Postgraduate Diploma to Master of Advanced Studies in Business
3 Expert majors, 3 certification stages, 1 year
Postgraduate Diploma to Master
of Advanced Studies in Business
Develop the skills and expertise to become a global leader in the hospitality industry with our one-year Postgraduate Diploma to Master of Advanced Studies in Business.
Next intake
September 2027
Duration
6 months to 1 year
Location
Leysin
Program Highlights
Postgraduate Diploma to Master of Advanced Studies in Business at a Glance
Our Postgraduate Diploma to Master of Advanced Studies in Business program is designed to help professionals refine their expertise and accelerate their careers across hospitality, real estate, wellness, and digital events management.
This modular program consists of 3 certified modules; the Postgraduate Certificate, the Postgraduate Diploma, and the Master of Advanced Studies– you choose how far you go.
Upon achieving the Postgraduate Diploma, you will have developed a strong foundation in leadership, strategy, and business alongside deep expertise in your chosen specialization — Real Estate & Luxury Property, Wellness & Longevity Business, or Digital Transformation for Mega Events — graduating with a Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Studies (DAS), a recognized Swiss Federal qualification.
If you choose to continue, one additional semester is all it takes to develop and present a live industry project to our corporate partners, graduating with a full Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) — Switzerland's highest vocational qualification — in approximately twelve months total.
Six months or twelve. The choice is yours.
Program Objectives
By blending academic rigor with applied industry learning, this intensive program empowers you to:
- Develop advanced leadership and organizational transformation capabilities to lead teams, manage change, and drive business growth in complex, evolving industries.
- Strengthen your strategic, financial, and entrepreneurial expertise to identify opportunities, assess risk, and create sustainable business value.
- Leverage AI, data, and emerging technologies to support innovation, improve decision-making, and lead responsible digital transformation.
- Gain specialized expertise in your chosen field—Real Estate & Luxury Property Management, Wellness & Longevity Business Management, or Digital Transformation for Mega Events—through industry-embedded learning and real-world business challenges.
- Apply your knowledge to live industry projects, developing practical solutions and professional recommendations for corporate partners.
- Graduate with the skills, confidence, and industry insight to accelerate your career, launch new ventures, or advance into leadership positions within high-growth sectors.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum is structured in three progressive stages, combining core business knowledge, industry specialization, and applied learning. At each stage, students build practical expertise while earning a recognized qualification, culminating in a Swiss Master of Advanced Studies and a live industry project.
Real Estate & Luxury Property Management
* Campus stay: Optional on-campus stays available for an extra per week fee during PGD and/or MA Expert weeks.
Term 1 - 15 weeks (Leysin campus)
CORE & SPECIALIZATION
- Leadership and Organisational Transformation
- Entrepreneurship and Financial Intelligence
- AI, Data, and the Future of Business
- Governance, Risk and Compliance
SPECIALIZATION MODULES
- Luxury Real Estate and Property Management
- Property Development and Design
Completion of Postgraduate Certificate
Term 2 - 6 weeks (Off-campus*)
APPLIED LEARNING "ATELIER"
- Industry Embedded experience or Online Simulation
Completion of Postgraduate Diploma in Real Estate and Luxury Property Management
Term 3 - 9 weeks (Leysin campus)
EXPERTISE
- Asset Strategy and Mixed-Use Development
- Luxury Property & Residence Branding
6 weeks (off-campus*)
MA Expert Live Project
Assess and experience integration strategy for a luxury residential development — a real executive consulting engagement.
Completion of Swiss Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Real Estate and Luxury Property Management
Optional Internship
1-year supervised placement in your area of study.
Certificate of Professional Experience on completion.
Wellness & Longevity Business Management
* Campus stay: Optional on-campus stays available for an extra per week fee during PGD and/or MA Expert weeks.
Term 1 - 15 weeks (Leysin campus)
CORE & SPECIALIZATION
- Leadership and Organisational Transformation
- Entrepreneurship and Financial Intelligence
- AI, Data, and the Future of Business
- Governance, Risk and Compliance
SPECIALIZATION MODULES
- Spa and Medical Wellness Operations
- Longevity and Healthspan Programme Design
Completion of Postgraduate Certificate
Term 2 - 6 weeks (Off-campus*)
APPLIED LEARNING "ATELIER"
- Industry Embedded experience or Online Simulation
Completion of Postgraduate Diploma in Wellness & Longevity Business Management
Term 3 - 9 weeks (Leysin campus)
Expertise
- Wellness Guest & Member Experience
- Wellness & Longevity Brand Strategy
6 weeks (off-campus*)
MA Expert Live Project
Assess and experience integration strategy for a luxury residential development — a real executive consulting engagement.
Completion of Swiss Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Wellness & Longevity Business Management
Optional internship
1-year supervised placement in your area of study.
Certificate of Professional Experience on completion.
Digital Transformation for Mega Events
* Campus stay: Optional on-campus stays available for an extra per week fee during PGD and/or MA Expert weeks.
Term 1 - 15 weeks (Leysin campus)
CORE & SPECIALIZATION
- Leadership and Organisational Transformation
- Entrepreneurship and Financial Intelligence
- AI, Data, and the Future of Business
- Governance, Risk and Compliance
SPECIALIZATION MODULES
- Mega Event Operations
- Smart Venues and Guest Technology
Completion of Postgraduate Certificate
Term 2 - 6 weeks (Off-campus*)
APPLIED LEARNING "ATELIER"
- Industry Embedded experience or Online Simulation
Completion of Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Transformation for Mega Events
Term 3 - 9 weeks (Leysin campus)
EXPERTISE
- AI-Driven Attendee Experience
- Event Brand & Sponsorship Strategy
6 weeks (off-campus*)
MA Expert Live Project
Live strategic brief from a renowned event company — digital transformation or guest
experience challenge from a real event or brand activation.
Completion of Swiss Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Digital Transformation for Mega Events
Optional internship
1-year supervised placement in your area of study.
Certificate of Professional Experience on completion.
Career Outlook
Designed for ambitious professionals, this program opens doors to leadership opportunities across emerging and high-growth industries. Graduates develop the strategic, entrepreneurial, and industry-specific expertise needed to accelerate their careers and shape the future of their chosen field.
Real Estate & Luxury Property Management
- Luxury Property Portfolio Manager
- Real Estate Investment Manager
- Mixed-Use Development Manager
- Director of Luxury Asset Management
Wellness & Longevity Business Management
- Wellness Strategy Director
- Health & Wellness Resort Manager
- Corporate Wellness Manager
- Preventive Health Programme Director
Digital Transformation for Mega Events
- Digital Event Manager
- Smart Venue Director
- Event Technology Innovation Lead
- Fan Experience & Engagement Director
Upcoming Intakes
If you need a student visa, please be sure to allow 8 – 12 weeks between the application and program start date.
Next Intake
September 2027
November 2027
February 2028
Why Study Swiss Master in Advanced Studies in Business at SHMS?
Designed for ambitious professionals and career changers, this program combines business leadership, AI, entrepreneurship, and industry specialization to prepare graduates for emerging opportunities in real estate, wellness, and digital event transformation. Through three stackable qualifications, industry-embedded learning, and a live consulting project, students gain the practical expertise, strategic perspective, and professional credibility needed to accelerate their careers and create impact in their chosen field.
Ranked Top 4 in the World
In the 2026 QS Rankings SHMS ranked Top 4 worldwide for Hospitality and Leisure Management, reinforcing its position as the highest-ranked conventional hospitality school in the world. This prestigious recognition highlights the exceptional employability of SHMS graduates and reflects the strength of its rigorous academic programs, innovative curriculum, and strong industry connections.
Employers worldwide value SHMS graduates for their knowledge, practical skills, and real-world experience, enabling them to contribute from day one and access outstanding internships, leadership programs, and career opportunities with leading global organizations.
The Future is Bright for SHMS Graduates
As an SHMS graduate, you get access to a powerful alumni network of over 17,500 members.
- 90%- receive more than 1 job offer before graduation.
- 89%- hold management positions or create their own company.
- 71%- work in the hospitality, tourism & culinary sectors.
- 29%- work in consultancy, education, finance & healthcare.
Transfer from your University
Transferring to SHMS is a simple process designed to accommodate students from diverse backgrounds. We take pride in our inclusive environment, ensuring that whether you are transferring from a community college, a four-year university, or an international institution, you'll be welcomed and supported here.
If you've completed courses at another college or university, you may be able to apply those credits toward your degree, potentially accelerating your academic journey.
To apply for direct entry and transfer your credits, follow these steps:
- Contact the transfer admissions office to find out which credits can be transferred to your new degree.
- Submit your application online or by mail, along with your official documents (resume, transcripts, and diploma from previous education).
Application Process
- How to Apply
To apply for a Postgraduate Diploma to Master in Advanced Studies in Business with 3 Majors, you'll need to complete an online application. Here is what you need to do:
- Register online
- Check your email for a link to create your password
- Log in to complete your application.
As part of the application, you'll need to upload:- High school or University transcript/diploma/certificate
- Proof of English proficiency - TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
- Passport copy
- Curriculum vitae
- Motivation letter (500 words minimum)
- Reference letters (if applicable)
- Admission Requirements
To enroll in the Postgraduate Diploma to Master in Advanced Studies in Business with 3 Majors, you need:
- To be at least 21 years old.
- Bachelor degree (any field) or vocational professional bachelor (BTEC Level 5 / Zhuanke)
- Preferred: Minimum 2–3 years in events, hospitality, digital, media or related industry
- English level: IELTS 5.5 for PGC entry · IELTS 6.0 before MA Expert phase
3+ years senior experience considered case-by-case (no degree required)
- Fees & Scholarships
Need-based financial aid and merit scholarships are available to help make this investment in your future more affordable. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, and all are applied toward tuition fees only.
Scholarships are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to apply early. We encourage all prospective students to explore the scholarship opportunities and financial support services available. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Do I need prior experience in the hospitality industry to enroll?
No, prior experience in the hospitality industry is not required to enroll in the Postgraduate Degree to Master of Advanced Studies program.
Can I choose more than one major?
No, the structure of the program does not allow time for studying more than one major.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid options available?
SHMS offers scholarships awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. It's recommended to apply early, as there are limited scholarships available each year.
Can I defer my admission to a later semester?
It depends. Please consult your agent or academic advisor or see about direct entry.
Are there any certification opportunities included in the program?
Yes, the program already includes 2 certifications, a postgraduate degree and the Master of Advanced Studies in your major. Additionally SHMS organizes various Masterclasses throughout the year like the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certification.
Can I study the program part-time while working?
Pursuing the program part-time is not permitted. You might want to explore the option of the online MA program instead.
Your future awaits