Higher education in Montreux 2024

It is worth starting with the fact that the industry of the international tourism and hospitality industry is characterized by high and dynamic indicators of growth and development. According to expert opinion, at the time of 2020, the tourism industry will be recognized as the largest among all countries in the world.

It is on the territory of Switzerland that the best universities are located, which carry out effective training of highly professional specialists in the field of tourism and hospitality.

Currently, after graduating from a top university in Switzerland , the graduates have the widest opportunities for promising and successful employment in any country in the world. So, in order to successfully build a career, a graduate must have the following qualities:

• Theoretical knowledge regarding hotel management
• Practical experience
• Communication skills, and an excellent level of foreign language proficiency.

Now a little brief information about the Swiss city of Montreux, which is a multinational city that combines French architecture and a large number of Italian restaurants, from the windows of which you can admire the picturesque natural landscapes. In addition, the popularity and fame of the city is due to the regular large-scale international jazz festival, which attracts European tourists.

Hotel Institute Montreux, nestled in the stunning city of Montreux, Switzerland's "Pearl", offers a unique educational experience at the convergence of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Since 1984, HIM has established itself as a leading institution in hospitality management, renowned for its partnerships with elite U.S. universities and a blend of traditional and innovative teaching methods.

As part of the Swiss Education Group since 2004, HIM is committed to providing a quality education that equips students for careers in tourism and hotel management. The curriculum is designed to develop managerial skills, with practical experiences through internships complementing the academic learning. Courses are primarily in English, with additional language options such as French, Italian, or German.

Accreditations and Recognition

HIM is accredited by several international associations, reflecting its adherence to high educational standards and its esteemed position within the professional community. These associations include:

• ASEH: Association of Hotel Schools in Switzerland

• AH&LA: American Hotel Association

• AIEST: International Association of Tourism Experts

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

HIM offers a range of programs tailored to international students:

• English Preparatory Program

• Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality Management

  • Swiss Diploma in "Hotel Management" in the first year

  • Specializations in Finance, Personnel Management, or Marketing and Business Management in the Luxury Goods Industry

  • Swiss Higher Diploma and a Bachelor’s degree in conjunction with Northwood University

• Professional Diploma in Hospitality Management

  • Entry into the second year of HIM's Master’s program

• Master of International Business in Hospitality Management

  • Specializations in Finance, Personnel Management, Marketing, and Business Management in the Luxury Goods Industry

Internships and Career Opportunities

A key feature of studying at HIM is the mandatory paid internship, providing invaluable industry experience. Students alternate between six months of study and six-month internships, with salary support. HIM also hosts biannual job fairs with leading hotel chains like Sheraton, Hilton, Marriot, and others.

For Bachelor’s programs, candidates must be 17 or older, hold a secondary education certificate, and meet English proficiency requirements. Postgraduate and Master’s applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience, and be at least 21 years old.

The program start dates are scheduled throughout the year.

HIM's facilities, housed in former five-star hotels, offer a unique living and learning environment. The Europa Hotel, situated in central Montreux, is complemented by student-run restaurants and a range of amenities for a comprehensive educational experience.

Student accommodation is provided in former hotel buildings, offering modern facilities. Various room options are available, with full-board dining. Tuition fees vary:

• English preparatory program: Approximately 850 CHF per week.

• Bachelor’s program: Around 141,660 CHF for three years.

• Postgraduate Diploma: Near 45,060 CHF for one year.

• Master's program: About 91,600 CHF for two years.

• Additional costs may include medical insurance, registration, visa fees, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.