UNLOCKING THE FUTURE FOR TOMORROW’S HOSPITALITY LEADERS

The Asian Institute of Hospitality Management in academic association with Les Roches

The Asian Institute of Hospitality Management (AIHM), in academic association with Les Roches, brings Swiss-style hospitality education to Asia. A partnership between Les Roches and Minor Hotels, AIHM draws on the renown, expertise and network of two powerhouse names to provide a world-class education. 

Les Roches

Les Roches is Switzerland’s preeminent hospitality school, and although tucked away in the mountains of Crans-Montana, is a truly international institute. Switzerland itself is known as the destination of choice for future hospitality leaders, with four of the world’s top seven hospitality schools located there according to the QS World University Rankings. Les Roches is ranked one of the top three schools worldwide by specialisation.

For its foray into Asia, Les Roches has partnered with Minor Hotels, not only one of Asia’s most successful hospitality groups, but also one of the world’s fastest growing. To date, Minor employs over 35,000 hoteliers in 530 hotels, resorts and serviced suites across six continents. 

Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels is led by one of the region’s most well-known entrepreneurs, William Heinecke. An American by birth but Thai by choice, Heinecke started his first business in Thailand at age 17. In 1978, he opened his first hotel, a small resort in Pattaya. In 2001, luxury brand Anantara was launched, and the 20 years since have seen overseas expansion (Asia, Indian Ocean, Africa, Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Australasia), global acquisitions (Elewana, Tivoli, Oaks, NH Hotel Group) and hundreds of hospitality awards and recognition from the world’s major industry players. The group currently operates 76,000 rooms in 55 countries and is widely accepted as one of the companies that sets the benchmark in the hospitality trade internationally.

Studying at AIHM

AIHM offers a three-and-a-half-year Bachelor of Business Administration in Global Hospitality Management. The curriculum mirrors the Swiss one, and is designed in consultation with Les Roches, but with a specifically international outlook. 

AIHM has two campuses – Bangkok and Pattaya – with both locations purposefully chosen to immerse students in the world’s leading tourist destinations. AIHM facilities include newly built lecture theatres, libraries, labs and even a wine cellar. 

Swiss-style learning involves small classes and hands-on experience. Classes are led in English by Les Roches-certified experts in their fields. Apart from the traditional hospitality disciplines, students will also explore leadership, entrepreneurship, sustainability and innovation. Modules include finance, accounting, data analytics, digital marketing and communications. 

Two of seven semesters are dedicated to internships, and this is where Minor’s strengths particularly come into play: for the first internship, students are based at one of Minor’s 28 hotels across Thailand. For the second internship, students venture internationally, whether at a Minor hotel or other branded property, airline, cruise liner, travel agency or tour operator. 

AIHM students who excel will also be offered the opportunity to enroll at the Crans-Montana, Switzerland or Marbella, Spain campuses as exchange students. Transfers there for the final two semesters will ensure graduating with a Les Roches degree. 

Why study in Thailand?

Thailand is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, with 40 million arrivals in 2019. Many hotel brands have flagship properties here, with Thailand serving as a centre for innovation and entrepreneurship. 

Based close to home, students still benefit from an international education and mindset, interacting with fellow students and lecturers from around the world. AIHM lecturers are certified by Les Roches, have decades of industry experience, and ensure graduates enter the workforce with a supportive and expansive network of contacts. 

Thailand also offers affordability, with academic fees and particularly living costs half the price of Switzerland. Students transferring to Les Roches in their final semesters enjoy reduced fees exclusive to AIHM. 

Applying to AIHM

AIHM will have two intakes per year, in 2021 we will welcome students in April and September for the Bachelor of Business Administration in Global Hospitality Management. Prospective students should apply now. Requirements include a high school diploma and IELTS average of 5.5. AIHM also hosts regular open days at the Bangkok campus. 

For more information or to speak with an academic counsellor, visit aihm.education or email [email protected]