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From secondary school all the way through to post-graduate programs, there are many options for education and training for tourism careers. While many entry-level positions don't require a university degree, many need specific skills certificates or training. In general, the more training you have, the more skills you can bring to help grow a tourism employer's business, thus increasing your chances of landing that job you want. Here is an overview of the various education and training programs available.
Secondary school programs
There is a variety of programs available for high school students to get a head start learning about tourism careers. These include Tourism 11 and 12, The Canadian Academy of Travel & Tourism (CATT) program, the Tourism Career Awareness Program (usually offered as part of the Planning 10 course), and Secondary School Apprenticeship (SSA) programs. Talk to your school career counsellor to learn which programs are offered in your area.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn while you learn; they are paid work-based training combined with post-secondary education. Tourism-related trades include cooks, bakers, meatcutters and tidal angling guides. Click here to learn more about apprenticeship programs.
Skills certificates and national certification
Tourism offers various certification and training programs that are relevant for some occupations; in certain cases, the programs are required. These programs include FOODSAFE, Serving It Right and WorldHost Training Services®.
Already working in tourism? Learn about emerit Professional Certification, a national certification process that challenges individuals to demonstrate that they have mastered the required skills of their job and met the standards of their profession.
Certificate and diploma programs
Certificates are offered at public and some private colleges and universities; they take a year or less and prepare you for front-line positions in the industry. Diplomas usually take two years to achieve, preparing you for front-line or supervisory-trainee positions. Search our Tourism Training Directory for specific programs and institutions.
Degree programs
Degree programs are typically four years in length and challenge you to learn the management-level skills required to enjoy long-term career opportunities in senior positions. Masters and doctoral programs are also available for those who want to pursue an advanced level of study and research relating to the tourism industry. Visit our Tourism Training Directory for specific programs and institutions.
