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Swiss Diploma in Pastry, Chocolate, and Bakery

A sweet future

Indulge your passion for the sweeter things in life and learn the sophisticated art of pastry, chocolate, and bakery. 

Graduate after a year with an esteemed Swiss Diploma, accredited by the American Culinary Federation. Continue for another year and earn a Swiss Higher Diploma or complete with a third and final year to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts. 

From confection to perfection

Welcome to the Diploma in Pastry, Chocolate & Bakery programme—where we empower you to master the art of pastry and baking through comprehensive training and hands-on experience. 

Unlock the secrets behind crafting exquisite cakes, tarts, and pastries, while also delving into the artisanal world of making bread and croissants and the delightful realm of chocolate treats. Our programme goes beyond skill development, ensuring you also acquire essential skills and competencies in culinary foundations, food safety, nutrition, and academic study skills. 

By the end of this diploma, you'll emerge not only with honed pastry arts skills but also with a deep understanding of the science behind chocolate-making and baking. With newfound creativity and precision, you'll be well-equipped to embark on a fulfilling career in this specialised craft. 

Ready to indulge your passion for pastry and baking? Join us and take the first step towards your deliciously successful future. 

Admission requirements

  • Minimum 17 years of age

  • IELTS 5.0 level or equivalent 

  • For those who do not meet the English requirements, we offer the Preparatory English Programme, an intensive course designed for students to level up their language skills.  

  • 0
    months
  • 0
    internship
  • 0
    intakes
  • 0
    hours in the kitchen
What can you expect from the programmes at BHMS Culinary Academy?

Curriculum

Accredited by:

Practical modules (330 hours in the kitchen)  

  • Pastry and Bakery Foundations   
  • Classic Patisserie   
  • Boulangerie and Viennoiserie   
  • Traditional European Cakes   
  • Chocolate Work Foundations   
  • Culinary Foundations  

Academic modules  

  • Nutrition  
  • Food Safety  
  • Academic Study Skills  
  • German or French Communications

  During your internship, you are evaluated by your employer based on an agreed set of developmental criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a written assessment.   

Accredited by:

Practical modules (330 hours in the kitchen)  

  • Ice Creams & Plated Desserts
  • Advanced Chocolate Pralines
  • Petit Fours & Petit Gâteaux
  • Entremets Cakes
  • The Art of Showpieces
  • Catering Operations

Academic modules  

  • Small Business Management
  • Creativity & Design
  • Food and Beverage Cost Management
  • Supervisory Development

  During your internship, you are evaluated by your employer based on an agreed set of developmental criteria and are invited to reflect on your professional development through a written assessment.   

Pursue your ambition and earn a bachelor's degree

Take the next step in your culinary journey and cultivate your leadership and business skills through an additional year to earn your BA in Culinary Arts with a specialisation in Patisserie.

Learn from the best

Our well-established network gives you access to some of the top employers in the industry, both in Switzerland and worldwide: from family-run Swiss hotels and restaurants​ to four- and five-star hotels, and well-known franchises and hotel chains. 

Explore

Level up your English skills 

The Preparatory English Programme is a ten-week intensive language course designed to help you meet the English requirements of your chosen academic pathway. 


Through a dynamic approach to language learning, master skills key to your academic and professional success, such as brainstorming ideas, outlining and structuring written texts, and expressing your opinion.  With 15-20 hours of tutor contact per week, Monday to Friday, small class sizes ensure individualised support to meet your unique needs.   

Center for Academic Support and Advice (CASA)

From providing academic guidance to offering help with school schedules, course selection, attendance, grades, and teacher interactions, CASA is your go-to resource for academic success. Whatever challenges you may face, we're here to provide the guidance and support you need to thrive in your academic journey. The CASA office is located in the library at our Lakeside Campus. 

3 intakes a year

  • February 2025 

  • August 2025 

  • November 2025 

Breakdown of fees (in Swiss francs)

 

YEAR 1 

YEAR 2

Tuition 

28,100 

29,100 

Operating costs 

2,500

2,500

Living expenses *

5,900 

5,900 

Application fee 

1,000 

1,000 **

Culinary operating expenses

500

500

TOTAL 

38,000

39,000 

*Only apply to academic semester

** Only applies to transfer students 

Operating costs include:

  • Mandatory health & medical insurance

  • Visa, B-permit, and local tax

  • Access to e-campus and internet

  • Excursions and field trips

  • First airport pick-up

Accommodation

Located in the heart of Lucerne, our two main campuses provide you with comfortable rooms and modern amenities to help you feel at home throughout your time with us. Shared accommodation for 3-4 people on our City Campus is included in your fees. However, room upgrades are possible for an additional fee.

 

per semester

Shared Superior Lakeside Campus (twin room)  

CHF 1,800

Studio Standard Lakeside Campus 

CHF 6,600

Studio Superior City Campus 

CHF 7,500

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