Why Valais Is a Great Place to Study for International Students
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Sep 25
- 5 min read
Valais, one of the most stunning regions of Switzerland, offers a rare combination of academic excellence, vibrant student life, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. For international students, Valais represents much more than just a place to study—it is a place to grow academically, culturally, and personally while surrounded by some of Europe’s most iconic landscapes.
This guide introduces you to the best universities and institutions in Valais, explains why this canton is so appealing to students from around the world, and gives a detailed look at student life, programs, and opportunities in this unique Swiss region.
Why Valais Is Perfect for International Students
A Natural Paradise Meets Modern Education
Imagine stepping out of your classroom and being greeted by snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages. Valais offers this scenery every day. From the famous Matterhorn in Zermatt to the sunny Rhône Valley vineyards, the canton combines a healthy lifestyle with academic ambition.
Students often say that living in Valais feels like studying on the world’s most beautiful campus. Hiking trails, ski slopes, and cycling routes are just minutes away, creating the perfect balance between academic work and outdoor recreation.
Multilingual and Multicultural Advantage
Switzerland itself has four official languages, and Valais reflects this diversity. French and German are commonly spoken here, and English is increasingly used in universities, research, and tourism. For international students, this multilingual environment means the chance to improve language skills while interacting with people from all over the globe.
Living in Valais teaches students far more than what is in their textbooks: it builds intercultural competence, adaptability, and global confidence.
Affordable and Safe
Compared to Switzerland’s major cities such as Zurich, Geneva, or Lausanne, the cost of living in Valais is often more affordable. Housing prices, public transport, and daily expenses are generally lower, while the quality of life remains exceptionally high.
Valais is also known for its safety. With low crime rates, reliable public services, and welcoming communities, international students can feel secure and supported during their entire stay.
Strong Connections with Industry
One of Valais’s biggest strengths is the close connection between universities and real-world industries. Institutions here work with tourism companies, energy firms, hospitals, technology startups, and research centers.
This means students are not limited to theoretical learning. Instead, they gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and direct collaboration with employers. For many students, this leads to job offers in Switzerland or across Europe after graduation.
Best Universities and Institutions in Valais
Valais is home to the HES-SO Valais-Wallis, the main institution of higher education in the region. It consists of several schools covering engineering, management, tourism, health, social work, and art & design. Each school has its own campus, programs, and specialties.
Here is a detailed look at the leading institutions for international students in Valais.
1. HES-SO Valais-Wallis (University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland – Valais)
HES-SO Valais-Wallis is the cornerstone of higher education in the canton. It is part of the larger HES-SO network, one of Switzerland’s biggest universities of applied sciences.
Key Facts:
Offers bachelor’s, master’s, and continuing education programs
Emphasizes applied research, innovation, and professional training
Campuses located in Sion, Sierre, Loèche-les-Bains, and Viège (Visp)
Welcomes students from over 30 countries
The university collaborates closely with local businesses, hospitals, and tourism centers, giving students access to internships, real-life projects, and professional networks.
2. School of Engineering – Sion Campus
Located in Sion, this school focuses on technology, renewable energy, environmental engineering, and industrial systems. Students benefit from modern laboratories, research institutes, and connections with Switzerland’s growing tech and energy sectors.
Programs here prepare students for careers in:
Renewable energy and sustainability
Robotics and industrial automation
Environmental and civil engineering
Information technology and digital systems
With the world moving towards green energy and smart technologies, graduates from this school are in high demand.
3. School of Management and Tourism – Sierre Campus
Sierre, known as the “City of the Sun” for its sunny climate, hosts the School of Management and Tourism. It offers programs in business administration, tourism, and digital marketing.
The Bachelor in Tourism is especially popular, thanks to Valais’s global reputation as a tourism hub. Students work on real projects with ski resorts, hotels, and international tourism companies while learning about sustainability, event management, and hospitality innovation.
4. Health and Social Work Schools
Valais also provides excellent education in healthcare and social sciences. Nursing, physiotherapy, social work, and community health programs prepare students for meaningful careers in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and NGOs.
Students gain practical experience in local healthcare institutions, ensuring they graduate with both academic knowledge and hands-on training.
5. Art and Design School – EDHEA in Sierre
The École de Design et Haute École d’Art du Valais (EDHEA) offers programs in visual arts, design, and contemporary art practices. Students work on creative projects that often connect art with technology, environment, and public spaces.
International workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations make EDHEA an exciting place for artists looking to combine creativity with global perspectives.
6. Research Institutes and Innovation Centers
Beyond teaching, Valais is home to several research centers focusing on energy, biotechnology, digital transformation, and environmental sciences.
Students can participate in cutting-edge projects, often funded by Swiss or European research programs, giving them valuable experience in innovation and technology development.
Life as a Student in Valais
Accommodation and Housing
Most campuses offer student housing or assist students in finding affordable apartments. Shared flats are common, helping students reduce costs and integrate socially.
Transport and Travel
Valais has an excellent public transport system. Trains and buses connect all major towns, ski resorts, and campuses. Students often receive discounted travel cards, making it easy to explore Switzerland and even visit nearby France and Italy on weekends.
Sports and Outdoor Activities
Valais is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are part of student life. In summer, hiking, climbing, and cycling dominate weekends. The canton has hundreds of kilometers of trails, national parks, and world-famous resorts like Zermatt and Verbier.
Cultural Life
Valais hosts film festivals, music concerts, art exhibitions, and local wine festivals. Students can join cultural clubs, language exchange groups, and international student associations to meet new friends and learn new skills.
Career Opportunities
Thanks to the strong links between universities and industries, many students find internships and part-time jobs during their studies. Graduates often secure positions in Switzerland’s tourism sector, technology companies, healthcare institutions, and research organizations.
Why Choose Valais Over Other Regions?
While Zurich and Geneva are better known internationally, Valais offers a more affordable, personal, and scenic alternative. Class sizes are smaller, professors are approachable, and campuses are integrated into local communities.
Students do not just study here—they become part of a living, breathing cultural and economic ecosystem that values sustainability, innovation, and tradition in equal measure.
Practical Tips for International Students
Language: Learn some basic French or German before arrival; it will help you integrate faster.
Budgeting: While tuition fees are reasonable, remember to plan for health insurance, housing, and daily expenses.
Student Networks: Join student associations to build friendships and professional contacts.
Travel: Use student discounts to explore Switzerland by train—it is one of the best ways to see the country.
Internships: Take advantage of the region’s industry links to gain practical experience before graduation.
Conclusion: Valais – A Hidden Gem for Higher Education
Valais combines academic quality, cultural diversity, natural beauty, and professional opportunities in one unique package. Whether you want to study engineering, tourism, health, business, or the arts, Valais offers programs that prepare you for global careers while giving you the lifestyle of the Swiss Alps.
For international students seeking a safe, affordable, and inspiring study destination, Valais is truly one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets.
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