BA (Hons) International Hospitality Business Management with Internship IMI International Management Institute Switzerland

Overview

Programme Overview

The BA (Hons) International Hospitality Business Management with Internship is an undergraduate degree delivered at IMI's campus in Luzern. The programme is intended for students who aim to pursue a career in international hotels, events, or tourism organisations, and who wish to combine business education with substantial industry experience.

A central feature of the programme is its integration of academic study and professional practice. Each academic semester is followed by a paid internship, ensuring that students complete a minimum of 12 months of professional experience during their degree. Students are able to apply their knowledge in hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality settings in Switzerland and abroad from the first year onwards. The programme is taught in English and carries 360 ECTS credits. Teaching takes place in small classes within an international campus community, allowing for active participation and individual academic support.

Programme Structure

The degree is completed over three years. Each year consists of a 22-week academic semester on campus, followed by a 22-week paid internship in Switzerland or abroad:

• Year 1: Diploma Semester, followed by a paid internship
• Year 2: Higher Diploma Semester, followed by a paid internship
• Year 3: BA (Hons) Semester, followed by a paid internship

The curriculum is designed to progress in stages. The first year establishes a foundation in business and hospitality, the second develops management and analytical competencies, and the third focuses on strategic thinking and independent research. As a result, the programme is also suitable for students without prior experience in hospitality. Students with relevant previous education may be eligible for direct entry into a later semester.

Internships form an integral part of the programme. Students complete paid placements with hotels and restaurants in Switzerland and internationally, and 12 months of paid internship experience is guaranteed. IMI maintains a network of industry partners, including international hotel groups, resorts, and other hospitality organisations, with placement opportunities across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. This network also supports students in securing graduate positions upon completion of their studies.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the programme are prepared for roles in four main areas:

• Hospitality operations and management: assistant manager, operations supervisor, front office or food and beverage positions
• Events and guest experience: event coordinator, conference and banqueting positions, guest experience specialist
• Sales, marketing, and revenue: sales executive, marketing coordinator, revenue or business analyst
• Management trainee and corporate roles: management trainee, operations analyst, business analyst

Further Study

Graduates who wish to continue their studies can progress directly into IMI's MSc in International Hospitality Business Management.

Intakes

The programme offers four intakes per year, in February, May, August, and November.

Student Life

Beyond the academic programme, students benefit from the quality of life that Switzerland offers and from a diverse international community on campus. The programme is structured and demanding, while small class sizes and ongoing academic support ensure that students receive guidance throughout their studies.