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Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts

Crafting culinary excellence

Turn your love for food into a fulfilling career with this hands-on culinary arts education that blends culinary expertise with entrepreneurial know-how. 

Choose from one of two pathways—Culinary Arts or Pastry, Chocolate, and Bakery—and graduate with two degrees from BHMS and Robert Gordon University (UK). 

A recipe for success

Our culinary degree programme blends hands-on culinary operations with advanced techniques and a focus on creativity and entrepreneurship to prepare you for a successful career in the industry.  From mastering knife skills to understanding ingredient pairings and even the art of tempering chocolate, you'll gain invaluable hands-on experience in seven state-of-the-art kitchens under the guidance of experienced chefs. 

Our comprehensive curriculum, including three internships, equips you with the expertise and proficiency required to excel in some of the world's finest dining establishments. You’ll learn the importance of teamwork, communication and problem-solving as you navigate the fast-paced world of professional kitchens, developing resilience, adaptability and the ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.

Ready to unleash your culinary passion? Join us at BHMS and start your journey towards culinary excellence today. 

Admission requirements

  • Minimum 17 years of age

  • Highschool Diploma or equivalent

  • IELTS 5.0 level or equivalent

  • For those who do not meet the English requirements, we offer the Preparatory English Programme, an intensive course designed for students to level up their language skills. 

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  • 0
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What can you expect from the BA in Culinary Arts at BHMS?

Culinary Arts pathway

Discover the art of food production and European cuisine and develop the confidence and skills you need to succeed in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. 

After just six months, you’ll be ready for your first paid internship, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience in a world-class establishment in Switzerland or anywhere across the globe. 

Practical modules (270 hours in the kitchen) 

  • Essentials of Culinary Operations 
  • Food Preparation Techniques 
  • European Cuisine 
  • Garde Manger  
  • Cakes and Creams 
  • Bakery and Breads 

Academic modules 

  • Nutrition 
  • Food Safety 
  • Hospitality and Tourism Structure and Products 
  • Beverage Studies 
  • Academic Study Skills 
  • German or French Communications

During your internship, you are evaluated by your employer based on an agreed set of developmental criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a written assessment.  

Accredited by:

Take your craft to the next level with advanced techniques and culinary artistry, as you also develop your managerial and operational expertise in areas such as cost management, human resources, and business analysis. 

The second half of the programme culminates in a paid internship in Switzerland or worldwide where you can put your skills to the test. 

Practical modules (335 hours in the kitchen) 

  • A la Carte Cuisine  
  • Mediterranean Cuisine  
  • Global Cuisine   
  • Themes and Concepts  
  • Garde Manger II  
  • Chocolate Creations 
  • Food and Beverage Service Operations II 

Academic modules 

  • Food & Wine Pairing  
  • Menu Design  
  • Culinary Business Analysis  
  • Food and Beverage Cost Management 
  • Supervisory Development  

Optional: 

  • German Communications
  • French Communications

During your internship, you are evaluated by your employer based on an agreed set of developmental criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a written assessment.  

Accredited by:

In this third and final year of the bachelor’s programme, both pathways merge to focus on cultivating your leadership and business skills.  

From hosting a real-live event to developing new food products, you’ll learn what it takes to turn your ideas into reality, setting the stage for your final internship and a successful career. 

  • Managing Culinary Resources  
  • Creativity & Entrepreneurship  
  • Food Service Management  
  • New Food Product Development  
  • Academic Writing & RGU Standards: workshop 

Electives 

  • Contemporary Culinary Operations (culinary arts pathway) 
  • Patisserie Design and Innovation (pastry pathway) 

Optional (for transfer students) 

  • German Communications

During your internship placement, you are evaluated by your employer based on an extensive set of employee appraisal criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a reflective assessment and career development plan. 

Awarded by:

Pastry, Chocolate, and Bakery pathway

This diploma programme equips you with the skills and knowledge to master the art of pastry and baking. Explore the techniques behind crafting exquisite cakes, tarts, and pastries, discover the secrets to creating artisanal bread and learn the art of creating decadent chocolate treats that delight the senses. 

After six months, you’ll be ready for your first paid internship in Switzerland or in luxurious destinations across the globe. 

Practical modules (330 hours in the kitchen) 

  • Pastry and Bakery Foundations  
  • Classic Patisserie  
  • Boulangerie and Viennoiserie  
  • Traditional European Cakes  
  • Chocolate Work Foundations  
  • Culinary Foundations 

Academic modules 

  • Nutrition 
  • Food Safety 
  • Academic Study Skills 
  • German or French Communications

During your internship, you are evaluated by your employer based on an agreed set of developmental criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a written assessment.  

Accredited by:

The Higher Diploma programme equips you with a range of specialised techniques, from crafting advanced chocolate pralines to designing stunning showpieces. You’ll also acquire the know-how to run a successful F&B business. 

The second half of the programme culminates in a paid internship in Switzerland or worldwide where you can put your skills to the test. 

Practical modules (335 hours in the kitchen) 

  • A la Carte Cuisine  
  • Mediterranean Cuisine  
  • Global Cuisine   
  • Themes and Concepts  
  • Garde Manger II  
  • Chocolate Creations 
  • Food and Beverage Service Operations II 

Academic modules 

  • Food & Wine Pairing  
  • Menu Design  
  • Culinary Business Analysis  
  • Food and Beverage Cost Management 
  • Supervisory Development  

Optional: 

  • German or French Communications

4-6 months (Switzerland or worldwide)  

During your internship, you are evaluated by your employer based on an agreed set of developmental criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a written assessment.  

Accredited by:

In this third and final year of the bachelor’s programme, both pathways merge to focus on cultivating your leadership and business skills.  

From hosting a real-live event to developing new food products, you’ll learn what it takes to turn your ideas into reality, setting the stage for your final internship and a successful career. 

  • Managing Culinary Resources  
  • Creativity & Entrepreneurship  
  • Food Service Management  
  • New Food Product Development  
  • Academic Writing & RGU Standards: workshop 

Electives 

  • Contemporary Culinary Operations (culinary arts pathway) 
  • Patisserie Design and Innovation (pastry pathway) 

Optional (for transfer students) 

  • German Communications

During your internship placement, you are evaluated by your employer based on an extensive set of employee appraisal criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a reflective assessment and career development plan. 

Awarded by:

Learn from the best

Our well-established network gives you access to some of the top employers in the industry, both in Switzerland and worldwide: from family-run Swiss hotels and restaurants​ to four- and five-star hotels, and well-known franchises and hotel chains. 

Explore

Level up your English skills 

The Preparatory English Programme is a ten-week intensive language course designed to help you meet the English requirements of your chosen academic pathway. 


Through a dynamic approach to language learning, master skills key to your academic and professional success, such as brainstorming ideas, outlining and structuring written texts, and expressing your opinion.  With 15-20 hours of tutor contact per week, Monday to Friday, small class sizes ensure individualised support to meet your unique needs.   

Center for Academic Support and Advice (CASA)

From providing academic guidance to offering help with school schedules, course selection, attendance, grades, and teacher interactions, CASA is your go-to resource for academic success. Whatever challenges you may face, we're here to provide the guidance and support you need to thrive in your academic journey. The CASA office is located in the library at our Lakeside Campus. 

8 intakes a year

  • August 2024*

  • September 2024

  • November 2024*

  • January 2025

  • February 2025*

  • April 2025

  • May 2025

  • July 2025

  • August 2025*

  • September 2025

  • November 2025*

Transfer from your university

Interested in studying abroad for a semester or completing your studies in Switzerland? Find out how you can transfer to BHMS for an exceptional educational experience. 

Breakdown of fees (in Swiss francs)

 

YEAR 1 

YEAR 2 

YEAR 3

Tuition 

27,600 

28,600 

29,600 

Operating costs 

2,500

2,500

2,500 

Living expenses *

5,900 

5,900 

5,900 

Application fee 

500 

500**

500**

Culinary operating expenses

500

500

500

TOTAL 

37,000

37,500 

38,500 

*Only apply to academic semester

**Only applies to transfer students 

Operating costs include:

  • Mandatory health & medical insurance

  • Visa, B-permit, and local tax

  • Access to e-campus and internet

  • Excursions and field trips

  • First airport pick-up

Accommodation

Located in the heart of Lucerne, our two main campuses provide you with comfortable rooms and modern amenities to help you feel at home throughout your time with us. Shared accommodation for 3-4 people on our City Campus is included in your fees. However, room upgrades are possible for an additional fee.

 

Per semester

Shared Superior Lakeside Campus (twin room)  

CHF 1,800

Studio Standard Lakeside Campus 

CHF 6,600

Studio Superior City Campus 

CHF 7,500

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