Post Graduate Diploma in Travel Management: Courses, Admission, Syllabus, Colleges, Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Career Scope and Salary

About the Course 

 

The Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Travel Management is a specialized course that focuses on the intricacies of the travel and tourism industry. It is designed to provide students with the comprehensive knowledge and skills required to excel in various roles within the travel management sector. The course curriculum typically covers a wide range of subjects related to travel, tourism, and hospitality. Students gain insights into topics such as travel planning and operations, tourism marketing, airline ticketing, tour package management, hospitality management, customer service, travel technology, and destination management.

 

The PGD in Travel Management equips students with a strong foundation in business management principles and their application in the travel industry. Students develop a deep understanding of the various components of the travel industry, including transportation, accommodation, attractions, and travel agencies. Throughout the course, students engage in practical exercises, case studies, and industry projects to enhance their problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills. They also learn about the latest trends and developments in the travel and tourism sector, including sustainable tourism practices, digital marketing strategies, and emerging technologies.

 

Upon completion of the PGD in Travel Management, graduates have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can pursue roles in travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, hotels, resorts, destination management organizations, online travel companies, and other travel-related businesses. Job roles may include travel consultant, tour manager, travel agency manager, destination specialist, airline representative, event planner, or hospitality executive. Overall, the PGD in Travel Management offers a comprehensive education and prepares students for a dynamic and rewarding career in the ever-evolving travel and tourism industry.

 

Overview of the Course

 

Here are the highlights of the Course PGD in Travel Management:

Name of Course	PGD in Travel Management
Duration	1 year
Mode of Course	Full-time/Part-time/Online
Focus	Travel and Tourism Management
Eligibility Criteria	Bachelor's degree in any field
Admission Process	Entrance Exam/Merit-based
Age	No age limit
Average Annual Fees	INR 50,000 - INR 2,00,000
Average Annual Salary	INR 3,00,000 - INR 6,00,000
Employment Areas	Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotels, Resorts, Destination Management Organizations, Online Travel Companies
Job Roles	Travel Consultant, Tour Manager, Travel Agency Manager, Destination Specialist, Airline Representative, Event Planner, Hospitality Executive
Top Recruiters	Thomas Cook, MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Cleartrip, Cox & Kings, Jet Airways, SpiceJet, Hilton, Marriott, Airbnb, Expedia, TUI, Club Mahindra, SOTC Holidays, Travel Triangle

Why PGD in travel management?

 

There are several reasons why individuals may choose to pursue a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Travel Management:

 

(1). Specialized Knowledge

 

The PGD in Travel Management offers in-depth knowledge and skills specific to the travel and tourism industry. It provides a comprehensive understanding of travel planning, operations, marketing, customer service, and destination management, which are essential for success in this field.

 

(2). Career Opportunities

 

The travel and tourism industry is a vast and rapidly growing sector globally. Completing a PGD in Travel Management opens up a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors, including travel agencies, airlines, hotels, resorts, online travel companies, and destination management organizations.

 

(3). Industry Relevance

 

The course curriculum is designed to align with the current trends and demands of the travel industry. It incorporates topics such as sustainable tourism practices, digital marketing strategies, and emerging technologies, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the latest industry knowledge and skills.

 

(4). Practical Exposure

 

Many PGD programs in Travel Management include practical exercises, case studies, industry projects, and internships. These provide students with hands-on experience and real-world exposure to the challenges and dynamics of the travel industry, enhancing their practical skills and employability.

 

(5). Networking Opportunities

 

During the course, students have the opportunity to interact with industry professionals, guest lecturers, and fellow students who share a common interest in the travel and tourism field. This networking can be valuable for future career prospects, job placements, and industry connections.

 

(6). Fast-track Career Growth

 

The PGD in Travel Management can accelerate career growth by providing the necessary skills and knowledge required for managerial and leadership positions within the travel industry. Graduates with a PGD often have an advantage in terms of promotions and higher-level job opportunities.

 

(7). Entrepreneurial Opportunities

 

The course equips individuals with the skills needed to start their travel-related businesses, such as travel agencies, tour operators, or event planning companies. The knowledge gained in areas like business management, marketing, and customer service can be invaluable for aspiring entrepreneurs.

 

Admission Process

 

The admission process for a PGD in Travel Management typically involves the following steps:

 

(1). Interested candidates need to fill out an application form provided by the respective institution offering the course.

(2). The institution verifies the eligibility criteria of the applicants, which generally include holding a bachelor's degree in any field.

(3). Some institutions may require candidates to appear for an entrance exam specifically designed for the PGD program. The exam assesses the candidate's aptitude, reasoning abilities, and knowledge of relevant subjects.

(4). In many cases, admissions are based on merit, considering the candidate's academic performance in their previous qualifying degree. The institution may also consider factors like work experience, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

(5). Shortlisted candidates may be called for a personal interview or group discussion to assess their communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and motivation for pursuing the course.

(6). Based on the overall performance and merit, the institution selects the candidates for admission into the PGD program.

 

Types of Courses

 

PGD in Travel Management courses can be offered in different modes to cater to the diverse needs of students. The common types, of course, modes are:

 

(1). Full-time

 

In this mode, students attend regular classes on a full-time basis. It typically involves a structured curriculum with lectures, practical sessions, assignments, and examinations conducted within a specific timeframe.

 

(2). Part-time

 

Part-time courses allow students to pursue the PGD Travel Management program while accommodating other commitments like work or personal responsibilities. Classes are conducted on weekends or during evenings, providing flexibility in terms of scheduling.

 

(3). Online/Distance Learning

 

Online or distance learning programs enable students to study remotely, accessing course materials, lectures, and assignments through online platforms. This mode allows students to learn at their own pace and from any location, making it suitable for working professionals or individuals unable to attend on-campus classes.

 

Eligibility

 

The eligibility criteria for a PGD in Travel Management may vary among institutions, but the general requirements are as follows:

 

(1). Candidates should have completed a bachelor's degree (in any discipline) from a recognized university or institution.

(2). A minimum aggregate score, typically around 50% or higher, may be required for the bachelor's degree. Some institutions may also consider the candidate's performance in specific subjects.

(3). There are generally no specific academic backgrounds required, allowing students from diverse disciplines to pursue the course.

 

Accepted Entrance Exams

 

While many institutions admit students based on merit, some may require candidates to appear for entrance exams. The specific entrance exams accepted for admission into a PGD in Travel Management can vary depending on the institution. Some common entrance exams that may be applicable are:

 

(1).Common Admission Test (CAT)

(2). Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT)

(3). Management Aptitude Test (MAT)

(4). Common Management Admission Test (CMAT)

(5). Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

 

Skills Required

 

To excel in a PGD in Travel Management and pursue a successful career in the field, certain skills are beneficial. These skills include:

 

Effective communication skills are essential for interacting with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders in the travel industry	Providing excellent customer service and handling customer queries and complaints is crucial in the travel and tourism sector.
The ability to analyze problems, think critically, and come up with innovative solutions is valuable for addressing challenges in travel management	Managing travel arrangements, coordinating itineraries, and handling logistics requires strong organizational and time-management skills.

Comparison

 

Here's a comparison between the PGD in Travel Management and another similar course, the PGD in Event Management:

Name of Course	PGD in Travel Management	PGD in Event Management
Overview of the Course	Focuses on travel and tourism management	Focuses on planning and organizing events
Duration	1 year	1 year
Mode of Course	Full-time/Part-time/Online	Full-time/Part-time/Online
Focus	Travel and Tourism Management	Event Planning and Management
Eligibility Criteria	Bachelor's degree in any field	Bachelor's degree in any field
Admission Process	Entrance Exam/Merit-based	Entrance Exam/Merit-based
Age	No age limit	No age limit
Average Annual Fees	INR 50,000 - INR 2,00,000	INR 50,000 - INR 2,50,000
Average Annual Salary	INR 3,00,000 - INR 6,00,000	INR 2,50,000 - INR 5,00,000
Employment Areas	Travel Agencies, Airlines, Hotels, Resorts, Online Travel Companies	Event Management Companies, Corporate Organizations, Hospitality Industry
Job Roles	Travel Consultant, Tour Manager, Travel Agency Manager, Destination Specialist, Airline Representative, Event Planner, Hospitality Executive	Event Coordinator, Event Planner, Event Manager, Wedding Planner, Conference Organizer, Exhibition Manager, Venue Manager
Top Recruiters	Thomas Cook, MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Cleartrip, Jet Airways, SpiceJet Hilton, Marriott, Expedia, TUI	Wizcraft, Percept, Cox & Kings, Tafcon, Event Plus, E-Factor, Showman Group, DNA Networks

Top Colleges and Fees

 

The following table provides information about some of the leading colleges in India that offer a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Travel Management, along with an overview of their fees structure:

 

College Name	Location Approximate	Fees Structure
The Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism Management (IITTM)	Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh	1,00,000 - 1,50,000
The Welcomgroup Graduate School or College of Hotel Administration (WGSHA)	Manipal, Karnataka	4,50,000 - 6,00,000
Amity Institute of Travel and Tourism	Noida, Uttar Pradesh	1,00,000 - 1,50,000
Indian Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM)	Nellore	80,000 - 1,20,000
Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)	Mumbai, Maharashtra	2,00,000 - l3,00,000
Kuoni Academy of Travel	New Delhi	90,000 - 1,20,000
Institute of Hotel and Travel Management (ITHM)	Bangalore, Karnataka	80,000 - 1,00,000
The Indian School of Business Management and Administration (ISBM)	Pune	50,000 - 80,000
International Institute of Travel	Chennai, Tamil Nadu	1,50,000 - 2,00,000
Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)	Gurgaon, Haryana	1,20,000 - 1,80,000

Job and Placements

 

Graduates with a PGD in Travel Management can find employment opportunities in various sectors of the travel and tourism industry. These sectors include travel agencies, airlines, hotels, resorts, destination management organizations, online travel companies, and more. Placements for PGD in Travel Management graduates are typically facilitated by the colleges/institutions offering the program through their placement cells. They often have collaborations with industry partners, which helps in connecting students with job opportunities.

 

Job Profile and Average Annual Salary

 

The following table provides information about some of the job roles after the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Travel Management, along with an overview of their salary structure:

 

Job Role	Description	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Travel Consultant	Assisting clients with travel planning, itinerary customization, ticket bookings, and providing guidance	3,00,000 - 5,00,000
Tour Manager	Managing and leading travel groups, ensuring smooth operations, coordinating logistics and activities	3,50,000 - 6,00,000
Travel Agency Manager	Overseeing the overall operations of a travel agency, managing staff, developing business strategies	4,00,000 - 7,00,000
Destination Specialist	Specializing in specific travel destinations, providing detailed knowledge and planning services	3,50,000 - 6,00,000
Airline Representative	Representing an airline, handling customer inquiries, managing bookings, resolving issues	3,00,000 - 5,00,000
Event Planner	Planning and organizing events such as conferences, exhibitions, weddings, ensuring smooth execution	3,00,000 - 5,00,000
Hospitality Executive	Managing guest services, coordinating with hotel/resort staff, and ensuring customer satisfaction	3,00,000 - 5,00,000

 

Employment Areas and Top Recruiters

 

The following table provides information about some of the leading employment areas and recruiters in India that offer a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Travel Management:

 

Employment Areas	Top Recruiters
Travel Agencies	Thomas Cook, MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Cox & Kings, Travel Triangle
Airlines	Jet Airways, SpiceJet, IndiGo, Air India, Vistara
Hotels/Resorts	Hilton, Marriott, Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels, ITC Hotels
Destination Management Organizations (DMOs)	Tourism Boards, State Governments, Private DMOs
Online Travel Companies	Expedia, Cleartrip, Booking.com, Goibibo, Travelocity
Event Management Companies	Wizcraft, Percept, E-Factor, DNA Networks, Fountainhead MKTG
Corporate Organizations (for in-house travel management)	Accenture, TCS, Cognizant, Deloitte, IBM
Travel Technology Companies	Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo

Career/Scope

 

(1). The travel and tourism industry is a rapidly growing sector globally, offering a wide range of career opportunities.

 

(2). With a PGD in Travel Management, you can explore various roles in travel agencies, airlines, hotels, resorts, destination management organizations, and online travel companies.

 

(3). The scope extends to both domestic and international travel markets, catering to leisure, business, adventure, and niche tourism segments.

 

(4). The industry offers opportunities for career growth, promotions, and the possibility of starting your own travel-related business. Overall, the PGD in Travel Management offers a focused and comprehensive education that prepares individuals for a successful career in the exciting and diverse field of travel and tourism. It provides the necessary skills, industry exposure, and networking opportunities to thrive in this dynamic industry.

 

Career Options after the Course

 

(1). Travel Consultant

(2). Tour Manager

(3). Travel Agency Manager

(4). Destination Specialist

(5). Airline Representative

(6). Event Planner

(7). Hospitality Executive

(8). Sales and Marketing Executive in the travel industry

(9). Travel Operations Manager

(10). Customer Service Manager in the travel sector

 

Scope for Higher Studies after the Course

 

(1). After completing a PGD in Travel Management, you may consider pursuing higher studies to further enhance your knowledge and career prospects.

(2). You can pursue a Master's degree in fields related to travel and tourism, such as an MBA in Tourism Management, a Master's in Hospitality Management, or a Master's in Event Management.

(3). Higher studies provide opportunities for specialization, research, and academic roles in the industry.

 

Skills that make you a good employee after the Course

 

(1). Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.

 

(2). Customer service skills to provide excellent assistance and address customer needs in the travel industry.

 

(3). Problem-solving abilities to analyze challenges and find innovative solutions.

Organizational skills for managing travel arrangements, coordinating itineraries, and handling logistics.

 

(4). Knowledge of travel and tourism trends, including sustainable practices and emerging technologies.

Adaptability to work in a dynamic industry with changing customer preferences and market trends.

 

(5). Attention to detail and accuracy in managing travel bookings, reservations, and documentation.

 

(6). Sales and marketing skills to promote travel packages and services.

Cultural sensitivity and awareness to cater to a diverse clientele.

 

(7). Proficiency in relevant software and technology for travel booking, customer relationship management, and marketing.

 

FAQS

 

Q1: What is a PGD in Travel Management?

A1: A PGD in Travel Management is a postgraduate diploma program that focuses on providing students with knowledge and skills related to the travel and tourism industry. It covers various aspects of travel planning, destination management, tour operations, customer service, and marketing in the travel sector.

 

Q2: What is the duration of a PGD in a Travel Management program?

A2: The duration of a PGD in a Travel Management program is typically one year. However, it can vary depending on the institution and the mode of study (full-time, part-time, or online).

 

Q3: What are the eligibility criteria for admission into a PGD in Travel Management program?

A3: The eligibility criteria may vary among institutions, but generally, candidates should have completed a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Some institutions may also consider the candidate's performance in the qualifying degree and/or relevant work experience.

 

Q4: Are entrance exams required for admission to a PGD in Travel Management program?

A4: Some institutions may require candidates to appear for entrance exams, such as CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, or GMAT. However, the admission process can also be based on merit, considering the candidate's academic performance and other factors.

 

Q5: What are the job prospects after completing a PGD in Travel Management?

A5: Graduates can find employment opportunities in travel agencies, airlines, hotels, resorts, destination management organizations, and online travel companies. They can work in roles such as travel consultant, tour manager, travel agency manager, destination specialist, airline representative, event planner, and hospitality executive.

 

Q6: What is the average annual salary for PGD in Travel Management graduates?

A6: The average annual salary for PGD in Travel Management graduates can vary depending on factors such as job role, industry, location, and individual skills and experience. On average, graduates can expect a salary range of approximately INR 3,00,000 to INR 6,00,000 per year.

 

Q7: Can I pursue higher studies after completing a PGD in Travel Management?

A7: Yes, after completing a PGD in Travel Management, you can pursue higher studies such as an MBA in Tourism Management, Master's in Hospitality Management, or Master's in Event Management to further enhance your knowledge and career prospects.

 

Q8: What skills are important for a successful career in travel management?

A8: Skills such as strong communication, customer service, problem-solving, organization, adaptability, attention to detail, cultural sensitivity, and proficiency in relevant software and technology are important for a successful career in travel management.

 

Q9: What are the employment areas for PGD in Travel Management graduates?

A9: PGD in Travel Management graduates can find employment in travel agencies, airlines, hotels, resorts, destination management organizations, online travel companies, and corporate organizations with in-house travel management departments.

 

Q10: Can I start my own travel-related business after completing a PGD in Travel Management?

A10: Yes, a PGD in Travel Management equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to start your own travel-related business, such as a travel agency, tour operator, or destination management company. However, entrepreneurship requires additional business planning and industry expertise.