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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University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Internet and Society

The Internet and Society course from University of Zurich provides students with theoretical and empirical in-depth knowledge about the interplay of technical, social, economic, political and cultural features of digital media and online communication in modern societies.

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

Medical Biology

The Medical Biology course from University of Zurich is oriented exclusively toward graduates of degree courses in human medicine, veterinary medicine or dentistry

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

Physics

At Master's level, this study programme in Physics provides University of Fribourg students with advanced courses and starts the process of specialisation. About half of the courses are compulsory and of general interest, the other half consists of more specialised elective courses.

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

Chemical and Molecular Sciences

The Chemical and Molecular Sciences program from University of Zurich teaches students the conceptional and experimental methods for designing, manipulating and synthesising molecules and molecular systems within the wider context of the Natural Sciences.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences4,0(27)
Wädenswil, Switzerland +2 Top 6% in Worldwide

Chemistry for the Life Sciences

In the life sciences, competencies from the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, (bio)analysis, green chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology are required. This is where you, as a specialist, can bring your expertise to bear with this Chemistry for the Life Sciences programm offered at ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland +1 Top 1% in Worldwide

Earth Sciences (Geology)

The "University of Bern-Fribourg Master in Earth Sciences (Geology)" is a joint program conducted by the Institute of Geological Sciences at the University of Bern and the Department of Geosciences at the University of Fribourg.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Wealth Management

The Master in Wealth Management at University of Geneva is a three-semester program, 90 ECTS, that combines finance courses such as portfolio management, with law courses, like tax and wealth planning.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,280/yr
University of Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

Earth Sciences

This programme of study in Earth Sciences consists of a joint programme run by the Department of Geosciences at the University of Fribourg and the Institute of Geological Sciences at the University of Bern. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,226/yr
University of Lucerne
Luzern, Switzerland

Political Science

Unique in its form in Switzerland, the University of Lucerne offers a Dual Master’s Degree in Political Science together with Carlton University in Ottawa (Canada).

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,623/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Earth System Science

How are forest fires related to climate extremes? How is the rise in oceanic water levels related to the melting of glaciers? Knowledge in natural sciences and interconnected thinking enables students of the Earth System Science course from University of Zurich to understand events in different spheres of the Earth.

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

Biology - Genetics and Development

The Biology - Genetics and Development course from University of Zurich provides a detailed insight into modern methods of molecular genetics and their ethical consequences.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Interdisciplinary Sciences

This Interdisciplinary Sciences program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology aims at providing students with a broad interdisciplinary training in the basic sciences physics, chemistry and biology as well as mathematics and computing.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,868/yr
University of Lausanne3,8(14)
Lausanne, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Behaviour, Evolution and Conservation

The Master of Science (MSc) in Behaviour, Evolution and Conservation degree offered by University of Lausanne is intended for students who wish to combine an advanced approach to ecology and sciences of evolution with the possibility of working with fauna and/or flora.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,484/yr
University of Lausanne3,8(14)
Lausanne, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Public Management and Policy

The increasing complexity of the tasks carried out by the State and the manner in which it performs them require us to look at public service and the modernisation of public administrations in a new way. The Master of Arts (MA) in Public Management and Policy is offered at the University of Lausanne.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,484/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Earth Sciences

The Master in Earth Sciences programme of University of Geneva is an advanced programme in multiple areas of Earth Sciences that combines basic science and practical applications.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,280/yr
University of Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

Chemistry

Chemistry program from University of Fribourg studies how the atoms are arranged in molecules, materials and in living organisms, and, even more importantly, how do they rearrange and thus make up for nearly all the processes of every day life.

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

Biology - Virology

The student of the Biology - Virology course from University of Zurich will have an opportunity to carry out independent experimental or theoretical work, with a focus on basic science, medical science or veterinary science.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Chemistry and Molecular Sciences

Chemistry teaches us about the building blocks of life and the matter, from the nano level of atoms and molecules to macroscopic materials, with which the world around us is constructed. The master's in Chemistry and Molecular Sciences at the University of Bern is research-focused, enabling you to specialize over the course of three semesters

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Computational Science

The goal of the specialized program in Computational Science at University of Zurich is to provide students with in-depth techniques in computational and simulation science.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

Dynamics in Glaciology and Geomorphology

University of Fribourg's specialised master programme in Dynamics in Glaciology and Geomorphology focuses on changes in cold environments. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,226/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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