Certificate Programme in International Hotel and Tourism Management IMI International Management Institute Switzerland

Overview

Programme Overview

The Certificate Programme in International Hotel & Tourism Management is a preparatory programme delivered at IMI's campus in Luzern. It is designed for school leavers who wish to pursue a BA (Hons) degree in hospitality, business, or culinary management at IMI, and who would benefit from a structured introduction to university-level study.

The programme covers the fundamentals of hospitality and management alongside academic study skills and English for university purposes. Its curriculum combines practical and theoretical learning, preparing students to take on degree-level study with confidence. No prior hospitality experience is required, as the programme starts with the fundamentals and is designed for students who are new to the industry. It is taught in English and carries 120 ECTS credits. Teaching takes place in small classes within an international campus community, allowing for active participation and individual academic support.

Programme Structure

The programme is completed in one 22-week semester on campus, followed by an optional paid internship:

• Certificate Semester: 22 weeks on campus
• Optional Paid Internship: 22 weeks in Switzerland or abroad
• Progression: direct entry into an IMI BA (Hons) programme

The programme focuses on three main areas: an introduction to the hotel, tourism, and events industry, the basics of hospitality business and operations, and the academic and English language skills required for successful study at Bachelor's level.

Internship

After the certificate semester, students have the option to complete a paid internship in Switzerland or abroad. The internship gives students early, hands-on experience in the hospitality industry before they begin their degree studies. IMI maintains a network of employers across hospitality, business, and services, with placement opportunities in Switzerland, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas.

Degree Pathways

On successful completion of the programme, students can progress directly into one of IMI's BA (Hons) programmes:

• BA (Hons) International Hospitality Business Management with Internship
• BA (Hons) International Business Management with Internship
• BA (Hons) International Culinary Management with Internship

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. Small class sizes and ongoing academic support ensure that students receive guidance throughout their studies and are well prepared for the next step into their degree.