The Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management is designed for motivated, independent thinkers who want to turn their passion for hospitality and service into a global career. Based in Switzerland’s top tourism region, the program combines intensive real-world training with practical management theory, preparing you to become a fully capable hospitality professional with one year of hands-on work experience. Ideal for students seeking a competitive edge, it delivers the soft skills, customer insight, and international exposure needed to thrive in today’s hospitality industry.

EHL Passugg teacher coaching hospitality students in the lobby

Why Choose the Swiss Professional Degree at EHL Passugg?

  • Study in Switzerland’s leading tourism region, with direct access to real hospitality environments
  • Learn in a boutique hotel campus, gaining practical skills in real-world service and operations
  • Graduate with one full year of professional hospitality experience built into your degree
  • Combine Swiss vocational excellence with applied management theory
  • Boost your career prospects with a federally recognized diploma and international industry exposure

Key Facts

icon_diploma_dark_blue

Diploma

Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education in Hospitality Management 

German: Dipl. Hoteliere-Gastronomin / Hotelier-Gastronom HF

icon_time_dark_blue

Duration

3 Years

including 1 year of work experience

icon_location_dark_blue

Location

EHL Campus Passugg, Graubünden

Switzerland's top tourism region

Program Overview: Hospitality Courses by Semester

Explore what you’ll learn each semester in our Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management. Each stage builds essential skills - from culinary mastery and communication to internships, entrepreneurship, and leadership - so you graduate career-ready.

Host Competences

  • Culinary Practice - Gain hands-on kitchen experience and learn the foundations of food preparation in a professional culinary setting.
  • Culinary Theory - Understand the basics of kitchen management, nutrition, cooking methods, and recipe development.
  • Service Excellence Practice - Operate in real F&B settings and learn how to deliver high-level guest service through practical restaurant and event service training.
  • Service Excellence Theory - Explore how to design and lead food & beverage operations while meeting guest expectations and SOPs.
  • Beverage Management, Tastings & Mixology - Discover the world of beverages in hospitality - from wine and spirits to mixology and service techniques.
  • Food Safety & Hygiene Management - Learn best practices in food hygiene, safety, and sanitation to ensure guest and workplace safety.

Business Competences

  • Information & Communication Technology I - Build essential digital skills with Microsoft Office and foundational computer applications.
  • German - Acquire basic German language skills for everyday hospitality interactions (CERF Level A1).

Soft Skills Development

  • Essentials of Soft Skills - Understand and manage emotions in yourself and others - laying the groundwork for emotional competence in hospitality.
  • Personal Development Portfolio l - Start your professional learning journal, reflecting on personal growth, feedback, and industry exposure.
  • Internship Preparation & Professional Coaching - Learn how to apply for internships, prepare your documents, and start shaping your career path.
  • Emotional Competence Assessment - Take your first emotional competence assessment to understand your starting point and set a baseline for your personal development.

Communicator Competences

  • Business Communication - Master the fundamentals of business writing, hospitality correspondence, and professional email etiquette.
  • Communication & Culture - Explore intercultural communication, etiquette, and presentation skills in a diverse workplace.
  • Hospitality Sales & Marketing l - Learn the basics of hospitality marketing and sales strategies, tools, and guest engagement techniques.
  • Rooms Division Management - Understand how to lead front office and housekeeping operations, including planning, KPIs, and guest services.
  • Rooms Division Operations - Put theory into practice with hands-on training in reception and housekeeping procedures.
  • Team Leader in-house Restaurants - Gain experience in coordinating restaurant teams and leading F&B operations within a training environment.

Business Competences

  • Facility Management - Explore the essentials of maintaining and managing hospitality buildings, energy systems, and infrastructure.
  • Project Management - Plan and execute hospitality projects while developing collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
  • F&B Profit Strategy - Learn to analyze food and beverage costs, forecast sales, and manage profitability.
  • Statistics - Apply statistical methods to collect and analyze hospitality business data for better decision-making.
  • Applied Mathematics in Hospitality - Use math skills to solve real-world hospitality challenges such as pricing, inventory, and forecasting.
  • Financial Accounting - Understand the basics of accounting, financial statements, and legal reporting in hospitality.
  • Information & Communication Technology II - Advance your tech skills by building on Microsoft Office and digital business applications.
  • German for Business II - Continue developing German with a focus on business vocabulary and professional situations.

Soft Skills Development

  • Emotional Control Competencies - Learn how to manage your emotional responses to stay focused and effective in guest-facing roles.
  • Personal Development Portfolio II - Continue tracking personal growth, incorporating coaching insights and academic reflection.
  • Internship Preparation & Professional Coaching - Refine your professional goals and prepare for internship placement with coaching support.

Internship

  • Duration: 6 months
  • Location: at least 3 months in Switzerland
  • Focus: Gain professional experience in Service, Kitchen Housekeeping and/or Front Office

Soft Skills Development

  • Reflection & Development of Self-Confidence - Build self-confidence and professional behavior through on-the-job learning and reflection.
  • Personal Development Portfolio III - Document your internship learnings, feedback, and reflections to support your personal and professional development.
  • Internship Support & Professional Coaching - Receive personalized coaching and support to help you navigate your internship and future career decisions.
Entrepreneur Competences
  • Hospitality Experience Design - Explore how to create unique, multi-sensory guest experiences that enhance emotional connection and brand loyalty.
  • Entrepreneurship & Innovation - Understand how to turn innovative ideas into viable business concepts in the fast-paced hospitality sector.
  • Strategic Management - Analyze competitive environments and learn to formulate strategies that drive long-term success.
  • Digital Marketing - Master the digital guest journey and apply tools to attract and engage customers across online touchpoints.
  • International Hotel Management - Gain insights into managing global hotel operations and understand the mindset of an international hotelier.
Business Competences
  • Economics & Law - Learn key economic principles and legal frameworks relevant to hospitality businesses.
  • Human Resources & Talent Management - Understand how to recruit, develop, and retain hospitality talent while fostering a positive work culture.
  • Hospitality Sales & Marketing II - Advance your knowledge of marketing strategy and develop promotional campaigns for real-world hospitality settings.
  • Financial Analysis - Develop pricing strategies, evaluate investments, and prepare financial plans to support strategic decisions.
  • Development & Realization of a Hospitality Concept - Plan and execute an original hospitality concept, combining marketing, operations, finance, and creativity.
  • German for Business III - Enhance your ability to communicate in German within professional hospitality contexts (CERF Level A2.1).
Soft Skills Development
  • Team Skills - Strengthen your collaboration and leadership capabilities through group projects and peer feedback.
  • Personal Development Portfolio IV - Continue documenting your journey, focusing on strategic thinking and concept execution.
  • Internship Preparation & Professional Coaching - Prepare for your next internship in business administration or operations with tailored coaching.

Internship

  • Duration: 6 months
  • Location: Switzerland or abroad
  • Focus: Gain professional experience in Service, Kitchen Housekeeping, Front Office and/or Business Administration

Soft Skills Development

  • Reflection & Development of Self-Confidence - Deepen your self-awareness by evaluating your performance and leadership growth.
  • Personal Development Portfolio V - Summarize your achievements and lessons learned, linking practical experience with academic growth.
  • Internship Support & Professional Coaching - Benefit from structured support and mentoring to help you succeed in your internship and beyond.

Networker Competences

  • Employee Experience Design - Explore how to motivate and retain employees by designing a positive and engaging employee journey.
  • Leadership & Networking - Learn to lead with authenticity and build strategic networks that support career success and business growth.
  • Applied Management & Leadership - Practice advanced leadership skills in hands-on simulations and team-based hospitality projects.
  • Sustainability & Environmental Management - Understand how to lead sustainable hospitality operations that balance business and environmental impact.
  • Tourism Management - Learn how to design and manage tourism experiences, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events).
  • Specialization in Culinary Arts, Spa & Wellness Management or Sustainable Management - Discover all specializations here

Business Competences

  • Financial Management & Controlling - Create budgets, liquidity plans, and financial forecasts to support data-driven decision-making.
  • Revenue Management - Learn to optimize pricing and inventory using key revenue management tools and strategies.
  • Organizational & Quality Management - Design and implement effective structures to ensure service quality and operational efficiency.
  • Business Plan Project - Collaborate on a real-life case to develop a full business plan, integrating your knowledge across disciplines.

 

Soft Skills Development

  • Emotion & Conflict Management - Refine your ability to respond to emotional cues and navigate interpersonal challenges effectively.
  • Personal Development Portfolio Assessment - Present a final reflection that connects your personal growth with professional readiness and program competencies.
  • Professional Coaching - Receive individualized coaching to support your transition to the next stage of your career or education.
  • Emotional Competence Assessment - Repeat the initial assessment to see how your emotional skills have grown over the course of your studies.

Extra Certification

As part of the Culinary Arts specialization, students have the opportunity to obtain the WSET Level 2 Certificate (Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 2 Award in Wines).

You will find all the important semester and vacation dates here:

Download the Semester Key Dates

Choose your Specialization

Culinar Arts Classes within the Swiss Professional Degree at EHL Passugg

Specialize in Culinary Arts

Want to lead in the Food & Beverage industry? Our Culinary Arts specialization teaches you to:

  • Organize and lead culinary events from kitchen to service
  • Apply seasonal, trendy, and sustainable culinary practices
  • Develop recipes with a strong creative and operational mindset
Spa and Wellness specialization within the Swiss Professional Degree

Master Spa & Wellness Management

Want to lead in the growing wellness and spa industry? Our Spa & Wellness Management specialization teaches you to:

  • Understand the core business models of spa and wellness operations
  • Design unique guest experiences focused on relaxation and wellbeing
  • Apply best practices in service innovation, sustainability, and team leadership
Sustainable Management Specialization within the Swiss Professional Degree

Lead in Sustainable Hospitality & Green Business

Want to lead in sustainable hospitality and tourism? Our Sustainable Management specialization teaches you to:

  • Apply the 5-pillar sustainability model: ecology, social, economy, management, and regional anchoring
  • Integrate responsible practices into hospitality, food, and tourism operations
  • Work on real-world environmental projects that make a measurable impact
EHL Students on Internship in an international hotel

Graduate with Real-World Hospitality Experience

As part of your Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management, you’ll complete two fully supported 6-month internships in top hospitality venues across Switzerland and internationally.

You’ll gain hands-on experience in both operational and supervisory/managerial roles, making you job-ready and highly attractive to future employers.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have:

  • Already worked in real hotels or restaurants, both front and back of house
  • Developed the leadership skills to confidently manage teams
  • Built a professional network in Switzerland and beyond
  • Gained the 12 months of experience required by many top employers

Got questions? Meet Your Dedicated Admissions Advisors

Arnaud Jonquet Admissions Advisor for the Swiss Professional Degree Program

Arnaud Jonquet

Program Advisor

Arnaud helps future hospitality leaders from all around the world navigate their application journey. He’s here to answer your questions and guide you step by step.

Email Arnaud
Call: +41 21 785 10 79

Christelle Shen Admissions Advisor for the Swiss Professional Degree

Christelle Shen

Program Advisor - China

Based in China, Christelle supports students who want to study hospitality in Switzerland. She understands local expectations and can help with every step.

Email Christelle
Call: +86 136 7559 6344

Indpendent Education Repepresentatives for the Swiss Professional Degree

Independent Education Representatives

Program Advisors - India & Georgia

Our trusted representatives in India & Georgia offer support in your language and time zone. Get help with your application and visa questions.

Real Stories from EHL Passugg Students

EHL Campus Lausanne offering the Bachelor in International Hospitality Management

Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in Just 3 Semesters - at the World’s #1 Hospitality School

Already earned your Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management? You’re just three semesters away from completing the world’s #1-ranked Bachelor in International Hospitality Management - offered by EHL, the global leader in hospitality education.

This accelerated pathway combines advanced business courses, hands-on projects, and career-focused electives to fast-track your success in Switzerland and internationally. Whether you’re aiming for management roles or your own venture, this is your chance to upgrade your diploma into a globally recognized Bachelor's degree - from the very best.

  • Only 3 semesters to earn your Bachelor’s degree
  • 90 ECTS credits recognized from your Swiss Professional Degree
  • Study at both EHL Passugg (1 semester) and EHL Lausanne (2 semesters) campuses
  • Customize your path with career-relevant electives
  • Complete a real-world industry project with a business partner

Get the Swiss Professional Degree Brochure Instantly

Learn about admissions, career paths, campus life, and more - everything you need to know in one PDF.

Admissions & Fees

Are you a good candidate for the Swiss Professional Degree
in Hospitality Management program?

When considering your application for the program, our admissions team will look at your:

  • Academic qualifications, including school certificates, tests and grades
  • Knowledge of languages
  • Personality and motivation

We encourage you to start your online application to learn more about the documents and other requirements of the admission process.

Apply online

To start your application, first create an account.

If you already have an account, you can log in with your existing credentials.

If you already have an EHL account, please login with your existing credentials to proceed with your application.

Quality and Accreditations

THE ICE

Our Professional school, EHL Passugg is located on the EHL Campus Passugg, and is an official C2Q member of the internationally renowned THE ICE quality label for tourism and hospitality education.

 

Accredited through the Swiss federal government (SERI) framework for HF programs

EHL Passugg was the first hotel management school to offer the HF Swiss Professional Degree in both German and English, which allows to become a certified Hôtelière-Restauratrice/Hôtelier-Restaurateur recognized by the Swiss Confederation.

Classed as tertiary education

 The Swiss Professional Degree (HF degree) is classed as tertiary B education, according to the national qualification framework. Tertiary level B denotes higher professional education.

With the recognition of 90 ECTS points of the Bologna system

The University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland (HES-SO) recognizes the German and English HF degree program "Dipl. Hoteliere-Gastronomin/Hotelier-Gastronom HF" as equivalent to 90 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). This recognition gives HF graduates the opportunity to further their professional education by transitioning directly into the bachelor's degree program at EHL.

The-ICE EHL Passugg is a C2Q Accredited Member
Logo der Schweizerischen Eidgenossenschaft

Frequently Asked Questions about the Swiss Professional Degree

Thinking about joining EHL’s Swiss Professional Degree in Hospitality Management? We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about admissions, tuition fees, internships, student life, and career outcomes. Whether you’re an international applicant or just exploring your options, this section helps you understand what to expect and how to take the next step.

To join our Swiss Professional Degree program at EHL Campus Passugg, you'll need:

  • Educational Background: Completion of secondary education with relevant certificates and grades.

  • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or German, depending on the chosen language of instruction.

  • Motivation and Personality: A strong motivation letter and, potentially, an interview to assess your fit and enthusiasm for the hospitality industry.

For detailed information, please visit our Admissions Page.

 

When applying, prepare the following:

  • Academic transcripts and certificates.

  • Proof of language proficiency.

  • A motivation letter.

  • A resume or CV.

  • Any additional documents specified by the admissions office.

For a comprehensive checklist, refer to our Admissions Page.

Start your application now.

Not at all! While prior experience in hospitality can strengthen your application and provide a clearer understanding of the industry, it's not mandatory. Our program is designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge from the ground up.

Our Swiss Professional Degree spans 3 years, blending academic coursework with practical experience:

  • Semesters 1 & 2: Foundational courses in hospitality operations.

  • Semester 3: First industry internship.

  • Semesters 4: Advanced management courses.

  • Semester 5: Second industry internship.

  • Semesters 6: Advanced management courses.

This structure ensures a balance between theory and hands-on learning.

Explore the detailed curriculum here.

You can tailor your studies with one of the following specializations:

Each offers focused expertise to align with your career aspirations.

Get an overview of all specializations.

Yes. Graduates can enroll in EHL's Bachelor in International Hospitality Management degree program, completing it in an additional 3 semesters. This pathway allows you to deepen your knowledge and expand your career opportunities.

Learn more about the Direct Entry into the Bachelor after the Swiss professional Degree.

 

The Swiss Professional Degree (HF) at EHL Campus Passugg includes two fully guided internships, each lasting approximately six months, providing students with real-world experience in top-tier hospitality businesses in Switzerland or abroad.

Internship 1 takes place after the first year and focuses on operational roles in areas such as:

  • Culinary arts or kitchen operations

  • Restaurant or bar service

  • Housekeeping or front office

  • Guest relations

Internship 2 happens in the final year and is geared toward supervisory or management-level responsibilities, such as:

  • Assistant F&B Manager

  • Rooms Division Trainee

  • Guest Experience Coordinator

  • Revenue or Event Planning Assistant

Internships are a core part of the curriculum and:

  • Are paid and legally recognized in Switzerland

  • Offer opportunities to work in leading hotels, restaurants, and resorts

  • Help students build networks, language skills, and industry credibility

  • Are supported by EHL’s dedicated Career Services team, who help with placements, interview prep, and paperwork

Learn more about internships at EHL Passugg

 

Graduates of the Swiss Professional Degree (HF) in Hospitality Management are well-prepared for a wide range of management roles in the hospitality sector and beyond. Typical career paths include:
  • Hotel or Restaurant Manager
  • Front Office or Rooms Division Manager
  • Food and Beverage Manager
  • Event or Conference Coordinator
  • Spa or Wellness Manager
  • Hospitality Entrepreneur
In addition to traditional hotel and restaurant roles, the degree also opens doors to related service industries such as:
  • Tourism and travel management
  • Luxury retail and lifestyle brands
  • Guest experience management
  • Hospitality consulting
  • Cruise lines, resorts, and leisure businesses
Because the HF diploma combines applied business education with a human-centric, service-oriented mindset, graduates are also valued in roles that require strong interpersonal, operational, and leadership skills - both in Switzerland and internationally.
EHL offers robust career services, including:
  • Internship placement support.
  • Career fairs and networking events.
  • Alumni network access for job opportunities.

Our dedicated team is here to support your career journey. Reach out to our Career Services Team.

Students benefit from:
  • A multicultural environment with peers from various backgrounds.
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including training restaurants, a in-house gym and learning spaces.
  • Participation in events like the annual Food Festival.

Our campus fosters both professional growth and personal development. Explore EHL Campus Passugg now.

Certainly! Prospective students can:

Engaging with our community provides valuable insights into the EHL experience.

Tuition fees vary depending on your residency status, nationality, and permit type (e.g., Swiss, EU/EFTA, or non-EU/EEA students). Different rates may apply for students who are residents of Switzerland or who hold a Swiss residence permit.

Because of these variations, it's best to request a personalized cost estimate based on your specific situation. The admissions team can provide accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your background.

Check the fees and request more info here.

Yes, EHL offers several scholarships and financial aid options through the EHL Foundation for Scholarships and Honorary Loans. These are available to students who demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, or other special circumstances.

In addition, Swiss students may be eligible for external educational funding, such as:

  • The Tschumi Fonds, administered by HotellerieSuisse, which supports learners pursuing a career in the Swiss hospitality industry.

  • Cantonal grants and loans, depending on your place of residence.

To apply for EHL scholarships:

  • You must first be admitted to the program.

  • You’ll then be invited to submit a separate scholarship application, including financial documentation and a motivation letter.

We strongly encourage all eligible Swiss and international students to explore these funding opportunities early.


Learn more and apply via the EHL Foundation


Explore Swiss financial aid options (incl. Tschumi Fonds)

 

Living expenses for students at EHL Campus Passugg typically range from CHF 15,000 to CHF 20,000 per year, but this can vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

For most international students, who live on campus, the costs are more structured:

  • On-campus accommodation: Approx. CHF 4,400 per semester, including utilities and services

  • Meal plan (on-campus dining): Approx. CHF 2,800 per semester

  • Additional personal expenses (transport, leisure, insurance, etc.): Vary depending on individual habits and weekend activities

These estimates are designed to help you plan realistically for life in Switzerland, a country known for its high quality of life and safe environment.

You can also request a personalized cost estimate from the admissions team, based on your country of residence and program format.

Check current fees and living cost details here

Yes - if you are not a Swiss citizen, not a resident of Switzerland, or not a citizen of an EU/EFTA country, you will need a student visa to enter and study in Switzerland.

When should I apply?

The visa process can take up to 8 weeks, so we recommend applying as early as possible once you receive your EHL admission offer.

How does the process work?

  1. Apply for your student visa at the Swiss Embassy in your country of residence.

  2. Once your visa is authorized by Swiss immigration, EHL will send you an official confirmation document (Ermächtigung).

  3. You will then return to the embassy to have your visa stamped into your passport.

  4. This visa is valid for 3 months and will allow you to enter Switzerland.

  5. After arrival, you will receive a residence permit (L-permit) valid for 1 year, which will be renewed annually until the end of your studies.

Support from EHL

The Student Services Team at EHL Campus Passugg supports you throughout the entire visa process, including:

  • Guidance on embassy procedures

  • Assistance collecting the required documents

  • Support with your residence permit application (L-permit) upon arrival

  • Help with annual renewals of your permit during your studies

Important: Students from non-EU countries should not leave Switzerland until their L-permit has been issued. This process can take up to 5 weeks after arrival.

Applications can be submitted online through the EHL website. The process includes:

  • Creating an applicant profile.

  • Uploading required documents.

  • Participating in an interview.

Start your application now.

 

EHL Campus Passugg offers two program intakes per year: one in January and one in August. Key deadlines are:

  • January intake: Apply by November 6; visa applicants (non-CH/EU) by September 30

  • August intake: Apply by June 5; visa applicants (non-CH/EU) by April 30

If you're applying for financial aid from the EHL Foundation, earlier deadlines apply and you must already have an admission offer in hand.

While we strongly encourage early applications to secure your place and ensure enough time for visa processing, we remain flexible: if space is still available and visa timelines allow, late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

See all deadlines and financial aid dates