International Chef Training — Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

A new path into the kitchen — for those who want to change careers with style and substance.

Do you have an academic background in a different field — but a growing desire to work creatively with food at a professional level?

This one-year Postgraduate Diploma program in culinary arts is designed for those facing a career change.

Studies take place at BHMS in Lucerne, Switzerland — a city with strong roots in international hospitality and culinary excellence. Tuition fees include accommodation, meals, and insurance. As a Swedish student, you also have the option to apply for CSN (student financial aid), making the program more accessible for those looking to invest in a new future.

The program provides a solid foundation in classical and modern cooking techniques, food science, sustainability, and kitchen economics. The training is intensive, practical, and aimed at those who want to quickly transition into a new industry — without compromising on quality.

A goal-oriented and comprehensive curriculum

The program combines practical skills with theoretical knowledge, providing a holistic understanding of the demands of the modern kitchen. From fundamental techniques to advanced gastronomy — the program covers:

• Professional kitchen techniques: Knife skills, temperature control, and precision cooking.
• Ingredient knowledge: Understanding flavor combinations, seasonal ingredients, and sustainable sourcing strategies.
• Advanced culinary methodology: Sous-vide, molecular gastronomy, and modern presentation techniques. Kitchen management: Planning, time optimization, team coordination, and financial management in a professional kitchen environment.

In addition, emphasis is placed on creativity and innovation, where you are encouraged to explore personal culinary expressions and develop your own recipe concepts under the guidance of experienced chefs and culinary leaders.

Future preparation — Competence for a global culinary arena

Upon completion of the program, you will be equipped with:

• A industry-relevant skill profile — suited for restaurants, hotels, catering, and food creation in international environments.
• Practical experience and strategic thinking — to take on roles in both creative culinary work and kitchen management.
• A global network — thanks to BHMS’s strong industry connections and Lucerne’s international character.

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Structure

1. Semester 1, practical exercises and academic studies
   1. Fundamentals of culinary operations, food preparation techniques, and European cuisine, plus one of the following:
      1. À la carte kitchen
      2. Mediterranean cuisine
      3. Global cuisine
      4. Themes and concepts
   2. Elective options
      1. Cakes and creams
      2. Bakery and bread
      3. Garde Manger II
      4. Chocolate creations
   3. Plus one of the following academic modules
      1. Nutrition
      2. Food safety
      3. Language: German
   4. Elective courses
      1. Food and wine pairing
      2. Menu planning
      3. Food and beverage cost management
      4. Beverage studies
      5. Supervision and development
      6. Language: German
2. Semester 2, internship
   1. 4–6 months in Switzerland or globally

Admission requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in any discipline OR Associate degree and 2 years of work experience
• Mature candidates with alternative education/professional backgrounds will be evaluated individually
• IELTS 5.0 level or equivalent
• For those who do not meet the English requirements, we offer an intensive course designed for students who wish to improve their language skills.

Take the first step toward your culinary dream today. Join us and embark on a transformative journey that will redefine your career path.

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