Tour Operations Courses: Admission 2025, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope
Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content
Tour Operations courses generally involve setting together, arranging, and carrying out individual or group travel plans, and under this specialization, students also get to learn about the same. This can involve setting up the means of transportation, lodging, activities, and other services required for a seamless traveling experience.
The tour operator can be a person or company that comes up with ideas for holidays and designs the holiday itinerary and content, and various other things, and then sells the resultant package. A growth in estimated occupation development of 5% is observed in this profession.
Tour Operations courses are offered at various levels such as UG, PG, Diploma, Certification, MBA, and PGDM. Since these courses are offered at several levels, the eligibility criteria for admissions also vary depending on the levels. However, the minimum requirement every candidate has to fulfill is to pass Class 10 and Class 10+2 (for some courses) from a recognized board.
Diploma in Tour Operations, Bachelor of Tourism and Travel Management, Master of Tourism and Travel Management, and Diploma in Tour Guiding and Escorting Skills are among the best Tour Operations programs. Some popular Tour Operations colleges in India include NSHM Institute, IIHM Delhi, UEI Global, MGU Kerala, and University of Technology Jaipur. The average course fee ranges between INR 6,600 to INR 2.25 Lakh.
Some of the popular Tour Operations careers after completing the course are Tour Managers, Destination Managers, Travel Consultants, Product Development Managers, Event Coordinators, Tourism Marketing Specialists, etc. The average salary of a Tour Manager is INR 4.5 LPA in India. Interested candidates can continue reading the article for more Tour Operations course details.
Topics relevant to Tour Operations Courses:
Know about Travel and Tourism courses
- Tour Operations Course Details: Highlights
- Why Study Tour Operations Course?
- Tour Operations Eligibility Criteria
- Tour Operations Admission Process
- Tour Operations Exams 2025
- Tour Operations Course Syllabus
- 6.1 Core Subjects of Tour Operations Courses
- Best Tour Operations Colleges in India
- Tour Operations Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- 8.1 Job Profiles and Salary After Tour Operations
- 8.2 Tour Operators Top Recruiters
- FAQs on Tour Operations Course
Tour Operations Course Details: Highlights
The purpose of a tour operations course is to give students the information and abilities they need to operate in the travel and tourism sector, particularly in the tour operations field. These courses are frequently offered as part of educational programmes in hospitality, travel, tourism, or tourist management.
| Parameters |
Course Details |
|---|---|
| Tour Operations Course Level |
UG, PG, Diploma, Certification, MBA, and PGDM |
| Tour Operations Course Duration |
UG: 3 - 4 Years PG/PGDM/MBA: 1 - 2 Years Diploma/Certification: 1 Month to 1 Year |
| Tour Operations Eligibility Criteria |
UG: Class 12 from a recognized board. PG/PGDM/MBA: A bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university. Diploma/Certification: Class 10 or 12 scores. |
| Tour Operations Course Fees |
Between INR 6,600 to INR 2.25 Lakh |
| Tour Operations Top Colleges | NSHM Institute, IIHM Delhi, UEI Global, MGU Kerala, and University of Technology Jaipur |
| Tour Operations Course Average Salary | INR 4.5 LPA |
| Tour Operations Course Job Profiles | Travel Agent/ Consultant, Tourism Manager, Tour Operation Manager, Travel Coordinator |
| Tour Operations Top Recruiters | MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Cleartrip, EaseMyTrip, Ixigo, Expedia, Thrillophilia, etc. |
Note: This information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
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Why Study Tour Operations Course?
Participating in a Tour Operations course is a wise decision for anyone looking to break into the fast-paced travel and tourism industry. This program prepares graduates for a variety of careers, including tour operators and travel advisors, by providing them with industry-relevant skills in Itinerary Planning, logistics, and customer service. With its emphasis on adaptability, practical experience components, and global perspective, the course gives students the tools they need to succeed in a changing industry.
For individuals who are enthusiastic about organising exceptional and ethical travel experiences, the Tour Operations course is a wise investment because it offers networking possibilities, fosters cultural awareness, and places a strong emphasis on sustainability.
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Q: What are Tour Operations?
Q: What is the scope of a Tour Operations course?
For those looking to work in the travel and tourism sector, the Tour Operations course provides a wide range of prospects in a dynamic and diverse format. The adaptability, worldwide applicability, and compatibility with the changing demands of the travel and tourist business define the breadth of a Tour Operations course.
Graduates are in a good position to pursue dynamic, rewarding professions in a field that is always growing and changing with the times. This course involves tour management, travel management, etc. It has endless job opportunities in India as a large number of heritage, cultural and other tourists visit the country every year.
Q: How to become a tour operator in India?
To become a Tour Operator in India you need to have a Degree/Diploma in Travel/Tourism from recognised university/IITTM/Institution approved by AICTE. The candidate should also have a 3 years working experience in the Travel and Tourism Industry.
Tour Operations Eligibility Criteria
There are many colleges and universities in India that offer undergraduate or postgraduate level degrees, diplomas, certificates, distance learning, and online courses in Tour Operations. Aspirants meet the eligibility criteria to pursue Tour Operations courses offered at the UG level if they have completed their 10+2 from a recognised board with passing marks in any subject.
| Course Level | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| UG | Students who have completed their Class 12 from a recognised board with passing marks are eligible to apply. At the UG level, candidates can pursue a BBA in Travel and Tourism or a BSc. Candidates also have to complete almost one year of internship during the course |
| PG | To pursue a PG level Tour Operations course, candidates should clear graduation from a recognised institute/ university with a minimum percentage (usually 45% - 60%). Preference for admission is usually given to candidates who have proficiency in any of the foreign languages. |
| Diploma | For most diploma courses in hotel management, candidates should have completed their secondary education (10+2) from a recognised board. |
| PG Diploma | Bachelor's degree in Hotel Management or a related field from a recognised university or institution. |
Note: This information is sourced from external sources and may vary.
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Q: What is the eligibility for MBA in Tour Operations?
Hi, An MBA in Tour Operations admission eligibility criteria in India is:
- Education: A bachelor's degree from a recognised university or institution in any discipline with a minimum aggregate of 50% for General and OBC categories and 45% for SC/ST categories.
- Entrance Exams: Many colleges consider scores from national-level entrance exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, or CMAT.
- Cutoff Scores: Candidates must meet the minimum cutoff scores set by the college
- Age: There is no age bar for admission.
This should help you in your admission process.
Q: What is a tour package?
Hi, a package tour or package holiday comprises transport and accommodation advertised and sold together by a vendor known as a tour operator. Other services may be provided such as a rental car, activities or outings during the holiday. Transport can be via charter airline to a foreign country, and may also include travel between areas as part of the holiday. Package holidays are a form of product bundling.
Package holidays are organised by a tour operator and sold to a consumer by a travel agent. Some travel agents are employees of tour operators, others are independent. Packaged tours typically include:
| All transfers between airports/harbours/stations and hotels | Twin-share tourist and first-class accommodation with private facilities |
| Cruises | Rental cars |
| Entrance fees to attractions | Insurance |
| Tickets for entry to events or attractions | - |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites.
Tour Operations Admission Process
The admission process for Tour Operations programs in India can vary depending on the specific course and institution. However, here are some general steps involved:
- Online Application: Most applications are submitted online through the official website of the chosen institution.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is usually required.
- Academic Records: You'll need to submit copies of your academic transcripts and mark sheets.
- Entrance Exam Scores: If applicable, submit your entrance exam scores.
- Personal Interview: Some institutions may conduct a personal interview to assess your suitability for the program.
Q: What is the admission process for Tour Operations course?
Hello, Tour Operations courses admission process can vary by college or university, but the basic steps include:
- Eligibility: Make sure you meet the educational requirements, which are usually 10+2 or graduation.
- Application: Fill out the application form either online or offline.
- Documents: Submit the required documents.
- Entrance Exam: Appear for the entrance exams if required.
- Fee Payment: Pay the admission to secure your seat and complete other formalities.
Hope this answer will help you take the right steps in your admission journey.
Q: What is a tour operator example?
Few of the most common example of a tour operator are arranging sustainable tourism, adventure travel, and small group tours. They also emphasis on responsible travel practices.
Intrepid Travel is one of the good examples for Tour Operator as they do not just book a package but curate unique and special tour packages as well.
Q: What skills do you need to be a tour operator?
Below are the skills required to become a Tour Operator:
- To Be Flexible And Open To Change
- An Interest And Knowledge of History
- Customer Service Skills
- Excellent Verbal Communication Skills
- Knowledge of English Language
- Patience And The Ability To Remain Calm In Stressful Situations
- Sensitivity And Understanding
- A Good Memory
Tour Operations Exams 2025
To become a Tour Operator, one can consider pursuing Hospitality and Travel courses. Below are the exams you can think of taking to pursue a graduation in these courses:
| Exam Name | Exam Dates | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| CUET | May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative) | CUET Schedule |
| NCHMCT JEE | May'25 (Tentative) | NCHMCT JEE Schedule |
| UGAT | 14 Jun '25 | UGAT Schedule |
| MAH HM CET | March, 25 (Tentative) | MAH HM CET Schedule |
| Christ University Entrance Test | May'25 (Tentative) | Christ University Entrance Test Schedule |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.
21 Feb ' 25 | SAT Registration Deadline for March Test |
25 Feb ' 25 | SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a... |
Jun '24 | CT SET 2024 Counselling Start TENTATIVE |
Jun '24 | CT SET 2024 Result TENTATIVE |
16 Dec ' 24 - 15 Feb ' 25 | NCHMCT JEE 2025 registration |
17 Feb ' 25 - 20 Feb ' 25 | NCHMCT JEE 2025 Application Correction Window |
31 Dec ' 24 - 10 Feb ' 25 | MAH HM CET 2025 registrations for BHMCT course |
4 Jan ' 25 - 10 Feb ' 25 | MAH MHMCT CET registrations |
Q: What is tour management?
Hi, Tour management is the career that involves the overall arrangements of a tour or Event based tour. A Tour Manager sees to it that all aspects of a professional entertainment tour run smoothly. The duties overseen by a tour manager may include booking the performances, arranging for transportation and meals for both the artists and the crew, securing lodging, completing accounting tasks and hiring and firing personnel.
The tour manager may also mediate conflicts between personnel members involved in a tour. A bachelor's degree may be required by some employers, while others are looking for applicants with some internship experience. Organization, interpersonal skills, listening skills, problem-solving skills, business skills, creativity, etc,. are some of the skills required for this career. Hope it helps. Please feel free to revert. Click on the thumbs up if you found this useful. Wish You Luck!
Tour Operations Course Syllabus
The Tour Operations syllabus may differ depending on the course type and level, however, the core subjects and objectives of the programs remain the same. Hence, in the table below, candidates can find the syllabus of the Basic Certificate in Travel Agency and Tour Operations, for reference:
| Basic Certificate in Travel Agency and Tour Operations Subjects | |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Tourism Industry | Tour Package Formulation |
| Domestic and International Tour Packages | Tour Package Sales |
Note: The information is taken from external sources and may vary.
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Core Subjects of Tour Operations Courses
Here are some core subjects, generally included in the course curriculum of Tour Operations programs such as Bachelor of Arts in Tour Operations, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Tour Operations, MA in in Tour Operations, MBA in Tour Operations, etc.
- Tourism Geography: This subject covers the geography, culture, climate, and ethnicity of different parts of the world. This helps to provide a holistic understanding of the tourism industry.
- Event Management: This subject involves organizing and managing events, conferences, festivals, and other gatherings for tourists. This includes logistical planning, coordination, and marketing.
- Tourism Marketing: This subject covers the various marketing strategies used within the tourism industry. This includes marketing for tour operators, travel agents, restaurants, airlines, car rentals, and accommodation.
- Resource Management: This subject focuses on the human resource department, which is key for the tour and activity business.
- Ecotourism: This subject analyzes the positive and negative impacts of tourism on local communities. It also develops more sustainable modes of travel.
- Financial Management: This subject involves preparing and interpreting financial statements and key performance indicators. This helps to maximize the profitability of operations.
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Q: Which popular Tourism courses I can go for?
Some of the popular Travel and Tourism courses are:
Popular Travel and Tourism Courses | |
|---|---|
Certificate course in Travel & Tourism | Cruise Line Operations and Management |
Airfares & Ticketing | Computer Reservation System |
Bachelor of Tourism Administration | BA (H) Hotel Management, Travel and Tourism |
BBA (Tourism and Travel Management) | BCom Tourism and Travel Management |
Executive MBA in Tourism, Hospitality and Aviation Programme | Master of Tourism Administration |
MBA Tourism and Travel | MBA Tourism and Leisure |
MBA International Business (Tourism) | MBA Tourism and Cargo Management |
PG Diploma in Travel and Tourism | MA in Travel and Tourism |
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Tourism | PhD in Travel and Tourism |
Note: The information is taken from external sources and may vary.
Q: What are the main topics covered in a Tour Operations course syllabus?
Tour operations courses typically cover topics such as:
- Fundamentals of Tourism: This includes the history of tourism, business statistics, and Global Distribution Systems (GDS).
- International Hospitality: This includes building memorable experiences for guests and ensuring a sustainable flow of customers.
Tour management courses may also include workshops, case studies, internships, and project work to provide practical experience.
Q: What are the types of tour operators?
There are 5 main types of tour operators:
- Outbound Tour Operators
- Inbound Tour Operators
- Domestic Tour Operators
- Receptive Tour Operators
- Ground Tour Operators
Best Tour Operations Colleges in India
There are around 11 Tour Operations colleges in India, of which only 2 colleges are government and 9 are private entities. These colleges, along with offering Tour Operations programs on various levels, provide great placement opportunities. Candidates can see the table below to find more details.
| Best Tour Operations Colleges |
Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| NSHM Institute of Hotel and Tourism Management | INR 2.25 Lakh |
| IIHM Delhi | INR 1.25 Lakh |
| UEI Global, Thiruvananthapuram | - |
| MGU Kerala - Mahatma Gandhi University | INR 49,045 |
| University of Technology Jaipur | INR 1.50 Lakh |
| South Delhi Polytechnic for Women | INR 57,000 |
| Columbus Travel Academy, Mumbai | - |
| TIES Group of Institutes | - |
| Travel Pathshala | INR 35,000 |
| Grand Scholar Aviation Institute | - |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.
Q: Are there any distance colleges for Tour Operations courses?
Hi, yes, a few colleges are offering Tour Operations courses in distance mode. Here are some top options among them:
| Tour Operations Distance Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Kazian School of Management | - |
| Amazon Institute of Hotel Tourism and Management | INr 6,600 |
Note: The information is sourced from the official body.
Q: Which is the best Tour Operations college in Delhi?
Here are some top Tour Operations college options in Delhi:
| Tour Operations colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| IIHM Travel Institute | - |
| South Delhi Polytechnic for Women | INR 57,000 |
| IIHM Delhi | INR 1.25 Lakh |
Note: The information is taken from the official body.
Popular Private Tour Operations Colleges in India
Tour Operations Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
After completing a Tour Operations course, candidates can either work at a travel firm or set up their travel agency. A Tour Operator is allocated the task of planning as well as organizing holidays for individuals or groups of people within the country or even abroad. While planning a trip, a tour operator needs to take care of all the bookings (travel as well as accommodation) and also arrange tour guides.
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Job Profiles and Salary After Tour Operations
Apart from this candidates can also view other job profiles that one can pursue in the field of Travel and Tourism Management.
| Job Profiles | Job Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Agent/ Consultant | A travel agent or consultant is expected to coordinate and book transport and other travel requirements for clients. Travel Agents provide their services to their clients who can be individuals or even groups. | INR 5.3 LPA |
| Tourism Manager | In this job profile, one is handed over the task of promoting tourism in their area or region. Tourism Managers also help create advertising campaigns to promote tourism. | INR 4.5 LPA |
| Tour Operation Manager | In such a job profile one is allocated the task of planning as well as organising holidays with tourist groups from all over the country/ world, providing excellent service, arranging tour guides, etc. | INR 7.4 LPA |
| Tourism Marketing Specialist | Their role is to create and implement marketing programs to attract customers to a tourism business. | INR 9.9 LPA |
| Travel Coordinator | In this job profile, one is allocated the task of organising the travel arrangements of corporates or large organisations, which can be an office, college or university. | INR 5 LPA |
Note: The salary information is taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Tour Operations topics that students may like:
Career Guidance for Travel Agent
Tour Operators Top Recruiters
Tour and Travel industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, and many reputable companies and organisations actively recruit professionals in this field. Here are some of the Hospitality and Travel Management top recruiters and types of employers within the industry.
| Tour Operations Top Recruiters |
|
|---|---|
| MakeMyTrip | Yatra |
| Cleartrip | EaseMyTrip |
| Ixigo | Expedia |
| Thrillophilia | DNA entertainment networks |
| Wizcraft | Tafcon Group |
Note: This information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
Q: Is Tour Operations a good career choice?
Yes, as it involves business, travel, and customer relations, then it can be the right option for you. People with great interpersonal and communication skills, a love of planning and organizing, and a passion for travel may find success in the field of tour operations.
The travel and tourism sector is dynamic and constantly evolving. A career in tour operations can offer an exciting and varied work environment if you appreciate adjusting to new trends, technology, and places. Working with foreign clients and arranging travel experiences across many cultures and nations are frequent tasks of tour operations.
Q: What are the roles and responsibilities of a Tour Operator?
Tour operators play a major role in planning holiday events and providing clients with facilities such as tour services, accommodation, vehicle rentals, etc. They are also helpful in providing detailed information about a tourist place.
Designing, planning, and overseeing travel packages and experiences for people or groups, a tour operator is a vital player in the travel and tourism sector.
Q: How do Tour Operators make money?
There are various ways from where tour operators can make money such as:
Markup on Services: Where they earn from markup to the cost of services like flights and accomodation.
Commission from Suppliers: They also earn commissions from hotels, airlines, and other service providers where they add up to businesses.
Service Fees: The primary way of earnings for them for their services like VISA assistance, travel insurance, on trip support.
FAQs on Tour Operations Course
Candidates can refer to this section for Tour Operations Course FAQs.
Q: What is the difference between Tour Operations and Tour Management?
Hi, the main difference the both is that:
Tour operations are putting together travel plans for individuals or groups, including transportation, lodging, activities, and other services. Tour Operators usually create packages, manage customer budgets, and keep up with market trends.
Meanwhile, Tour management is planning and coordinating travel-related activities, such as choosing destinations, booking tours, and arranging accommodations. Tour managers generally plan itineraries, book transportation and accommodations, and direct visa applications.
Hope this will help you in clearing your confusion.
Q: Are there any categories of Tour Operators?
There are five main categories of Tour Operators that you could fall into inbound tour operators, outbound tour operators, domestic tour operators, receptive tour operators, and ground tour operators.
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Tour operation is the process of creating and selling package holidays that combine various travel components, such as accommodations, transportation, and activities. Tour operators are responsible for delivering the services specified in the package tour which generally includes creating packages, selling them, connecting with suppliers, etc.