Bringing Thailand’s Gracious Hospitality Education to the World
When Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, the visionary founder of Dusit International, established Dusit Thani College, she wasn’t just building an institution—she was empowering her people and her country. Back then, hospitality education in Thailand was theoretical and lacked real-world application. It was a field with potential, but it needed more than textbook knowledge to thrive. And Thanpuying knew it. She recognized the industry’s need for skilled professionals who understood the art of service, and she was determined to change that.
What started as Dusit Thani Hotel School, a small initiative focused on practical training, has now grown into Thailand’s First and Largest Institute Dedicated to Hospitality Education and Culinary Arts Training. “Our founder saw that Thailand’s hospitality industry was facing a serious challenge—there was a shortage of well-trained professionals,” shares John Lohr, Executive Director of External Affairs and Business Development at Dusit Thani College. “She wanted to create an educational environment where students could learn by doing, not just by learning in the classroom.”
Today, after more than 30 years of shaping future leaders, Dusit Thani College stands as a testament to that vision. With over 10,000 graduates who have moved on to become influential figures in the hospitality world, the college is more than just a place of learning—it’s a launchpad for successful careers. Its programs are designed to deliver hands on, industry aligned education and develop leadership skills in real-world situations, giving students the experiencethey need to stand out in a competitive field.
Currently, Dusit Thani College offers a range of programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in hospitality management and culinary arts. “Our students don’t just learn theory—they master the entire experience of hospitality, from the kitchen to the boardroom,” adds Lohr. It’s no wonder that 97.5% of their graduates find employment within a year.
And the college isn’t stopping there. With plans to expand beyond Thailand, Dusit Thani College is ready to take its unique approach to hospitality education across the region, ensuring that more students get the opportunity to learn what it means to deliver Gracious Hospitality, a cornerstone of the Dusit brand.
A World-Class Education in Hospitality and Culinary Arts
Dusit Thani College isn’t just a place to earn a degree; it’s where students turn their passion for hospitality and culinary arts into their profession. The college’s four-year international bachelor’s programs, taught entirely in English, are designed to meet the needs of today’s global hospitality market. With two flagship programs—Hospitality Management and Professional Culinary Arts—students receive top-tier education backed by global leaders in the field.
For those aspiring to make a mark in the hospitality industry, the B.B.A. in Hospitality Management is the perfect launchpad. This program, certified by the world-renowned EHL (École hôtelière de Lausanne), offers students the chance to learn from the very best. “It’s not just about learning management theories,” shares Lohr. “We aim to build leadership qualities and a deep understanding of the international hospitality landscape.” What makes it even more appealing is the unique 2+2 study pathway. Students can spend two years at Dusit Thani College and then continue at EHL in Switzerland, earning dual bachelor’s degrees from both institutions.
For those with a flair for cooking, the B.B.A. in Professional Culinary Arts, developed in partnership with Le Cordon Bleu, offers a curriculum steeped in the traditions of French and Western cuisine. This isn’t just about mastering recipes; it’s about cultivating a creative spirit, where every meal is a masterpiece waiting to be created. Students are encouraged to participate in culinary arts competitions worldwide, such as the Young Chef Olympiad in India and Bocuse d’Or in France. “Our students have the chance to showcase their talents on a global stage and learn from top chefs in real-world settings,” Lohr emphasizes.
Both programs also offer various specializations – ranging from Innovation for a Sustainable Future to Maximizing Human Value in a Digital Economy – allowing students to tailor their education to their unique interests. With such diverse learning opportunities, Dusit Thani College ensures that its graduates are more than ready to excel in an ever-evolving industry.
Flexible, Non-Degree Programs for Every Learner
Not every aspiring professional needs a four-year degree to get ahead, and Dusit Thani College understands that. For those looking for short-term courses or targeted skill-building, the college’s non-degree offerings are just as impactful. Through the Dusit Hospitality Academy (DHA) and The Food School, Dusit Thani College has created a range of programs that cater to everyone—from novices to seasoned professionals seeking to refine their craft.
The Dusit Hospitality Academy (DHA) offers a wide array of short courses, from baking and cooking classes to hotel and restaurant management programs. “Students can pick and choose courses that fit their career goals, whether they want to specialize in a particular cuisine or polish their management skills,” says Lohr. For Dusit Thani College students, these courses are an excellent way to supplement their learning, providing a chance to explore specific interests at a discounted rate.
One standout initiative is the Talent Opportunity Program (TOP). Created to provide affordable access to hospitality training, this six-month program includes two months of hands-on education followed by a guaranteed four-month internship at a Dusit Hotel or other brand name property. The goal? To help students from low-income backgrounds, get trained, gain experience and get a job in the hospitality industry. “It’s a stepping stone for those who want to enter the field but might not be ready for a full-time degree program,” notes Lohr. What’s even better is that credits earned in the TOP program can be transferred toward a bachelor’s degree at Dusit Thani College, giving participants the flexibility to continue their education when they’re ready.
Meanwhile, The Food School, located in the heart of Bangkok, created for chefs and by chefs, brings together the world’s best culinary institutes under one roof. Here, students can dive deep into the flavors of Italian, Thai, and Japanese cuisine. Long-course certificate programs, offered in collaboration with ALMA (Italian Cuisine) and TSUJI (Japanese Cuisine), provide specialized training with certificates delivered by chefs from the respective partner schools. For those looking for a shorter commitment, The Food School also offers specialty courses, from wine tasting to pastry and bakery classes, making it the go-to destination for anyone with a love for food and a desire to learn.
A Global Approach to Hospitality Education
If there’s one thing Dusit Thani College understands, it’s that hospitality is a truly global industry. And to excel, students need to be equipped with skills, knowledge, and credentials that go beyond borders. With that in mind, DTC has partnered with some of the most prestigious culinary and hospitality education leaders worldwide, offering students a unique blend of global exposure and local expertise.
This is why every program at DTC is designed with international standards in mind, incorporating global best practices into the very DNA of its curriculum. “Our partnerships and collaborations ensure that our students are not just industry-ready but future-ready,” shares Lohr. This dedication to quality is validated through rigorous evaluations and accreditations by world-renowned organizations like THE-ICE (The International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education).
Accredited by THE-ICE, DTC has proven that it delivers education that meets the highest global benchmarks. “This recognition is more than just a badge of honor—it’s a promise to our students and partners that we are committed to continuous improvement and innovation,” adds Lohr. It’s about setting the standard and raising the bar every day.
And it doesn’t stop there. DTC is the first and only hospitality college in Thailand to offer an EHL-certified program. For those unfamiliar, EHL (École hôtelière de Lausanne) is the top hospitality management school in the world according to QS rankings. To maintain this certification, DTC’s faculty regularly undergo specialized training and must pass stringent annual audits. This ensures that students are receiving the same world-class education they would get at EHL itself.
But the culinary arts are no less emphasized. DTC’s Professional Culinary Arts program is run in collaboration with Le Cordon Bleu, the epitome of French culinary excellence. It’s no wonder that DTC is the first educational institute in Thailand to be recognized by the World Association of Chefs Societies for its quality culinary education.
This alignment with global institutions not only elevates the learning experience but also opens doors. “Our students graduate with degrees that are recognized and respected by the industry globally,” notes Lohr. In a field as competitive as hospitality, these credentials give students a vital edge.
Building a Global Network of Academic and Industry Partnerships
One of the most compelling aspects of DTC’s programs is its vast network of academic and industry partnerships. “We want our students to see the world as their classroom,” says Lohr. And with partners like LYFE in Lyon, France (formerly the Institute Paul Bocuse), the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and the University of Houston in the US, DTC makes that vision a reality.
These alliances allow students to participate in study-abroad programs, exchange opportunities, and international internships. Imagine starting your hospitality journey in the vibrant city of Bangkok, then continuing it in the culinary heart of France, and perhaps wrapping it up in Houston’s thriving restaurant scene. That’s the kind of exposure and experience DTC aims to provide.
But it’s not just academic partners. DTC’s industry relationships are equally impressive. As one of only a few hospitality schools owned and operated by a leading hospitality company, Dusit International, thousands of international internships and jobs in all areas of hospitality are available to graduates in they choose to build their careers with Dusit International.
But the college doesn’t just provide jobs in Thailand and with Dusit international, with connections to over 100 top-tier hospitality companies—including Hilton, IHG, Park Hyatt, Peninsula Hotels, and Marriott—students have a wealth of internship and career opportunities at their fingertips. One of the highlights of the academic year is the Hospitality Talent Fair, where employers from across the region come to meet and recruit DTC’s bright minds. “We don’t just prepare our students to enter the industry; we connect them with it,” emphasizes Lohr.
At DTC, learning goes beyond the classroom. The college’s special relationship with Dusit International allows it to weave real-world experiences into the curriculum, ensuring that students graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also practical expertise.
“Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is a cornerstone of our educational approach,” shares Lohr. Through WIL, students get hands-on experience in a Dusit Thani hotel or resort, under the guidance of seasoned hospitality professionals. It’s one thing to learn about guest relations or event management in a lecture, and quite another to apply those skills in a bustling five-star property.
The college’s prime location next to the Dusit Princess Hotel—a 4-star luxury hotel—means that students can easily transition between learning and practice. The hotel serves as an extension of the campus, offering a real-time learning environment for students to hone their skills in areas like front office management, housekeeping, and F&B operations.
The internship program is another key component, requiring students to complete over 900 hours of real-world experience in either a Dusit property or a similar luxury setting, either in Thailand or abroad and now with the re-opening of the iconic, reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok, Thailand’s original first 5 star hotel, students can gain hands on work experience in an ultra luxury environment. For those eyeing leadership roles, DTC’s LEAD (Management Training Program) fast-tracks high-potential students to a guaranteed management position within the Dusit Group through a 15-month, multi-destination, cross-training experience. “LEAD is not just a program—it’s a launchpad for future leaders in hospitality,” notes Lohr.
Inspiring Leadership and Strategic Thinking
DTC’s commitment to developing leaders is woven into every stage of the four-year learning journey. Year 1 focuses on operational foundations, from understanding the principles of hospitality to participating in gracious hospitality field trips. By Year 2, the focus shifts to supervisory skills, preparing students to step up and take charge.
In Year 3, students delve into business and management strategies, applying their learning in a major management internship. Finally, Year 4 is all about strategy and specialization, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with their career aspirations. Whether their interest lies in sustainable innovation, hospitality finance, or culinary entrepreneurship, DTC provides the pathways to explore those interests in-depth.
But perhaps what’s most inspiring is the emphasis on leadership styles and personal growth. “We don’t just teach our students how to manage hotels—we teach them how to lead teams, inspire others, and make a meaningful impact on the industry,” shares Lohr. With a curriculum that balances operational skills, managerial expertise, and strategic thinking, DTC graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles and drive change in a rapidly evolving industry.
For those looking to break into the hospitality industry—or elevate their career to new heights—Dusit Thani College offers an educational experience that is as diverse and dynamic as the industry itself. With world-class partnerships, cutting-edge programs, and a relentless focus on quality, DTC is not just shaping the future of its students; it’s shaping the future of hospitality.
Building a Sustainable Future
At Dusit Thani College, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a core value that informs every aspect of their education and operations. Through the innovative “Tree of Life” initiative, a comprehensive sustainability program led by Dusit International, the college is playing a pivotal role in shaping a greener future for the hospitality industry—not just in Thailand, but globally.
“Our commitment to sustainability is integrated into both our Thai and international programs,” says Lohr. The International Programs in Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts offer a major concentration on Innovation for a Sustainable Future, encouraging students to explore how the hospitality sector can innovate and adapt to embrace sustainable practices.
But it’s not just theory. DTC students have the opportunity to put their sustainability knowledge into practice by participating in the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge (SHC). This global competition, established by the renowned Hotelschool The Hague in the Netherlands, brings together the best hospitality students worldwide to present their innovative solutions for sustainable practices in hospitality.
Recently, Dusit Thani College had the honor of hosting the Asian and African semi-finals of the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge 2024 right in Bangkok, where over 70 students from prestigious hospitality schools competed. It was a thrilling showcase of creativity and ingenuity, with each of the 13 teams presenting ideas that could make a real impact on sustainability. After intense deliberations, only two teams advanced to the final round, and one of those teams was from Dusit Thani College.
With their innovative organic water purifying system called “Thara,” the DTC team stood out among the competitors. Created by talented students Supakorn Zhang, Shaun Ajay Mathew, Jirada Kluaymaingarm, and Miss Natthanica Teera-atthawet this groundbreaking idea leverages plants to purify grey water for non-consumption purposes. Imagine a system that uses a vertical green wall and a sterilizing box to transform used water into something reusable—all while reducing energy consumption. A lab test demonstrated an impressive 75% effectiveness in water sterilization.
The excitement continues as the final round of the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge is set to take place in Dubai from September 30 to October 2, 2024, during the Future Hospitality Summit. DTC’s team will proudly represent Thailand on this global stage.
As Dusit Thani College continues to grow and innovate, it aspires to become not just a national leader, but a premier hospitality education institution worldwide. Traditionally, Swiss hospitality schools have held the crown in this arena. However, Lohr argues that “the Swiss model, with its exorbitant fees and high-cost living environments, is neither sustainable nor affordable for the industry and for the vast majority of aspiring talents.” Graduates from Swiss institutions often struggle with low initial salaries, and a staggering less than 50% of them remain in hospitality.
In contrast, DTC offers high-quality, affordable programs right in Bangkok, with an impressive 81.5% of its graduates employed in their field of study. Plus, with a massive pipeline of new Dusit International Hotels set to open—60 in the next three years – students have an incredible opportunity for internships and job placements that rival any elite institution. “The tuition fees for all 4 years of Bachelor program at DTC will cost a student around 35,000 USD. That is around the average yearly tuition of a US university and only half the annual fees of a Swiss hospitality school. Clearly from a ROI perspective studying in Bangkok and at DTC delivers more value” Lohr points out.
Bangkok: The New Education Capital of Hospitality
Bangkok is emerging as a prime destination for international education in hospitality. In 2024, students are increasingly seeking out locations that offer easy visa access, post-study work opportunities, and affordability. Thailand stands out, providing not just a cost-effective alternative to the Big Five – Australia, Canada, the UK, the US, and Switzerland – but also a more affordable option compared to neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia and Singapore.
As the most visited city in the world, Bangkok is ranked No. 1 in the “Best City” category for Asia Pacific tourist destinations. It boasts an array of five-star hotels, fine dining establishments, and a vibrant cultural scene. Plus, it’s renowned as the Street Food Capital of the World and is a major hub for commerce, consistently ranking among the top 50 safest cities globally. With such a rich variety of experiences, there truly is no better place to study hospitality than in Bangkok, the heart of the industry!
Dusit Thani College has ambitious plans to evolve into Dusit Thani University within the next five years, becoming the first and largest dedicated hospitality university in Thailand. This transition will make DTC the only major hospitality university globally owned by a hospitality company.
Furthermore, the college is committed to democratizing education by expanding its programs across the region through partnerships. The TOP Program aims to deliver entry-level talent to the hospitality industry at high volumes, meeting global manpower needs while making training accessible to students in Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, and the Philippines. With affordable rates for these non-degree programs, Dusit Thani College is poised to train tens of thousands of future hospitality leaders.
“Our founder’s vision was always about educating and training Thailand’s talents. Now, with our aggressive expansion plans, we aim to extend that vision and our renowned gracious hospitality programs to the world,” concludes Lohr.
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