An aspiring travel agent in Charleston, South Carolina, should look for several qualities in a training program. For one, students are advised to attend a school with a strong curriculum, highly qualified and experienced instructors, a history of graduate success, and possibly career services for straightforward job placement.
Charleston, South Carolina residents looking for such training programs will find them on this page. We provide the names of these programs in the list below, break them down, and showcase what accepted applicants can expect once they secure admission.
Below are the steps necessary to start a travel agent career in Charleston as a quick refresher.
How to Become a Travel Agent in Charleston
One way to start a career as a travel agent in Charleston is to join a host agency directly. This is possible because there are no basic educational requirements.
However, those who want to avoid joining a travel agency directly may first complete an academic program at any of the destinations listed below. Here, they can earn a certificate, a diploma, an associate degree, or even a bachelor’s degree.
From there, they may join a host agency to settle into their roles before considering starting a travel agency. Another advantage of joining a host agency is that they offer marketing resources, an IATA number, and tools/software that make the job easier.
Certification candidates may consider the American Society of Travel Advisors for credentials, although becoming certified is optional for aspiring travel agents in Charleston.
Top Travel Agent Schools in Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston travel agents often start their careers by attending any of the high-quality training programs listed below.
College of Charleston
Charleston, SC Campus Only
College of Charleston is an excellent location for prospective travel agents in Charleston who are particular about a conducive learning environment and flexibility in their studies. This Hospitality and Tourism Management program is part of the School of Business. It will ensure that students not only understand the air travel and ground transportation industry but can also handle the business side of the profession.
Tuition
$12,518 - $37,836Contact
(843) 953-5670
KimY@cofc.edu
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC Campus Only
The University of South Carolina offers a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management program through the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sports Management. The program is one of the largest in the area and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Management.
Tuition
$12,688 - $35,972Contact
(803) 777-4776
GoHRSM@mailbox.sc.edu
Clemson University
Clemson, SC Campus Only
Clemson University offers a Park, Recreation, and Tourism Management degree program through its College of Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences. Those who complete their training will earn a bachelor of science degree and be able to pursue a career in several tourism disciplines, including, of course, working as a travel agent.
Tuition
$15,554 - $40,866Contact
(864) 656-3400
allysas@clemson.edu
Columbia College
Columbia, SC Campus Only
Candidates who would like a taste of structured academic learning to start their careers may consider the Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management program available at Columbia College. The program allows students to earn a bachelor's degree, cultivate the necessary skills to thrive in the tourism industry, and develop strong proficiency in business administration.
Tuition
$21,414 per YearContact
(800) 277-1301
admissions@columbiasc.edu
Technical College of The Lowcountry
Beaufort, SC Campus Only
Lastly, candidates may also consider the Hospitality and Tourism Management program offered by the Technical College of The Lowcountry. The program includes a course on sustainability and several internships that allow students to develop real-world experience in a functional facility.
Tuition
$6,080 - $12,630Contact
(843) 525-8207
admissions@tcl.edu
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements:
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