Europe is renowned for its world-class teaching standards, offering students high-quality education across numerous institutions. Those aspiring to pursue a degree in tourism and hospitality can be assured of exceptional academic experiences on the continent. With universities across Europe being globally recognized, it’s no surprise that many of them rank highly in official lists such as those by the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) and QS Rankings. These rankings assess institutions based on various factors, including academic and employer reputation, as well as the international faculty ratio.
Switzerland emerges as a clear leader in hospitality education, hosting some of the best schools in the world. At the top of the list is EHL Hospitality Business School, which is ranked first globally and offers cutting-edge education in hospitality management. Other Swiss institutions that dominate the global rankings include the Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS), Les Roches Global Hospitality Management Education, Glion Institute of Higher Education, and César Ritz Colleges Switzerland. Each of these schools provides students with an exceptional blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, making Switzerland the go-to destination for hospitality studies.
Beyond Switzerland, the Hotelschool The Hague in the Netherlands also ranks highly, being one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions for hospitality education. France’s Vatel, Hotel & Tourism Business School, with its focus on innovative training in the industry, and Spain’s EUHT StPOL Barcelona, recognized for its focus on international hospitality management, are also leading choices for students.
While the top ten universities in Europe offer unparalleled quality, there are several other esteemed institutions that international students should consider for tourism and hospitality studies. Burgundy School of Business (BSB) in France, EU Business School with campuses in Spain, France, and Germany, and International Graduate Center, part of Hochschule Bremen in Germany, offer strong programs in the field. Linnaeus University in Sweden, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Switzerland, Polytechnic of Leiria in Portugal, SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences in Germany, and Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM) in Spain also provide excellent educational opportunities, attracting students from across the globe.
In summary, Europe remains a top destination for aspiring tourism and hospitality professionals, offering a rich diversity of academic environments where students can thrive and prepare for successful careers in a dynamic industry.