Studying a degree in travel and tourism – or a similar discipline such as hospitality or hotel management – can provide you with a wealth of communication and managerial skills.
Does a career in travel and tourism appeal to you? Then it’s a good idea to consider studying a related degree programme, whether that be full or part-time. If you’re wondering where exactly a travel and tourism degree can take you, read our helpful factsheet to find out.
Career paths to consider
Tour management
A tour manager organises and attends trips with holidaymakers to ensure they are provided with the best experience possible. These trips may be around the UK or abroad. Essentially, a tour manager must make sure that the travel experience runs as smoothly as possible, and sort out any last minute issues which occur as a result of unforeseen circumstances. Tour managers often specialise in a particular region and may fill the role of tour guide for holidaymakers, imparting their knowledge on history, culture, or the best places to eat and drink. Tour managers – who are sometimes known as tour directors – often work for tour operators on a self-employed basis. Experienced tour managers can expect to earn between £25,000 and £30,000.
Agency management
Travel agency management is a great role for those who strive to provide customer satisfaction, but also have a keen interest in the travel industry. Agency managers work to promote and sell holidays and experiences while managing the rest of the agency team. Typical activities for an agency manager include budget management, visiting newly acquired destinations to acquire information, liaising with partners and helping promote the agency. Staff management would involve setting targets for and providing motivation for the sales team and handling any complaints. An agency manager salary often lies between £25,000 and £30,000.
Event organisation
An event organiser is responsible for organising various types of events, often coming up with concepts, overseeing the logistics and ensuring the smooth running of said events. From exhibitions and festivals to fundraisers and conferences, an event organiser should be able to turn their hand to anything. Event organisation roles are incredibly hands-on, and those in the industry must be able to work to tight deadlines and stay calm under pressure when things go wrong. Responsibilities would include creating detailed event proposals, managing budgets, and organising venues, catering and entertainment, amongst other things. Event organisers can work in public, private or not-for-profit sectors, or on a freelance basis. Entry-level salaries begin from £13,000, and those with a few years’ experiences typically earn up to £35,000.
Hotel management
A hotel manager is someone who oversees the day-to-day running of a hotel and all the staff that work there. The organisation of hotel services – from food and drink through to housekeeping – is the hotel manager’s responsibility, although in large hotels a hotel manager may concentrate on one particular area, with several forming a general management team. A hotel manager must have good people skills and strive to deliver top quality customer service, setting an example for other staff members. Managers in small hotels can expect to receive a salary between £20,000 and £35,000. Those at prestigious brands, particularly in London, can earn anything up to £200,000, with £85,000 the average.
Continuing your education
In-house training is quite popular in the industry, so employers will likely be able to offer you the opportunity to grow professionally in whichever area you choose.
While studying a postgraduate degree isn’t essential, it will provide you with extensive knowledge in the area you are specifically interested in, for example, you may be looking to further your managerial skills.
If you’re interested in pursuing any of the careers listed above, LCCA’s MA International Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management could be just the course you need to hit the ground running in your first industry position. Enquire today for more information.