Certificate in International Hotel Administration
A condensed version of the BBA designed specifically for supervisor-level hoteliers. Over the course of 12 months, you will gain an overview of all hotel operations, then take key management modules following the Les Roches curriculum. This is followed by a six-month management project at your place of work.
NOT A HOTELIER YET?
If you are a working professional looking to transfer to the hospitality industry, CIHA is the programme for you. Instead of the management project, you will pursue a six-month internship at the luxury hotel of your choice.
Programme highlights
One semester of practical arts, covering key areas of hotel operations
One semester of hospitality management
One six-month management project at your current place of work
Curriculum
Designed by Les Roches in consultation with industry leaders, our curriculum is world class, teaching both practical and professional skills to aspiring leaders.
Semester 1: Practical Arts
- Introduction to International Hospitality and Tourism
- Front Office Operations
- Concierge and Guest Relations
- Rooms Division
- Housekeeping Operations
- Food and Beverage Service
- Food and Beverage Kitchen
- Food Hygiene and Workplace Safety
- The World of Oenology
- Mixology Bar and Barista
- Effective Communication Skills
- Numerical Skills for Hospitality Professionals
Semester 2: Hospitality Management
- Hospitality Financial Accounting
- Fundamentals of Data Analysis and Visualisation
- Managing Diversity in a Global Workplace
- Marketing for the Hospitality Industry
- Principles of Sustainability and Innovation
- Academic Communication Skills
- Integrated Hospitality Project
Semester 3: Work-Based Project
- Or an internship for non-hoteliers
See what our students have to say
Shaping Future Leaders in Hospitality
My goal is to become a General Manager. It takes dedication and industry knowledge, and thanks to the training and academic foundation from AIHM, I feel ready to grow and face future challenges.
Siraphop Watthanabaramisakun
AIHM CIHA
Strategic Thinking in Action
The Certificate programme sharpened my strategic thinking. I recently led a project where I applied project management skills to streamline processes, set milestones, and deliver results ahead of schedule.
Andrew Rohrbach
Class of 2024
Admissions requirements
01
A high school diploma or equivalent (professional experience will be considered in lieu)
02
TOEFL: 525/70 / IELTS: 5.5 in all components / Cambridge: C1
FAQs
What is the Certificate in International Hotel Administration (CIHA)?
The Certificate in International Hotel Administration (CIHA) is a 1.5-year (three-semester) professional programme for working adults who want to strengthen their management potential in hospitality—or pivot into it from another field.
Many participants are experienced hospitality professionals who have not yet had the opportunity to earn a degree, or specialists from other industries who would like to move into hospitality.
The CIHA combines hands-on training, academic learning, and real-world application to build the mindset and skills required for confident leadership in hotels and service organisations.
Who is the CIHA programme designed for?
The CIHA programme suits:
- Hotel professionals who want to step up into supervisory or manager roles.
- Professionals from other industries seeking a structured, practical route into hospitality management.
- Hotel leaders and HR directors who want to sponsor high-potential team members for further development.
Its mix of practical, academic, and project-based learning makes it ideal for those balancing study with full-time or part-time work.
Can the CIHA fit around work or company development plans?
Yes. The Certificate in International Hotel Administration is designed with flexibility in mind.
Many students remain employed while studying or receive support from their hotel to apply new knowledge directly at work.
Because learning is applied and industry-focused, participants can use new skills immediately to improve guest service, team performance, and operational results—creating value for both the individual and the employer.
What will I study during the CIHA programme?
- Semester 1: Practical Arts – Gain first-hand experience across all major hotel departments, from Front Office and Rooms Division to F&B, Kitchen, Events, and Guest Relations. You’ll understand how each area connects and how decisions affect the guest experience and business performance.
- Semester 2: Academic Courses – Build managerial knowledge in finance, marketing, sustainability, data analysis, and people management. Guest speakers from across the industry share insights from real business cases.
- Semester 3: Work-Based Project or Internship – Complete a six-month placement or professional project in a hotel or hospitality business, applying your learning to real challenges and developing specialised expertise in your chosen area.
Can the CIHA lead to further study?
Yes. CIHA graduates may, at a later date, continue directly into the [BBA in Global Hospitality Management at AIHM] or, after gaining additional experience, pursue an MBA or other advanced degree.
This staged approach allows professionals to build qualifications and leadership experience step by step—without stepping away from their careers.
Do I need prior hospitality experience for the CIHA?
No hospitality experience is required.
For current hospitality professionals, the Practical Arts semester deepens understanding beyond their usual department and provides a holistic view of hotel operations.
For newcomers, it serves as a complete introduction to the culture, systems, and standards of the hospitality world.
Everyone finishes with a clear, operational understanding of how hotels work and how leaders think.
What kind of support will I receive as a CIHA student?
CIHA students benefit from small classes, close faculty mentorship, and personal academic support.
Instructors are experienced professionals who guide students in both operational and leadership skills.
You’ll also have access to career counselling, opportunities to expand your professional network, and coaching to help you align your studies with your professional goals.
What English level do I need for the CIHA?
Applicants should have English proficiency around IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent).
If your level is slightly lower, an English preparation course is available to help you strengthen communication and professional vocabulary for success in hospitality.
How much does the CIHA cost?
You can always find the most up-to-date information on AIHM’s [Tuition & Fees page.]
There, you’ll see a clear breakdown of tuition, fees, and other costs for the Certificate in International Hotel Administration (CIHA)—as well as for every other AIHM academic programme.
How do I apply to AIHM’s CIHA programme?
The application process for the CIHA is simple and straightforward.
Visit the [Admissions page] to see full details on how to apply or to submit your application online.
