Become A Leader For The Global Hospitality Industry
Our campuses
Live & learn in iconic Swiss palaces
Our campuses are located in stunning natural settings in Switzerland, from a former palace in Caux, to a ski-resort with a stunning alpine scenery in Leysin, we promise to deliver an unforgettable live and study experience.
Caux
Leysin
Our campuses
Live & learn in iconic Swiss palaces
Our campuses are located in stunning natural settings in Switzerland, from a former palace in Caux, to a ski-resort with a stunning alpine scenery in Leysin, we promise to deliver an unforgettable live and study experience.
Leysin
Brig
Topping the list
We rank among the top in the 2025 QS World University Rankings
3rd
Best hospitality school in the world
2nd
Best hospitality school for employer reputation
(score: 97.2/100)
3rd
Best hospitality school for academic reputation
(score: 93.7/100)
Join our community
As a student, you join a community that comes from a multitude of cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences. Globally, it is students, faculty, and alumni who shape the core of who we are. This is our community, and these are our stories.
Your future awaits
Take the next step towards a career in hospitality management
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Student Stories
Swiss Hotel Management School played a great part in shaping who I am today. The journey prepared me to face obstacles, embrace opportunities, make decisions, and create connections.
— Eliza Zephir, Class of 2018
Sales and Marketing Executive, The Merchant House
Ready To Launch Your Global Hospitality Career With World-class Swiss Training?
Ready to launch your global hospitality career with world-class Swiss training?
Frequently Asked Questions
SHMS Bachelor’s graduates launch global careers in hotel and resort management, events, luxury brand leadership, guest experience, and even entrepreneurship. Whether you dream of managing five-star hotels, creating world-class events, or building your own brand, this program gives you the skills and confidence to make it happen. Over 90% of students receive multiple job offers before graduation.
Yes. The Bachelor’s program awards two degrees: one from Swiss Hotel Management School and another from the University of Derby, UK. Both are globally respected, and you’ll graduate with qualifications recognized by top employers worldwide—across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Switzerland is the birthplace of modern hospitality and a global hub for luxury. Ranked among the world’s safest and most career-focused countries, it’s known for innovation, precision, and quality education. With iconic training locations like the Caux Palace and Leysin’s mountain resorts, SHMS offers an immersive Swiss experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.
No. The Bachelor’s program is all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, and full visa support. You’ll live on campus in beautifully restored palace hotels and benefit from structured guidance from your arrival through to graduation.
We know that choosing to study abroad is more than a decision—it’s a life choice and a long-term investment. SHMS offers merit-based scholarships for exceptional and motivated students. These are limited and highly competitive, but our international admissions team will guide you through all your options. Flexible payment plans are also available, and many students take out education loans, knowing this investment pays off in the long run.
The Bachelor’s program is 3 years long and includes two 6-month paid internships. This streamlined structure means you gain valuable international work experience while studying and can enter the workforce sooner—maximizing your return on investment.
Yes. The Bachelor’s includes two paid internships with top hospitality employers like Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Jumeirah, or InterContinental. The average gross monthly salary is CHF 2,350, depending on your placement. These internships offer invaluable exposure to global service standards and leadership in action.
Absolutely. SHMS campuses are known for their safety, structure, and inclusive environment. With students from over 100 countries, dedicated international student services, and on-site support, you’ll feel secure and part of a global community from day one.
- Bachelor’s: High school completion (Class 12, A-Levels, IB, or equivalent) + IELTS 5.5 or equivalent
- Foundation programs are available if you need to build academic or English skills before starting your degree.
Why Study in Switzerland
- Birthplace of hospitality and luxury excellence
- Known worldwide for quality, precision, and real-world results
- One of the safest and most stable countries in the world
- Ranked No.1 globally for achieving career goals
- World’s most innovative country
- Home to some of the world’s most iconic hotel brands and event destinations
Safe. Global. Career-focused.
The campuses
Live & Learn In Iconic Swiss Palaces
Our campuses are located in stunning natural settings in Switzerland, from a former palace in Caux, to a ski-resort with a stunning alpine scenery in Leysin, we promise to deliver an unforgettable live and study experience.
4th
Best hospitality school in the world
2nd
Best hospitality school for employer reputation
(score: 97.2/100)
3rd
Best hospitality school for academic reputation
(score: 93.7/100)
Tell Us More About You
You’ve explored the possibilities—now help us guide you better by sharing a few details about your background and study goals.
The campuses
One school, two iconic campuses
Our campuses are located in stunning natural settings in Switzerland, from a former palace in Caux, to a ski-resort with a stunning alpine scenery in Leysin, we promise to deliver an unforgettable live and study experience.
Caux
Based in one of Switzerland's first palace hotels, this one-of-a-kind campus offers a truly unique and luxurious place to live and study. The Caux Palace campus reflects the SHMS approach: it reflects the heritage of Swiss hospitality while offering modern facilities and the latest technology. Caux Palace overlooks Lake Geneva and is an ideal place to enjoy the most beautiful sunsets in the region.
Leysin
Nestled high in the Swiss Alps, the Leysin campus is housed in two former palace hotels: Mont-Blanc Palace and the Belvédere, linked by a private Skytrain. The Leysin campus offers an unforgettable student life experience among luxurious Swiss mountain resorts that have earned Leysin the reputation of being the most international village in the country.
Launch Your Global Hospitality Career in Switzerland
Finest Alumni. Real Success.
Meet our graduates who are shaping hospitality across continents. With global opportunities and strong career support, SHMS alumni step into top roles in luxury hotels, resorts, and brands worldwide—and many go on to launch their own successful ventures.
Exclusive International Recruitment Forum
The IRF connects you with recruiters from over 100 top global companies—opening doors to internships and future careers.
2
Exclusive events
per year
3,600+
International job
opportunities
1,500+
Interviews
conducted
100+
Recruiters from
30+ countries
Orlando Serrano
Training Coordinator
at Waldorf Astoria Panama
Zujingxin Cherry Shang
Director of Sales
at InterContinental Sanlitun Beijing
Gurtej Singh
Rooms Division Manager in Training at The Hay-Adams, Washington DC
Anesu Pawandiwa
Assistant Outlet Manager
at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
90%
Receive more than
one job offer before
graduation
89%
Hold management
positions
71%
Work in the
hospitality
industry
29%
Work in other
sectors
45K
Alumni in the
SEG network
SHMS Alumni
Testimonials
"My degree turned me into a true hospitality professional and prepared me for what has been a thrilling journey with one of the leading hospitality brands in the world."
Eric Masalwala - Dubai - 2007 graduate
Director of Rooms
Radisson Hotel Group, UAE
"Swiss Hotel Management School not only gave me a well-recognized degree and a solid foundation, but also an edge in the job market and an invaluable network spanning from Shanghai to Bogota."
Mathias Schneider - Sweden - 2013 graduate
General Manager
Gimo Herrgård, Sweden
"I chose SHMS because it's a school that sets you apart from typical universities. From the beginning, I loved the lectures, the people, and I felt completely at home. With all the real-world experiences on campus, the classes are tangible and prepare students for real life."
Constanze Engelhardt - Greece - 2019 graduate
Recruiting Manager
Hirmer Hospitality
"The campuses are the perfect setting to immerse yourself into the world of hospitality. You live and breathe the industry surrounded by like-minded students from around the globe. It is this multicultural experience, colored by the tradition of Swiss excellence, that sets this place apart."
Markos Chaidemenos - Greece - 2007 graduate
Managing Director
Canaves Oia Luxury Hotels, Santorini
Tuition Fees
Education That Pays Off
Find out what’s included, what support you can expect, and how your investment opens doors worldwide.
Bachelor of Arts in International Hospitality Management
Tuition & Fees:
CHF CHF 178 000 (3 years / 6–7 terms)
Where This Program Can Take You
A prestigious pathway for ambitious students to become global hospitality leaders, manage luxury hotels, or build their own international business
What’s Included:
Internship Value: Monthly gross salary in Switzerland can reach CHF 2,350*
Scholarships Available: Merit-based scholarships up to 20%
*Average gross salary. Amounts may vary by placement.
- Tuition, accommodation, meals
- Uniforms, course materials
- Infrastructure costs, Student services, Arrival in Switzerland, Insurance and social assistance
- Career support & 2 paid internships
Master of Arts / Master of Science in International Hospitality Management
Tuition & Fees:
CHF 49 800 (M.A. on-campus) / CHF 23 200 (M.Sc. online-only)
Where This Program Can Take You
Designed for professionals and graduates who want to fast-track into senior roles at leading hotel brands or launch their own ventures
What’s Included:
Internship Value: Monthly gross salary in Switzerland can reach CHF 2,350*
Scholarships Available: Merit-based scholarships up to 20%
*Average gross salary. Amounts may vary by placement.
- Tuition, accommodation, meals
- Uniforms, course materials
- Infrastructure costs, Student services, Arrival in Switzerland, Insurance and social assistance
- Career support & 1 paid internships
Swiss Professional Diploma (Hotel / Resort / Spa Management)
Tuition & Fees:
CHF 42 100 (1 year / typically 2 terms)
Where This Program Can Take You
Ideal for motivated individuals looking to start a successful career in hospitality with fast access to international internships and job placements
What’s Included:
Internship Value: Monthly gross salary in Switzerland can reach CHF 2,350*
Scholarships Available: Merit-based scholarships up to 20%
*Average gross salary. Amounts may vary by placement.
- Tuition, accommodation, meals
- Uniforms, course materials
- Infrastructure costs, Student services, Arrival in Switzerland, Insurance and social assistance
- Career support & 1 paid internships
Executive Master in Hospitality Leadership
Tuition & Fees:
CHF 19 800 (Online / 1 year)
Where This Program Can Take You
Built for working professionals in India and globally who want to lead hotel groups, grow hospitality businesses, or move into top executive roles
What’s Included:
Internship Value: Monthly gross salary in Switzerland can reach CHF 2,350*
Scholarships Available: Merit-based scholarships up to 20%
*Average gross salary. Amounts may vary by placement.
- Tuition & access to online learning platform
- Faculty support, career guidance, and alumni network access
- Optional in-person module on campus (additional fee)
Begin your journey in the birthplace of modern hospitality. This 3-year Bachelor’s program blends Swiss tradition with modern business innovation, giving you the confidence, skills, and global connections to turn your passion into a successful international career. With two paid internships at leading global brands, you’ll graduate career-ready and stand out in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.
Next intake
Bachelor of Arts in International Hospitality Management
February 2026
Duration
3 years
Location
Caux & Leysin
Credits
360 Credits (UK) (180 ECTS Credits)
Why Students Around the World Choose This Program
- Study at one of the world’s Top 4 hospitality schools (QS World University Rankings 2026)
- Join a global leader in hospitality education since 1992, trusted by students and employers worldwide
- Live and learn in iconic Swiss palace hotels, surrounded by breathtaking Alpine views
- Become part of a truly international community, with students from over 100 countries
- Connect with a powerful global alumni network of 45,000+ hospitality professionals
- Build lifelong career opportunities through SHMS’s exclusive partnerships with top global brands
Structure
Semester 1
In the first semester, students focus on the critical domain of Food and Beverage Management. From mastering the intricacies of service excellence to understanding the nuances of menu design, beverage pairings, cost control, and everything in between, this semester lays 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 or German)
Semester 2
The second semester immerses students mainly in the area of Rooms Division Management, building upon the foundation laid in the first semester. This semester adopts a more academic approach, blending theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in managing various departments within rooms division while continuing your soft skills training.
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)
Worldwide
6 months paid internship
- Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and develop customer service, operations management, and team leadership skills to be a true hotelier.
Semester 3
The third semester is all about cultivating your unique niche within the dynamic hospitality industry. Choose one of three specializations to round out your education and stand out from your peers; through a curated selection of specialization courses, you'll acquire the focused knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in your desired field, whether it's luxury brand management, event management, or digital marketing.
Modules:
- Data-Driven Decision-Making
- Human Resources and Leadership
- Marketing and Branding Management
- Accounting III
- Project Management
- Research and Reporting
- Chosen specialization (see below)
Completion of the Project Management Capstone Project to earn the Advanced Federal Diploma for Higher Education in Hospitality Management.
The Swiss Advanced Federal Diploma grants you direct entry into the final semester of the SHMS bachelor program, allowing you to earn the Bachelor of Arts with the University of Derby.
Worldwide
6 months paid internship
- Step into roles of responsibility and put your newly acquired management concepts into practice in a real-world setting. This internship is your chance to develop your skills, to both learn and lead by example.
Semester 4
As you progress into the fourth semester, you'll refine your skills and knowledge of your chosen specialization and add the final touches to your studies with a digital portfolio project that will make you stand out to industry employers.
Modules:
- Contemporary Trends
- Strategic Management
- Digital Marketing
- International Resort and Spa Management
- Chosen specialization (see below)
Independent study - Digital portfolio project
- Project presentation – (hotel business plan, company event, or hotel design)
- Digital CV – banquet, digital marketing projects, etc.
- Reflective digital portfolio – the final chapter of critical reflection
Career Opportunities with a Hospitality Management Degree
Career paths for BA graduates include:
- Event Manager
- Front Office Manager
- Human Resources Specialist
- Housekeeping Manager
- Food & Beverage Manager
- Event Planner
- Brand Manager
An SHMS Bachelor’s degree sets you up for success in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. From luxury hotels and resorts to global event organizations, you’ll be equipped to lead operations, deliver exceptional guest experiences, and drive business performance. With 90% of SHMS students receiving multiple job offers before graduation, your career begins even before you finish your studies.
Beyond Hospitality
A hospitality degree is more than a ticket to hotels and resorts—it’s a launchpad for careers in education, retail, corporate services, and other industries. The transferable skills you gain—leadership, problem-solving, communication, empathy—are highly valued by employers worldwide, ensuring you remain competitive wherever your ambitions take you.
Specializations
We currently offer three specializations to choose from:
Specialization 1
Hospitality Management
This specialization combines cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, financial insights, and intercultural leadership, preparing you to excel in managing diverse teams, developing innovative food and beverage concepts, and overseeing successful guest experiences in a global, people-centric industry.
Courses
Semester 3
- AI and Digital Innovation
- MICE and Logistics
- Hospitality Economics
- Ethics, Sustainability, and Business Culture
Semester 4
- Food and Beverage Development
- People and Intercultural Strategies
Specialization 2
Event Management
This specialization is designed to equip you with the skills to create and manage exceptional events by cultivating your knowledge and experience in strategic logistics, financial insights, and sustainable practices while fostering entrepreneurial thinking to lead and innovate the hospitality and events industries.
Courses
Semester 3
- MICE and Logistics
- Hospitality Economics
- Event Experience Creation
- Event Experience Management
Semester 4
- Sustainable Event Management
- Entrepreneurship in Hospitality and Events
Specialization 3
Design Management
This specialization prepares you to lead innovative design projects by blending digital technology, cutting-edge visual design, and expertise in retail management from a hospitality and guest experience perspective, all while cultivating creativity and strategic thinking to drive the evolution of luxury properties and brands.
Courses
Semester 3
- Digital Design and Visual Technology
- Hospitality Design III
- Food and Beverage Outlet Design
- AutoCAD
Semester 4
- Innovation in Design and Technology
- Retail Management of Luxury Brands
Program highlights
Specialize Your Path
Focus on Hospitality Management, Event Management, or Design Management, supported by two paid internships for practical experience
Swiss Hospitality Tradition
Live and learn in historic palace hotels while mastering both classic and future-focused hospitality practices
Global Recognition
Graduate with two internationally respected degrees: SHMS Switzerland and the University of Derby, UK
Stronger Planning for Families
Families receive earlier admissions outcomes, enabling clearer financial, academic, and relocation planning.
Leadership & Business Skills
Build expertise in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship to drive innovation in the industry
