Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland

With a focus on entrepreneurship, discover cuisine from around the world with our state of the art culinary facilities. Choose between two campuses, Le Bouveret (French-speaking Switzerland) and Lucerne (German-speaking Switzerland). Focus on French and Italian dishes,  specialise in Swiss Pastry or become an expert in the Art of Chocolate.

Culinary Arts Academy was founded in 1991 and the following year, Domino Carlton Tivoli International Hotel Management Career Centre, as the school was first known, welcomed its first students to its campus in Lucerne’s Carlton-Tivoli Hotel building overlooking the shores of Lake Lucerne. In this location, the school grew and developed in its first years, establishing initial relationships with both Johnson & Wales University and Lynn University.

In 1996, DCT International Hotel & Business Management School was formed when a group of the original Swiss founders formed a partnership to take over from its original investors. DCT also expanded its programme offerings, adding courses specialising in European Gourmet Cuisine and in European Pastry and Chocolate to the initial Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma programmes in Hotel & Tourism Management, as well as establishing partnerships with Florida International University and the University of Massachusetts - Amherst.

In 2003, DCT moved its campus out of the 100-year-old Carlton-Tivoli Hotel building and further along the shores of Lake Lucerne to the village of Vitznau. In this setting, DCT continued to develop and grow, including the addition of an MBA in Hospitality Management program and the new Master Gourmet Culinary Arts course, plus an expanded relationship with Lynn University and its Switzerland Program.

In 2011, Swiss Education Group [1] acquired DCT University Center. DCT University Center was renamed to Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland and its two campuses are shared with another Swiss Education Groups school, César Ritz Colleges Switzerland.

In 2012, the campus moved to downtown Lucerne – back to the centre of the city where the school was founded more than two decades earlier. The César Ritz Colleges/Culinary Arts Academy campus is now housed in modern facilities in Lucerne near Löwenplatz, bordering the city’s historical and central shopping districts.

Please complete the application form and send it with the following documents:

• High-school/university certificates/transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS or OOPT or equivalent)
• Completed Statement of Health document
• Copy of passport
• Four passport-size photographs (3x4 cm – required upon arrival in Switzerland)
• Curriculum vitae (résumé)
• Motivation letter
• Work reference letters (if available)

The Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland is a recognized institution that adheres to the standards of higher education quality assurance in Switzerland. It is accredited by the Swiss authorities responsible for educational quality and compliance, ensuring that its programs meet the rigorous national standards for culinary education. The academy collaborates with reputable industry partners and maintains accreditation status that affirms its commitment to academic excellence and professional relevance. Its degrees and certifications are recognized both nationally and internationally, reflecting the high standards established by Swiss educational regulations. The institution's accreditation guarantees that students receive a comprehensive education grounded in practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and international culinary trends. Moreover, the academy undergoes regular reviews and evaluations to maintain its accreditation status, ensuring continuous improvement and adherence to evolving educational and industry standards. This accreditation also facilitates student mobility across different countries and allows graduates to pursue further education or employment opportunities worldwide with confidence. The Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland is dedicated to maintaining its accreditation status through ongoing quality assurance processes, curriculum updates, faculty development, and student support services, all aimed at providing a top-tier culinary education aligned with Swiss and international standards.

Name of University: Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland

Overview: The Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland offers a comprehensive student life experience centered around culinary education and cultural immersion. Located in Switzerland, the Academy provides students with a vibrant academic environment complemented by various extracurricular activities, cultural events, and industry connections. Students engage in hands-on training in state-of-the-art kitchens, participate in workshops and competitions, and benefit from a diverse community of peers from around the world. The campus fosters collaboration, creativity, and professional development, preparing students for successful careers in the culinary industry.

Facilities and Resources: The Academy features modern culinary labs, wine and management classrooms, a pastry and bakery studio, and comfortable student lounges. Students have access to extensive resources such as professional kitchen equipment, library facilities, and digital learning platforms. These resources support practical learning and personal growth throughout their academic journey.

Student Organizations and Networking: Students can join various clubs and organizations related to culinary arts, gastronomy, wine tasting, and hospitality management. These groups organize social events, culinary competitions, and guest lectures, enhancing the student experience. The Academy also facilitates industry internships, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities with leading chefs and hospitality professionals.

Accommodation and Support: The Academy offers assistance in finding accommodation options, including on-campus and off-campus housing. Support services include academic advising, language assistance, career counseling, and health services to ensure students’ well-being and academic success.

Cultural and Extracurricular Activities: Beyond academics, students can participate in cultural excursions, culinary tours, and international festivals, enriching their understanding of global cuisine and hospitality traditions. These activities promote cultural exchange and personal development outside the classroom.

Alumni and Career Prospects: Graduates of the Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland often go on to pursue successful careers worldwide in fine dining, hotel management, and culinary entrepreneurship. The Academy’s strong industry connections and alumni network support students in securing employment and advancing their careers.

Overall, student life at the Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland is dynamic and enriching, combining rigorous academic training with vibrant cultural experiences, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community dedicated to excellence in culinary arts.

• Student Services

When you join our hotel school, you will become a part of a bigger family. Whether you find yourself far from home for the first time, or if you need a bit of friendly academic advice, we make sure there is always someone you can talk to.

• Activities & Events

Discover a selection of sporting and social activities throughout the academic year organised with the help of the Student Ambassador Forum and our experienced Sports & Leisure Coordinator.

• Discover Switzerland

From skiing to rowing, Art Basel to the Montreux Jazz Festival, discover what Switzerland can offer you. Located in the heart of Europe, explore some of the world's most beautiful landscapes with an eclectic cultural heritage. 

The Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland offers a unique and immersive culinary education experience that prepares students for successful careers in the global culinary industry. Located in Switzerland, a country renowned for its rich culinary heritage and high standards of quality, the Academy provides students with access to world-class facilities and experienced instructors. One of the key advantages is its comprehensive curriculum that combines practical kitchen training with theoretical knowledge in culinary arts, pastry arts, and hospitality management. The Academy emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to develop their skills in professional kitchens from early in their studies. The international environment fosters cultural exchange and broadens students' perspectives, which is essential in today’s interconnected culinary world. Students benefit from small class sizes that ensure personalized instruction and mentorship. The Academy also offers opportunities for internships and collaborations with leading hotels, restaurants, and culinary companies, giving students real-world experience and industry connections. Additionally, being situated in Switzerland provides access to diverse regional cuisines and ingredients, enriching the culinary repertoire of students. The combination of Swiss precision, innovative teaching methods, and focus on sustainability and creativity makes it an ideal choice for aspiring chefs. Graduates of the Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland are highly valued by employers worldwide due to the high standards and practical skills they acquire during their studies. Overall, students choose this university because it offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation in culinary education, excellent facilities, industry links, and an inspiring multicultural environment that nurtures future culinary leaders.