How to choose the best hotel management school

Wondering where to start after high school? Are you looking for a hotel management school, but don't know where to start? In a sector as dynamic and demanding as the hospitality industry, making the right choice of school can determine the success of your career. Accreditations, curriculum, professional networks, teaching quality, international outlook... What are the essential criteria to consider? This guide takes you through the key steps to choosing the school that will meet your expectations and offer you the best career prospects.

Curriculum types: training tailored to your goals

To begin with, you should be aware that the range of courses on offer varies from one hotel management school to another, with curricula that can be cross-disciplinary or specialized. Some schools offer multi-cycle programs, such as a Bachelor's degree for an easier entry into the professional world, or a Master's/MBA to deepen your managerial skills. So be sure to check that the school offers a program tailored to your career plans! And if you're only considering a Bachelor's degree, keep in mind that the option of continuing on to a Master's degree gives you a certain degree of flexibility. This allows you to personalize your career path, whether it's towards specific professions or towards managerial functions.

École de Savignac offers a Bachelor's degree in hotel management, with two options available, as well as an MBA enabling students to perfect their skills in the sector and gain access to positions of responsibility.

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Accreditation and recognition: a guarantee of quality

A school accredited by recognized organizations guarantees a high standard of teaching and international recognition. These labels and certifications enable schools to reinforce their credibility and assure students of the quality of their teaching. Here are the two main international accreditations in the hotel and catering sector:

Institute of Hospitality (IoH)

The Institute of Hospitality (IoH) is an international professional organization supporting professionals in the hotel, restaurant and tourism industry. Based in the UK, the IoH's mission is to promote standards of excellence and professionalism in the sector.

Internationally recognized, this label guarantees that our programs meet the highest quality standards for the hospitality industry.

In 2014,École de Savignac obtained accreditation from this prestigious international association for its MBA program in hotel and restaurant management (Management level). In 2019, its Bachelor's program (bac +3) was also accredited.

THE-ICE (International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education)

The International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education (THE-ICE) is an international organization established in 2004 by the Australian government. It is dedicated to the accreditation, quality assurance and development of educational programs in the fields of tourism, hospitality, events and culinary arts. Specifically dedicated to hospitality and tourism schools and universities, accreditation by this organization certifies the quality of teaching and its relevance to the needs of the sector.

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The curriculum: content and pedagogical approach

In addition to the variety of curricula, the content andpedagogical approach of the programs are essential. Quality training must not only cover theoretical aspects, but also offer practical courses, case studies and projects directly linked to the realities of the field. Some schools also emphasize cross-disciplinary skills, such as project management and communication, which are indispensable in hotel management.

École de Savignac, for example, includes case studies and group projects in its curricula to prepare students for the day-to-day challenges of the hospitality industry. Its pedagogical approach is based on a balance between theory and practice, enabling students to develop both analytical and operational skills. Savignac also emphasizes cross-disciplinary skills, such as leadership and communication, to produce well-rounded professionals ready to evolve in a demanding international environment.

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International openness: immersion beyond borders

The hospitality industry is international by nature. Do you like to travel? That's perfect! Choosing a school that offers internships or academic exchanges abroad allows you to discover new cultures and working methods. Partnerships with foreign institutions and international mobility programs enrich both students' professional and intercultural skills.

École de Savignac is distinguished by its extensive network of academic and professional partners around the world, enabling students to take part in internships and exchanges in numerous countries. Right from the first year, students are encouraged to take an international approach. Valuable experience for adapting to the demands of a global industry!

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The importance of the teaching team and the quality of its work

To prepare for the realities of the hotel industry, there's nothing like learning from working professionals. Hotel management schools that involve working experts ensure that students benefit from training rooted in the realities of the field. Thanks to this expertise, students gain a concrete understanding of the challenges and developments in the industry. Before making your choice, ask yourself this question: is the school's teaching team made up of industry professionals? This criterion is essential for authentic and relevant learning.

AtÉcole de Savignac, 60% of our teaching staff are experts in their field, a specificity that guarantees training in tune with the current expectations of the hotel industry. Courses and workshops are enriched by the hands-on experience of these professionals, offering students invaluable insights into the day-to-day challenges and latest trends in the industry.

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The role of infrastructure and equipment

Yes, a modern, well-equipped environment can make all the difference to the quality of your training! Well-thought-out infrastructures are all assets that enable students to train in optimal conditions. A visit to the campus (for example, during an Open Day) will give you a better idea of the facilities and working environment offered by the school.

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The environment and student life

The quality of student life also plays an essential role in choosing a hotel management school. During your studies, a pleasant environment can make all the difference! In addition to classroom learning, interaction with other students, events and associative activities enrich your course.

AtÉcole de Savignac, theenvironment and student life are major assets. Located in the heart of the Dordogne, the school offers an exceptional natural setting. As for student life, the Savignac community is dynamic and involved: a variety of associations and projects enable students to develop cross-disciplinary skills while forging strong links. Traditional events such as the Bal d'Hiver and the end-of-year Gala punctuate the year, marking high points that reinforce the sense of belonging. This "Savignac way of life" creates a network of friendship and solidarity that lasts well beyond the school years. Just listen to what our students have to say about it.

Professional integration of graduates

The school's reputation and alumni network are essential to launching your career. A well-established school, with an active alumni network and partnerships with leading hospitality companies, makes it much easier to enter the job market and access international opportunities.

AtÉcole de Savignac, the alumni network is one of our major assets. With over 3,000 graduates worldwide, this network is a real springboard for young professionals. Savignac alumni hold influential positions in international hotel groups, luxury catering chains and event management companies. This supportive and dynamic community gives new graduates access to a solid network of contacts and valuable recommendations, facilitating their progression in the hotel industry.

By joining this network, students also benefit from numerous mentoring opportunities, exchanges of experience and even partnerships. Whether you're looking for your first job, career advice or an international career move, the Savignac alumni network is an invaluable resource.

And finally, here's a figure that speaks for itself: 97% of Bachelor's and MBA graduates find a job within six months of graduating(classes 2020 to 2022)!

Would you like to find out more about our programs, admission requirements or get in touch with the École team? Don't hesitate to contact us or come and meet us at one of our days Open Days.