Glion receives Swiss Federal Accreditation

We are proud to announce that Glion Institute of Higher Education has been officially recognized by the Swiss Accreditation Council (SAC) as a University of Applied Sciences Institute.

This milestone represents the successful conclusion of a rigorous two-year accreditation journey—driven by the dedication, collaboration, and hard work of our entire Glion community. We are deeply grateful to every team member who contributed to this remarkable achievement.

What does this Accreditation mean for Glion?

Recognition by the SAC brings significant advantages for our students, faculty, and alumni—enhancing the value of a Glion education both in Switzerland and internationally.

Key benefits include:

  1. Stronger global recognition
    • SAC accreditation ensures compliance with the Higher Education Act (HEdA) and European Standards and Guidelines (ESG), making Glion degrees more easily recognized around the world.
  2. Protected academic title
    • Glion is now officially authorized to use the protected title “University of Applied Sciences Institute”, signifying academic excellence and Swiss quality assurance.
  3. Greater student mobility
    • Our degrees are now fully recognized within the European Higher Education Area, opening more doors for student exchange and graduate studies in Europe.
  4. Ongoing commitment to quality improvement
    • Accreditation involves regular evaluations that ensure we maintain and enhance academic and operational excellence.
  5. Stronger graduate employability
    • Employers value the quality assurance and credibility that come with accreditation—boosting job prospects for Glion graduates.
  6. Expanded research opportunities
    • With recognized status, Glion can engage in broader national and international research collaborations.

How did we achieve this?

As you might expect in Switzerland, the accreditation process is meticulous and comprehensive. Over the past two years, Glion was evaluated against 5 key areas and 18 quality standards:

  • Quality Assurance: Systems ensuring excellence in both academic and student life.
  • Governance: Transparent, inclusive decision-making structures.
  • Teaching, Research & Services: High standards in program delivery and innovation.
  • Resources: Robust financial, human, and physical infrastructure.
  • Communication: Clear, consistent internal and external communications.

The path to accreditation included:

  • An internal eligibility study confirming that Glion met Swiss federal requirements.
  • A detailed self-assessment, identifying strengths and opportunities for growth.
  • An independent external evaluation conducted by a team of Swiss experts.
  • Submission of a final report to the SAC, followed by a thorough review and official decision.

What’s next?

Accreditation is not the end—it’s a new beginning. As a Swiss University of Applied Sciences Institute, Glion will remain focused on continuous improvement and regular audits will ensure we continue to meet—and exceed—Swiss higher education standards.

 This recognition is a major milestone for Glion and a proud achievement. We are honoured to share this success with you—our partners, students, alumni, and faculty—who make Glion what it is today.

 This new accreditation is in addition to Glion’s existing accreditation by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). NECHE is recognized by the US Secretary of Education as a reliable authority on the quality of education for the institutions it accredits, further elevating the standards of the institution.

 These combined recognitions are a major milestone for Glion and a proud achievement. We are honoured to share this success with you—our partners, students, alumni, and faculty—who make Glion what it is today.

Let’s continue shaping the future of hospitality & luxury business education, together.

Philippe Vignon

Managing Director

“We are honoured to receive this accreditation, which reflects the outstanding commitment of our faculty, staff, and students. It strengthens the value of a Glion education and our capacity to contribute meaningfully to the global education landscape. As we enter this new phase, we remain dedicated to upholding the highest standards of Swiss higher education.”

Category