Sarnen as Your Study Hub — Top Swiss Universities You Can Reach with Ease
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Sarnen, nestled in the heart of central Switzerland, is a serene town surrounded by lakes, mountains, and charming Swiss villages. Though it is smaller than Switzerland’s major cities, its central location gives you easy access to places like Lucerne, Interlaken, and Zürich. For international students seeking a peaceful, clean, safe, and nature-rich environment to study, Sarnen offers a refreshing base. You’ll find fresh air, local Swiss culture, and the opportunity to escape the bustle while still being connected via public transport to the bigger academic hubs around Switzerland.
Because Sarnen is in the canton of Obwalden, it is in close proximity to several well-regarded universities, colleges and applied science schools in Central Switzerland and neighboring cantons. While Sarnen itself does not host large universities, its strategic location makes it a great “home base” to attend excellent institutions nearby. Below are some of the top universities accessible from Sarnen — each with strengths, appeal, and relevance for international students.
Top Universities Around Sarnen
1. Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU)
This university of applied sciences is one of the most respected in Central Switzerland, serving the six central cantons.
Highlights for international students:
The HSLU offers applied programs in engineering, business, design, health, social work, and more.
In the health and medtech fields, HSLU offers specialized degrees such as BSc in Nursing and BSc in Medical Engineering / Life Sciences. These programs emphasize a blend of practical training, academic theory, and collaboration with healthcare and tech companies.
Because of its regional focus, class sizes can be more intimate, and students often benefit from close guidance and strong ties to local industry.
Living near Sarnen gives you relatively easy access to the Lucerne area campuses while still keeping the calm of smaller-town life.
2. University of St. Gallen (HSG)
One of Switzerland’s most prestigious universities, particularly in business, economics, law, and international affairs.
Why it stands out:
HSG is consistently ranked among Europe’s best for its business and management programs.
It carries the triple accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA), which assures global recognition of its quality.
HSG attracts a diverse student body, with many international students and a strong reputation in networks like CEMS.
The university offers programs in English, especially at the master’s level, which is helpful for non-German speakers.
The campus environment is lively, with many student clubs, international events, and strong alumni connections.
Even though St. Gallen is not immediately adjacent to Sarnen, Switzerland’s efficient public transport makes commuting or occasional relocation manageable.
3. Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST / FH Ostschweiz)
A modern applied sciences university with multiple campuses — in St. Gallen, Rapperswil, and Buchs.
What makes OST appealing:
It offers a strong selection of practice-oriented programs in technology, engineering, planning, business and social work.
The campus in St. Gallen especially is well-equipped, modern and conveniently located near the train station, making access easier for commuting students.
Since it is an applied sciences (Fachhochschule) institution, OST focuses heavily on real-world projects, internships, and collaboration with companies — an ideal environment for students wanting hands-on experience.
For students based in Sarnen, OST is within a reasonable travel radius, and the multiple campuses offer variety in study location.
Why “Study in Sarnen” Works — The Advantages
Peaceful study environment: Away from the hustle of large cities, Sarnen lets you concentrate, refresh, and recharge after lectures.
Affordability & local living: Living in smaller towns often means lower rents, easier access to nature, and fewer distractions.
Good transport links: Switzerland’s trains and buses are efficient, making it reasonable to travel daily or weekly to nearby campuses.
Cultural integration: In quieter towns, students often integrate more with locals, improving language skills (German, Swiss-German) and gaining authentic Swiss experience.
Quality of life: Safety, cleanliness, fresh air, alpine scenery — all make daily life in Sarnen very pleasant.
Tips for Students Considering Sarnen as a Base
Check commuting time: Before choosing a program far away, map out train/bus travel times. Some campuses may require earlier departures or occasional overnight stays.
Language preparation: While many university master’s programs are in English, undergraduate and applied-science courses may require German or Swiss-German. Learning the local language helps a lot.
Internships & industry links: The universities listed often partner with local businesses. Living in Sarnen doesn’t stop you from engaging in internships in Lucerne or in the region.
Accommodation planning: Explore student housing or shared apartments near transport hubs to minimize long commutes.
Community involvement: Join student clubs or local community groups in Sarnen or your university town — this helps build networks and ease cultural transition.
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