If you are looking to pursue a career in hospitality and tourism, Switzerland is the top choice. As a top global destination for hospitality education, the country offers international students high-quality education, worldwide industry exposure, cultural diversity, and multiple career opportunities.
Switzerland is known for its hospitality, rich culture, and high standard of living, attracting more than 58,000 international students every year. Graduate students have several options and can choose among 25+ esteemed universities in Switzerland to advance their careers in hospitality and tourism.
Here is detailed information about hospitality courses in Switzerland, including the top universities, program costs, career opportunities, and more.
Overview of Studying Hospitality in Switzerland
| Features | Details |
| Top Universities |
· EHL Hospitality Business School, Lausanne · SHMS- Swiss Hotel Management School, Caux · Les Roches Global Hospitality Management Education |
| Top Hospitality Programs |
· BSc in International Hospitality Management · BA in International Hospitality Business · MSc in International Hospitality Business · MA in International Hospitality Management |
| Course Duration | Bachelor’s program- 3 to 4 years Master’s program- 1-1.5 years |
| Average Tuition Fees | CHF 20000-40000 per year |
| Eligibility Criteria |
· Age of 18 for most hospitality programs · Secondary education diplomas and undergraduate degree in relevant field · Standardized English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL) |
| Admission Intakes | Spring and Fall |
Reasons to Study Hospitality in Switzerland
Switzerland has earned a stellar reputation as the go-to destination for education in hospitality. Here are the reasons why:
World-Class Education and Globally Recognised Degrees
Swiss hospitality schools consistently rank among the best in the world. According to QS World Ranking 2024- Hospitality & Leisure Management category, 7 out of the top 10 are Swiss universities. They are renowned for their innovative teaching methodologies, blending theoretical learning with real-world applications. Additionally, hospitality and tourism degrees from Swiss universities are well-recognized globally, opening diverse career opportunities for students worldwide.
Practical Learning Opportunities
Most Swiss hotel management programs include internships and practical training at renowned hotels, luxury resorts, or event management firms. This hands-on approach challenges students to take up leadership roles and ensures graduates are job-ready from day one. Several top companies like Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Accor, Hilton, and more offer internships to students that turn into full-time positions.
Cultural Diversity in Universities
Switzerland attracts students from all over the world, creating a rich multicultural environment that is highly beneficial to students. The exposure to diverse perspectives and international networks prepares students for the global nature of the hospitality sector.
Top Universities and Programs in Switzerland for Hotel Management
| University Name | QS World Ranking 2024: Hospitality & Leisure Management | Popular courses (Bachelors and Masters) | Course Duration | Average fees (in CHF) |
| EHL Hospitality Business School |
1 |
· Bachelor’s in international hospitality management
· Master’s in hospitality management · Master in Global Hospitality Business |
Bachelors- 4 years
Masters- 16-18 months |
Bachelor’s-119,040
Master’s-30,500-34,890 |
| SHMS-Swiss Hotel Management School |
2 |
· BA & MSc in International Hospitality Management,
· MA in International Hospitality Business Management |
Bachelor’s- 3 years
Master’s- 1 year |
Bachelor’s-125,700
Master’s- 36,600 |
| Cesar Ritz Colleges Switzerland |
3 |
· BSc in Hospital Business Management
· MSc in Leadership |
Bachelor’s-4 years
Master’s-2 years |
Bachelor’s-119,000
Master’s- 35,500 |
|
Les Roches Global Hospitality Management Education |
5 |
· BSc in Global Hospitality Management
· MSc in International Hotel Management · MSc in Marketing and Management for luxury Tourism |
Bachelor’s-4 years
Master’s-15 months
|
Bachelor’s-32, 000 (per semester)
Master’s-28,103-27,085 (per semester)
|
| Hotel Institute Montreux |
6 |
BBA in Hospitality Management or Management | 3 years | 76,800 |
| Glion Institute of Higher Education |
8 |
· Bachelor’s in international hospitality business
· MSc in Hospitality Business Leadership · MSc in hospitality, Entrepreneurship and Innovation |
Bachelor’s-4 years,
Master’s-1.5 years
|
Bachelor’s-176,500
Master’s- 52,100 |
Eligibility Criteria for Hotel Management Courses in Switzerland
The eligibility criteria for hospitality courses may vary according to the university and the program. Check the university website to learn about the program requirements and the application process.
However, the general eligibility criteria include-
- Students must be 18 years of age to apply for most hospitality programs.
- Secondary education degree from a recognized institution for undergraduate programs and a bachelor’s degree in relevant field for graduate and master’s programs.
- Standardized English language proficiency scores (IELTS or TOEFL) or other documents showcasing proficiency in English.
Cost of Living and Tuition Fees
The cost of living and tuition fees is generally higher than in other countries in Europe. However, Switzerland offers world-class education and career opportunities that give students great ROI on their education, making studying in Switzerland an investment.
Cost of Living
Switzerland offers a high standard of living, so the living costs are greater than other European countries, like the UK, Ireland, and France. On average, students spend CHF 1500-2500 monthly, which covers accommodation, food, transportation, general utilities, and other expenses. This cost may vary depending on the city you are living in and your living preferences.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees can vary substantially depending on the university and program chosen. The average tuition fees for undergraduate hospitality programs in Switzerland range between CHF 20,000 to CHF 40,000 per year. Master’s programs may cost slightly more.
Tuition fees and additional program costs are subject to change yearly. Visit the university website to learn the exact program cost.
Career Opportunities for Graduates in Switzerland
Graduates from Swiss hospitality schools are in high demand across the globe. Over 90% of graduates from top schools like EHL, SHMS, and Glion find employment after completing their program. Due to the massive industry network and alumni connections, ample career opportunities are presented to graduate students.
Several top companies hire students from Swiss hospitality institutes, including The Ritz, UBS, Marriot International, Accor, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Shangri-la Group, and more.
Here are some career paths students can choose after graduation-
- Hotel Management
- Luxury Management
- Sales and Marketing
- Event Management
- Digital Marketing Management
- Human Resources
- Hospitality Consultant
- Entrepreneurship
Average salary in the hospitality sector in Switzerland
The average salary of a hotel management graduate is around CHF 60,000 to CHF 100,000 depending on the job position, company, and years of experience.
Conclusion
Switzerland offers an unbeatable combination of academic excellence, cultural exposure, and career opportunities in the hospitality sector. If you are ready to build a thriving career in hospitality, Switzerland is the place to start.
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