An International Year for Those Who Want to Work Professionally with Food
This one-year culinary arts program in Lucerne is a standalone intensive program for those who want to dive deep into the culinary arts, work hands-on in professional kitchens, and gain international experience in a short time.
For those who see cooking as a profession or their next career step — not as an academic degree. Practical kitchen training, modern gastronomy, and a paid internship in Switzerland, alongside students from around the world.
The program is offered in Lucerne, in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. The program fee includes: student accommodation, all meals, insurance, and an internship placement. As a Swedish student, you can finance your studies through student loans (CSN).
Want to learn more?
Practical Culinary Training with International Internship
The program is strongly practice-oriented and takes place in modern training kitchens under the guidance of experienced professional chefs. You’ll train in classical and modern techniques, ingredient knowledge, flavor balance, and professional work methods — with a clear focus on the reality of restaurant kitchens.
During the year, a guaranteed, paid internship in Switzerland (4–6 months) is included, giving you valuable professional experience already during your studies and a natural pathway into the industry.
An Intensive Year with a Clear Goal
Upon completion, you’ll receive an international diploma from BHMS in Lucerne. The program is designed to stand on its own and gives you a solid foundation for working in restaurants, hotels, catering, or other food-related businesses — in Sweden, Switzerland, or internationally.
Program Content — Year 1 (Standalone)
- International Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Fundamental and classical European cooking
- Professional kitchen techniques
- Nutrition and food safety
- Practical kitchen operations
- Language choice: French or German
- Internship: 4–6 months in Switzerland (paid, approx. 30,000 SEK/month)
Admission Requirements
- Minimum age of 17
- High school diploma or equivalent
- English equivalent to IELTS 5.0
For those who need to strengthen their English skills, a preparatory intensive course is available.
Who Is This Program For?
This one-year program is for those who:
- want to work practically as a chef
- are seeking international experience quickly
- want to explore a professional culinary career without multi-year studies
- already have some experience or want to change career paths
