Higher education is a crucial aspect of personal and professional development for individuals around the world. As globalization continues to impact every industry, the importance of higher education has increased. Switzerland is a country that has a strong reputation for higher education, and SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern is one of the leading institutions in the country. The Swiss higher education system is globally recognized for its focus on quality and innovation.
The practical orientation and relevance of education are also emphasized, and the importance of this is expected to increase in the coming years. Switzerland has a stable political environment, a strong economy, safety, and high quality of life, which are attractive factors for international students. Furthermore, Swiss educational institutions offer a variety of programs taught in English, making them accessible to a wider range of students from all over the world.
The hospitality industry has a long history in Switzerland, and as one of the two original hotel management schools in the country, SHL has had a strong influence on it since 1909. Switzerland is also culturally diverse, with four official languages and an extensive heritage of art, music, and literature. This diversity and cultural richness make Switzerland an attractive destination for students who are interested in experiencing different cultures and broadening their horizons.
Preparing Students for the Industry – SHL Approach
Preparing students for the industry is a challenge that higher education institutions across the country face. SHL has developed a comprehensive approach that integrates theoretical knowledge with in-depth practical experience. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in hospitality management, business administration, and leadership know-how.
However, SHL also highlights the importance of application orientation, with students being required to complete a variety of relevant practical tasks on campus and several internships during their studies. To support that, SHL has established strong partnerships with businesses in Switzerland and abroad, providing students with valuable opportunities to gain work experience and develop their professional networks. The internships provide students with hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world context.
Social competencies are also a vital component of preparing students for the industry, and SHL recognizes their importance. In addition to providing students with a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, SHL also focuses on the development of social competencies, such as communication, teamwork, change management, and intercultural competence. These skills are essential for success in any industry, not just hospitality.
The uniqueness of Higher Education Courses at SHL
SHL's consistent application orientation and intensive practical relevance, as well as the practical assignments between the school semesters, are decisive in ensuring that students are very attractive to the job market. Due to its manageable size, SHL also has an exclusive and personal character and can optimally educate, accompany and form students on their career paths. The personal character of the school is also decisive for the unique spirit, the so-called SHL attitude, which is noticeable among employees, students, and alumni alike.
SHL has an established reputation that stands for its values and convictions. The school is very agile and can quickly adapt to the demands of the industry and the environment, keeping learning methods and content up to date. The institution offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management degree which is accredited by the Swiss Federal Government, as well as a Diploma program. The courses are thoughtfully designed to equip students with the relevant knowledge and the skills necessary to become inspiring leaders, as well as effectively manage and thrive in the realm of business. The programs are taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their field of activity and possess high levels of social competence.
Faculty Quality
SHL ensures the consistent quality of its faculty members by employing permanent staff and lecturers on a mandate basis. Lecturers have methodological and didactic training and practical experience in the hospitality industry. They create a learning environment designed to engage students in an application-oriented way and promote networked thinking. SHL also has a well-developed quality management system, including quality checks in lessons, peer teaching visits, feedback rounds with students, and detailed annual reviews.
Infrastructure at its Best
The SHL campus is located in the heart of Lucerne and conveys a genuine hospitality ambiance. The infrastructure includes state-of-the-art academic and practical training facilities, group rooms, retreats for self-study, and lounge areas. The three F&B outlets offer fresh and delicious food and drinks as well as excellent guest service. The training restaurant, Salt & Pepper, provides students with high culinary standards to practice their skills in the kitchen and in service. Hotel SHL reflects a true hotel experience, where around 80 students stay during the semester. It offers different room categories, a common room with a fully equipped kitchen, and a large roof terrace for relaxing.
Path Ahead
SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern offers a unique and comprehensive approach to preparing students for the hospitality industry. Its emphasis on practical experience, social competencies, and personal character distinguishes it from other educational institutions. The high-quality infrastructure, faculty, and courses provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful professional career in the hospitality industry. "We are currently working on becoming even more competence-oriented. This means that we are taking a closer look at other forms of teaching, but also at other forms of assessment. Innovation is also becoming more important as a subject. On the one hand in the curriculum, and on the other hand in projects and reports that we develop together with partners and students. Also very exciting is the outlook for a new school building. We are expected to expand our existing campus in the next few years with an absolutely top-notch, learning-friendly, and student-centered building, as well as new studios for students", signs off Christa Augsburger, Director of SHL.
Christa Augsburger, Director
Christa has been Director of SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern since 2015, where she previously worked as Head of Education and Lecturer for Human Resources Management to ensure a successful future for students. Being an alumna of SHL herself, Christa Augsburger held various management positions in hotel companies before joining the applied-oriented institution in Lucerne.
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