THE-ICE continues to enable meaningful collaboration across its global network, supporting member institutions to develop international partnerships that enhance student opportunities and outcomes.
A recent example is the development of a 2+2 progression pathway between member institutions, reflecting a broader shift in tourism and hospitality education towards structured global pathways that support mobility, industry relevance, and degree completion.
Under this model, students commence their studies at Dusit Thani College in Thailand before progressing to Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School at Torrens University Australia (BMIHMS) to complete their degree.
Mr Simon Lloyd, Dean, Dusit Thani College, noted:
“This partnership opens a clear international pathway to Australia for our students, expanding their future career opportunities. Working with a fellow long-time member of THE-ICE gives us confidence that students will continue to receive best-in-class hospitality education.”
2+2 pathway programmes are increasingly adopted across the sector as a way to combine local delivery with international progression opportunities. These models allow students to build strong academic foundations in their home region before completing their studies in a global context.
Enhancing the student experience
Through this pathway, students benefit from exposure to diverse learning environments, teaching approaches, and industry contexts – key factors in preparing graduates for careers in a global tourism and hospitality industry.
Professor Simon Pawson, Associate Dean, Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, added:
“Students benefit from experiencing different educational and cultural environments, while maintaining a structured pathway to degree completion. This type of collaboration enhances both academic development and employability. This partnership not only enhances student mobility but will provide opportunities for visiting academics and collaborative research projects.”
Such pathways are well established within hospitality education, reflecting the sector’s strong emphasis on international mobility and industry alignment.
The value of THE-ICE global network
This collaboration also highlights the role of THE-ICE in connecting institutions and facilitating partnerships built on shared standards and trust.
As a global network of quality-assured institutions, THE-ICE provides a platform through which members can readily identify potential partners, develop joint initiatives, and expand opportunities for students.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Mr Lloyd added:
“Because our institutions have worked together through THE-ICE over the years, we are confident in the quality each institution offers. This made developing the 2+2 programme – including credit alignment and study planning – more efficient and straightforward.”
Dr Craig Thompson, CEO of THE-ICE, also noted:
“Being part of THE-ICE global network provides a level of confidence when developing international partnerships. It brings together institutions with a shared commitment to quality and continuous improvement, making collaboration both efficient and meaningful.”
Supporting meaningful global engagement
As THE-ICE continues to grow its global network, initiatives such as this demonstrate the tangible value of collaboration – creating pathways that benefit both institutions and students.
We look forward to supporting further partnerships across the network and to showcasing additional examples of collaboration in the future.
