Program Overview

Introduction to the Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management

The Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management is a federally recognized program that combines theoretical education with practical training. It is ideal for students seeking hands-on experience in hotel and event management, with the option to progress to a Bachelor's degree.

Program Overview

The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in business, service, and leadership, including both academic coursework and two paid internships to ensure career readiness. Students can choose between two pathways, allowing for a personalized learning experience.

Pathway 1: 1 Year Academic Foundation

• Year 1:
  • Semester 1: Caux Campus, laying a strong practical foundation for a complete hospitality education.
    • Modules:
      • Beverage Studies
      • Introduction to Hospitality and Events
      • Introduction to Service and Kitchen Theory
      • Service and Kitchen Practice
      • Food and Beverage Cost Control
      • Hospitality Design I
      • Accounting I
      • Business and Academic Communications I
      • Art of Employability I
      • Language I (French, German, or Hospitality English)
  • Semester 2: Caux Campus, building upon previous study or experience, offering rigorous academics blended with practical skills.
    • Modules:
      • Yield and Revenue Optimization
      • Marketing
      • Hospitality Design II
      • Housekeeping Management
      • Accounting II
      • Rooms Division Management
      • Event Concept Design
      • Business and Academic Communications II
      • Art of Employability II
      • Language II (French or German)
• Year 2:
  • 6 months paid internship worldwide, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
• Year 3:
  • Semester 3: Leysin Campus, cultivating a unique niche within the dynamic hospitality industry, choosing one of three specializations.
    • Modules:
      • Data-Driven Decision-Making
      • Human Resources and Leadership
      • Marketing and Branding Management
      • Accounting III
      • Project Management
      • Research and Reporting
      • Chosen specialization
  • 6 months paid internship worldwide, stepping into roles of responsibility and putting newly acquired management concepts into practice.

Pathway 2: 6 Months Academic Study Followed by a 6-Month Internship

• Year 1:
  • Semester 1: Similar to Pathway 1, Semester 1.
  • 6 months paid internship worldwide.
• Year 2:
  • Semester 2: Similar to Pathway 1, Semester 2.
  • 6 months paid internship worldwide.
• Year 3:
  • Semester 3: Similar to Pathway 1, Semester 3.

Specializations

In Semester 3, students study in their area of focus by selecting one of three industry-relevant specializations:

• Hospitality Management: Combines cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, financial insights, and intercultural leadership.
  • Courses:
    • AI and Digital Innovation
    • MICE and Logistics
    • Hospitality Economics
    • Ethics, Sustainability, and Business Culture
• Event Management: Equips students with skills to create and manage exceptional events.
  • Courses:
    • MICE and Logistics
    • Hospitality Economics
    • Event Experience Creation
    • Event Experience Management
• Design Management: Prepares students to lead innovative design projects.
  • Courses:
    • Digital Design and Visual Technology
    • Hospitality Design III
    • Food and Beverage Outlet Design
    • AutoCAD

Accreditations and Recognitions

The Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) is recognized as an École Supérieure in Switzerland and approved by numerous prestigious academic and industry partners. The Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education is recognized by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research, and Innovation (SERI), and the Bachelor of Arts in International Hospitality Management program is validated and co-awarded by the University of Derby.

Admission Process

• Admission Requirements:
  • Minimum age of 17.
  • Completed secondary school education or equivalent.
  • English language proficiency of IELTS academic module 5.5 or TOEFL iBT 46 or equivalent.
• How to Apply:
  1. Register online.
  2. Complete the application, uploading required documents:
  • Secondary education diploma(s) or Swiss VET (CFC).
  • Proof of English proficiency.
  • Passport copy.
  • Curriculum vitae.
  • Motivation letter (500 words minimum).
  • Reference letters (if applicable).

Fees and Scholarships

• Swiss nationals receive a 30% discount on published tuition fees.
• C-permit holders (permanent residents) receive a 20% discount.
• B-permit holders can obtain a 15% discount upon approval from the local government.
• Merit-based scholarship up to 30% on tuition fees available for 2026 enrollments.

Transfer from Your University

Transferring to SHMS is a simple process. Students may be able to apply credits from another college or university toward their degree, potentially accelerating their academic journey.

Upcoming Intakes

• September 2026.
• February 2027.
• September 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management?
  • A Swiss federally recognized diploma combining academic education and practical internships.
• Who should apply for the Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality?
  • Ideal for Swiss and EU students seeking a practical and academic hospitality qualification recognized across Switzerland and Europe.
• How long is the Swiss Federal Diploma program?
  • 3-4 semesters, depending on previous experience.
• Are internships provided by SHMS guaranteed or competitive?
  • While SHMS offers strong support, internships are part of a competitive process, and securing one depends on the student's efforts.