Study in St. Gallen: Top Universities and Why International Students Love This Swiss City

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Sep 21
4 min read

St. Gallen, a charming city in eastern Switzerland, has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students. Known for its stunning surroundings, innovative education system, and welcoming atmosphere, it offers a unique combination of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and career opportunities.

If you are looking for a place to study abroad that combines world-class education with a high quality of life, St. Gallen should be at the top of your list. From its rich history to its modern universities, the city offers everything students need to succeed academically and personally.

This article will introduce you to the best universities in St. Gallen, providing detailed information about their founding history, student population, academic strengths, and why they stand out for international students.

Why Choose St. Gallen for Higher Education?

Before exploring the universities, let us understand why St. Gallen is such an excellent choice for international students:

High Quality of Education Switzerland is famous for its academic excellence, and St. Gallen is home to universities that meet global standards. Degrees from Swiss universities are highly respected around the world.
International Environment Many students in St. Gallen come from different countries. English-language programs make it easier for students who do not speak German to study here.
Career Opportunities Universities in St. Gallen have strong ties with businesses and industries. This opens doors for internships, research projects, and future employment opportunities.
Safe and Beautiful City St. Gallen is safe, clean, and surrounded by nature. Students can enjoy hiking in the Alps, visiting Lake Constance, and exploring the city’s cultural attractions.
Strategic Location St. Gallen is close to Zurich, Munich, and Vienna. Traveling around Europe during your studies is easy and convenient.

Top Universities in St. Gallen

Here are the leading universities in St. Gallen, with detailed information about each institution.

1. University of St. Gallen (HSG)

The University of St. Gallen, commonly known as HSG, is the most famous university in the city and one of Europe’s top institutions for business, economics, and law.

History and Founding

Founded in 1898 as an academy for trade, transport, and administration.
Became a university with the right to award doctorates in 1939.
Introduced law studies in 1978 and international affairs in the 1980s.
Today, it is known as a leading business school in Europe.

Number of Students

Around 9,700 students from over 95 countries study at HSG.
Approximately one-third of the students are international.

Programs and Strengths

Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Business Administration, Economics, Law, International Affairs, Social Sciences, and Computer Science.
Highly ranked MBA and Executive Education programs.
Accredited by major global accreditation bodies, ensuring worldwide recognition.

Research and Facilities

More than 40 research institutes and centers work on real-world challenges.
Strong partnerships with businesses offer students internships and projects.
The campus combines modern architecture with green spaces and art installations.

Why International Students Choose HSG

Many programs are taught in English.
Strong international exchange programs with over 200 partner universities.
A vibrant student life with clubs, events, and conferences like the famous St. Gallen Symposium.

2. Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST)

OST, or Ostschweizer Fachhochschule, is the main university of applied sciences in the region, focusing on practical education and innovation.

History and Founding

Established in 1999 after merging several technical and business schools.
Became a leading applied sciences university serving the entire eastern Switzerland region.

Number of Students

Around 3,800 students in Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
Over 1,500 professionals participate in continuing education programs every year.

Programs and Strengths

Fields include Engineering, Business Administration, Computer Science, Architecture, Health Sciences, and Social Work.
Programs focus on hands-on training, applied research, and collaboration with companies.

Research and Facilities

More than 1,000 applied research projects every year connect students with real-world challenges.
Modern laboratories, libraries, and IT infrastructure support learning and innovation.

Why International Students Choose OST

Smaller class sizes ensure personal attention from professors.
Practical learning approach makes it easier to find work after graduation.
Multiple campuses, including a beautiful one near Lake Zurich, offer a great student experience.

3. University of Teacher Education St. Gallen (PHSG)

PHSG is the leading institution for teacher education in the region.

History and Founding

Formed in 2007 by merging two older teacher training colleges.
Specializes in training teachers for kindergarten, primary, and secondary schools.

Number of Students

Around 1,400 students are enrolled in teaching programs.

Programs and Strengths

Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education, Special Needs Education, and Educational Leadership.
Strong focus on modern teaching methods, digital education, and inclusive learning.

Research and Facilities

Research centers focus on pedagogy, learning technologies, and child development.
Close partnerships with schools provide students with real classroom experience.

Why International Students Choose PHSG

Opportunities to learn about Swiss and European education systems.
Practical internships in schools help students gain real teaching experience.
Friendly campus environment with small class sizes.

4. Other Higher Education Institutions

Apart from the major universities, St. Gallen also has specialized institutes and private schools focusing on areas like management, technology, and vocational training. These institutions offer professional diplomas, language courses, and short programs designed for international students seeking career-oriented education.

Living as a Student in St. Gallen

Studying in St. Gallen is not just about academics. The city offers a balanced lifestyle combining learning, culture, and recreation.

Cost of Living: Cheaper than Zurich or Geneva, with student housing options available.
Public Transport: Trains and buses connect the city with the rest of Switzerland and Europe.
Language: While German is the local language, many people speak English, and universities offer English programs.
Recreation: Hiking, skiing, museums, music festivals, and student clubs ensure there is always something to do.
Safety: St. Gallen is very safe, making it ideal for international students living alone for the first time.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Swiss universities maintain close links with industries, banks, international organizations, and research institutions. Students often find internships during their studies and many stay in Switzerland or Europe for work after graduation. Business, finance, engineering, education, and IT are the strongest employment sectors in the region.

Conclusion

St. Gallen combines world-class universities, a safe and beautiful environment, and strong career opportunities. Whether you want to study business at HSG, engineering or health sciences at OST, or become a teacher at PHSG, the city offers top-quality education recognized worldwide.

For international students, St. Gallen provides everything: excellent academics, cultural diversity, modern facilities, and a lifestyle that balances study with exploration. Choosing St. Gallen means choosing a future full of possibilities.