Educational
There are graduate level, Postgraduate level, diploma and certification
courses available to pursue in the industry. The post-graduate degree
awarded is Master of Tourism Administration (MTA), which is a two year
full time programme approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India.
The Indian Institution of Tourism and Travel Management and some universities
offer MTA degree in Tourism. A Post graduate degree can be helpful in
getting into managerial and administrative positions in the industry.
International Air transport Association (IATA), a World Organisation which
provides recognised standard in training to travel, tourism and cargo
industry, offers certification courses. Several large travel agencies
also offer short-term training programmes, and tend to absorb most of
the candidates.
The eligibility for admission to Travel and Tourism courses at the undergraduate
level is, higher secondary examination pass. At post-graduate level,
eligibility is graduation in any field along with a pass in the entrance
test followed by group dicussions and interview conducted by the institute.
Proficiency in at least one foreign language is preferred. A diploma in
public relations or advertising is helpful from the career point of view.
It is also possible to gain these qualifications through correspondence
courses. Eligibility for certification courses is 10+2.
Officers in the Directorate and Departments of Tourism are recruited
from among the candidates who have done civil service, drawn from the
Civil/administrative services of the State and Central governments. A
degree in travel and tourism is required for operational jobs in government
organisations. Information assistants at the office of the Tourism departments
are selected through competitive examinations held by the Staff Selection
Commission. The eligibility is graduation with knowledge of Indian history,
art and architecture, besides proficiency in English. These vacancies
are advertised through he employment news.
Duration : The duration of training varies between one and two
years, depending on the course. For certification courses the duration
maybe below one year.
Personal Attributes :
Good communication and presentation skills is essential in the industry
where service to the customer is of utmost importance. An outgoing, friendly
personality; ability to handle people, verbal fluency, aptitude for languages
will be advantageous to be successful in the field. One should also have
an up-to-date knowledge of available facilities and services in the field.
In the administrative or managerial level, organising ability, an ability
to make decisions, solve problems, work effectively within a team will
be essential.
