For students concluding their high school education, many dream of studying in Europe for higher education. The allure of top-notch education, beautiful cities, and a global outlook makes it an appealing prospect. However, among these European nations well sought after, Switzerland is a place that stands out.
With world-class universities, in Switzerland, there is a strong emphasis on research and application at the higher education level. Not just this, Switzerland also has four distinct types of higher educational institutions. These cater to a wide range of interests and career aspirations, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every student.
So, stay tuned throughout this article to uncover more about the higher education system in Switzerland as we tell you all you need to know about the four pillars of Swiss higher education!
Types of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Switzerland
1. Universities
Swiss universities provide a wide selection of study options for students seeking bachelor’s, master’s, and even doctorate degrees. There are excellent programs in almost any subject you can think of, from law and medicine to modern disciplines like physics. These institutions of higher learning are well-known for their rigorous curricula and engaging classroom environments. They also employ the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) for their grading, which facilitates credit transfers and simple recognition of your studies across Europe.
One well-known example is the University of Zurich, which offers a wide range of subject areas. Another example is the University of Geneva which excels in international relations and law, while the University of Lausanne is well-known for its scientific and technology programs.
2. Federal Institutes of Technology
This pillar of Swiss Higher education institutions focuses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), offering bachelor’s to doctoral degrees. They are at the forefront of scientific advancement, featuring a stringent grading system that reflects their commitment to academic excellence.
Currently, Switzerland hosts two key institutions under this category: ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne. Globally acclaimed, these institutes are synonymous with cutting-edge research and boast world-class faculty. Plus, these institutions consistently feature in the top 50 of prestigious global university rankings, showcasing their impact and rigor.
3. Universities of Applied Sciences (UASs)
Unlike universities, UASs combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as nursing, business administration, and engineering. Notable examples include the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, which excels in applied sciences and arts; Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, the largest and oldest Swiss UASs; and the Bern University of Applied Sciences, which offers diverse programs in multiple languages. These institutions are ideal for students seeking a career-oriented education that combines academic theory with hands-on experience.
4. Universities of Teacher Education (UTEs)
Swiss UTEs are dedicated to developing skilled educators who inspire and empower the next generation. Through specialized programs that emphasize pedagogy, teaching methodologies, and innovative approaches, these institutions play a crucial role in shaping the future of education.
Notable among them are the Bern University of Teacher Education, Zurich University of Teacher Education, and the University of Teacher Education of Graubünden.
Types of Degree Levels in Switzerland
1. Bachelor’s Degree
In Switzerland, the bachelor’s degree forms the foundation of higher education, providing students with a comprehensive understanding and essential skills in their chosen field. This degree is sometimes referred to as “Lizentiat” in specific disciplines within humanities and social sciences. Typically, the program lasts between 3 to 4 years, although this can vary depending on the specific course of study. Students are required to complete 180-240 ECTS credits, reflecting the academic workload and the learning outcomes achieved. For instance, ETH Zurich offers a Bachelor of Computer Science which takes 3 years and requires 180 ECTS credits, while the SHL institute provides a Bachelors in Hospitality Management requiring 240 ECTS credits over 4 years. These degrees lay a solid foundation for further academic pursuits or professional careers.
2. Master’s Degree (Master)
The master’s degree in Switzerland is an advanced academic program designed for in-depth specialization in a specific field, building upon the foundation laid by a Bachelor’s degree. The duration of these programs typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, with the required number of ECTS credits varying between 60 and 120, depending on the program’s focus and intensity. This degree emphasizes advanced theoretical knowledge, research skills, and practical application.
Illustratively, the Master of Science in Robotics at ETH Zurich requires 90 ECTS credits over 1.5 years, and the Master of Astrophysics at the University of Geneva requires 120 ECTS credits over 2 years. These programs are tailored to provide students with the expertise and skills needed for specialized professional roles or further academic research.
3. Doctoral Degree (Doktorat)
The Doctoral degree in Switzerland, commonly known as a Ph.D., represents the highest level of academic qualification which equips individuals with the expertise and skills to make significant contributions to their chosen field of study.
Unlike bachelor’s and master’s degrees, doctoral programs in Switzerland are not measured in ECTS credits, as the primary focus is on making a significant contribution to the field through original research. However, the time to get your doctoral degree is 3 to 5 years, and almost all Swiss universities including the University of Bern and the University of Zurich support Ph.D.
FAQS About Higher Education in Switzerland
What Grading System Does Higher Education in Switzerland Use?
Switzerland uses a 6-point grading scale for academic evaluation, where 1 represents the lowest possible grade and 6 represents the highest possible grade. The grading system is used to evaluate students’ performance in various academic settings.
It is recognized in other countries and is part of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which facilitates the recognition of academic credits across Europe. The ECTS system is designed to make it easier for students to move between different countries and institutions, and to have their academic qualifications and study periods abroad recognized.
This article provides a detailed overview of the Swiss higher education system, highlighting its structured approach to academic progression through Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees. Each level, from the foundational Bachelor’s programs to the specialized Master’s and the research-intensive Doctoral degrees, is designed to cater to diverse academic and professional aspirations, reflecting Switzerland’s commitment to excellence in education and research!
We hope that the above article on Switzerland’s higher education was informative. For more informative articles, check the Study in Switzerland for valuable tips and scholarship opportunities. You can also check out the Available Programs in Europe for International Students to learn more about studying abroad.
