The Travel Institute has announced plans to release an updated Certified Travel Associate (CTA) Program on January 17 with updated and expanded content, revised curriculum specifications, and an engaging online format.
Among the most visible changes when compared to the original course are the online enhancements and the number of course modules. The CTA Program will have 15 required courses compared to the original syllabus of eight core courses and four electives. The January 2017 release also has a number of new topics – such as Netiquette – and an overhaul of select material – such as Business Ethics and The Art of Listening and Communicating. Additional revisions were also incorporated throughout to reflect current and best business practices.
Before its release, the new course was “test driven” by a team of travel professionals representing diverse experiences, training, and years in the industry, The Travel Institute said.
The new CTA Program is divided into two categories:
Professional Skills Modules – Business Ethics, Business Writing Skills, Customer-Focused Selling, Customer Service, The Art of Listening and Communicating, Teamwork, Time Management, and Understanding Customer Needs
Practical Skills Modules – How to Prevent Credit Card Fraud, Planning Itineraries, Selling All-Inclusive Resorts, Selling Escorted Vacations, Selling Special Interest Travel, Touring the World, and Travel Insurance.
To enhance the learning and practicality of the concepts, “Application Activities” and “Did You Know” exercises were added throughout the course. Pre- and post-quizzes are also included in each module to help learners determine their level of knowledge of the respective topic. To achieve CTA certification, students must pass the proctor-administered exam (50 multiple choice, 5 short essay questions) with a grade of 70 or higher. Participants have 12 months to complete their studies and take the final exam. A virtual study workshop will be offered at an additional cost.
CTA tuition for the self-paced online program is $399 (full payment) and includes all online materials and testing fee. A payment plan for the online version is also available for $33.25 monthly, plus a $25 non-refundable administration fee. CTA tuition for the self-paced print program is $499 and includes all printed materials and testing fee. The print option also includes access to the complete online version.