Travel Agent Schools in South Dakota

As the world evolves, so does the travel industry. And as the travel industry evolves, so does the role of a travel agent. Combining the right skills and resources, candidates can turn their love for travel into a thriving career.

This guide will help readers navigate the journey to becoming a successful travel agent in the state of South Dakota, from training to building solid clientele. It will show readers what to expect when preparing for a training program, the kinds of training arrangements to go with for specific environments, and what to do next after being well-trained.

We also explore a few training destinations with comprehensive programs for future travel agents in South Dakota and historical data concerning the salary of professionals in this field in the state.

How to Become a Travel Agent in South Dakota

Candidates in South Dakota can follow the approach below to launch a successful travel agent career in the state.

High School Diploma or GED

A high school diploma or GED is typically the starting point for a career as a travel agent anywhere in the country, including the state of South Dakota. Usually, this isn’t a product of any rigid law but by preference of employers and professional organizations who offer valuable credentials for professionals in the field.

Advanced Travel Education

Travel agents may eventually choose a specialty focus, but at the start, they have to choose a training destination that teaches all the fundamental principles of the travel industry.

Those who have access to a host agency may secure training placement and learn “on the job.” Those who don’t may acquire some leverage by attending an academic program and obtaining certificates and/or degrees.

Below is a list of some of the top institutions offering formal training for prospective travel agents in South Dakota.

Employment & Professional Credentials

Technically, all travel agents can start a business and work independently. However, professionals are advised to start by joining a host agency, particularly at the start of their careers.

This way, they will be able to receive further training “on the job” and enjoy access to the agency’s resources, such as marketing tools and existing networks/connections.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a home and building inspector in South Dakota

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The ASTA—American Society of Travel Advisors—is a common destination for travel agents in South Dakota who want to become certified and take advantage of the opportunities that come with certification. In fact, it is this potential for opportunities (and not state laws) that contributes to the popularity of certification for travel agents.

However, as great as the ASTA is, candidates are not limited to this option for professional credentials and career opportunities. The CLIA – Cruise Lines International Association – is a wonderful association that helps members plan and schedule international cruise vacations.

Additional great options are available through the IATA (International Air Transport Association) and the TIDS (Travel Industry Designator Service).

Just like certification, licensing is not compulsory for travel agents in South Dakota.

Top Travel Agent Schools in South Dakota

The entries below are among the top programs for aspiring travel agents in South Dakota.

Explore travel agent schools in South Dakota by city:

• Travel agent schools in Sioux Falls

Salary & Career Outlook

In South Dakota, travel agents can either fall among the top earners, low-level earners, or median earners. Data obtained from a survey of professionals in the field showed that those who fall among the top 10% often manage an annual average salary of $70,500 or more, and those who fall among the bottom 10% can take home an annual average salary of $24,500.

The median earners may end the year with an annual average salary of $42,936. The reasons for the difference in salary are varied, but the most common culprits are professional credentials, networking, marketing, and specific host agencies.

Unsurprisingly, a professional’s experience level can also be crucial, as more experienced travel agents tend to make more than those who are just starting in the field. Another key factor is location.

Based on relative salary, the most favorable places to work as a travel agent in South Dakota are Lemmon, with an annual average salary of $43,410; Mitchell, with an annual average salary of $43,369; and Brandon, with an annual average salary of $43,194.