Study Languages Offered by Universities in Switzerland for International Students
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Jul 29
- 5 min read
Switzerland is unique in many ways—and one of its most fascinating features is its multilingual culture. With four national languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh), the country naturally offers education in several languages depending on the region. For international students, this means more choices and opportunities, whether you speak English or want to learn a new language.
Most universities in Switzerland offer bachelor's programs in the local language of their region, while master's and doctoral programs are often taught in English to attract students from around the world. Below is a list of the top 10 universities in Switzerland and the main study languages they offer for international students.
1. ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
Located in Zurich, ETH Zurich is a leading science and technology university in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. All bachelor's degree programs at ETH are taught in German. However, the university understands the international nature of research and offers many master’s and doctoral programs in English, especially in fields like engineering, physics, computer science, and architecture.
To support foreign students, ETH provides German language courses and orientation programs to help newcomers adapt. Students often start with English-language studies and gradually learn German for daily life in Zurich.
Study languages:– German (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Most Master’s and PhD programs)
2. EPFL – École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
EPFL is based in Lausanne, a French-speaking city by Lake Geneva. While bachelor’s programs are taught mainly in French, EPFL offers a wide range of master’s and PhD programs in English. These include programs in computer science, engineering, life sciences, and environmental studies.
The university encourages students to learn French through free or low-cost language courses. Even though many classes are in English, students benefit from the chance to live in a French-speaking environment, offering a rich cultural experience.
Study languages:– French (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Most Master’s and PhD programs)
3. University of Zurich
The University of Zurich is one of the largest universities in Switzerland and is located in the German-speaking part of the country. Most undergraduate programs are delivered in German, especially in areas such as law, medicine, and humanities. However, the university has been expanding its master’s offerings in English, especially in economics, biology, business, and neuroscience.
Many doctoral programs are also available in English, making it easier for international researchers to integrate into the academic community. Language support is available, and some departments even provide English-only study tracks.
Study languages:– German (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Selected Master’s and PhD programs)
4. University of Geneva
Situated in the heart of the French-speaking region, the University of Geneva has a long history of hosting international students. Most bachelor’s programs are taught in French, but the university offers an increasing number of English-taught master's programs, especially in international relations, development studies, environmental sciences, and global health.
As a hub for international organizations, Geneva is a great place for English speakers, even outside the university. French courses are also available to help students better integrate into the local culture.
Study languages:– French (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Many Master’s and PhD programs)
5. University of Lausanne
The University of Lausanne is also located in the French-speaking part of the country and teaches most bachelor-level courses in French. However, many master’s programs are now offered in English, including those in business, law, finance, and biology. International students are encouraged to take French lessons, and the campus community is very welcoming.
Students appreciate the balance of international studies and the chance to improve or learn a new language. The university also supports international students through workshops and academic writing support in English.
Study languages:– French (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Several Master’s and PhD programs)
6. University of Basel
Founded in 1460, the University of Basel is the oldest university in Switzerland. Located in the German-speaking region, it offers most bachelor’s programs in German. However, it provides a growing number of master's and doctoral programs in English, especially in biomedicine, economics, and sustainability studies.
Basel’s international reputation in life sciences and medical research attracts many foreign scholars. English is commonly used in labs and research centers. Students also benefit from German language support and academic writing programs.
Study languages:– German (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Selected Master’s and PhD programs)
7. University of Bern
The University of Bern, located in the capital city, teaches most undergraduate courses in German. However, it offers many master’s programs in English, particularly in science, climate research, and international law. The university also attracts doctoral students with English-taught research opportunities in medicine, technology, and economics.
German language classes are available for international students, and many departments allow students to write exams and papers in English during their transition period.
Study languages:– German (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Various Master’s and PhD programs)
8. University of St. Gallen
The University of St. Gallen is well-known for its programs in business, finance, and international affairs. It is located in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Most bachelor's courses are in German, but many master’s programs are taught entirely in English, such as International Management, Banking and Finance, and Strategy and International Affairs.
The university also offers dual-language (German/English) programs, allowing international students to gradually improve their German while continuing their academic studies in English.
Study languages:– German (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Many Master’s and PhD programs)
9. Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI)
USI is Switzerland’s Italian-speaking university, based in the beautiful city of Lugano. Most bachelor’s programs are in Italian, but many master’s and PhD programs are offered in English, particularly in fields like communication, finance, informatics, and architecture.
This university provides a friendly, close-knit learning environment. Students are encouraged to take Italian language classes, but they can comfortably complete their studies in English if enrolled in specific international programs.
Study languages:– Italian (Bachelor’s programs)– English (Master’s and PhD programs)
10. Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva
This highly specialized institute offers all its programs at the master’s and doctoral levels and teaches entirely in English. Located in Geneva, the institute focuses on international relations, development, international law, and political science.
It attracts students from over 100 countries and is ideal for those who wish to study global affairs in a fully English-speaking academic environment. French is also spoken in daily life in Geneva, and many students take French classes to improve their integration.
Study languages:– English only (Master’s and PhD programs)
Final Thoughts
Switzerland is a truly multilingual study destination. Whether you speak German, French, Italian, or English—or want to learn one of them—there’s a university and program for you. While most undergraduate programs are in local languages, many master's and doctoral degrees are offered in English to welcome students from around the world.
By choosing to study in Switzerland, you’re not only getting a high-quality education—you’re also immersing yourself in a rich linguistic and cultural environment that opens many doors for your personal and professional future.
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