Swiss Hospitality Degree with Global Recognition—and Local Advantages 

Why SHMS’s New Federal Accreditation Is a Game-Changer for Swiss and International Students

Choosing a university after international school can be a daunting decision, especially for students who have grown up in global environments, studied in English, and are now looking for a practical and respected pathway into a professional career. For students with an interest in business, service, or travel, Switzerland’s newly accredited Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management at Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) offers a unique, high-quality option—with the official backing of the Swiss government.

A MAJOR MILESTONE FOR SHMS—AND FOR STUDENTS 

Swiss Hotel Management School has long been known for its excellence in hospitality education, consistently ranked among the best hospitality schools in the world. Now, the Swiss government has officially recognised SHMS as an École Supérieure, meaning the school can offer the Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education—a prestigious and professionally oriented diploma that is equivalent to EQF Level 6 (Bachelor’s level) and recognised throughout Switzerland and the EU.

This federal recognition, awarded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research, and Innovation (SERI), ensures that SHMS meets Switzerland’s rigorous
national standards for education, including curriculum quality, industry relevance, and
faculty excellence.

For students, it means guaranteed access to a Swiss-accredited diploma with international credibility; for Swiss nationals and residents, it unlocks significant financial support.

A DEGREE DESIGNED FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN SWITZERLAND

For families already invested in international education, the Swiss Professional Degree offers a seamless continuation. The program is taught entirely in English, making it ideal for international school graduates, while also allowing students to continue their study of French or German, deepening their integration into Swiss society and preparing them for a bilingual or multilingual career.

The curriculum blends business and hospitality theory with hands-on, real-world
training, including two paid internships. Students can specialise in Hospitality
Management, Event Management, or Design Management—each with a strong
focus on leadership, innovation, and sustainability.

Uniquely, students who complete the diploma can fast-track into the final semester of the SHMS Bachelor’s program through an efficient top-up option. This allows them to graduate with three highly respected qualifications:

  • A Swiss Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education
  • A Bachelor of Arts from SHMS
  • A Bachelor’s degree from the University of Derby (UK)

Importantly, the top-up option offers the same reduced pricing for eligible Swiss nationals and residents, providing exceptional value for a triple credential.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR SWISS NATIONALS AND RESIDENTS

One of the most significant advantages of federal recognition is access to generous
tuition discounts for students residing in Switzerland:

  • Swiss nationals receive a 30% tuition discount plus eligibility for up to CHF 25,000 through the AES Grant.
  • C-permit holders (permanent residents) receive a 20% discount.
  • B-permit holders may receive a 15% discount, depending on approval from local authorities.

These financial benefits make SHMS one of the few private institutions in Switzerland offering a globally respected degree at a significantly reduced cost for local families.

WHY CHOOSE SHMS?

While public Swiss hospitality schools offer solid training, they often lack the international exposure and global employer connections that SHMS provides. At
SHMS, students truly “Live and Learn Hospitality in Swiss Palace Hotels”— studying in the historic Caux Palace, the Mont-Blanc Palace, and the Belvedere – three former grand hotels that now serve as immersive learning environments.

Graduates of SHMS enjoy:

  • A federally recognised Swiss diploma with strong employer reputation
  • Paid, hands-on internships built into the curriculum
  • A top-up pathway to complete two bachelor’s degrees in one semester
  • A rich, international environment with students from over 60 nationalities
  • Personalised career coaching and exclusive recruitment events
  • Access to a global alumni network spanning five continents

SHMS combines the Swiss standard of excellence with global perspective, preparing students for careers in hospitality, event management, luxury, and beyond.

A FUTURE-PROOF EDUCATION

Whether your child dreams of managing five-star hotels, producing international
events, designing luxury interiors, or innovating in guest experience, a hospitality education offers a uniquely adaptable foundation. It develops not only technical and operational expertise but also emotional intelligence, cross-cultural fluency, and strategic thinking.

In a world increasingly shaped by automation, AI, and rapid technological change, careers built on human connection, creativity, and service are more relevant than ever and the hospitality industry continues to rely on skills that machines can’t replicate.

The Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management is grounded in these timeless competencies. With its blend of real-world training, personalised learning, and global recognition, it equips students with the tools to thrive in people-driven industries—today and in the future.

SHMS’s approach—rooted in Swiss excellence and delivered in a dynamic, international setting—prepares students not just for their first job, but for a lifelong career shaped by curiosity, creativity, and human impact.

Learn more at www.shms.com