Pivot into an exciting new career in hospitality management in just one year. Build on your previous work experience in another discipline while gaining key operational skills through hands-on experience in organizing events, managing a spa, or running fine dining outlets. Our Postgraduate Diploma in International Hotel, Resort, and Spa Management equips you with strong professional skills, valuable industry connections, and firsthand knowledge of current industry standards.

Next intake

September 2025

Duration

1 year

Location

Leysin

About the program

Apply now

Program Highlights

Our PGD in International Hotel, Resort, and Spa Management at a Glance

Our PGD in International Hotel, Resort, and Spa Management aims to provide seasoned professionals with a structured pathway into the hospitality industry.

Through our industry-focused curriculum, students will explore key hospitality areas such as service excellence, international cuisine, and spa management. The program incorporates essential operational skills such as event planning, food and beverage management, and finance principles, as well as soft skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and leadership, ensuring students have the knowledge needed to have successful careers in hospitality.

A key feature of the program is a worldwide internship, allowing students to gain real-world experience, develop industry connections, and understand hospitality trends. By the end of the program, graduates will be well-prepared for higher-level roles in hospitality management and have access to the master's programs offered at the Swiss Hotel Management School.

Program Objectives

Through our Postgraduate Diploma in International Hotel, Resort, and Spa Management program, you will:

Develop skills to create efficient food and beverage service systems and optimize profitability through cost control and menu engineering.
Implement sustainable sourcing and waste management and enhance guest satisfaction with tailored customer service strategies.
Enhance operational efficiency and revenue generation in front office operations by mastering reservation systems and guest services while strategically analyzing financial performance to optimize upselling and customer loyalty.

Understand the role of technology in front office management, including integrating PMS (Property Management Systems) with other operational tools.
Grasp the role of data analytics in measuring the success of digital campaigns and making real-time adjustments.
Recognize the cultural aspects of international cuisine, using global culinary knowledge to enhance guest dining experiences.
Apply principles of wellness and guest-centered service in spa management to create memorable and rejuvenating guest experiences.

Accreditations and Recognitions

Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) is recognized and approved by numerous prestigious academic and industry partners.

These accreditations and certifications guarantee that our students receive the highest quality educational experience, one that prepares them for a lifetime of success in hospitality management.

COBIS Council of British International Schools

Curriculum Structure

This Postgraduate Diploma program for hospitality management is structured into two semesters, during which students will acquire the essential skills and hands-on experience in service excellence, international cuisine, and spa management. Have the chance to apply knowledge while gaining exposure to diverse cultures and management practices through academic projects and an internship.

Semester 1 Leysin

The first semester is structured around nine core modules and three intensive six-week concept labs.

Each module immerses students in essential skills, with specialized training in service excellence, international cuisine, and spa management. Throughout the 18-week semester, students participate in three specialized concept labs.

Each lab is conducted over a six-week period, allowing students to immerse themselves in a specific area of study. The labs are designed to provide practical, hands-on experience that directly ties into real-world applications, directly enhancing the skills of these specific hospitality sectors.

Core modules

Food and Beverage Management Principles
Front Office Management Principles
Finance and Yield Management Principles
Event Planning and Organization
Human Resource Management
Business Market Research
Digital Sales and Marketing
Concept Lab - The Art of Service, Fundamentals of International Cuisine, and Spa and Guest Services
Language (French or German) and Academic English Skills

Semester 2 Worldwide

By being placed in an international environment through this internship, students are exposed to different cultures, work practices, and management styles, broadening their perspective of the global hospitality industry.

Internship

Duration: 6 months
Apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the first semester while gaining real-world experience working in leading hotels, resorts, restaurants, or other hospitality businesses.

Why Study Postgraduate Hospitality Management at SHMS

Our Postgraduate Diploma for hospitality management program stands out as the gold standard for quality education, thoughtfully crafted for professionals eager to become visionary leaders in the hospitality industry.

What distinguishes SHMS is our perfect fusion of academic rigor and real-world application, with a future-focused curriculum that covers everything from foundational hospitality management principles, such as food and beverage, front office, and finance, to hands-on training in service excellence, international cuisine, and spa management. Additionally, graduating from our PGD program qualifies you for entry into a Master's degree, further enhancing your academic and professional trajectory.

You'll put theory into practice through projects and exclusive internship opportunities with our network of elite industry partners, including luxury hotel chains, Michelin-starred restaurants, and leading hospitality companies.

Top 3 Hospitality Schools - QS World University Rankings

Ranked 2nd Best School for Employer Reputation

Our world ranking as the 2nd best school for employer reputation in the 2025 QS Rankings speaks volumes about our graduates' exceptional employability and credibility in the eyes of top employers worldwide. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge curriculum, and unparalleled industry connections that we offer our students.

Employers recognize that our graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience needed to make a difference in their organizations from day one. Our strong reputation among employers opens doors to coveted internships, leadership development programs, and full-time job opportunities at many of the world's most admired companies.

Your Career Outlook with a Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality Management

Upon completing your PGD in International Hotel, Resort, and Spa Management, SHMS graduates can secure positions such as:

Spa Manager
Food and Beverage Manager
Event Planner
Front Office Manager
Accommodation Manager
Catering Manager

Join a Global Network of Successful Alumni

SHMS graduates have access to one of the world's largest and most impactful hospitality alumni communities, spanning 35 chapters and over 25,000 members.

89%- hold management positions or create their own company.
97%- have job offers on graduation day.
71%- work in the hospitality, tourism & culinary sectors.
29%- work in consultancy, education, finance & healthcare.

Student Success and Testimonials

The Postgraduate Diploma for hospitality management at SHMS provides students with advanced skills, industry connections, and real-world experience, setting them up for long-term career success.

Swiss Hotel Management School played a great part in shaping who I am today. The journey prepared me to face obstacles, embrace opportunities, make decisions, and create connections, which gave me a better sense of who I can be and what I can contribute to society.

Eliza Zephir

2018 graduate, Catering and Conferences Service Executive at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Transfer from your University

Transferring to SHMS is a simple process designed to accommodate students from diverse backgrounds. We take pride in our inclusive environment, ensuring that whether you are transferring from a community college, a four-year university, or an international institution, you'll be welcomed and supported here.

If you've completed courses at another college or university, you may be able to apply those credits toward your degree, potentially accelerating your academic journey.

To apply for direct entry and transfer your credits, follow these steps:

Contact the transfer admissions office to find out which credits can be transferred to your new degree.
Submit your application online or by mail, along with your official documents (resume, transcripts, and diploma from previous education).

How to Apply

To apply for a Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality Management, you'll need to complete an online application. Here is what you need to do:

Register online
Check your email for a link to create your password.
Log in to complete your application. As part of the application, you'll need to upload:
High school or University transcript/diploma/certificate
Proof of English proficiency - TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
Passport copy
Curriculum vitae
Motivation letter (500 words minimum)
Reference letters (if applicable)

Admission Requirements

The entry requirements for the program include:

Recommended minimum age of 21 years.
Completion of secondary education with at least 3 years of work experience or a recognized bachelor's degree in any discipline.
English language proficiency of IELTS academic module 5.5 or TOEFL iBT 46 or equivalent. If you don't meet the required English level, you can improve your language and study skills with our English Foundation Program. Please note that if you require a visa, Swiss authorities need to be provided with a valid TOEFL or IELTS score (not older than one year).

Fees and Scholarships

Need-based financial aid and merit scholarships are available to help make this investment in your future more affordable. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, and all are applied toward tuition fees only.

Scholarships are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to apply early. We encourage all prospective students to explore the scholarship opportunities and financial support services available. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Upcoming Intakes

We recommend you apply 3 months in advance before your desired start date. If you need a visa, please be sure to allow 12 weeks between the application and the start of the program.

September 2025

February 2026

September 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the duration of the Postgraduate Diploma in International Hotel, Resort, and Spa Management program?: The duration of the postgraduate diploma for hospitality management is 1 year.
Are there any certification opportunities included in the program?: Yes, the program includes certification opportunities such as Masterclasses and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET).
Can I study the program part-time while working?: This is a full-time program that requires in-person attendance.

The industry's school of choice

Our unique partnerships and internship opportunities open doors to some of the world’s top players. Get invaluable real-world experience, connect with people at the heart of the business, and learn from the greats–both in the classroom and in the workplace. The curriculum is informed by the industry and supports your employability and career development.