Study in Solothurn: Best Universities and Programs for International Students

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Sep 19
5 min read

Solothurn, often called the “most beautiful Baroque town in Switzerland,” is a unique city where history, culture, and modern education meet. Nestled between the Jura Mountains and the Aare River, it is a city with picturesque streets, historical buildings, lively cafés, and green spaces for leisure and study.

But Solothurn is not only about beauty and culture. It is also home to respected universities, teacher education institutions, and modern learning centers offering programs designed for both Swiss and international students. For learners from around the world, Solothurn provides everything needed for an unforgettable study experience:

Safe and welcoming environment
High-quality Swiss education
Affordable living compared to big cities
Easy access to Bern, Basel, and Zurich by train
A rich mix of languages, cultures, and traditions

If you are looking for top academic programs in a friendly Swiss city, Solothurn has much to offer. Let us explore its universities in detail.

1. University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW)

The FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland is one of the largest and most respected applied sciences universities in the country. It was officially established in 2006 after several older institutions from the cantons of Aargau, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, and Solothurn merged into one modern university system.

Today, FHNW offers a wide range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in fields such as business, engineering, life sciences, music, art and design, applied psychology, and education. It serves approximately 14,000 students and employs over 1,000 academic staff, making it one of Switzerland’s most significant educational institutions.

For international students, FHNW offers:

English-taught modules in selected programs
Practical training projects with companies and industries
Modern laboratories, studios, and research centers
Opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship

FHNW has campuses in several cities, and the School of Education (PH FHNW) in Solothurn is especially important for teacher training, making the city a hub for future educators.

2. FHNW School of Education (PH FHNW) – Teacher Training in Solothurn

The School of Education, also known as PH FHNW, is a dedicated teacher education institution within the FHNW system. Its roots go back to the 19th century when the first teacher seminaries in Solothurn began preparing educators for Swiss schools. After the 2006 merger, it became part of FHNW but retained its strong focus on teacher education and pedagogy.

Today, PH FHNW trains about 3,700 students in its regular teacher training programs and provides continuing education courses for over 20,000 professional educators every year. It has a team of more than 600 staff members, including experienced lecturers, researchers, and school mentors.

The school offers:

Bachelor’s degrees for kindergarten, primary, and secondary school teachers
Master’s programs in education and special needs pedagogy
Specialized programs for speech therapy and inclusive education
Career change programs for professionals who wish to become teachers

For international students, PH FHNW provides excellent preparation for working in multilingual classrooms and offers internships in Swiss schools. It combines academic theory with real teaching practice, ensuring graduates are ready for both Swiss and international education systems.

3. Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (FFHS) – Flexible Learning for Modern Students

Another attractive option for students in Solothurn is the Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences, known as FFHS. Founded in 1998, FFHS specializes in blended and online learning, making it ideal for students who need flexible study schedules.

The university offers programs in business administration, computer science, engineering management, and education. With around 3,000 students enrolled across Switzerland, FFHS is perfect for working professionals or international students who want to combine studies with career responsibilities.

Key advantages for students:

Part-time study options so you can work and study at the same time
Online platforms for lectures, seminars, and academic support
On-site workshops and exams in regional centers, including the Solothurn area
Strong focus on applied research and digital skills

For students aiming for an international career or those who cannot attend classes daily, FFHS offers the flexibility of remote education combined with Swiss quality standards.

4. Art and Design Academies in Solothurn

Solothurn is also home to smaller art and design institutions and training centers that provide education in fields such as graphic design, multimedia, photography, and visual communication. Some of these programs are connected to the FHNW Academy of Art and Design, which has a long tradition of creative education in Switzerland.

Students benefit from:

Hands-on training in studios and workshops
Exhibitions and art festivals where they can present their work
Interaction with local cultural institutions such as galleries and museums
Modern technology tools for design and multimedia production

These programs attract both Swiss and international students who want to build careers in the global creative industry while studying in a culturally rich environment.

5. Language and Preparatory Colleges

For international students who need to improve their German or English before starting a degree program, Solothurn offers several language schools and preparatory colleges.

They provide:

Intensive language courses for academic or professional purposes
Preparation for university entrance exams
Cultural orientation programs to help students integrate into Swiss life

Many students spend six months to one year in these colleges before moving on to Bachelor’s or Master’s studies. This pathway ensures a smoother transition into the Swiss academic system.

Why Solothurn is Perfect for International Students

Studying in Solothurn gives you access to top-quality Swiss education without the stress of living in a huge city. Students appreciate:

Safe and friendly environment: Solothurn consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Switzerland.
Affordable living: Housing, transport, and daily expenses are lower compared to Zurich or Geneva.
Central location: Within one hour by train, you can reach Bern, Basel, or Zurich for internships, conferences, or cultural trips.
Rich cultural life: The city hosts music festivals, film festivals, museums, theaters, and outdoor markets.
Nature and sports: Hiking, cycling, and skiing are all easily accessible for students who love the outdoors.

Practical Information for Students

Admission Requirements: International students typically need recognized secondary school diplomas for Bachelor’s programs and Bachelor’s degrees for Master’s programs. Some programs require language certificates in German or English.
Tuition Fees: Compared to other Western European countries, Swiss public universities have moderate tuition fees, often between 1,000–2,500 CHF per year for most programs.
Cost of Living: Students should budget for housing, health insurance, food, transport, and study materials. Living costs in Solothurn are lower than in major Swiss cities, making it easier for students to manage expenses.
Student Support: Universities in Solothurn provide orientation weeks, mentoring programs, language support, and career services to help students integrate academically and socially.

Final Thoughts

Solothurn offers a unique combination of academic quality, cultural richness, and affordable living. With institutions like FHNW, PH FHNW, the Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences, art academies, and language schools, the city provides options for every type of student—whether you want a traditional campus experience, teacher training, online learning flexibility, or creative arts education.

Studying in Solothurn means joining a safe, multicultural community while earning a respected Swiss degree that opens doors worldwide. For international students seeking both academic excellence and quality of life, Solothurn is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Switzerland.