The premier educational program for the tourism industry in the U.S.
- A superior educational opportunity in a tranquil environment...
- Classes taught by industry leaders and working professionals...
- A perfect forum for the exchange of ideas...
- Opportunities for networking with your peers from across the Southeast and the U.S....
For one week each year, tourism industry professionals from all over the Southeast meet at North Georgia College & State University for the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College. During the week, students experience a broad-based curriculum of courses designed to teach marketing techniques from all facets of the tourism industry. Marketing College professors are working, experienced professionals from across the U.S. who not only bring expertise, but real-world knowledge and experience, to the classroom. From the time students arrive on Sunday evening until they depart on Friday, they enjoy classes, lectures, discussion groups and one-of-a-kind networking opportunities in an academic environment conducive to learning. Students who attend three years of Marketing College receive a Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) certification, presented at a special graduation ceremony at the STS spring meeting.
The 411
July 26 - 31, 2009
Dahlonega, Georgia
North Georgia College & State University
Applications available February 2009
Sample Courses
| Conducting a Successful Press Tour | Writing a Marketing Plan 101 |
| Inquiry to Fulfillment to Conversion to Database | Generational Marketing |
| Creating a Perfect Tourism Brochure | Tourism Market Research Insights |
| Working with Travel Agents | Crisis Communications |
| Selling for Success | Grass Roots Success |
Schedule
Sunday
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Registration at North Georgia College & State University. Pick up books, materials, room keys at Lewis Hall.
5:00 p.m. Orientation at Nix Hall in the Gloria Schott Auditorium
6:00 p.m. Reception @ Wolf Mountain Vineyards
Monday - Thursday
7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast at campus dining hall
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Classes
12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Lunch at campus dining hall
1:15 - 5:15 p.m. Classes
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Dinner (Dinner is on your own Tuesday and Thursday; Monday night dinner is at the Smith House; Wednesday there is an evening picnic at the Hardman cottage.)
Wednesday
Afternoon/Evening Marketing College alums (TMP's) arrive for TMP alumni course
Afternoon/Evening Picnic at Hardman cottage (transportation provided)
Friday
7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Breakfast at campus dining hall
8:00 - 11:00 a.m. Classes
11:00 a.m. Closing session with presentation of certificates
Alumni Class
Those students that have earned their Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) certification are eligible to join us for Alumni College. Marketing College alums arrive on Wednesday afternoon of the week and are invited to the Hardman cottage for the annual picnic. On Thursday and Friday, alumni will be treated to a power-packed day and a half of classes designed to refresh, update and energize.How do I become a Travel Marketing Professional?
- Attend three years of Marketing College.
- Go back to your community and hold at least two seminars with your board, staff or organization based on what you have learned from Marketing College. The seminars must be held within four months after completing your third year of the college.
- Present documentation including the outline for your seminar and comment sheets from those who attended your seminars.