So, how do you get started? What are the best schools? And is it really as glamorous as it sounds? Let’s dive in!
Why Study Hospitality & Tourism in Switzerland?
First things first why Switzerland? Simple: it’s the gold standard of hospitality education.
Imagine learning in a country where luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and breathtaking tourist destinations are part of daily life. Switzerland has perfected the art of hospitality, making it the ideal place to learn from the best.
Here’s why studying in Switzerland is a game-changer:
- World-Class Institutions – Schools like EHL, Glion, and SHMS consistently rank among the top hospitality schools globally.
- Hands-On Learning – Most programs blend theory with real-world internships at luxury hotels and resorts.
- Global Recognition – A Swiss hospitality degree on your résumé instantly boosts your credibility.
- Networking Opportunities – You’ll rub shoulders with industry leaders, CEOs, and recruiters from top hospitality brands.
- Multicultural Exposure – With students from 100+ countries, you’ll experience diverse cultures, which is crucial in the global hospitality industry.
By the way, did you know that some of the world's best hoteliers including César Ritz were Swiss? No wonder the country leads the hospitality game!
Types of Hospitality & Tourism Management Courses in Switzerland
Picking a course is like choosing the perfect Swiss chocolate so many great options, but it depends on your taste (or career goals).
1. Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management
- Duration: 3 to 4 years
- Ideal for: High school graduates who want to build a strong foundation in hospitality
- Key Subjects: Hotel operations, tourism management, marketing, finance, leadership skills
- Top Schools:
- EHL Hospitality Business School
- Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS)
- Glion Institute of Higher Education
2. Master’s Degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
- Ideal for: Professionals looking to specialize or move into leadership roles
- Key Subjects: Luxury brand management, digital marketing, strategic leadership
- Top Schools:
- Les Roches Global Hospitality Education
- César Ritz Colleges Switzerland
3. Diplomas & Short-Term Certifications
- Duration: 6 months to 1 year
- Ideal for: Career changers or professionals looking for specialized skills
- Examples: Wine & Beverage Management, Event Planning, Sustainable Tourism
Pro Tip: If you’re not sure about committing to a full degree, consider starting with a diploma to test the waters!
Admission Requirements: What You Need to Apply
Each school has slightly different admission criteria, but here’s a general checklist:
For Bachelor’s Programs
- High school diploma or equivalent
- English proficiency test (IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 80+)
- Statement of Purpose (why you want to study hospitality)
- Letters of Recommendation
For Master’s Programs
- A bachelor’s degree (hospitality-related is a plus, but not mandatory)
- 1-2 years of work experience (some schools require it)
- GMAT/GRE (optional but may strengthen your application)
Fun Fact: Some schools accept work experience in place of formal education—so if you’ve been working in hospitality for years, you might qualify without a traditional degree!
Cost of Studying Hospitality in Switzerland
Let’s talk money. Studying in Switzerland isn’t cheap, but think of it as an investment in a top-tier global career.
Estimated Costs:
- Tuition Fees: CHF 20,000 - CHF 45,000 per year
- Living Expenses: CHF 15,000 - CHF 25,000 per year
- Total Cost (Bachelor’s Degree, 3 years): Around CHF 100,000 - CHF 150,000
Scholarships & Financial Aid
The good news? Many Swiss hospitality schools offer scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or industry experience.
Some popular ones include:
- EHL’s Academic Excellence Scholarship
- Glion & Les Roches Merit Scholarships
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Tip: Apply early scholarships are competitive, and funds are limited!
Life in Switzerland as a Hospitality Student
Imagine waking up to stunning mountain views, sipping on the best hot chocolate, and attending classes in a château-style campus. Sounds dreamy, right?
But beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, life in Switzerland as a student is exciting and dynamic:
- Internships: Most programs require hands-on training in real hotels, so you’ll gain work experience while studying.
- Part-Time Work: International students can work up to 15 hours per week perfect for extra cash!
- Weekend Travel: Switzerland is smack in the middle of Europe, so weekend getaways to Paris, Milan, or Munich are totally doable.
Career Opportunities: What Can You Do With a Swiss Hospitality Degree?
A Swiss hospitality qualification is like a VIP pass to top global careers. Graduates go on to work in:
- Luxury Hotels & Resorts – Think Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Hilton
- Event & Wedding Planning – Organizing high-profile events worldwide
- Tourism Boards & Travel Companies – Promoting destinations and curating travel experiences
- Restaurant & F&B Management – Running Michelin-starred restaurants or luxury bars
- Entrepreneurship – Starting your own boutique hotel, travel agency, or food business
And here’s a fun stat: Over 90% of Swiss hospitality graduates land jobs within six months. Not bad, right?
FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions
1. Do I need to know French or German to study in Switzerland?
Nope! Most hospitality programs are in English, but learning a local language is a plus.
2. Can I work while studying?
Yes! International students can work part-time (15 hours/week) during semesters and full-time during holidays.
3. What’s the job market like after graduation?
With a Swiss degree, you’ll have global job opportunities hospitality professionals are always in demand!
4. Can I stay in Switzerland after graduation?
Switzerland offers a 6-month job search visa for graduates. If you land a job, your employer can sponsor your work visa.
Final Thoughts: Is Switzerland the Right Choice for You?
If you’re serious about a top-tier career in hospitality and tourism, studying in Switzerland is an unbeatable choice. It’s not just about getting a degree it’s about being part of an industry that values precision, luxury, and world-class service.
So, what’s stopping you? Pack your bags, polish your résumé, and take the first step towards an exciting career in global hospitality!
Got Questions? Let’s Chat!
Thinking of studying hospitality in Switzerland but not sure where to start? Drop your questions in the comments below, and let’s get the conversation rolling!