How to Become a Travel Agent in West Virginia

Becoming a travel agent in West Virginia offers exciting opportunities to explore the world while helping others plan their dream vacations.

With its diverse landscapes, from the majestic Appalachian Mountains to the scenic rivers and charming small towns, West Virginia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

As a travel agent, you will have the chance to showcase the state’s natural beauty and help tourists create unforgettable experiences.

Whether it’s organizing hiking trips, arranging river adventures, or recommending local attractions, being a travel agent in West Virginia allows you to share your love for this captivating state with the world.

Travel Agent Duties in West Virginia

A travel agent in West Virginia has several duties that they are responsible for.

Firstly, they assist clients in planning their travel itineraries, including booking flights, accommodations, and transportation.

They also provide information about tourist attractions, events, and local customs.

Additionally, travel agents may handle travel insurance, visa applications, and other necessary documentation.

They stay updated on travel regulations and advisories to ensure clients have a safe and hassle-free experience.

Furthermore, travel agents offer advice and recommendations based on their knowledge and expertise.

They strive to provide excellent customer service, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the travel process.

In conclusion, a travel agent in West Virginia plays a crucial role in helping clients plan and execute their travel plans efficiently.

Licensing Requirements

While some states do require travel agents to be licensed and certified, West Virginia is not one of them.

In West Virginia, you do not have to have a license or additional education.

While this is true, it is still helpful to get certified in a travel agent program or a related field.

Certification can be the one thing that sets you apart when looking for a job.

Many employers require some sort of education and/or a minimum number of years of experience in the field before they will give you a chance.

Travel Agent Programs

West Virginia University

West Virginia University offers a hospitality and tourism program.

This program is a bachelor’s degree and takes approximately four years to complete.

Students are required to take approximately 120 credit hours of courses to earn their bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism.

The suggested schedule for this program includes the following:

1st year, fall semester:

• BCOR 199
• BCOR 191
• BCOR 121
• ENTR 102
• Choose one: MATH 124, MATH 129, MATH 150, MATH 153, MATH 155
• GEF (Choose from F2B, F4, F5, F6, or F7)

1st year, Spring semester:

• ACCT 201
• ECON 201
• ENGL 101
• Choose one: MATH 150, MATH 154, MATH 155, MATH 156
• GEF (Choose from F2B, F4, F5, F6, or F7)

2nd year, Fall semester:

• ECON 202
• ECON 255 or STAT 211
• ENGL 102
• GEF (Choose from F2B, F4, F5, F6, or F7)

2nd year, Spring semester:

• BCOR 299
• BCOR 340
• BCOR 350
• BCOR 370
• HTOR 376

3rd year, Fall semester:

• BCOR 320
• BCOR 360
• HTOR 380
• HTOR 471, HTOR 472, or RPTR 433
• Minor or General electives

3rd year, Spring semester:

• BCOR 330
• BCOR 380
• HTOR 474
• MKTG 475
• GEF (Choose from F2B, F4, F5, F6, or F7)

4th year, Fall semester:

• RPTR 339
• HTOR 471, HTOR 472, or RPTR 433
• MANG 330, RPTR 335, or RPTR 365
• Minor or general electives

4th year, Spring semester:

• BCOR 460
• HTOR 480
• HTOR 491
• Minor or general electives

Travel Agent Representative Schools in West Virginia – Summary Table

Salary

What you can make as a travel agent in West Virginia, or even the United States, depends on many factors, including the location, your previous education or experience, the cost of living, and much more.

As a travel agent in West Virginia, you can expect to make anywhere from $33,057 to $42,250.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Charleston	$33,439
Huntington	$32,789
Parkersburg	$32,599
Wheeling	$35,939
Morgantown	$35,939
Weirton	$35,788
Fairmont	$35,939
Beckley	$33,146
Clarksburg	$32,305
Martinsburg	$40,682

Regional Salary in West Virginia

* Salary information based on the May 2022 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Travel Agents, OCC Code 41-3041, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Keep reading to find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about becoming a travel agent in West Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to have prior experience in the travel industry to become a travel agent in West Virginia?

While prior experience in the travel industry can be advantageous, it is not a requirement to become a travel agent in West Virginia.

However, gaining experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work in the tourism or hospitality industry can provide valuable insights and help build a network of contacts.

Are there any professional associations or organizations for travel agents in West Virginia?

Yes, there are professional associations and organizations that travel agents in West Virginia can join.

For example, the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is a widely recognized association that provides resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for travel agents.

Additionally, local tourism boards and chambers of commerce may offer memberships or affiliations that can provide support and connections within the industry.

What are the potential career opportunities for travel agents in West Virginia?

Travel agents in West Virginia can pursue various career opportunities.

They can work for established travel agencies, tour operators, or cruise lines.

Alternatively, they may choose to start their own travel agency or work as an independent travel consultant.

Additionally, some travel agents specialize in specific types of travel, such as luxury travel, adventure travel, or corporate travel.

Travel Agent Info by State