How do you choose the best hospitality and restaurant management school?

Are you wondering what to do after high school? Do you want to attend a hospitality and restaurant management school but don’t know where to start? In an industry as dynamic and demanding as hospitality and restaurant management, choosing the right school can have a significant impact on your future career. Accreditations, programs, professional networks, quality of education, international focus… Discover the key criteria for choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school that aligns with your career goals.

Choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school based on the programs offered

When choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school, the first factor to consider is the type of program offered. Whether it’s a bachelor’s degree, an MBA, or a specialized program, each track is designed to meet different career goals. Some schools offer programs at multiple levels, such as a bachelor’s degree to ease your entry into the professional world, or a master’s degree or MBA to deepen your managerial skills. Comparing the available programs will help you find the one best suited to your career goals and ambitions. Be sure to verify that the school offers a program aligned with your career plans! And if you’re only considering a Bachelor’s degree, keep in mind that choosing to continue on to a Master’s degree afterward gives you some flexibility. This allows you to tailor your path, whether you’re aiming for specific roles or managerial positions.

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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Accreditations to Check Before Choosing a Hospitality and Restaurant Management School

Accreditations are one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school. They attest to the quality of the program and its recognition among industry professionals.

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.

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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 and Pedagogical Approach

Before making your choice, take the time to analyze the course content. A hospitality and restaurant management school should offer a balance between theory, practice, and professional simulations to prepare students for the realities of the industry. In addition to the variety of degree programs, the content andpedagogical approach of the programs are essential factors. A high-quality program should not only cover theoretical aspects but also offer hands-on courses, case studies, and projects directly relevant to real-world situations. Some schools also emphasize transferable skills, such as project management and communication, which are essential 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, by its very nature, international. If you’re looking to choose a hospitality and restaurant management school, an international focus is an essential criterion—especially if you’re considering a career with companies that operate in multiple countries. Do you love to travel? That’s great! Choosing a school that offers internships or academic exchange programs abroad allows you to discover new cultures and ways of working. 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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A teaching team made up of professionals in the field

To prepare for the realities of the hospitality industry, there’s nothing better than learning from working professionals. Hospitality management schools that bring in experts currently working in the field allow students to benefit from training grounded in real-world experience. Thanks to this expertise, students gain a practical understanding of the industry’s challenges and trends. The quality of the faculty is often a key differentiator when choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school. Before making your decision, ask yourself this question: Is the school’s faculty 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 in the quality of your education! Modern facilities allow students to learn in conditions that closely mirror real-world industry settings. They are therefore an additional factor to consider when choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school. Well-designed facilities are assets that enable students to learn in optimal conditions. A campus tour (for example, during an Open House) will give you a better idea of the facilities and the learning environment offered by the school.

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The environment and student life

The quality of student life also plays a key role in choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school. Beyond the curriculum, interactions among students, events, and club activities enrich the academic journey and are an integral part of the student experience.

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.

Career Placement and the Alumni Network

The school's reputation and its alumni network are essential for launching your career. The employment rate is also a reliable indicator for comparing different hospitality and restaurant management schools. A well-established institution, with an active alumni network and partnerships with leading companies in the hospitality industry, greatly facilitates entry into the job market and access to 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)!

Choosing a hospitality and restaurant management school is an important decision that requires comparing programs, accreditations, international reach, facilities, and career opportunities.

Would you like to learn more about our programs, admission requirements, or get in touch with the School’s team? Feel free to contact us or come meet us during one of our Open House.