| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 3 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 3 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded in 1834, the University of Bern has a rich history of academic excellence. It evolved from a higher education institution that was initially part of a theological school.
Wide Range of Disciplines: The University offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across eight faculties: theology, humanities, law, medicine, science, veterinary medicine, human sciences, and economics and social sciences.
Research: It is renowned for its strong research programs in fields such as climate science, space research, and biomedical sciences. The university is involved in several international research collaborations.
Libraries and Museums: The University hosts several specialized libraries and collections, as well as museums such as the Historical Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, which are significant both academically and culturally.
Centers of Excellence: It includes various centers of excellence and research centers that contribute to its reputation in research and scholarship.
Global Network: The University of Bern is part of numerous international partnerships and networks, facilitating a global exchange of knowledge and research. It participates in various programs like the Erasmus program, which allows for student exchanges with other universities across Europe.
Location: The campus is centrally located within Bern, offering students a mix of urban life coupled with easy access to Switzerland’s natural landscapes.
Student Life: The university fosters a vibrant student community with numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies.
Bachelor and Master of Theology
Interdisciplinary courses that often explore the intersection of religion with other societal issues.
Bachelor of Law (BLaw)
Master of Law (MLaw)
Specializations in European and international law, economic law, and more.
Human Medicine
Dental Medicine
Biomedical Sciences
Veterinary Medicine
The faculty is well-regarded for its research output and clinical training programs.
Veterinary Medicine: Combining theoretical coursework with practical training in animal health and veterinary public health.
Wide range of Bachelor and Master programs in subjects like history, philosophy, languages, literature, and art history.
Interdisciplinary studies and opportunities for involvement in research projects.
Bachelor and Master programs in biology, chemistry, physics, geography, and mathematics.
Ph.D. programs that are highly research-oriented.
Psychology
Educational Science
Sports Science
Medical and Health Sciences
Offers a blend of theoretical and practical approaches to understanding human behavior and development.
Bachelor and Master programs in economics, business administration, social sciences, and political science.
Interdisciplinary approaches to understanding complex societal challenges.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Theology |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Law (BLaw) |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Medicine |
6 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Dental Medicine |
5 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Biology |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Physics |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in History |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in English |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Economics |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Social Sciences |
3 years |
$1,700 |
|
Bachelor of Psychology |
3 years |
$1,700 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science in Computer Science |
2 years |
$1,730 |
|
Master of Arts in English Literature |
2 years |
$1,730 |
|
Master of Law |
1.5 years |
$1,730 |
|
Master of Science in Biomedical Science |
2 years |
$1,730 |
|
Master of Science in Climate Sciences |
2 years |
$1,730 |
|
Master of Arts in Philosophy |
2 years |
$1,730 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Computer Science |
3-5 years |
$200 |
|
PhD in English Literature |
3-5 years |
$200 |
|
PhD in Law |
3-5 years |
$200 |
|
PhD in Biomedical Science |
3-5 years |
$200 |
|
PhD in Climate Sciences |
3-5 years |
$200 |
|
PhD in Philosophy |
3-5 years |
$200 |
Wide Range of Courses: The University of Bern offers a variety of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs across different faculties, including theology, law, business, medical sciences, humanities, science, and veterinary medicine.
Language of Instruction: Most undergraduate courses are taught in German, while many master's and doctoral programs are available in English, particularly those aimed at international students.
Undergraduate Programs: Generally require a recognized secondary school diploma and proof of German language proficiency (e.g., DSH, TestDaF, or equivalent).
Graduate Programs: Require a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on the level of study. Proof of language proficiency in English or German is needed, depending on the program.
PhD Programs: Candidates typically need a master’s degree in a relevant field. Admission often depends on finding a supervisor and may require a research proposal.
Tuition Fees: Tuition fees are relatively low compared to universities in the US or the UK. As of my last update, fees were approximately $1,730 USD per year for most programs, with PhD administrative fees being even lower. However, international students may encounter slightly higher fees in some cases.
Living Costs: Switzerland is known for its high cost of living. Students should budget for expenses including housing, food, transportation, and health insurance. Living costs in Bern can range widely, but a typical budget might be around $1,600 to $2,200 USD per month.
Orientation Programs: The university offers orientation programs to help international students acclimate to life in Bern and the Swiss academic system.
Student Services: International students have access to comprehensive services, including assistance with visas and residence permits, housing, insurance, and integration into campus life.
Cultural Integration: Bern offers a rich cultural scene with museums, historical sites, and regular events and festivals. The university itself hosts various clubs and organizations promoting cultural exchange and community engagement.
Requirement: International students from outside the EU/EFTA need to apply for a visa before entering Switzerland, followed by a residence permit for the duration of their studies.
Application Process: It's advisable to start the visa process early as it can be lengthy and requires various documents, such as admission letters, proof of financial means, and health insurance coverage.
Research Programs: Begin by identifying the program that suits your academic and career goals. The University of Bern offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs across various disciplines.
Language Requirements: Consider the language of instruction. Most undergraduate programs are in German, while many graduate programs offer English as a medium of instruction.
Academic Credentials: Ensure you meet the academic requirements, such as a high school diploma for bachelor's programs or a relevant bachelor's or master's degree for graduate studies.
Language Proficiency: Verify the language proficiency requirements. You may need to provide certificates like TOEFL or IELTS for English, or TestDaF or Goethe-Zertifikat for German.
Specific Program Requirements: Some programs might have additional requirements like entrance exams, portfolios, or interviews.
Transcripts and Diplomas: Prepare certified copies and possibly translations of your academic records.
Letters of Recommendation: These may be required, particularly for master's and doctoral programs.
Statement of Purpose/Research Proposal: Depending on the program, you may need to submit a statement of purpose or a research proposal.
CV/Resume: Especially for graduate applications.
Online Application: Complete the application through the university's online portal.
Application Fee: Some programs may require an application fee.
Deadlines: Be aware of and adhere to the application deadlines, which can vary by program and student origin (e.g., local vs. international).
After submission, the university will review your application. This process can take several weeks, during which your background, qualifications, and documents are assessed.
Offer of Admission: If accepted, you will receive an offer of admission which you must formally accept.
Visa Application: International students from outside the EU/EFTA will need to apply for a student visa.
Enrollment: Complete any final enrollment steps, such as paying tuition fees, registering for classes, and joining orientation sessions.
Accommodation: Arrange for housing, either through university accommodations or private options.
Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance that is valid in Switzerland.
Residence Permit: Apply for a residence permit if you are an international student.
Bachelor's Programs: Typically require a Swiss Maturity Certificate or an equivalent foreign upper secondary school-leaving certificate. Applicants from non-German speaking countries may need to prove their proficiency in German, as many undergraduate programs are taught in German.
Master's Programs: Require a Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited university. Some programs may have specific requirements such as a particular GPA or relevant work experience.
PhD Programs: Usually require a Master's degree in a relevant field. Admission is often directly managed by the individual departments and might include a proposal of your research project.
Ranking Source |
University of Bern Ranking |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Around 110 |
|
U.S. News & World Report - Best Global Universities |
Around 120 |
Scholarship Type |
Description |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
|
Government Scholarships |
Offered by Swiss government for international students; includes Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. |
Primarily for researchers and postgraduate students. |
|
University of Bern Specific Scholarships |
Scholarships specific to the University of Bern; might include grants for specific faculties or research projects. |
N/A. |
|
Mobility Scholarships |
Supports students who wish to study abroad during their education at the University of Bern. |
Open to students at the University who want to study abroad. |
|
External Scholarships |
Scholarships offered by external organizations and available to University of Bern students. |
N/A |
Feature |
Description |
Approximate Cost of Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Locations |
Multiple campuses spread across the city, including main humanities campus at Hauptgebäude. |
N/A |
|
Accommodation Types |
Options range from university dormitories to shared apartments and studio apartments. |
CHF 400 to CHF 800 per month |
|
Facilities Provided |
Typically includes basic furniture, internet access, and utilities. Some may include shared kitchens. |
Included in rent |
|
Accessibility |
Facilities are designed to be inclusive and accessible for all students. |
N/A |
|
Location Advantages |
Close proximity to academic buildings, city center, and public transport. |
N/A |
|
Booking Process |
Students apply through the university's housing office or external providers. |
N/A |
Interdisciplinary Approach: The University encourages a cross-disciplinary perspective, allowing students to engage with multiple fields.
Research Opportunities: As a research-intensive university, students have the chance to participate in cutting-edge research projects, often with international collaborations.
Diversity: With a substantial international student population, the campus culture is incredibly diverse. Students from all over the world bring their unique perspectives and cultures.
Language and Culture: While German is the primary language of instruction for many programs, the university and the city offer plenty of opportunities to learn and practice multiple languages.
Wide Range: There are numerous student organizations and clubs, ranging from academic and professional groups to cultural and sports clubs.
Engagement: These groups provide a platform for students to engage in their interests, connect with like-minded peers, and develop new skills.
Facilities: The university offers various sports facilities and programs, including gyms, team sports, and fitness classes.
Outdoor Activities: Bern’s location offers unique opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling, given its proximity to the Alps.
University Events: Regular academic and social events, including guest lectures, workshops, and cultural nights, help students network and learn.
Local Festivals: Students can experience local Swiss culture through participation in Bern’s festivals and events.
Student Support: The university provides comprehensive support services, including counseling, career services, and academic advising.
International Student Support: Dedicated services to help international students adjust, including assistance with visas, accommodation, and integration.
Urban Culture: Bern is a city rich in history with a vibrant cultural scene, featuring museums, theaters, and historical sites.
Public Transport: Excellent public transportation makes it easy to explore the city and the surrounding region.
Options: Students can choose from university housing, private rentals, or shared apartments, providing flexibility depending on budget and preferences.
Career Counseling: The university offers career counseling services where students can receive guidance on various career options, resume building, and job search strategies.
Workshops and Seminars: Regularly scheduled workshops and seminars help students develop soft skills, such as communication and interview techniques, as well as specific professional skills relevant to their field of study.
Internship Opportunities: The University of Bern encourages students to pursue internships as part of their academic program. These opportunities provide practical experience and help students build professional networks.
Collaboration with Industry: The university collaborates with various industries and organizations, both locally and internationally, to provide students with relevant internship opportunities.
Job Fairs: The university hosts job fairs where students can meet potential employers from different sectors. These events are excellent opportunities for networking and learning about job openings.
Alumni Networking: Alumni events are a good resource for current students to connect with graduates who are established in their fields, providing insights and potential job leads.
Strong Placement Record: Graduates of the University of Bern tend to have good employment prospects, with many finding positions in their field of study shortly after graduation.
Research and Academia: Given its strong focus on research, the university also prepares students for careers in academia and research institutions.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The university supports entrepreneurship through partnerships with local research parks and innovation hubs, where students can work on startups or collaborative projects.
1. Program Popularity and Capacity: More competitive programs, such as medicine or law, may have lower acceptance rates due to high demand and limited spots.
2. Applicant Qualifications: The University of Bern requires that applicants meet specific academic criteria, which include language proficiency, and relevant prior qualifications. The match between an applicant’s background and the program requirements can significantly impact the likelihood of acceptance.
3. International vs. Domestic: International students might face more stringent requirements, including higher language proficiency levels and the need to have their previous qualifications formally recognized by Swiss standards.
Hauptgebäude (Main Building): This is the historic and iconic main building of the university, situated in the city center at Hochschulstrasse 4. It houses key administrative offices, including the Rectorate and central university administration, as well as several academic departments.
Von Roll Area: Located at Fabrikstrasse, this site hosts facilities primarily for the humanities and social sciences.
Muesmatt Area: This campus focuses on science disciplines and is located near the city center. It includes departments like Chemistry, Physics, and Geography.
Engehalde Area: This site focuses on the veterinary sciences and is a bit further from the city center.
UniS: Another central building close to the main train station, UniS hosts several departments and includes advanced facilities for the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Social Sciences.
Bühlplatz and Länggasse Areas: These are primarily academic zones where many of the university’s faculties, particularly the science faculties, are located. They are near the university library and several student accommodations.
Alpenegg: This location is used mostly for administrative purposes.
Murtenstrasse: Hosts the Faculty of Medicine.
