261 Affordable Master's degrees in Switzerland | Mastersportal
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261 Affordable Master's degrees in Switzerland

When considering an affordable master's degree, it's essential to understand what qualifies as 'affordable'. In our system, any master’s programme with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 2,500 euros per year is considered affordable. Switzerland, renowned for its high-quality education, offers a surprising number of budget-friendly options for international students. In fact, affordable master's programmes in Switzerland can start from €0, meaning some universities offer tuition-free education. This makes Switzerland an incredibly appealing destination for students searching for cheap master's degrees. Not only do you get to experience world-class education, but you also benefit from significantly reduced financial burdens. For those looking to pursue a cheap master degree in Switzerland, exploring the top universities in Switzerland can provide valuable insights into the most cost-effective options available.

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ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Energy Science and Technology

The Energy Science and Technology program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is a unique opportunity to understand the production and use of energy in our society.

Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Comparative and International Studies

The Comparative and International Studies program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology aims at enabling students to conduct high-​quality research on a wide range of political phenomena, such as democracy, political violence, European integration, energy politics, security studies, socio-​economic development, and global environmental governance. 

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Specialised Translation

The Master of Arts in Specialised Translation programme of University of Geneva will help you find your place in the fascinating world of translation and confront the challenges related to technological developments. 

M.A. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,280/yr
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences4,0(27)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 6% in Worldwide

Banking and Finance

This Banking and Finance program from ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences offers a full time option for those students who do not work part time and wish to enter the job market with a MSc degree as soon as one year after they finish the BSc.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Infection Biology

The Specialized MSc in Infection Biology at the University of Basel is run by the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), an internationally recognized center for public health excellence.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Comparative and International Studies

The Comparative and International Studies course offered by University of Zurich is a research-oriented graduate program in political science. With its strong emphasis on methods, theory and research.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Physics

The division of the MSc Physics from University of Basel into the two sub-areas corresponds to the two types of physical research, namely on the one hand asking specific questions about nature and exploring them through experiments and on the other hand interpreting the results with the help of mathematical and numerical methods and predicting new facts.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
University of Neuchâtel4,6(8)
Neuchâtel, Switzerland Top 6% in Worldwide

Applied Economics

The Applied Economics programme at the University of Neuchâtel is normally completed within 3 semesters. The first two semesters include core and optional courses, and the last semester is devoted to the writing of a Master’s thesis under supervision of the faculty.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,022/yr
University of Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

International and European Business

The International and European Business study programme from University of Fribourg is management-oriented with a strong emphasis on international management and a focus on business in Europe. 

M.A. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,226/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Geography - Human Geography

This Geography - Human Geography program from University of Zurich offers an in-depth subject-specific focus and guides students towards applied research. Students learn to apply theories, methods and approaches from certain fields in Geography to problems in research and practice, and to critically classify and reflect on these. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

People-Oriented Computing

The program in People-Oriented Computing course from University of Zurich provides students with an advanced academic education and allow them to shape their own profiles.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering programme at the University of Basel's students can choose among courses in image-guided therapy or biomaterials & nanotechnology to learn the basics of a broad spectra of medical devices used for diagnostics, surgery and treatment. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,175/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

English Literature and Linguistics

The English Literature and Linguistics course from University of Zurich expands on the Bachelor's study program.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Psychology

The course in Psychology at the University of Basel focuses on examining and understanding the experience and behavior of people and their ongoing development in the interplay of biological, social and societal conditions and using this knowledge and the resulting skills constructively in research and application.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,175/yr
Bern University of Applied Sciences4,0(20)
Bern, Switzerland

Life Sciences - Agricultural Science

During Bern University of Applied Sciences's MSc programme in Life Sciences - Agricultural Science, you will gain comprehensive knowledge and become a top specialist in your selected area of special expertise.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Ecology and Evolution

The Master's program in Ecology and Evolution at the University of Bern leads to the degree of a Master of Science (M Sc) in Ecology and Evolution.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences4,0(27)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 6% in Worldwide

Business Information Technology

The Master's program in Business Information Technology at the ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences was developed in close cooperation with the information and communication technology (ICT) industry in response to its shortage of skilled labor. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,842/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Chemical Biology

The Master in Chemical Biology programme from University of Geneva prepares students to think beyond the State-of-the-art. Specifically, students will learn how to probe biological problems at the molecular level using innovative chemistry and biophysical approaches. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,280/yr
Bern University of Applied Sciences4,0(20)
Bern, Switzerland

Digital Business Administration

Bern University of Applied Sciences's Master’s in Digital Business Administration prepares you to make companies and organisations fit for the digital future.

M.Sc. Full-time Blended
2 years$2,431/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Quantum Engineering

The Quantum Engineering program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology offers an education program at the forefront of quantum physics, electrical engineering, and information technology.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

  • To qualify for a Masters in Switzerland, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Most programmes require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you need to provide proof of language proficiency, typically TOEFL or IELTS scores for English-taught programmes. Some universities may also require a motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and a CV. It's important to check specific entry requirements for each programme, as they can vary. For detailed information on application processes, visit top universities in Switzerland.

  • Switzerland is home to several world-renowned universities. The ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne consistently rank among the top institutions globally. The University of Zurich is also highly regarded. These universities offer a range of affordable master's degrees, with tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year. For a comprehensive list and rankings, explore the top universities in Switzerland.

  • Master's degrees in Switzerland are affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The Swiss government heavily invests in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low. Additionally, the strong economy and high standard of living contribute to the overall affordability of education. This makes Switzerland an attractive destination for international students seeking budget-friendly, high-quality education. With tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year, Switzerland offers some of the most economical master's programmes in Europe.

  • For cheap master's degrees in Switzerland, language requirements depend on the programme's language of instruction. English-taught programmes typically require TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores often around 90 for TOEFL and 6.5 for IELTS. German-taught programmes require proof of German proficiency, usually at the B2 level or higher. Some universities may accept alternative tests like the Cambridge English exams. It's crucial to check specific language requirements for each programme to ensure you meet the criteria.

  • Yes, international students in Switzerland can study part-time while pursuing their master's degree. The Swiss government allows students to work up to 15 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. This flexibility enables students to gain work experience and offset living costs. However, it's important to balance work and studies to ensure academic success. Many universities also offer part-time master's programmes, providing additional flexibility for working students.

  • While tuition fees for master's programmes in Switzerland are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, can vary significantly depending on the city. On average, students should budget between €1,000 to €1,500 per month for living costs. Other expenses may include health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents, and semester fees, which cover university services and amenities. It's important to plan for these costs to ensure a smooth study experience in Switzerland.

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