Switzerland, the birthplace of modern hospitality, boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it became a favored destination for lords, royals, and elites. Its stunning Alps, pleasant climate, and improving infrastructure solidified its status as a major European tourist destination by the 19th century. This legacy of excellence in hospitality laid the foundation for Switzerland’s world-renowned education system, attracting students from across the globe.
International Management Institute, Switzerland, embodies this tradition by offering a supportive campus environment, personalized learning, and career guidance. With a blend of quality academics, Swiss practical training, strong industry connections, and breathtaking surroundings, IMI graduates excel in senior management roles globally.
In recognition of its excellence, we are proud to honor IMI Switzerland with the Top Swiss Institution for World-Class Hospitality Education 2024 award at the Education Excellence Awards.
Why IMI Switzerland Stands Out
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, IMI Switzerland offers a transformative educational experience against the backdrop of the majestic Alps. As a boutique institution, IMI seamlessly blends Swiss traditions of precision with global innovation, providing students with a nurturing, family-like atmosphere. With programs validated by the prestigious Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK, students gain access to world-class academics, mandatory paid internships in luxury Swiss establishments, and globally recognized degrees. These internships, offering average earnings of CHF 2,359 per month, equip students with hands-on industry experience and a strong foundation for future careers.
IMI Switzerland is renowned for its emphasis on academic excellence and employability. Its curriculum evolves with global industry trends, addressing critical themes such as sustainability, digital transformation, and culinary innovation. Programs like the Master of Science in International Hospitality Business Management and degrees in International Culinary Arts prepare students for leadership roles in the dynamic fields of hospitality and business. Additionally, IMI’s location in the heart of Europe provides students with enriching cultural experiences and unparalleled opportunities for travel and exploration.
A defining feature of IMI Switzerland is its family-oriented ethos, supported by its status as the only Swiss family-owned hospitality institute. The daily presence of the owner on campus fosters a close-knit community where every student is known by name and guided toward their individual goals. This personalized approach, combined with cutting-edge academic programs and a commitment to career readiness, ensures that IMI graduates are well-prepared to excel as future leaders in the global hospitality industry.
Expert Faculty Shaping Future Leaders
Mr. Gareth Currie, the Academic Dean of IMI Switzerland, highlights the institute’s exceptional faculty as a cornerstone of its transformative education. IMI’s faculty combine academic excellence with hands-on industry expertise, holding advanced degrees from globally recognized institutions and prestigious professional certifications. Many have decades of leadership experience with world-renowned hospitality brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, and multinational corporations.
A hallmark of IMI is its unwavering commitment to personalized mentorship. With small class sizes, professors tailor their guidance to each student’s strengths and aspirations. Faculty members collaborate with students on innovative projects, research initiatives, and internship preparations, ensuring graduates are career-ready and confident.
IMI’s faculty remains deeply connected to the industry through consulting roles, research, and participation in global conferences. This active engagement keeps the curriculum aligned with the latest innovations and global market trends. By sharing their expertise and passion, the faculty inspires students to think critically, adapt to change, and strive for excellence.
Empowering Careers
Employability stands as a cornerstone of IMI Switzerland, exemplified by its impressive 97% graduate employment rate. Alumni thrive globally, with equal representation in hospitality (50%) and business-related roles (50%), reflecting the institute’s commitment to preparing students for diverse career paths.
At the core of this success is IMI’s dedicated Careers and Internships Department, which collaborates with students to align their education with professional aspirations. From personalized career guidance to assistance in securing internships and job placements, this department ensures students are industry-ready.
On-campus Career Days further enhance employability by facilitating direct connections with representatives from leading global companies. These events provide students with opportunities for recruitment, networking, and exploring various career trajectories.
IMI’s support extends beyond graduation through a robust alumni network. Graduates frequently attain leadership roles across industries, their achievements celebrated on IMI’s platforms to inspire current students and highlight the breadth of opportunities an IMI education offers.
Innovating Hospitality Education
IMI Switzerland is committed to providing education that keeps pace with evolving industry trends by integrating cutting-edge technologies into its curriculum. A key highlight is the emphasis on Digital Marketing, which is a core part of both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
To enhance students’ technological understanding, IMI collaborates with leading tech innovators. In the current term, the Hospitality Leadership & Innovation class will engage with industry leaders like Cloudbeds, Keenon Robotics, and BPN Solutions through both online and in-person sessions.
IMI also prioritizes digital convenience and learning accessibility through its Virtual Learning Platform and IMI app. Additionally, student membership with the Institution of Hospitality grants access to an extensive range of online resources and career development tools, enriching the overall learning experience.
Looking to the future, IMI looks forward to launching new programs in February 2025, incorporating HOTs simulation software. This tool offers immediate feedback on strategic decisions, allowing students to refine their problem-solving skills in a simulated business environment. On-campus, the use of EPOS systems for practical training ensures students gain familiarity with industry-standard technologies, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world hospitality operations.
Beyond academics, IMI extends its impact beyond academics by fostering community engagement through volunteer opportunities, enabling students to participate in meaningful local initiatives. These experiences help students understand the importance of social responsibility, preparing them to incorporate these values into their future careers.
