Hospitality Schools

Switzerland is a destination of choice for hospitality education because of its : 

– Long tradition of excellence in the hospitality sector

– Rigorous academic standards and 

– Hands-on approach to learning. 

Swiss hospitality schools are renowned for their multicultural environment, state-of-the-art facilities and close links with industry, enabling students to benefit from a comprehensive and globally relevant education. In addition, the emphasis on personal development and soft skills, combined with Switzerland’s beautiful locations and commitment to innovation and sustainability, make it an ideal choice for those aspiring to a career in hospitality.

Swiss hospitality schools offer a wide range of programmes, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in hotel management, tourism and culinary arts. They also offer shorter diploma and certificate programmes focusing on specific skills such as hotel operations and culinary training (oenology). Continuing education courses are aimed at professionals seeking advanced skills, while online and distance learning options offer the flexibility to study at a distance. In addition, many programmes incorporate practical training through work placements and apprenticeships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in the real world of hospitality. These comprehensive educational offerings are designed to prepare students for a successful career in the ever-changing hospitality industry.

Swiss hospitality schools also offer specialized Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, tailored to the hospitality industry. The BBA programs typically focus on equipping students with a broad understanding of business principles, management techniques, and operational skills specific to hospitality, tourism, and event management. The MBA programs, on the other hand, are designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers, offering deeper insights into strategic management, leadership, and financial acumen, all within the context of the global hospitality industry. These programs blend business acumen with industry-specific knowledge, making them ideal for those aspiring to leadership roles in the hospitality sector.

In Swiss hospitality education, while English is the primary language for most programs, some bachelor’s programs are offered in French or Swiss-German, reflecting the country’s multilingual culture. Master’s programs are generally taught in English. For English-taught programs, non-native speakers are expected to show proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. For programs taught in French or Swiss-German, proficiency in the respective language is required. Hospitality schools in Switzerland often provide language courses to help international students improve their language skills, be it in English, French, or Swiss-German. 

Swiss hospitality schools offer various scholarship opportunities for international students, including merit-based scholarships for those with outstanding academic or skill-based achievements, and need-based scholarships for students demonstrating financial need. Additionally, some scholarships are specifically aimed at students from certain countries or regions, while others may be sponsored by industry partners or provided by alumni networks.

The duration of hospitality programmes in Switzerland varies according to the level and type of programme. Bachelor’s programmes generally last 3 years and offer comprehensive training in hospitality management. Master’s programmes generally last 1 to 2 years, offering specialised knowledge and skills for advanced career opportunities. Diploma and certificate programmes can last from a few months to a year and focus on specific hospitality skills and knowledge. In addition, executive education and short courses can last from a few days to several weeks and are aimed at professionals looking to enhance their expertise in specific areas of the hospitality industry.