6 Reasons Why You Should Study Hospitality Management in Lyon

Sponsored by Institut Paul Bocuse

Wondering where to study for your hospitality management degree? You might want to consider France – more specifically – Lyon. Considered to be the gastronomic capital of France, opportunities are in abundance for those who want to learn the ins and outs of one of the world’s most fast-moving and dynamic industry.

We spoke to Kai, an MSc in International Hospitality Management student and Bachelor in Hospitality Management graduate at Institut Paul Bocuse, to find out more about what makes Lyon the crème de la crème when it comes to studying a degree in hospitality management.

Be inspired by Michelin-star greatness

To all those aspiring chefs, restaurant and culinary events managers out there, prepare to be inspired by the 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in Lyon. Even Institut Paul Bocuse’s application restaurant, Saisons has been awarded a Michelin star.

Rue du Boeuf is also worthy of a mention. This cobbled street lined with Renaissance architecture from the 16^th and 17^th century is located in the Vieux Lyon quarter and is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Gain international experience in hospitality, culinary arts and food service

Whatever your passion in the hospitality industry, whether it’s culinary arts, events management, luxury or lifestyle hospitality, food services or wine and beverage management, studying in Lyon means you’ll get a genuine insight into what it’s like to live, work and breathe it all, and understand what it means to meet the needs of the modern day traveler.

Schools such as Institut Paul Bocuse have recognized the importance of gaining practical experience during your studies and have made experiential learning an integral part of their programs.

“During this program I gained experience working in a unique training environment offering a five-star hotel school, a campus-based hotel and three training restaurants. Our mandatory internships at the end of the year have also been a great accomplishment of the past and represented unique experiences,” said Kai.

“I really enjoyed that the school is not only teaching theoretical courses but also tries to challenge their students with practical work and uncommon projects,” he adds. 

Take part in culinary contests and join a wine tasting club

Students at Institut Paul Bocuse can put their culinary skills to the test in contests such as les éthiques toques, where you are only able to use sustainably-sourced and eco-responsible recipes. While other students who want to better their wine knowledge, for leisure or for work, can join Les Pépins – a wine tasting club, also at Institut Paul Bocuse.

Recently, a number of bachelor degree students at Institut Paul Bocuse have taken part in several competitions, including the Professional Aoste Chef competition, French Hotel & Catering Directors’ Club competition, and Escoffier Young Talent competition where they’ve been able to showcase their knowledge, creativity and talent in the world of culinary arts and hospitality management.  

You won’t be short of job opportunities once you graduate

In just 10 years’ time, the World Tourism Organization (WTO), predicts the number of international tourists will reach almost 2 billion.

With the hospitality and tourism industry growing at a rapid rate – and France continuing to attract tourists from all over the world – it’s not surprising that, after graduating, many students who study in Lyon decide to stay and search for job opportunities close by.

Whether you eventually work in food and beverages, hotels, spas, or events, “in this industry you need to be kind, patient and diligent. You should also enjoy being hands on, active and engaging with people,” said Kai.

“In my opinion, the common characteristics of great professionals and managers in the hospitality business include a spirit to serve, encompassing understanding of the value chain, business competence, and people skills,” he adds. 

At Institut Paul Bocuse, students have the opportunity to meet with over 800 leading partner company contacts, where they can speak to industry professionals in culinary arts, as well as the restaurant and hotel industries.

Get acquainted with the French language

Although many degree programs in France are taught in English, including those at Institut Paul Bocuse, studying and living in Lyon will see your language skills develop in no time – something which Kai considered “a crucial asset for success in the hospitality and tourism industries.

“Speaking a foreign language provides insight into a culture and empowers me to engage and relate to its people, which is essential in the service industries,” he added.

The chance to explore the local area and beyond

Ok, so this point may not be specifically related to hospitality management, but in between seminars, workshops and training, you’re going to want to make the most of studying in the most visited country in the world.