Study in Bern: Top Universities and a City That Welcomes International Students
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Sep 8
- 5 min read
Bern – A Perfect Destination for Learning and Living
Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is not only the political heart of the country but also a city that inspires learning and cultural exploration. Its medieval Old Town, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, blends history and modernity beautifully. Imagine studying in a city where centuries-old fountains meet modern research centers, where charming cafés sit next to high-tech laboratories, and where students can move easily between university libraries, art museums, and hiking trails in the Swiss Alps.
International students find Bern attractive because it is safe, clean, and multilingual, with many residents speaking German, French, and English. The city has excellent public transport, a lively cultural scene, and plenty of green spaces. Whether you want to join music festivals, attend international conferences, or simply enjoy a peaceful study environment, Bern offers it all.
But what truly makes Bern stand out is the quality of its universities. Let’s explore the best universities in Bern, with details on when they were founded, how many students they serve, and what makes them ideal for international learners.
1. University of Bern – Tradition Meets Innovation
Founded in 1834, the University of Bern is one of Switzerland’s most prestigious universities and ranks among the top academic institutions in the country. With over 19,000 students, it is the third-largest university in Switzerland.
The university offers eight faculties, including Law, Medicine, Humanities, Science, Business, and Social Sciences. It has about 160 institutes and several interdisciplinary research centers. International students love the University of Bern for its welcoming atmosphere and the wide range of English-taught Master’s and PhD programs.
The university is especially famous for its research in climate science, medicine, and space studies. For example, scientists from the University of Bern have contributed to NASA and European Space Agency missions. Its medical faculty collaborates closely with leading hospitals, giving students hands-on training opportunities.
Another strength of the University of Bern is its location. Many faculties are in the historic Länggasse district, close to cafés, libraries, and cultural landmarks. The university truly blends into the city, making student life both academic and social.
2. Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) – Practical Skills for Real-World Careers
The Bern University of Applied Sciences, known as BFH, was established in 1997 but has quickly grown into one of Switzerland’s leading applied sciences institutions. With over 7,500 students, BFH focuses on practical, career-oriented education that links theory with real-world application.
BFH has eight departments covering Engineering, Architecture, Business, Health, Social Work, Agriculture, Arts, and Sports. It offers 32 Bachelor’s and 27 Master’s programs, many of which are open to international students. The teaching approach combines classroom learning with internships, applied research projects, and close collaboration with industry partners.
For example, engineering students might work on real product designs with Swiss companies, while business students could join entrepreneurship labs to develop start-up ideas. Agriculture and forestry students benefit from Switzerland’s strong environmental sector, while arts students at BFH’s Bern University of the Arts (HKB) participate in international exhibitions and performances.
With campuses spread across Bern, Biel, Burgdorf, and other towns, BFH students experience both urban and rural life in Switzerland. The university plans to bring some departments together into larger modern campuses to create even better facilities for students in the future.
3. University of Teacher Education Bern (PHBern) – Shaping the Future of Education
The University of Teacher Education Bern, known as PHBern, specializes in training future educators. It offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in education, continuing education programs for teachers, and research opportunities in pedagogy and learning sciences.
PHBern is essential for anyone aiming to become a teacher in Switzerland or abroad. Programs combine theory with practical classroom experience, ensuring graduates are ready to handle real teaching environments.
International students benefit from language support courses, as well as exposure to Switzerland’s multilingual education system. This combination of academic depth and practical training makes PHBern a respected institution for teacher education in Europe.
4. Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (FFHS) – Flexible Learning for Modern Students
The Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (FFHS) offers a unique approach to higher education. Its Bern campus supports students who need flexible study options, combining online learning with in-person seminars held on weekends or evenings.
Founded in the late 1990s, FFHS now serves over 2,000 students across Switzerland. Programs include Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, and Digital Education. This blended model allows students to work or manage family commitments while pursuing higher education.
International students find FFHS especially useful because they can study from anywhere while still earning a recognized Swiss degree. The university also organizes networking events and workshops, ensuring distance learners still feel part of an academic community.
5. Bern University of the Arts (HKB) – Where Creativity Meets Opportunity
The Bern University of the Arts, known as HKB, was founded in 2003 after merging several art, music, and design schools under the Bern University of Applied Sciences. Today, it welcomes around 1,000 students from more than 30 countries, offering programs in Music, Theater, Fine Arts, Literature, Design, and Conservation.
HKB is well-known for its international art collaborations, student exhibitions, and cultural festivals. Music students perform in concerts across Europe, theater students participate in global drama competitions, and design students work on real projects with companies and museums.
The university also encourages interdisciplinary work, where, for example, visual arts students might team up with music students to create multimedia performances. This creative environment makes HKB a truly global center for arts education in Switzerland.
Why Bern is Perfect for International Students
Choosing Bern as your study destination comes with many advantages:
World-Class Education: Swiss universities are known for academic excellence, research output, and international recognition.
Multilingual Environment: Students can study in German, English, or French, and language support courses help newcomers adjust easily.
Safe and Student-Friendly: Bern is ranked among the safest capitals in Europe, offering a peaceful environment for learning.
Cultural and Social Life: Museums, theaters, music festivals, and historic sites give students endless opportunities to explore culture beyond the classroom.
Career Opportunities: Internships, industry collaborations, and research projects prepare students for global careers.
Beautiful Location: Surrounded by the Alps, Bern combines academic life with outdoor adventures like skiing, hiking, and cycling.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Bern means joining a city where education, culture, and quality of life come together perfectly. Whether you choose the historic University of Bern, the career-focused BFH, the teacher-training programs at PHBern, the flexible learning model at FFHS, or the creative atmosphere at HKB, you will find academic excellence and a welcoming international community.
Bern is more than just a place to earn a degree—it’s a city where students grow academically, professionally, and personally while experiencing the very best of Swiss life.
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