Study in Graubünden: The Best Universities for International Students
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Sep 12
- 5 min read
Graubünden, the largest canton of Switzerland, is a truly special place for learning and living. Surrounded by the magnificent Alps, with crystal-clear lakes, charming villages, and modern towns, it offers students an experience unlike anywhere else. The region is famous for its multilingual culture—German, Italian, and Romansh are spoken here—and English is widely used in academic programs, making it perfect for international students.
What makes Graubünden particularly attractive is the combination of academic quality, modern infrastructure, and a healthy, outdoor lifestyle. Students not only get access to excellent universities but also to hiking, skiing, and cultural experiences in one of Europe’s most beautiful regions. Whether you want to study hospitality, tourism, engineering, business, or research science, Graubünden’s universities deliver programs that meet international standards.
Here is a detailed guide to the best universities in Graubünden, with their history, academic strengths, student life, and why they are ideal for students from around the world.
University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons (FH Graubünden)
A Brief History
The University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, often called FH Graubünden or FHGR, was originally founded in 1963 as a small technical college in Chur, the capital of Graubünden. Over the decades, it grew in size, programs, and reputation. It officially became a University of Applied Sciences recognized by Switzerland in 2000, and today it stands as a modern institution offering a wide range of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and continuing education programs.
Student Population and Campus Life
With around 2,300 students and more than 300 staff members, FH Graubünden offers a friendly, personal learning environment compared to larger universities. Classes are small, ensuring individual attention from professors and close interaction with classmates. The campus is located in Chur, a city known for being the oldest town in Switzerland and surrounded by mountains, offering a perfect balance between academics and leisure.
Students have access to modern libraries, research centers, innovation labs, and international exchange programs. The university organizes cultural events, seminars, and career workshops, helping students integrate academically and socially.
Academic Strengths
FH Graubünden offers programs in:
Architecture and Civil Engineering
Tourism and Hospitality Management
Digital Business and Data Science
Information Science and Multimedia Production
Engineering and Sustainability
One of its most popular programs is Tourism Management, reflecting the region’s importance as a global tourism destination. Digital Business and Data Science are growing rapidly, preparing students for careers in modern industries.
The university emphasizes applied learning, meaning students work on real projects with companies and public institutions during their studies. This ensures graduates have practical experience along with academic knowledge.
Why International Students Choose FH Graubünden
Programs offered in both English and German
International exchange agreements with universities in Europe, Asia, and North America
Career-oriented teaching with internships and projects
Safe, welcoming student environment in the heart of the Alps
EHL Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality (EHL SSTH)
Background and Heritage
The Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality, located in Passugg near Chur, was founded in 1966. It later became part of the EHL Group, one of the most prestigious names in hospitality education worldwide. The school has over 50 years of tradition in training future leaders for the tourism and hotel industry.
Student Body and Campus Experience
EHL SSTH is smaller than FH Graubünden, with about 350 to 400 students from over 30 countries. This creates a close-knit, family-like atmosphere on campus. Students live and study in a former grand hotel building, surrounded by forests and mountains, giving them a truly unique environment to learn the art of hospitality.
The campus includes training restaurants, student accommodation, and professional kitchens. Students practice what they learn in real hospitality settings, combining theory with immediate practical application.
Academic Programs
EHL SSTH offers:
Professional Diplomas in Hospitality and Tourism
Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management
Pathways to Master’s programs through the EHL Group network
Programs focus on hotel management, culinary arts, event management, and tourism leadership. Practical internships are part of the curriculum, ensuring students graduate with work experience and professional skills.
Reasons International Students Love EHL SSTH
Swiss tradition of excellence in hospitality education
Practical learning environment with internships worldwide
Strong industry connections leading to global career opportunities
Multicultural student community and English-taught programs
Academia Raetica – Research and Education Network
Foundation and Purpose
Academia Raetica was established in 2006 as a network linking research institutions, universities, and hospitals across Graubünden. It is based in Davos, a town famous for science, medicine, and international conferences.
Unlike a traditional university, Academia Raetica supports Master’s students, PhD candidates, and researchers by providing access to facilities, conferences, and training programs.
Research and Collaboration
The network connects over 30 institutions specializing in:
Life Sciences and Medicine
Environmental and Climate Research
Engineering and Applied Technology
Social Sciences and Education
Annual events such as “Graubünden forscht” bring together young scientists and experienced researchers to present findings, exchange ideas, and build collaborations.
Opportunities for International Students
International Master’s and PhD students benefit from:
Research partnerships across Europe
Specialized workshops and training in scientific writing, data analysis, and project management
Access to laboratories and institutes in Davos and other towns
For students aiming for academic or research careers, Academia Raetica opens doors to international networks and cutting-edge projects.
Higher Technical School of Graubünden (HTW Graubünden)
Technical Excellence in the Alps
HTW Graubünden is a specialized institution focusing on engineering, technology, and applied sciences. It offers diploma programs and professional training courses that prepare students for technical careers in Switzerland’s growing industries.
Programs and Student Life
Key areas include:
Civil and Mechanical Engineering
Energy Systems and Environmental Technology
Digital Systems and IT Management
Project Management and Industrial Design
Students often work on practical projects with local industries, combining theory with hands-on learning. With small class sizes and experienced instructors, HTW Graubünden graduates are highly sought after in technical professions.
Why Graubünden Is Perfect for International Students
Beyond the universities themselves, Graubünden offers an exceptional student experience:
Multilingual Culture: Students practice German, Italian, or Romansh while studying in English programs.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing are all part of daily life here.
Safety and Quality of Life: Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, with excellent healthcare and infrastructure.
International Community: Students meet people from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas, building global friendships and networks.
Career Opportunities: Tourism, hospitality, engineering, and sustainability are strong local industries offering internships and employment.
Tips for Students Planning to Study in Graubünden
Apply Early: Swiss universities often have strict deadlines for international students.
Plan Your Budget: While living costs in Switzerland are high, scholarships and part-time work opportunities exist.
Learn Basic German or Italian: Even if your program is in English, knowing local languages helps daily life and part-time work.
Get Involved: Join student associations, sports clubs, and research groups to build experience and make friends.
Use Internship Networks: Especially in hospitality, tourism, and engineering, internships often lead to full-time careers.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Graubünden means more than earning a degree. It’s about becoming part of a community that values education, culture, and nature. Whether you choose the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons for its broad programs, the EHL Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality for its world-class training, Academia Raetica for research, or HTW Graubünden for technical expertise, you will find academic quality and a lifestyle that supports personal growth.
For international students seeking both adventure and education, Graubünden is a place where career dreams and life experiences come together.
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