Study in Switzerland - Education in Switzerland: Dezember 2009

Donnerstag, 31. Dezember 2009

Education in Switzerland

Switzerland divides its education system into primary, secondary and tertiary levels. At every level there are educational possibilities open to foreigners.

The primary and first secondary levels are the stages of compulsory schooling, which lasts for nine years. The second secondary level is the post-compulsory stage. More than 50% of young people chose a practical vocational training, which lasts up to four years.

The tertiary stage covers universities and higher vocational training

Switzerland has universities providing general education and universities of applied sciences
Higher vocational training is provided by higher technical schools and technical schools, leading to vocational certificates and higher vocational diplomas.

University education is provided by the following:

10 cantonal universities
2 Federal Institutes of Technology
7 Universities of Applied Sciences

University-level education follows the bachelor-master system. Like other countries, Switzerland wants to make it easier to move between universities, and in 1999 signed the so-called Bologna declaration. Reforms aimed at standardising the structure of studies and of degrees should have been completed by 2010.

Studying in German, French, Italian and English

In Switzerland it is not only possible to study in all three official languages but increasingly also in English . The universities of Basel, Bern, Zurich, Lucerne and St Gallen are in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, as is the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich). The French-speaking part has the universities of Geneva, Lausanne, and Neuchâtel, and the second Federal Institute of Technology, which is in Lausanne (EPFL).

Fribourg University is in a bilingual canton, and offers courses in German and French. The Italian-speaking Università della Svizzera italiana is based in Lugano.

All universities offer an ever-growing number of Master programmes taught fully or partially in English.

Other institutions of a university nature are the various teaching training colleges, the Graduate Institute of International Studies in Geneva, the Swiss Graduate School of Public Administration in Lausanne, and the Kurt Bösch Postgraduate University in Sion.

Admission Requirements

A federally recognised school leaving certificate (Matura) or the equivalent foreign certificate entitles the holder to study at university level. Admission depends on the specific university. In any case, good knowledge of the language of instruction is a prerequisite.

The academic year usually starts in September in Switzerland. Applicants should contact their selected university well in time. The universities can provide information about fees and grants. In addition to the fees, students should expect to spend 16-24,000 Swiss francs for their living expenses, depending on their requirements.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Study in Uri

Canton Uri
- University of Teacher Education Central Switzerland
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences

Study in Valais

Canton Valais

Study in Vaud

Study MBA in Switzerland

Study in Appenzell

Canton Appenzell
- FHS St.Gallen, University of Applied Sciences

Study in Basel

Canton Basel

Study in Fribourg

Canton Fribourg

Study Hotel Management in Switzerland

Hotel Management

Study in Aargau

Canton Aargau

Study in Bern

Canton Bern

Study in Geneva

Canton Geneva

Study in Schwyz

Canton Schwyz

Study in Schaffhausen

Canton Schaffhausen
- University of Applied Sciences in Business Administration
- Schaffhausen University of of Teacher Education

Study in Obwalden

Canton Obwalden
- University of Teacher Education Central Switzerland
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences

Study in Nidwalden

Canton Nidwalden
- University of Teacher Education Central Switzerland
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences

Study in Neuchâtel

Canton Neuchâtel

Dienstag, 29. Dezember 2009

Study in Lucerne

Canton Lucerne

Study in Jura

Canton Jura
- BEJUNE Higher Teacher Training Institute
- University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland - HES-SO

Study in Solothurn

Canton Solothurn
- University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland

Study in St. Gallen

Canton St. Gallen

Study in Thurgau

Canton Thurgau
- FHS St.Gallen, University of Applied Sciences
- Thurgau University of Teacher Education

Study in Ticino

Canton Ticino

Study in Uri

Canton Uri
- University of Teacher Education Central Switzerland
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences

Study in Valais

Canton Valais

Study in Vaud

Study in Zug

Canton Zug

Study in Zürich

Canton Zürich

SWISS UNIVERSITIES HANDBOOK

Study Abroad in Switzerland

Switzerland boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Europe, but the breathtaking Alpine landscape is only one of this country's many draws for students. Bordering France, Italy, Germany, Austria and Liechtenstein, Switzerland regards cultural pluralism as an inseparable part of its national identity. This dynamic country is internationally recognized for its advances in science and technology, its role as a global advocate for humanitarian causes, and its countless contributions to the arts. Add to this a modern infrastructure and excellent universities, and it is easy to see why thousands of students of all levels study abroad in Switzerland each year.

Switzerland's educational system is publically funded, and great importance is placed on maintaining high academic standards at all levels, from primary to tertiary education. Tertiary institutions include universities, teacher training colleges, universities of applied sciences and higher vocational schools. Switzerland has four official languages, and French, German and Italian serve as primary languages of instruction for higher education (the fourth, Romansh, is spoken by less than one percent of the population). Although it is not one of Switzerland's official languages, English is the language of instruction for many university courses and study abroad programs.

The five German-speaking universities include the country's oldest, the University of Basel, founded in 1460, and Switzerland's only Italian-speaking university is located in Lugano. French-speaking students attend universities in Geneva, Lausanne and Neuchâtel, while the University of Fribourg is bilingual and offers a full curriculum in French and German. Established in 1925 in one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, the American College Program (ACP) at the University of Fribourg is recognized as one of the oldest study abroad programs in the country. At the University of Fribourg, students can study in French and/or German and engage with students from more than 110 different countries.

With such international institutions as the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization located within its borders, Switzerland offers many study abroad opportunities in international relations. Specialized programs in political science, economics, international law and related subjects are hugely popular and often taught in English. ACP's short-term interdisciplinary program, "Survey of International Organizations," allows students to visit many of these distinguished institutions and provides an overview of their goals, function and significance. For other English-taught study abroad opportunities in a variety of fields, visit www.IIEPassport.org.

Both the Swiss government and the private sector actively promote science and technology. Swiss and Swiss-based scientists have achieved a high level of excellence, particularly in medicine, physics and chemistry-the country counts seven Nobel prizes since 1975 in these fields alone. Switzerland's leading Federal Institutes of Technology are ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne, and each boasts modern libraries and state-of-the-art facilities. Based in Geneva, CERN is the preeminent international laboratory for particle physicists, where more than one-third of the world's physicists collaborate on ground-breaking research.

Not surprisingly given its multiethnic character, Switzerland has been home to many ethnic and cultural groups throughout its history. The area's first recorded inhabitants were the Helvetii, a semi-nomadic Celtic tribe. The Romans, Burgundians, Franks and eventually the Germanic Habsburg family all called Switzerland home. In 1291, three original cantons refusing to submit to the Habsburgs took an oath, which became the founding document of the Confoederatio Helvetica. This pact is celebrated on August 1st each year as the Swiss National Day. In 1815, the Congress of Vienna guaranteed the Swiss Confederation independence and permanent neutrality. Switzerland has maintained that stance since then, and is not a member of the European Union.

In 1848, Switzerland adopted its modern constitution, and the alliance of autonomous cantons became a federal state. The federal capital is Bern, the seat of parliament and the administration. Today, Switzerland is divided into 26 cantons, which vary by population, language and area. Some are made up of only a single city while others span rural areas, mountains and valleys.

From precision timepieces to exquisite chocolates, Switzerland's discoveries and creations have enhanced many lives. But for all the worldwide renown of these industries, Swiss contributions to arts and letters are no less remarkable. Counted among its sons and daughters are the artists Paul Klee and Alberto Giacometti; the Enlightenment philosopher and writer Jean-Jacques Rousseau; and Le Corbusier, an icon of Modern architecture, design and urban theory.

For sports enthusiasts, the awe-inspiring mountains provide ample opportunities for skiing, mountaineering and hiking, and the country has more than 30,000 miles of designated trails. The Swiss hold many festivals and events each year, including numerous music festivals. Those wishing to explore the fine arts will find regular concerts and innovative museum exhibits.

As one of the world's leaders in science and technology, Switzerland has plenty to teach, and Swiss cultural heritage makes this an ideal place for students of any field to learn and grow!

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Study in Switzerland - visa's, applications and language requirements

Switzerland is an excellent location for living, studying and working. Its cultural variety, beautiful landscape and innovative environment offer first-class surroundings for both your well-being and career advancement. So how to you go about studying there? QS Top Universities finds out.
Application

If you wish to study in Switzerland, you need to file your admissions application directly with the admissions office at the Swiss universities, or universities of applied sciences, that you wish to attend. They are ultimately responsible for admitting foreign students. You'll need your upper secondary school-leaving certificate (the original or a notarised copy) and an up-to-date passport photograph. Be sure you check with your institution of choice which certificates and qualifications they will recognise for an application, as they each have their own criteria. Always check the admissions deadline and set enough time aside to ensure you get your application in on time. For admission into Swiss universities, you must provide proof of prior education equivalent to a Swiss “Maturitat" (Federal academic baccalaureate), certifying that you have the general knowledge and skills required to enter a university. If you don't hold such a certificate, you may be required to sit a university entrance examination as part of your admission requirements.

Additional admission requirements

If your Swiss universities of choice require you to meet additional admission standards, here's what you can expect to have to provide:

* Admission examination
* Minimum grade average
* language certificates
* proof of admission to a recognized university in the country of origin
* and/or passing the entrance exam in Fribourg

Visas

If you're a EU or EFTA citizen, you must register with the local authority within 14 days of arriving in Switzerland, and apply for a residence permit.
You will need to present the following documents:

* Personal application for a residence permit
* Valid passport or identity card
* Proof of registration at the university
* Evidence of sufficient funds (bank certificate or certified document)
* Proof of address at place of residence
* 2 passport photographs

If you're an international student from outside the EU/EFTA, contact the Swiss embassy or consulate in your own country before you leave to apply for a visa. If you're an international student from outside the EU/EFTA but do not require a visa, consult your country's Swiss embassy or consulate. They'll be able to tell you what entry and residence requirements you need to be able to study in Switzerland.

To find out what category of international student you come under, go to: http://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps.html
Language requirements

For bachelor's programs, an important requirement for admission is proof of command of the language of instruction. English is widely spoken throughout Switzerland, but the majority of undergraduate programs are taught in German, French or Italian. Therefore, if you wish to study in a Swiss university, you need a high level of comprehension in one of these three languages.

What else do I need?

Visas, applications and residence permits are just the start of the study abroad process - there is plenty more to get organized. You need to sort out finances, insurance, an international student card, and your passport - just to name a few. But with QS Top Universities' Study Abroad Checklist you'll have everything you need, and more, to start a successful study abroad experience in Switzerland.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

INFORMATION

* Capital - Berne
* Language - German, French, Italian, Romansch
* Official Currency- Swiss Franc (CHF)
* Climate -Temperate, but varies with altitude; cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool to warm, cloudy, humid summers with occasional showers.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

WHY STUDY IN THE SWITZERLAND

The mention of Switzerland immediately brings up vivid images of mouth-watering chocolates, cheeses, swiss watches, world-renowned banks, the red cross, and the breathtakingly beautiful Swiss Alps. A country with a rich history, Switzerland has the advantages of a blended culture, built on the combined historical influence of the French, German as well as the Italians.

Since Switzerland has no raw materials, it must import, process and resell them as products. The service industries are arguably the most important part of the economy. These include banking, insurance and tourism. It is considered No.1 in Hotel Management and education , Finance and Dairy Products.

Switzerland has a high quality system of education that is relatively accessible to foreign students. The student population of some universities, for example, consists of over 40% foreign students, and this trend is on the upswing.

About two thirds of the area of Switzerland is covered with forests, lakes and mountains. You will find towns steeped in history, cities that are very cosmopolitan and offer the usual facilities that you would expect from any major European City, as well as traditional wooden-chalet mountain communities that have been established for centuries. Major events, such as the Zurich Street parade, Féte du Geneve, Verbier Extreme, Swiss Open.

Tennis Tournament among many others provide a constant flow of fun and excitement to people from all over the world. Also, the beautiful mountain ranges have made skiing and snowboarding a national pastime.
As a European business hub, several university courses have links with locally based Businesses. Special strengths are in banking, machine tool and precision engineering. Other strengths include chemical and pharmaceutical engineering, and great hotel and tourist educational departments. The country has been very successful in attracting the investment of foreign multi-nationals and businesses, also one of the reasons for its huge banking sector. The Swiss are multi-lingual, often speaking four or more languages, thus trade expansion and travel across Europe become hassle-free

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Switzerland: Postgraduate study

How does the higher education system work?
Switzerland offers two basic kinds of higher education institutions - universities and the two federal institutes of technology.
Until recently, the traditional study structure in Switzerland was a programme lasting four to five years, leading to a first academic degree. This model is quite demanding and corresponds roughly to a Masters degree.
Many Swiss universities are now introducing a new two-cycle degree system (equivalent to a Bachelors degree and then a Masters degree) in line with the Bologna Declaration. Bologna aims to harmonise the length of degrees in European universities in a bid to make it easier for students to study and work abroad.

What courses are available?
There is a wide variety of postgraduate courses taught in Switzerland. The institutions listed below offer courses in broad range of languages, including English. Check with each institution to find out which languages they offer their courses in.
Many of Switzerland's business schools have a strong international outlook and offer more in-depth professional training, e.g. an international Master of Business Administration (MBA). Doctorates are awarded for original research.
Swiss universities are often international in character.

Where can I study?
You may study at any of the following Swiss learning institutions:
* Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne
* Federal Institute of Technology Zurich
* Institut Universitaire Kurt Bosch
* University of Basel
* University of Bern
* University of Fribourg
* University of Geneva
* University of Italian Speaking Switzerland
* University of Lausanne
* University of Neuchâtel
* University of St Gallen
* University of Zurich

What are the entry requirements for postgraduate study?
A good knowledge of the language of the university you plan to attend, as well as a relevant degree or qualification that is recognised by your prospective university.
For more information visit the Rector's Conference of the Swiss Universities.

When do I apply?
Each university sets their own application deadlines. Contact the specific universities that you would like to apply to for information about your course.
It may be necessary for you to take an entrance exam as part of the application process. These exams are held in June and laute August/early September every year. Contact your specific university to find out if you need to take this entrance exam.
Visit the Rector's Conference of the Swiss Universities for more specific information.

How do I apply?
Everything you need to know about applying for study in Switzerland may be found on the Rector's Conference of the Swiss Universities website. Begin your process by contacting the institutions you would like to attend as soon as possible.
The site also has a downloadable PDF brochure, entitled Studying in Switzerland 2008, giving details of courses, recognition of qualifications, funding, etc. It also discusses the entrance exam that you may need to take as part of your application to your preferred Swiss universities.

How much will it cost?
Tuition fees vary according to university, but typically range from €1,300 to €2,800 per academic year. There are some courses that are much more expensive, up to €8,000 per academic year. Visit the Rector's Conference of the Swiss Universities for specific details of your preferred institution.
Note that some universities charge more for foreign students, while others charge the same fees for domestic and foreign-based students.

Are any scholarships available?
Two scholarships are offered to UK naitonals by the Swiss government annually to support study and research that is particularly suited to Swiss universities. There is also one scholarhip available for music and arts students. Contact the Swiss Embassy London for further details and application forms.

Are there any exchange programmes?
UK students on undergraduate degree programmes or postgraduate Masters and some PhD programmes may be interested in spending time studying in Switzerland through the Erasmus programme. This programme is open to all subject areas, but check with your institution's Erasmus coordinator first (usually based in the international office) to see which countries they have links with and in what subject areas. There is also an Erasmus Switzerland bureau responsible for awarding mobility grants for students travelling to study in both directions.

Will my qualification be recognised in the UK?
Visit the ENIC-NARIC website or look at Studying in Switzerland for information on current issues on international academic and professional mobility and on procedures for the recognition of UK (and other European) qualifications.
http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

STUDY ABROAD IN SWITZERLAND

Switzerland is known for a variety of reasons that are varied in nature. It is known for its neutrality, mountains, lakes, chocolate, yodeling, technology, and above all, banking. What is not popularly known is that it is also a super destination for study abroad. It is not so known for its study abroad program probably because Switzerland prefers to maintain an old-fashioned persona with regards to its strong points, which are its much famed privacy laws and its neutrality.

Switzerland is home to some of the finest technology research institutions and research facilities that have excellent study abroad programs. If you are considering high school study abroad or even high school summer study abroad, Switzerland has the potential to give a remarkable turn to your career plans.

Quiet of few of the teaching institutes are associated with industrial houses of the country and present abundant opportunities for summer study abroad. These institutes can therefore provide hands-on trade simulations, leadership development workshops and allow you to meet leaders in the fields of international diplomacy, commerce, and business. Study abroad programs in Switzerland can give you valuable experience in study and allow you to participate in the global marketplace.
Study Abroad in Switzerland. Become a foreign exchange student in Switzerland. The Swiss Government and foundations give out study abroad scholarships which are tailor made for international students and intended for students with brilliant academic records who cannot afford the academic fees for the various study abroad programs. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships alone hands over 700 study abroad scholarships, of up to $ 5000, every academic year, and are especially meant for the next generation of highly educated and diverse global leaders.

There is a long list of countries whose nationals do not need to procure a student visa for study abroad programs of 90 days or less. For more than 90 days of study abroad in Switzerland, however, all nationals need to apply to the consulate for a visa that is granted within 24 hours, except in cases where the application needs to be referred to the Swiss authorities. The documentation required is fairly limited in comparison to other countries. All that you require is the usual photographs and passport along with return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds in the shape of a bank statement.

If you decide to choose Switzerland as your high school study abroad destination, you can be sure of high class professionalism in the training and education that is imparted to you. The study abroad programs of practically all institutions are well defined and employ teachers who are extremely proficient at their jobs. Switzerland ranks among the top countries in the field of education, especially in science and technology. The programs are packed with educational activities that are fun and provide a welcome breaks from the busy academic curriculum.

In Geneva you can look forward to a walking tour of Old Geneva or a visit to the famous "jet d'eau" that spouts 500 feet above the lake. The eye-catching mountains are overwhelming and have facilities for skiing, mountaineering, and hiking.

Switzerland ranks among the most traveled European countries due to its hotels, diversity of its heritage, its food, chocolates, and of course the Alps. Study abroad programs available in Switzerland, not only provide education and training of an unmatched quality but also give you the opportunity to take the Eurail to nearby Italy or France. You can also ski on The Matterhorn in your spare time when you are not involved in your studies.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Switzerland Scholarships

World-Class Programs in Hospitality and Tourism

Switzerland is one of the most traveled European countries for a lot of reasons, including the Alps, the hotels, the diversity of heritage and the food. For these reasons scores of U.S. students seek out programs in Switzerland that offer world-class training in world-class hospitality and the culinary arts. When they are taking a study break students are hopping the Eurail to nearby Italy or France or skiing The Matterhorn.
Government Scholarships

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships are exclusively designed with the next generation of highly educated and diverse global leaders in mind. Old School rules for international study programs are out when it comes to the Gilman Scholarships. The federal government’s brainchild provides scads of scholarships for disadvantaged undergraduates. Unless you are a Pell Grant recipient don’t even bother filling out an application. Candidates must have great academic records besides the financial need. Minorities and disabled students are shown preference and those attending community colleges are also encouraged to apply. Awards may be as much as $5,000 depending on need. Over 700 of these awards are handed out each academic year.
Study Abroad Organizations

The School for International Training (SIT) is a premier provider of high-quality abroad programs that target a range of disciplines. There are three different programs in Switzerland. Students may concentrate on International Studies in Geneva, Public Health organizations in Geneva, and Social Justice. More than three-quarters of SIT students receive scholarship money from a corps of well-endowed funds. Scholarship awards range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand:

* SIT Fund is the flagship scholarship and is awarded to hundreds of SIT students based on a combination of academic scores and financial need.
* Diversity Scholarships are designed to reward those students who have been traditionally underrepresented in international studies, either by virtue of ethnicity or financial situation.
* HBCU Scholarships are exclusively designed for students enrolled at the Historically Black Colleges.

College Scholarships

The Office of International Programs at Michigan State University offers those students pursuing studies in Switzerland a chance to apply for the following scholarships:

* The University of Lausanne, Switzerland awards MSU students an automatic scholarship of close to $8,000 when they are accepted for the program of study.
* Vincenti Scholarships reward academically outstanding students in the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures. Students wishing to study in Switzerland must be pursuing one of the applicable romance languages to qualify. Awards are up to $3,000 depending on the term of the program.

Schiller International University sponsors the Ben Franklin Scholarship. This award is open to U.S. undergraduate students who wish to study at the Switzerland campus. The scholarship is based on a combination of strong academics and significant financial need. The award covers 25% of the tuition cost. Students interested in SIU have the opportunity to study English-based courses in compelling abroad locations such as Switzerland. SIU specializes in training students in such fields international business and hospitality management.

Kendall College specializes in the hospitality management and culinary arts disciplines. The institution makes it possible for U.S. students to spend part of their study time in Switzerland if they choose. Switzerland is renowned for its tourism and for this reason it becomes a perfect choice for hospitality education. Scholarships offered by Kendall are too many to list, but included among them are:

* Hospitality Industry Scholarships are awarded to hospitality management majors who have strong professional promise and outstanding letters of recommendation. Awards are up to $7,500.
* Dean Christopher Koetke Culinary Arts Scholarship goes to the most accomplished aspiring chef. Applicants must have a strong academic record and proven financial need for the funding. Scholarship is close to $20,000.

The University of Georgia Department of Germanic and Slavic Languages offers programs in Switzerland. In order to help students pay for costly international studies, UGA sponsors Kicklighter Study Abroad Scholarships. Awards vary and are based on a range of criteria.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Scholarships and Student Mobility

For foreign students from a large number of countries, the Swiss government offers scholarships through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS). The following web page of the State Secretariat for Education and Research (SER) provides an overview:
http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Study Opportunities / Universities

Universities
Switzerland has twelve public universities with a total of about 117,000 students. These institutions offer world-class bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees, as well as several Master of Advanced Studies and continuing education courses. They strongly focus on cutting-edge research and cover the following areas:

* Architecture and Design
* Economics
* Engineering
* Humanities, Languages and Social Sciences
* Law and Forensics
* Mathematics and Natural Sciences
* Medicine und Pharmacy
* Pedagogy and Educational Sciences
* Theology

Universities of Applied Sciences
The eight universities of applied sciences provide a practice-oriented education and offer a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s programs, as well as Master of Advanced Studies and continuing education courses. Over 60,000 students attend universities of applied sciences each year. The universities of applied sciences have over 40 individual schools with tuition fees between USD 800 and USD 1,600 per school year. These universities are regionally organized and have campuses at multiple locations. The universities of applied sciences cover the following areas of study and research:

* Applied Linguistics
* Applied Psychology
* Architecture, Building Engineering and Planning
* Agriculture and Forestry
* Business, Management and Services
* Chemistry and Life Sciences
* Design
* Engineering and Information Technology
* Fine Arts
* Social Work and Health
* Sports
* Theater Arts and Music

Universities of Teacher Education
Switzerland offers excellent teacher training programs. In 2007/08, approximately 12,000 students attended courses at the fifteen universities of teacher education, which have both a scientific and practical approach. These institutions grant diplomas at all levels. Their research, which is done in collaboration with other universities and universities of applied sciences, is concentrated on their own occupational field to ensure that the training corresponds to the latest educational and scientific findings.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Studying in Switzerland

Switzerland is a hub for excellent education and science. It has outstanding universities with numerous programs, many world-class public research institutions, and a thriving private sector which encourages research and development and conducts its own cutting-edge research. Studying in Switzerland is relatively inexpensive since education – including higher education – is to a large extent publicly funded. Whereas undergraduate programs are usually taught in the main national languages (German, French, Italian), master’s degree and Ph.D. programs are increasingly conducted in English. Employment opportunities are plentiful in the dynamic Swiss economy and through Switzerland’s access to the European market and the larger world market. The quality of life is among the best in the world. Excellent infrastructure, safety, and political and economic stability are all good extra reasons why Switzerland is a great place to study and conduct research.

Campus and Research Park Switzerland

This handy information brochure presents the many advantages of studying or conducting research in Switzerland. It outlines the excellent Swiss higher education and research landscape and provides a resource for finding the university or research facility which best fits your interests.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Admission Requirements

Language Ability
Good knowledge of the language of instruction (either German, French or Italian) is a pre-requisite for admission to any Swiss university. In the meantime, universities are offering more and more study courses in English, in particular, Master level studies.

Foreign School or College Certificates
To be admitted to a university, candidates must possess either a state-recognised Swiss maturity certificate or another foreign certificate recognised as equivalent by the university.

Entrance Examinations
Candidates who either hold certificates which are only partly recognised for admission or who are asked by the university to take an entrance examination have to pass the examination in Fribourg. There examinations are held twice a year (summer session and an autumn session).

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Universities of Teacher Education

Switzerland has 15 universities of teacher education which train teachers for the pre-school, primary, secondary I and to a large extent, secondary II and also for some specialised domains like special needs education, speech and language therapy and psychomotor therapy. The universities of teacher education award Bachelor's or Master's degrees. Universities of teacher education also offer a Master of Advanced Studies.
http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Universities of Applied Sciences

These universities offer practice orientated university level education accommodating the needs of both students and the job market. As the education students receive is practice-orientated, students graduating from universities of applied sciences (UAS) have very good prospects in the job market. Since 1997, Switzerland has seven public-funded universities of applied sciences, which are organised regionally. Since 2005, there is also a private UAS, which is recognised by the Swiss authorities.

*

Berne University of Applied Science – campuses in Berne, Burgdorf, Biel, Zollikofen and Magglingen
*

University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland – campuses in Brugg/Windisch, Olten, Basel and Muttenz
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University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland – campuses in St. Gallen, Rapperswil, Buchs and Chur
*

University of Applied Sciences of Central Switzerland – campuses in Lucerne and Horw
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University of Applied Sciences of Zurich – campuses in Zurich, Winterthur and Wadenswil
*

Italian-speaking part of Switzerland: University of Applied sciences of Southern Switzerland – campuses in Lugano, Manno, Canabbio and Versico
*

French-speaking part of Switzerland: University of applied Sciences Western Swizerland – campuses in Geneva, Lausanne, Sion, Sierre, Fribourg, Yverdon-les-Bains, Changins, Neuchatel and La Chaux-de-Fonds

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Doctoral/Research Universities

These universities offer theoretically orientated Bachelor’s, Masters and Doctoral degrees. Of the twelve research universities, two are Federal Institutes of Technology; the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne and the Eidgenossische Technische Hochschule Zurich. The universities of Basle, Berne, Lucerne, St. Galle, Zurich and the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich are located in the German-speaking part of Switzerland.

The universities of Geneva, Lausanne and Neuchatel as well as the Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne are in the French-speaking pert of Switzerland. All research universities have the same structure combining research and education. The twelve Swiss universities are divided into faculties or departments including theology, law, economic and social sciences, arts, natural science and medicine. Currently, only research universities are allowed to confer Doctoral degrees

In addition, there are some smaller institutions offering a limited curriculum which confer diplomas in association with a traditional university. They are considered as public institutions of higher education:

* The Graduate Institute for International Studies, Geneva
* The Graduate Institute for Advances Public Administration, Lausanne
* The Graduate Institute of Development Studies, Geneva

These institutions are not allowed to confer doctoral degrees without specifically associating to one of the twelve research universities.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

The Higher Education System in Switzerland

In Switzerland, there three types of university:

1. Doctoral/Research Universities (12)
2. Universities of Applied Sciences (8)
3. Universities of Teacher Education (15)

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Switzerland

Switzerland's location in the heart of Europe means that it has well-established networks between various fields of research, development and industry. The modern, diversified but coherent system of Swiss Higher education is perfectly suited to the needs of students, the scientific community, modern society and the economy is directly compatible with other European systems.

At all the different types of universities, the Bologna Declaration is implemented. The introduction of the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) enables student mobility by ensuring the recognition of credits obtained elsewhere. Switzerland has the highest share of international students in Europe (17%) on Bachelors and advanced studies levels, most of them coming from other European countries.

http://www.universitieshandbook.com/

Learn French in Switzerland

Switzerland became a nation-state in 1291. The democratic principles in effect at the time still form the base of political life today. German was the official language of the 3 original cantons (federal states). Nowadays, in addition to German, 18% of the population speak French, 10% speak Italian and 1% Rumansch (a language derived from Latin). Switzerland is an enchanting country with magnificent mountains, alpine pastures, peaceful lakes and medieval towns and cities. Read more...
Located in the centre of Europe, it is the ideal place from which you can go to visit bordering countries such as Austria, France, Germany or Italy. For all of these reasons, Switzerland has become a favourite destination for tourists from all over the world.

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