Study in Sion: Top Universities in the Historic Heart of Valais

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Jul 25
3 min read

Discover a charming Swiss city perfect for international students

Sion, the capital of the Valais canton, is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities. Surrounded by the stunning Alps and famous for its vineyards, medieval castles, and sunny weather, Sion blends tradition and modern life in the best possible way. Its welcoming atmosphere, peaceful lifestyle, and strong education infrastructure make it a perfect choice for international students looking to study in Switzerland.

Why Study in Sion?

Sion is known as one of the sunniest cities in Switzerland, offering breathtaking views and a high quality of life. It’s a safe, friendly city with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and exploring the nearby Rhône Valley vineyards. At the same time, it’s well-connected to major Swiss cities like Geneva and Lausanne by train. The mix of French-speaking culture, historical charm, and modern facilities makes Sion attractive for students from around the world.

Best Universities and Institutions in Sion

1. University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland – HES-SO Valais-Wallis

This is the leading higher education institution in Sion and one of the key campuses of HES-SO, one of the largest universities of applied sciences in Switzerland. The Valais campus offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in a variety of fields including:

Engineering and Architecture
Business and Management
Health Sciences
Life Sciences and Chemistry
Tourism

The school is known for strong links to local and international industries, innovation hubs, and research centers. Students benefit from practical, hands-on education and access to internship opportunities across Switzerland and Europe.

2. Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (FernUni Schweiz) – Sion Study Center

Though headquartered elsewhere, this distance-learning university has a study center in Sion that supports students in the region. It’s perfect for working professionals and international students looking for flexible, online learning options. The university offers programs in:

Psychology
Law
Economics
History

With Swiss federal recognition, students receive top-quality education with the ability to study part-time or remotely, while enjoying the lifestyle Sion offers.

3. Energypolis Campus – EPFL Valais Wallis

This is one of the most exciting new developments in Swiss education. Energypolis is a collaboration between the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and the canton of Valais, focusing on sustainability, energy, and environmental engineering. The campus is dedicated to cutting-edge research and innovation and is located right in Sion.

This institution attracts postgraduate students, researchers, and international scholars working on the future of clean energy and technology. For anyone passionate about science and sustainability, this is a perfect place to be.

A City That Feels Like Home

International students in Sion enjoy small class sizes, friendly professors, and a community-oriented lifestyle. The cost of living is often lower than in larger Swiss cities, and there are many student-friendly activities – from hiking up to the Valère and Tourbillon castles, to enjoying local wine festivals and winter sports.

The city’s multicultural environment and the presence of French as the main language help students to immerse themselves in Swiss culture while also feeling connected to the international world.

Conclusion

Sion may not be the biggest city in Switzerland, but it offers everything a student needs: top-quality education, safe and scenic surroundings, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are interested in applied sciences, environmental engineering, or distance learning, Sion has something to offer every ambitious student.