This endorsed Level 6 Executive Diploma in Travel and Tourism takes place over a series of 15 modules, as outlined in brief below:
Module 1 - Introduction to Travel & Tourism
A detailed introduction to the contemporary travel and tourism industry is provided in the first module, which also discusses the differences between the various types of tourism. The benefits and drawbacks of package holidays are also examined, along with the changing nature of the travel and tourism sector and the growing popularity of self-packaged holidays.
Module 2 - Tourism Products & Services
Candidates then consider how tourism services are packaged and sold as products, analysing the most essential elements of tourism products and how to assess a target audience’s requirements. An overview of the marketing mix from a travel and tourism perspective is also provided, along with the concept of the product lifecycle and each of its phases.
Module 3 – The Travel & Tourism System
The functions, objectives and importance of the worldwide travel and tourism system are then discussed, introducing candidates to the various service providers that operate within the sector. Examples of which include retailers, transportation companies, tour product organisers, travel agents, accommodation providers, tour operators and more.
Module 4 – Managing Tour Operations
A closer look at the management of tour operations follows in the fourth module, in which learners consider the benefits of organising international travel via established travel agents. The characteristics of reliable and reputable travel agents are also discussed, along with the process of making transportation bookings.
Module 5 - Marketing in Travel and Tourism
Marketing as a key performance driver in travel and tourism is then discussed, in which candidates learn how to develop and implement a high-impact marketing strategy. An overview of typical marketing and promotional activities is provided, along with the importance of measuring the effectiveness of a marketing campaign and more.
Module 6 - Communication Skills
Candidates then learn how communication is the linchpin at the core of every successful product and service in the travel and tourism trade. The importance of active listening skills is discussed, along with how to make a positive and lasting first impression, effective use of demonstration cues and how to interpret nonverbal communication.
Module 7 - Techniques for Maximum Sales
In the seventh module, learners are introduced to a series of helpful techniques and strategies for improving the size and value of every sale. The benefits of ‘smart’ selling are also discussed, along with productivity techniques for maximum sales and helpful tips for closing as many sales as possible.
Module 8 - Quality Management and Customer Care
The benefits and importance of proactive quality control in travel and tourism are then assessed, along with how superior customer service can be the ultimate selling point. Learners discover how the guest experience is influenced by a variety of factors, each of which must be controlled and optimised to drive customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Module 9 - Human Resource Management
Several essential human resource management topics are then touched upon, providing candidates with a detailed breakdown of the human resource development strategy. The benefits and importance of strategic HR management in travel and tourism are discussed, along with the influence of rewards, benefits and compensation on workforce performance.
Module 10 - Time Management
The principles of effective time management are explored in Module 10, incorporating helpful strategies and techniques for making better use of all available time. Tips for eradicating procrastination at work and elsewhere are also provided, along with the benefits of scheduling and how to establish objectives using the ‘SPIRIT’ model.
Module 11 - Stress Management
The inevitability of stress in a high-pressure travel and tourism post is then discussed, in which candidates learn how to take proactive control over their own stress, anger and anxiety. The potential consequences attributed to excessive stress are also discussed, along with how stress cannot always be avoided and must therefore be managed.
Module 12 - Transport Management
A series of key transport management concepts are then discussed, with strong focus on the potential benefits and drawbacks of several different transportation types. Candidates consider the environmental implications of popular methods of transport, along with the various challenges affecting transport management in the travel and tourism sector.
Module 13 - Crisis Management
Common crises encountered in travel and tourism careers are analysed and assessed in Module 13, which highlights the importance of creating a viable crisis management plan. Damage limitation in times of crisis is also discussed, alongside techniques and strategies for restoring traveller confidence in the wake of a crisis situation.
Module 14 - Managing Public Awareness Programmes
The process of generating interest in specific travel and tourism destinations is broken down and discussed in Module 14. Candidates learn how public awareness programs can be used to enhance the appeal of any destination as a tourism product, while considering the importance of local community involvement and good press relations.
Module 15 - Sustainable Tourism & Development
Concluding the course, Module 15 considers the extent to which sustainability and environmental concerns will play a major role in all future travel and tourism activities. The wide-reaching benefits of sustainable tourism are discussed, alongside the roles and responsibilities of travel and tourism service providers in ensuring their products are sustainable.
