Study in Obwalden: Switzerland’s Hidden Gem for International Students
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Sep 16
- 5 min read
Switzerland is world-famous for its high academic standards, multilingual society, and breathtaking natural beauty. Among its 26 cantons, Obwalden stands out as a small yet strategic location for students who want to combine quality education with a safe and inspiring environment.
Although Obwalden itself is a quieter canton with fewer universities compared to large cities like Zurich or Geneva, it is perfectly positioned for students who want a peaceful life while staying close to some of the best educational institutions in Central Switzerland. With excellent transport connections, affordable living compared to big cities, and access to modern universities in nearby regions, Obwalden offers international students a truly unique experience.
This article explores why Obwalden is a great place to study, introduces the main universities and higher education institutions serving students in this area, and explains why more international students are choosing Obwalden as their base for academic success.
Obwalden: A Brief Introduction
Located in the heart of Switzerland, Obwalden is known for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and the Alps rising dramatically in the background. Its capital, Sarnen, is a charming small town with modern amenities, excellent public services, and a welcoming atmosphere for people from around the world.
Key facts about Obwalden:
Population: Around 38,000 people
Main language: German (Swiss German dialect), but English is widely understood, especially in academic settings
Capital: Sarnen
Climate: Four seasons, with beautiful summers and snowy winters ideal for skiing and winter sports
Location: Less than 30 minutes by train to Lucerne, one hour to Zurich Airport
For international students, this means:
A safe, clean, and peaceful environment to focus on studies.
Lower living costs compared to major cities.
Easy access to universities, cultural events, and job opportunities in larger Swiss centers.
Why Obwalden Attracts International Students
1. High-Quality Swiss Education Nearby
While Obwalden itself does not host a large research university, it is part of Central Switzerland’s educational region. Students living here can easily attend Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) and other institutions in Lucerne and neighboring cantons.
2. Affordable Living and Student-Friendly Environment
Renting a small apartment or shared student housing in Obwalden is often cheaper than in Zurich, Basel, or Geneva. Students can commute to nearby campuses while enjoying a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.
3. Excellent Public Transport
Swiss trains and buses are famous for punctuality and efficiency. A student living in Sarnen can reach Lucerne in under 30 minutes, and Zurich in about an hour.
4. Language Opportunities
Many programs in Switzerland are now offered in English, especially at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels. At the same time, students can learn German to improve career prospects across Europe.
5. Healthy and Active Lifestyle
With mountains, lakes, and forests around, students can hike in summer, ski in winter, and enjoy outdoor activities all year round.
Main Universities and Institutions for Students in Obwalden
Here is a closer look at the main educational institutions accessible to students living in Obwalden.
1. Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU)
Founded: 1997
Students: Around 8,300 in degree programs, plus 12,000 in continuing education
Campuses: Lucerne, Horw, Emmenbrücke, Rotkreuz
HSLU is the largest university of applied sciences in Central Switzerland. It serves six cantons, including Obwalden, and offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and professional education programs.
Fields of study include:
Business Administration and Management
Engineering and Architecture
Computer Science and IT Security
Design, Film, and Arts
Music and Performing Arts
Social Work and Health Sciences
Why it is great for international students:
Many programs taught in English, especially at Master’s level.
Close ties with industries provide internship and job opportunities.
Modern campuses with advanced labs, libraries, and innovation centers.
Exchange programs with partner universities worldwide.
Students from Obwalden can live in Sarnen or nearby towns and commute easily to Lucerne or other campuses by train.
2. Berufs- und Weiterbildungszentrum Obwalden (BWZ Obwalden)
Founded: 20th century (modern form since 1997 reforms)
Students: Around 1,000 annually in vocational and adult education
BWZ Obwalden is the Vocational and Continuing Education Center for the canton. It offers:
Swiss Federal Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs
Berufsmaturität (Vocational Baccalaureate) for entry into universities of applied sciences
Language courses, IT training, and adult education workshops
For international students or professionals seeking practical training in fields like hospitality, business, or technology, BWZ provides shorter programs and recognized Swiss qualifications.
3. Stiftsschule Engelberg
Founded: 1120 (as part of the Benedictine monastery tradition)
Students: Around 300 (secondary + pre-university levels)
Stiftsschule Engelberg is a private boarding and day school in Engelberg, an exclave of Obwalden. It offers a bilingual Swiss Matura (university entrance qualification) in German and English.
While not a university itself, many international students choose this school for high-quality secondary education before entering Swiss or European universities. The boarding option makes it attractive for students from abroad.
4. Pflegeschule Zentralschweiz (Health Professions School)
Located in Alpnach (Obwalden), this institution offers vocational training in healthcare professions, including nursing, elderly care, and community health services.
With the global demand for healthcare workers increasing, these programs provide both theoretical and practical training, often including internships in Swiss hospitals or clinics.
5. International Partnerships via HSLU
HSLU maintains partnerships with over 200 universities worldwide. This means students in Obwalden studying at HSLU campuses can benefit from exchange semesters, dual degrees, or international research projects.
Fields like Business, Engineering, and Computer Science have especially strong global connections, making graduates highly employable across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Student Life in Obwalden
Life as a student in Obwalden combines academics with culture, sports, and social activities.
Housing:
Shared apartments (“WG” in Swiss German) are popular among students.
Some stay in Lucerne or nearby towns; others commute daily from Obwalden.
Cultural Life:
Local festivals like Fasnacht (Carnival) offer a taste of Swiss traditions.
Music, art, and film events in Lucerne are only a short train ride away.
Sports and Recreation:
Skiing in Engelberg-Titlis resort during winter.
Hiking, cycling, and swimming in Lake Sarnen during summer.
Part-Time Jobs:
International students often find part-time work in hospitality, tourism, or tutoring, depending on visa regulations.
Advantages of Studying in Obwalden
Peaceful Study Environment: Far from big-city distractions.
Lower Living Costs: More affordable housing and daily expenses than Zurich or Geneva.
Proximity to Top Institutions: Easy access to HSLU and other universities in Central Switzerland.
Practical Learning Opportunities: Internships and applied research projects prepare students for real careers.
Multilingual Skills: Study in English, learn German, and join a truly international community.
Tips for International Students
Learn Basic German: Even if your program is in English, German helps in daily life.
Use Public Transport Passes: Swiss student discounts make commuting affordable.
Explore Switzerland: Weekends are perfect for visiting Lucerne, Zurich, Bern, or even Milan and Munich.
Network Early: Internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation.
Conclusion
Obwalden may be small, but for international students it offers a perfect mix: peaceful living, affordable costs, and access to one of Switzerland’s best applied universities — Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts — along with vocational schools and pre-university programs.
Studying here means you can enjoy Swiss quality education, stunning natural surroundings, and real career opportunities — all while experiencing a welcoming, safe, and culturally rich environment.
For those seeking a European education with global value, Obwalden is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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