Study in Jura: Top Universities and Institutions in Switzerland’s Beautiful Canton
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Sep 13
- 5 min read
The Canton of Jura, Switzerland’s youngest canton established in 1979, offers a unique mix of quality education, affordable living, and beautiful natural surroundings. Known for its rolling green hills, dense forests, charming towns, and friendly communities, Jura provides an ideal learning environment for students who prefer smaller, quieter places over big bustling cities.
For international students, Jura opens doors to Swiss academic excellence without the overwhelming costs or distractions of larger urban centers like Zurich or Geneva. The canton’s main towns—Delémont (the capital), Porrentruy, and Saignelégier—offer modern infrastructure, cultural events, and a safe environment, all surrounded by nature.
What makes Jura truly special is that it borders France, making it easy to travel across Switzerland and to other European countries. Students can reach Basel, Bern, Lausanne, or even Paris within a few hours by train. This location is perfect for young people who want both a high-quality education and exciting travel opportunities.
In this article, we explore real, verified institutions in the Canton of Jura that welcome international students and provide modern, practical education opportunities.
Why Study in Jura?
Before exploring the institutions, it is important to understand why Jura has become increasingly popular among international students. Some of the key advantages include:
Affordable Living CostsJura is more affordable than most Swiss cantons when it comes to student housing, transportation, and food. This makes it possible for students to manage their finances without sacrificing quality of life.
Peaceful and Safe EnvironmentThe canton offers a calm atmosphere ideal for studying. Students can focus on learning while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling during weekends.
Multilingual OpportunitiesWhile French is the main language in Jura, many institutions provide language support or bilingual programs, giving students a chance to improve their French while also studying in English or German in some courses.
Proximity to Major CitiesJura’s strategic location allows easy travel to cities like Basel, Bern, Lausanne, or even across the border to France. This gives students access to conferences, internships, and cultural events in bigger metropolitan areas.
Swiss Education QualitySwitzerland is famous for its academic excellence. Institutions in Jura follow the same high standards as the rest of the country, ensuring students receive recognized qualifications.
1. Haute École Pédagogique BEJUNE (HEP-BEJUNE)
One of Jura’s most respected institutions is the Haute École Pédagogique BEJUNE (HEP-BEJUNE). Serving the cantons of Bern, Jura, and Neuchâtel, HEP-BEJUNE trains teachers for primary and secondary education and offers continuing education for professional teachers.
History and Background
Founded: 2001 through the merger of teacher-training schools from three cantons.
Jura Campus: Located in Delémont, the Jura campus moved into modern buildings in 2016.
Programs Offered
HEP-BEJUNE offers programs in:
Primary Education (Bachelor’s)
Secondary Education (Master’s)
Special Education Needs
Educational Sciences
Continuing Training for Active Teachers
Why It Attracts International Students
Modern Facilities: The Delémont campus offers advanced teaching labs, libraries, and research spaces.
Research Focus: The institution is known for research in teaching methods, inclusion, and multilingual education.
Internship Opportunities: Strong connections with schools in Jura and neighboring cantons ensure practical training.
Multilingual Environment: Students gain experience in French but also study educational methods suitable for multilingual classrooms.
Graduates from HEP-BEJUNE often find opportunities in education sectors across Switzerland and internationally, making it a great choice for those planning a teaching career.
2. Haute École Arc (HE-Arc) – Delémont Campus
Another major player in Jura’s higher education landscape is the Haute École Arc (HE-Arc), part of the University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland (HES-SO) network.
History and Locations
Established: HE-Arc as an institution came together in the early 2000s, bringing together engineering, health, and management schools across Neuchâtel, Jura, and Bernese Jura.
Jura Campus: The Delémont campus, opened with modern facilities, serves as one of the key educational centers in the canton.
Fields of Study
At the Delémont campus, students can specialize in:
Engineering and Industrial Technologies
Business and Management (via Haute École de Gestion Arc)
Health Sciences (nursing, public health)
Environmental and Conservation Studies
Student Life and Opportunities
With over 1,800 students across multiple campuses, including Delémont, HE-Arc combines practical training with academic study. Students participate in:
Internships: Close partnerships with local industries, including Jura’s famous watchmaking sector and health institutions.
Research Projects: Applied research in engineering, health, and business management.
Exchange Programs: Through HES-SO, students can join international exchanges across Europe and beyond.
International students benefit from smaller class sizes, a supportive learning environment, and access to Swiss and European job markets after graduation.
3. Jura Institute of Health Studies
While health programs are also part of HE-Arc, Jura has smaller institutions and departments focusing on nursing, healthcare administration, and social work. These programs emphasize:
Practical training in local hospitals and clinics
Partnerships with public health agencies
Multilingual patient-care education
Healthcare students in Jura enjoy the advantage of Switzerland’s high-quality medical system and opportunities to work in both French-speaking and German-speaking regions after graduation.
4. Jura Center for Arts and Design
For creative students, Jura offers specialized programs in arts and design. While smaller than big-city art schools, the Jura Center for Arts and Design provides courses in:
Graphic and Visual Design
Fashion and Textile Arts
Photography and Digital Media
Students participate in exhibitions, workshops, and cultural exchange programs, gaining international exposure while enjoying Jura’s inspiring natural landscapes.
Student Life in Jura
Studying in Jura means joining a friendly, close-knit student community. Life here is relaxed, safe, and full of opportunities for cultural and outdoor activities.
Accommodation: Student housing in Delémont and nearby towns is affordable compared to larger Swiss cities.
Transportation: Switzerland’s efficient train and bus systems connect Jura to the entire country and neighboring France.
Sports and Leisure: Students enjoy skiing in winter, hiking in summer, and attending local music and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Language Learning: Many international students take French language classes, improving career prospects in Switzerland and Europe.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Thanks to Switzerland’s strong economy, students graduating from Jura’s institutions have access to careers in:
Education and Teacher Training
Engineering and Technology
Healthcare and Social Work
Business, Management, and Finance
Arts and Design Industries
Many programs include internships, which often lead to job offers even before graduation. The bilingual or multilingual environment further enhances employability in Switzerland and internationally.
Why Jura is the Right Choice for International Students
High-Quality Swiss Education: Programs meet the same standards as those in major Swiss cities.
Affordable Lifestyle: Lower costs for housing and daily expenses compared to Zurich or Geneva.
Peaceful and Safe: A calm environment ideal for focused study and personal growth.
International Networking: Opportunities for exchanges, internships, and global careers.
Cultural Experience: Exposure to Swiss traditions, languages, and European travel.
Conclusion
The Canton of Jura may be small, but it offers excellent education opportunities through institutions like HEP-BEJUNE and HE-Arc. Students benefit from modern facilities, practical training, affordable living, and a multicultural environment while enjoying Switzerland’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
For international students seeking quality education, career opportunities, and a welcoming community, Jura stands out as one of Switzerland’s most promising study destinations.
Comments