You Ask, Akif Answers: Diploma in Hotel Management

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12 Sep 2025

6 Min Read

Mohamed Akif Ismail Athif (Unibuddy Ambassador)

IN THIS ARTICLE
Unibuddy Ambassador Akif shares insights on the Diploma in Hotel Management at Taylor’s University to help you make an informed choice!

Choosing the right programme is an important decision, and having the right information can help you make an informed choice. The Diploma in Hotel Management at Taylor’s University is a comprehensive, industry-relevant programme designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to thrive in the hospitality industry.

 

To give you an insider’s perspective, Mohamed Akif Ismail Athif, a current student in the programme, shares his insights by answering the ten most frequently asked questions he receives.

Akif Answers Your Top 10 FAQs

1.     What will I learn during the programme?

The Diploma in Hotel Management will give you a strong foundation in the core hotel departments—Front Office, Housekeeping, and Food & Beverage (F&B)—through practical training. You’ll also be introduced to other areas of hotel operations, such as Sales and Marketing, Human Resources (HR), and Finance and Accounting, with opportunities to explore more. On the theoretical side, you’ll study modules such as Rooms Division Management, Restaurant Management, and Foodservice Operation Management. Together, this blend of practice and theory will help you understand how the different parts of a hotel connect—building the knowledge and skills you’ll need to succeed in the industry.

2.     How much practical training is included in the programme?

Practical training is central to the programme, with much of your time spent in simulated environments. In the training restaurants, you’ll serve real guests while rotating through roles as server, bartender, and manager during live-service shifts. In the front office training suites, you’ll practise guest check-ins and reservations using the OPERA Property Management System (PMS). In the training guestrooms, you’ll master professional standards for cleaning, room preparation, and turndown service. These hands-on experiences complement classroom study, ensuring you graduate with the confidence and competence employers value.

3.     What facilities are available for Hotel Management students?

Taylor’s features industry-standard facilities that replicate real hotel settings. Students have access to three fine-dining restaurants, three front office suites, and three fully furnished guestrooms. Professional kitchens with commercial-grade equipment, together with stewarding areas, help students sharpen their skills in food preparation and back-of-house operations. Dedicated facilities for coffee, tea, and mixology further refine beverage-service techniques. Beyond these specialised spaces, students also benefit from campus facilities, including the library, which houses hospitality-focused resources, as well as on-campus restaurants, cafés, and convenience stores that support daily student life.

4.     How is the programme schedule structured, and how intensive is it?

The programme schedule combines theory classes, practical training sessions, and live-service shifts across the semester. During live-service shifts—when students operate a training restaurant or run front-office simulations—you can expect longer hours depending on your role. The schedule may feel intensive at first, but it becomes manageable once you settle into the rhythm. Strong time management, punctuality, and planning will help you stay on top of your studies while fully enjoying student life.

5.     What industry exposure opportunities does the programme provide?

The programme offers strong industry exposure through hotel and resort tours/ operational visits, guest lectures/ industry talks, and events/ exhibitions. These experiences provide a unique insight into the world of leading hotel chains and hospitality brands, offering a glimpse into day-to-day operations, professional practices, and networking opportunities. For example, I had the chance to observe a mixology competition hosted in collaboration with Bacardi-Martini Asia Pacific Limited. While opportunities may vary by cohort and calendar, you can expect consistent exposure to the industry throughout your studies.

6.     Can students participate in the industry events?

Yes—participating in industry events is one of the highlights of the programme! They are often organised by hotels, celebrity chefs, and other industry partners in hospitality, giving students the opportunity to work alongside professionals—serving VIP guests, assisting with table service, and supporting event operations. I personally served the high commissioners of Singapore, Indonesia, and Bangladesh during their official visit to Malaysia, which gave me firsthand insight into service standards and expectations. Participating in these events is an excellent way to put theory into practice, connect with experts in the field, and gain hands-on experience for your portfolio.

7.     What awards or certificates will I receive upon completion of the programme?

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a dual award, recognised by Taylor’s University, Malaysia, and Université Toulouse - Jean Jaurès, France. You’ll also earn the Malaysian Food Handlers Certificate, a compulsory certification in essential food safety standards, and have the opportunity to earn the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level 1 Award in Wines, a globally recognised qualification in wine service and tasting. These awards and certificates together strengthen your CV, providing both local and international credentials that are highly valued in the global hospitality industry.

8.     What career paths can I pursue upon completion of the programme?

Graduates can pursue a variety of roles in the hospitality industry, including in hotels, resorts, F&B operations, event management, and cruise lines. Many continue their studies in degree programmes or begin their careers as management trainees, coordinators, or supervisors. The knowledge and skills developed in the programme also prepare graduates for operational, administrative, and strategic management roles, paving the way to positions such as assistant manager and general manager.

9.     Which pathway is right for me: the Diploma in Hotel Management or the Bachelor of International Hospitality Management (Honours)?

Both the Diploma and Bachelor offer valuable pathways in hospitality, but they differ in focus and scope. The Diploma emphasises practical application through hands-on training, live service, and a professional internship, giving students direct experience in operational roles. In contrast, the Bachelor also includes practical components but places greater emphasis on theoretical knowledge, covering research and analysis, strategic and business management, and project-planning frameworks.

 

The Diploma is the right choice if you prefer learning by doing and want to develop strong foundational skills for immediate entry into the workforce or to progress to a degree later.

10.     What advice would you give to someone considering this programme?

Come with an open mind and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. The programme can be challenging, especially during live-service shifts or when adapting to new environments and people. But if you stay committed and embrace the learning curve, the process can be incredibly rewarding. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek out opportunities, and engage with your lecturers—their industry experience is invaluable! Most importantly, enjoy the journey: you’ll grow both professionally and personally, and the expertise and experiences you gain, along with the relationships you form, will stay with you long after graduation.

Making the right choice starts with having the right information, so we hope this helped! If you have more questions—whether about the curriculum, campus culture, or future opportunities—our Unibuddy Ambassadors have the answers and would be happy to chat. You can also explore our website or contact admissions for more details.


Whatever you decide, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

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