Travel and Tourism with Airline Studies

This course gives you a thorough grounding in the travel and tourism industry, covering how travel agencies, tour operators, airlines and airports function together. You study fare construction, ticketing systems and global distribution systems (GDS) such as Amadeus or Galileo, alongside world geography and popular tourist destinations. Specialist modules introduce airline operations, airport procedures and passenger services, with the option to sit IATA-recognised certification exams that carry real weight with employers. A typical week combines classroom learning, computer-based GDS practice and guest lectures from industry professionals. Many programmes include a work placement with a travel agency, airline or tourism body, giving you hands-on experience before you graduate.

Entry to most QQI Level 6 Travel and Tourism programmes requires a Leaving Certificate with passes in five subjects, or a QQI Level 5 award in a related area such as Tourism or Business. A good result in English is particularly useful given the communication demands of the industry, and Geography at Leaving Certificate is a helpful background. No Higher-level Maths is typically required, though basic numeracy is important for fare calculation modules. School leavers, mature students and those progressing from Level 5 PLC programmes are all welcome; HEAR and DARE access routes are available at many Colleges of Further Education. Some providers may require an interview or a personal statement to assess your suitability for customer-facing roles.

Demand for skilled travel and aviation staff in Ireland has recovered strongly following post-pandemic disruption, and employers continue to report difficulty filling customer-facing and ticketing roles. Holding an IATA certification alongside your QQI Level 6 award gives you a competitive edge in the jobs market, both domestically and internationally. Starting salaries in travel consultancy and airline ground roles typically range from approximately €26,000 to €32,000 gross per year, with experienced staff and supervisors earning more. Career progression into team leadership, product management or corporate travel is achievable within a few years of experience.