International Hospitality Business Management IMI International Management Institute Switzerland

Overview

The MSc in International Hospitality Business Management is a postgraduate degree delivered at IMI's campus in Luzern. The programme develops a deeper critical understanding of management and leadership concepts and is designed for those aiming to pursue management roles within hospitality or the wider business sector.

Key Facts

The programme is suitable both for professionals with industry experience who wish to move into managerial positions and for degree graduates seeking a more in-depth understanding of hospitality business operations and management practice. A hospitality background is not required, and applicants from business, management, tourism, and related fields are welcome. The programme is taught in English and carries 180 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 one year of study, with the option to extend the experience through paid professional placements:

• Study Semester: 22 weeks on campus (120 credits)
• Dissertation Semester: 22 weeks, with flexible location (60 credits)
• Optional Professional Placements: up to 44 weeks in Switzerland or abroad

The study semester covers key areas of hospitality and business management, including markets and economies, operations and business innovation, business policy and strategy, and new enterprise development. The dissertation semester allows students to apply their knowledge to an independent, practice-oriented research project.

Professional Placements

Students have the option to complete up to 12 months of paid professional placements after their studies. IMI maintains a network of employers across hospitality, business, finance, consulting, and services, with placement opportunities in Switzerland, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. These placements allow students to gain management-level experience and build their professional network.

Career Opportunities

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

• Business and management: business development manager, business development executive, management trainee
• Finance, analytics, and strategy: junior business analyst, financial operations assistant, revenue or performance analyst
• Sales, marketing, and revenue: sales executive, marketing coordinator, revenue or business analyst
• International careers: startup founder or co-founder, trade and export coordinator, international business consultant

Intakes

The programme offers one intake per year, in August.

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.