Getting a Degree in Disney: Why Travel Advisors Should Utilize the College of Disney Knowledge

Posted on: September 4, 2025 at 3:30 PM

Disney specialist travel agent presents

Why Becoming a Disney-Certified Travel Advisor Can Transform Your Business 

If you’ve ever wondered how to sell more Disney vacations—or how to stand out as a true Disney travel specialist—the answer starts with training. The College of Disney Knowledge (CDK) gives you insider access to everything from Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando, Florida, to Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim, California, plus Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and more. By completing this free online program, you’ll gain the tools, confidence, and credibility to design magical vacations for your clients while boosting your own sales potential. 

What Is the College of Disney Knowledge?

The College of Disney Knowledge is Disney’s official training platform, designed exclusively for travel advisors like you. 

Through this free, online course, you’ll dive deep into Disney’s vast vacation portfolio. From theme parks and resorts in Florida and California to Disney Cruise Line sailings, Adventures by Disney® guided tours, and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, CDK equips you with everything you need to sell Disney like a pro. 


The program includes five key modules, each focusing on a major Disney experience: 

  • Walt Disney World® Resort (Orlando, Florida) 
  • Disneyland® Resort (Anaheim, California) 
  • Disney Cruise Line 
  • Adventures by Disney® 
  • Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa  

When you finish, you’ll earn the official status of CDK Graduate, along with exclusive perks and resources that strengthen both your client relationships and your business growth. 

Two Cruise Planners Disney specialist travel advisors

Cruise Planners Franchise Owners Polly Hemstock and Susan Levin showcasing 'cruisitude' at Disney resort. 

Why You Should Complete the College of Disney Knowledge 

While you don’t need CDK certification to sell Disney vacations, earning it gives you advantages that go far beyond basic product knowledge: 

  • Exclusive Sales Tools – Access advisor-only portals, updated promotional materials, and digital resources that make quoting and educating clients easier. 
  • Advisor-Only Rates – Get discounted Disney experiences—resort stays in Florida and California, or cruises—that allow you to experience the magic first-hand. 
  • FAM Opportunities – Qualify for Disney-hosted familiarization trips to gain hands-on experience you simply can’t get from brochures. 
  • Client Confidence – Displaying your CDK credential tells clients you’ve been officially trained by Disney, instantly building trust. 

Three travel advisors at Disney Epcot

Cruise Planners Franchise Owners Deborah Gatzke and Kendra Konitzer celebrating with group at Epcot. 

How CDK Helps You Deliver a Stronger Client Experience

Disney vacations are magical—but let’s be honest, they’re also complex. Clients often come to you with big questions: 


What’s the difference between Genie+ and Lightning Lane? 
Should we stay at a Value, Moderate, or Deluxe Resort? 
Is Disney Cruise Line worth it for toddlers? 


As a CDK Graduate, you’ll be prepared to answer all of these with clarity and confidence. You’ll help clients avoid costly mistakes, design smoother itineraries, and deliver personalized trips that keep them coming back to you again and again. 

How the College of Disney Knowledge Fits into the Bigger Travel Industry

When you complete the Disney College of Knowledge, you’re not just learning about rides and resorts—you’re participating in a comprehensive training program designed for serious travel professionals who want to grow in the competitive travel industry.

The program dives into every corner of the Disney portfolio, from Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida and Disneyland® Resort in California to Disney Resorts around the globe. You’ll also gain the tools to sell magical vacations at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and unforgettable sailings with Disney Cruise Line.

But the training doesn’t stop there. Many Cruise Planners advisors expand their skills beyond Disney, selling other top cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, while still leaning on their Disney expertise to attract families and loyal travelers.

By completing the College of Disney Knowledge, you position yourself as a true Disney Specialist—someone who understands the ins and outs of Disney Programs, offers insider guidance, and helps clients maximize their vacation. Combined with Cruise Planners’ support, you’ll stand out as more than just an agent—you’ll be a trusted professional clients return to again and again.

Fun Fact: The Disney College Program (separate from CDK) gives students the chance to work inside the magic. While that’s aimed at future Cast Members, your CDK training equips you with the same kind of insider perspective—except tailored for travel advisors.

Turn Your Disney Knowledge Into Business Growth 

Disney is one of the most recognized and trusted brands in the world. By completing the College of Disney Knowledge, you’ll strengthen your ability to market, sell, and design Disney vacations across parks, cruises, tours, and resorts. 

With this training, you won’t just be selling trips—you’ll be creating stories, memories, and magical experiences that make clients loyal for life. 

Beyond Disney: Why Certification Matters 

While the College of Disney Knowledge focuses specifically on Disney Destinations, it’s part of a bigger picture. As a travel advisor, building your expertise through specialized programs and broader travel agent certification helps strengthen your credibility, attract new clients, and stand out in a competitive market. 

By combining Disney training with other professional certifications, you’ll position yourself as a well-rounded expert who can guide clients through every stage of their travel planning. 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

If you’re serious about specializing in Disney travel, Cruise Planners offers an exclusive Disney Enhanced Partnership Program. This program helps you maximize your Disney sales and stand out as the go-to Disney expert in your community. 

Join today and grow your business with the magic of Disney

 

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