Since its first hotel school was established in 1982, SEG has become a world-class hospitality education network. The Group owes its outstanding success to its focus on Swiss traditions and training excellence and an emphasis on the practical aspects of hotel management. Close ties with the big names in the hospitality business ensure that the Group’s curricula meet industry requirements.
SEG member schools are 100% Swiss-owned, ensuring that students receive a first-rate Swiss education. As a worldwide ambassador for best practices in Switzerland, SEG is held in high esteem in the tourism and hospitality industry.
A world-leading hospitality education network
Since its first hotel school was established in 1982, SEG has become a world-class hospitality education network. The Group owes its outstanding success to its focus on Swiss traditions and training excellence and an emphasis on the practical aspects of hotel management. Close ties with the big names in the hospitality business ensure that the Group’s curricula meet industry requirements. SEG member schools are 100% Swiss-owned, ensuring that students receive a first-rate Swiss education. As a worldwide ambassador for best practices in Switzerland, SEG is held in high esteem in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Higher education based on leading Swiss hospitality tradition
Faithful to the traditions of Swiss hospitality management, SEG has become Switzerland’s largest provider of hospitality management training, boasting the country’s leading institutions as its members. The Group’s five schools are situated in seven stunning campuses in both the French- and German-speaking regions of Switzerland. They offer graduates an excellent foundation for a successful career in hotel and hospitality management.
The Group’s hotel management schools include:
- César Ritz Colleges Switzerland. Campuses in Lucerne, Brig and Le Bouveret. Specialises in Hospitality, Tourism and Entrepreneurship.
- Hotel Institute Montreux (HIM). Montreux. Specialises in Hospitality and Business.
- School of Hotel Management (IHTTI). Neuchâtel. Specialises in Hospitality and Design.
- Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS). Campuses in Caux and Leysin. Specialises in Hospitality, Events, Resort and Spa.
The Group also prepares students for careers in Gastronomy at:
- Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland. In the heart of the César Ritz Colleges campuses in Lucerne and Le Bouveret. Specialises in Culinary, Pastry and Chocolate Arts.
Quality academic programmes
SEG offers a wide range of outstanding academic courses, with qualifications ranging from Diploma to Master’s level. All programmes comply with the stringent quality standards expected of Swiss institutions. Partnerships with the University of Derby (UK), Northwood University (USA) and Washington State University (USA), renowned for their studies in the hospitality, tourism and business sectors, ensure that students’ qualifications are internationally transferable. All courses are offered in English.
All curricula combine theoretical courses with practical internships and are designed to meet the needs of hospitality employers. Graduates are prepared for the world of work thanks to an excellent understanding of the hospitality industry and extensive practical experience gained through internship placements (8 to 12 months during the first two years of their studies).
Lecturers hail from around the world and are internationally recognised practitioners with both academic and industry experience. They share a firm commitment to excellence and a passion for hospitality education. Many of the staff remain abreast of industry best practices through periods of immersion in the world of business.
State-of-the-art educational support using the latest tablet technology
SEG brings technological advances to the classroom in order to offer students the best possible learning experience and to furnish them with the skills required in the workplace today. SEG provides a tablet to each of its students. In a rapidly changing world, the use of new technologies drives a more personalised and interactive learning experience, and equips students with the skills which they will require in their careers.
Managers sought by the hotel industry
Having benefited from an education focused on practice, SEG graduates are particularly successful in the hospitality industry. Twice a year, students are given the opportunity to meet more than 60 hospitality leaders from around the world at the SEG International Recruitment Forum (IRF). Open to all seven campuses, the IRF is considered an unmissable event that allows students to network with future employers and explore career opportunities before they complete their studies.
A broad survey of graduates has shown that SEG students benefit from rapid career progression and are more likely to secure leadership roles. Over 80 percent of SEG graduates become managers or business owners within five years of graduation.
Tailor-made programmes, designed and delivered in partnership with acclaimed industry partners
Over the years, SEG has established strong links with many of the world’s leading hotel and hospitality businesses. These provide SEG with valuable feedback, allowing programmes to remain industry-relevant and graduates to secure prominent positions on the international job market. Many of these companies also endorse specialised programmes in their field of expertise, such as hotel design and personalised services, marketing, finance and human resources.
An inspiring setting for hospitality training
SEG is committed to offering its students the most authentic and stimulating learning environment possible. Each school reflects the reality of the hospitality industry; each school is housed in an historic hotel which has been renovated to provide cutting-edge accommodation and training facilities. Set amid stunning alpine scenery, in peaceful lakeside settings or in the heart of lively city centres, all campuses offer an extraordinary Swiss experience as well as a warm welcome for international students.
Exceptional quality of life
Located in the heart of Europe, Switzerland offers exceptional quality of life, a safe environment, some of the world's finest landscapes and the cultural heritage of a multilingual population. Student life is not only about studying. Outside of the academic sphere, each school organises leisure, sports and sightseeing activities on campus, as well as excursions and course-relevant trips throughout Switzerland and Europe.
Furthermore, SEG students from all schools engage in fundraising activities in favour of the Mercury Phoenix Trust, joining forces in providing assistance to individuals in need around the world.
Broad cultural diversity and an extensive network that goes beyond studies
Each year, SEG welcomes more than 6,500 students of over 120 different nationalities, offering a multicultural environment in which to study and live. SEG’s diversity and success are also reflected in its global alumni network, which brings together over 20,000 SEG graduates worldwide. It comprises 28 chapters in 25 countries. Regular meetings allow alumni to stay in touch, network and ultimately enhance their careers.
Founded by Dr. Andreas Künzli, the Group began with the launch of a language school known as the Swiss Language Club, before Künzli branched out into the hospitality industry. In 2008, the Group was acquired by Invision AG, a Swiss investment fund. The involvement of this major shareholder attests to SEG’s commitment to continued and significant investment that ensures its growth.
Official website: www.swisseducation.com