to select. There are many special areas such as travel management, event planning, cultural heritage, and so on. You need to evaluate your interests and career goals: you might be interested in sustainable tourism, luxury travel, or adventure tourism. By understanding your area of interest you can choose a course of your preference that suits your needs and interests.
2. Research Available Online Courses
Begin by conducting thorough research on trustworthy online learning platforms. Coursera, Udemy, edX, and LinkedIn Learning provide a variety of courses in tourism. Check the platform’s qualifications and read reviews from students. You need to analyze which course program suits your interests. Additionally, you should review and incorporate practical elements such as case studies and projects.
3. Check Accreditation and Certification
Accreditation guarantees that a course meets certain educational criteria. Verify if the course is officially recognized by a reputable organization or provides a certification that carries weight in the field. Earning a certification from a reputable school or popular platform will boost your resume and your credibility. It will show employers that you graduated from a quality program. A course accredited by a tourism association could offer greater recognition within the industry compared to a course without accreditation.
4. Evaluate Course Costs and Financial Aid
The cost of online courses can differ significantly: some are free, while others require a significant financial investment. Be sure to understand the total cost, taking into account any additional costs related to certification and materials. Many platforms offer financial assistance or installment payment options. To effectively manage costs, see if you qualify for scholarships, discounts, or payment plans. Coursera and edX frequently offer financial assistance for paid courses, which can alleviate the financial strain.
5. Assess the Course Format and Flexibility
Online courses are either synchronous (live sessions) or asynchronous (pre-recorded lectures). Choose the layout that suits your schedule and learning preferences. Asynchronous courses offer more flexibility, while synchronous courses allow for immediate interaction.
You can check the estimated time needed per week. Make sure it aligns with your availability and other responsibilities. An asynchronous course with flexible deadlines might be more suitable if you have a busy schedule.
6. Review Instructor Qualifications
Research the qualifications and experience of the course instructors. Look for industry professionals with relevant experience and a strong educational background.
Read reviews and feedback from previous students about the instructors. This can give you insights into their teaching style and effectiveness.
An instructor with extensive experience in travel management may provide practical insights and real-world applications.
7. Engage with Course Content and Resources
After you sign up, make sure to participate actively in the course content. Engage in conversations, finish tasks promptly, and utilize any extra materials offered.
Utilize extra resources like online forums, webinars, and networking events. These can improve your learning experience and assist you in forming connections within the industry. Joining course-related forums and groups can provide valuable networking opportunities and additional support.
8. Apply Your Knowledge Practically
Utilize the information acquired from the course in real-life situations. Engaging in internships, freelance projects, or personal ventures is beneficial as it reinforces your learning.
Utilize your newly acquired abilities to develop a portfolio or engage in practical projects. This can showcase your skills to potential employers or clients. If you have knowledge about Destination Management, think about creating a travel itinerary or starting a travel blog to demonstrate your skills.
Conclusion
Enrolling for a tourism course can help grow your career and explore the world. Follow the eight steps above to find an online course that suits your interests and goals. Stay involved, apply what you learn, and use your certification to boost your career in the ever-changing tourism field.
FAQs
1. Can I do a tourism course online?
Yes, there are many universities and institutions that offer online tourism courses, certifications, and diplomas. You can refer to online platforms like Coursera, EdX, and Udemy to provide flexible learning options. Some popular online courses include:
- Travel and Tourism Management
- Hospitality Management
- Destination Marketing
- Sustainable Tourism.
2. Which course is best in tourism?
The best course in tourism depends on interests and career goals. Popular options include:
- Degree in Tourism Management for undergraduates (BTTM)
- MTTM stands for Master’s in Tourism Management.
- Certificate in Managing Travel and Tourism
- Diploma in Hotel Management
- Specializations like Event Management, Eco-Tourism, or Cultural Heritage Management.
3. Which stream is best for tourism?
For tourism, ideal streams are:
- Commerce ((link unavailable))
- Arts (B.A.) with focuses on Geography, History, or Cultural Studies
- Hospitality Management (BHM)
- Business Administration (BBA) with a tourism specialization
- Social Sciences, emphasizing Anthropology, Sociology, or Environmental Studies.
4. What are the highest-paying job in tourism?
Here are some highest paying jobs in tourism include:
- Tourism Consultant (₹8-12 lakhs/year)
- Travel Manager (₹6-10 lakhs/year)
- Hospitality Manager (₹5-9 lakhs/year)
- Destination Marketing Manager (₹4-8 lakhs/year)
- Tourism Director (₹10-15 lakhs/year)
- Travel Writer/Journalist (₹3-6 lakhs/year)
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