A great travel agent program in Portland, Maine, doesn’t necessarily have to be campus-only. Several high-quality training programs are offered online or as hybrid programs for additional convenience, but this does not alter their ability to provide a high level of training.
What is most important when choosing a training program is to find a program that touches upon every major topic and fulfills possible state requirements for approval and accreditation (if applicable).
Below, we explore all the requirements for becoming a travel agent in Portland, Maine, before revealing our carefully curated list of the best travel agent training programs for residents.
How to Become a Travel Agent in Portland
Travel agents in Portland start their careers by joining a host agency. There are no state or city laws that require them to pursue a license, so foundational training is of utmost importance.
For an edge in the field, candidates typically choose to complete an academic program and pick up a certificate or a degree. They may do this in several related fields, including a plain Travel Agent program, Tourism and Hospitality programs, and Business Administration programs for those who will eventually start their host agencies.
After training, candidates are advised to complete a certification test and earn professional credentials for career growth. The Travel Institute offers excellent credentials, as does the American Society of Travel Advisors.
Top Travel Agent Schools in Portland, Maine
Aspiring travel agents in Portland, Maine, may consider any of the programs below for their comprehensive education.
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME Campus + Online
The University of Southern Maine's Hospitality and Tourism program is a perfect way to start a career as a travel agent anywhere in the state. The program covers a wide range of tourism and travel topics, leading to graduates who are well-rounded and versatile and can also take on duties in related areas.
Tuition
$400 - $1,000 per CreditContact
(800) 800-4876
admitusm@maine.edu
Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, ME Campus + Online
At Southern Maine Community College, aspiring travel agents can begin their careers by enrolling in an array of Business and Hospitality training programs. As hospitality is highly interconnected, candidates may launch a career as a travel agent through this route.
Tuition
$96 - $192 per CreditContact
(207) 741-5500
smccadvising@mainecc.edu
Central Maine Community College
Online, ME Online Only
Central Maine Community College is one of the most popular technical institutions with flexible training programs for candidates in the state of Maine. Aspiring travel agents can come here for a training program that can be completed 100% online.
Tuition
$2,245 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
University of Maine System
Fort Kent, ME Campus + Online
Several universities in the University of Maine System offer an array of training programs that candidates may leverage to start successful careers as travel agents. For instance, the University of Maine at Machias offers a Tourism, Hospitality, and Outdoor Recreation Minor and an associate degree program in Conservation Law and Outdoor Management.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(207) 778-7050
umaineadmissions@maine.edu
Consider exploring nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: