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Master's degrees

Studying a master's in Switzerland

Master's degrees in Switzerland

Master's: 1.5 to 2 years. 90 to 120 ECTS.

Switzerland is the quiet outlier: two of the world's best technical universities charge public fees, hospitality management schools set the global standard, and graduate salaries are the highest in Europe. Living costs are the highest too, and part-time work is limited in the first six months, so students need funding in place. English-taught programmes are mostly at master's level.

Cost

Tuition of CHF 1,500 to CHF 4,000 at public universities (ETH Zurich charges more to foreign students from 2025); CHF 30,000 to CHF 60,000 a year at hospitality schools. Private business schools charge CHF 20,000 to CHF 40,000. Living costs of CHF 1,800 to CHF 2,600 a month; immigration expects CHF 21,000 a year.

Entry requirements

A recognised bachelor's degree, usually at second-class honours or 55 to 65 percent depending on the university, English at IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, and a statement of purpose. Some programmes add work experience or a portfolio.

Popular master's subjects

Engineering and computer scienceHospitality and hotel managementFinance and bankingLife sciences and pharmaInternational relations (Geneva)BusinessArchitecturePhysics

After the master's

Job-seeking residence permit: 6 months. Applies to graduates of Swiss higher education institutions. Employers can hire you without a labour-market test for roles of high interest.

Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.

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More about Switzerland

Questions

Related questions

Is Switzerland expensive for students?

Yes. Budget CHF 1,800 to CHF 2,600 a month. Tuition at public universities is low, so the total cost is comparable to the UK once fees are included.

Can international students work in Switzerland?

Yes, up to 15 hours a week after six months (immediately for master's students who completed a bachelor's at a Swiss university), and full time in holidays.

Do I need German or French?

For bachelor's programmes at public universities, usually yes. Most master's at ETH, EPFL and the business and hospitality schools are in English.