260 Affordable Master's degrees in Switzerland | Mastersportal
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260 Affordable Master's degrees in Switzerland

When considering an affordable master's degree, it's essential to understand what qualifies as 'affordable'. In our system, any master’s programme with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 2,500 euros per year is considered affordable. Switzerland, renowned for its high-quality education, offers a surprising number of budget-friendly options for international students. In fact, affordable master's programmes in Switzerland can start from €0, meaning some universities offer tuition-free education. This makes Switzerland an incredibly appealing destination for students searching for cheap master's degrees. Not only do you get to experience world-class education, but you also benefit from significantly reduced financial burdens. For those looking to pursue a cheap master degree in Switzerland, exploring the top universities in Switzerland can provide valuable insights into the most cost-effective options available.

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University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Molecular and Cellular Biology

Graduates of the Molecular and Cellular Biology course at University of Zurich have skills in scientific research. Their knowledge allows them to understand complex biological systems.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

International and European Business

The International and European Business study programme from University of Fribourg is management-oriented with a strong emphasis on international management and a focus on business in Europe. 

M.A. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,226/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Geography

The Master program in Geography at the University of Bern builds upon the knowledge acquired in the Bachelor program by offering a specialized yet also interdisciplinary education that allows students to pursue various careers: Geographers can be found in public agencies, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, development organizations and consulting firms.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Plant Science

Within the Basel life science program, the Department of Environmental Sciences offers a comprehensive 1.5 year Master's course in Plant Science at the University of Basel for graduates with a background in biology (BSc in biology or equivalent).

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Biochemistry - Chemical Biology

The Master´s degree programme in Biochemistry - Chemical Biology at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is designed to deepen academic knowledge with a focus on experimental scientific work in the areas of chemical biology, biochemistry and organic chemistry and their interfaces with biology, bioanalytics, pharmacy and biomedical fields. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland +1 Top 1% in Worldwide

Public Management and Policy

 This Public Management and Policy degree program at the University of Bern offers interdisciplinary training with lectures and seminars and case studies focusing on methodology and subject area.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

International and Monetary Economics

A comprehensive understanding of monetary policy, financial markets and their regulatory environment constitutes the core of this International and Monetary Economics Master’s program at the University of Basel.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Biostatistics

The Biostatistics program from University of Zurich provides students with a deeper scientific understanding and the capability to carry out independent scientific work in biostatistics.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences4,0(27)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 6% in Worldwide

Banking and Finance

This Banking and Finance program from ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences offers a full time option for those students who do not work part time and wish to enter the job market with a MSc degree as soon as one year after they finish the BSc.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Materials Science and Engineering

The Materials Science and Engineering program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology brings students in contact with the latest research in Materials Science and Engineering and allows them to explore a variety of areas of expertise in Materials and the neighbouring disciplines.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

World Literature

The World Literature degree program at the University of Bern is about critically examining conventional definitions of "world literature" and redrawing the boundaries in view of the conditions prevailing in a globalized and media-driven world.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Ecology and Evolution

The Master's program in Ecology and Evolution at the University of Bern leads to the degree of a Master of Science (M Sc) in Ecology and Evolution.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Mathematics

The Master’s program in Mathematics at the University of Bern includes lectures on advanced topics, seminars and writing the Master's thesis. This thesis is a first step towards independent scientific research.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
Bern University of Applied Sciences4,0(20)
Bern, Switzerland

Circular Innovation and Sustainability

The Bern University of Applied Sciences master's programme in Circular Innovation and Sustainability combines business skills with a technical and ecological understanding of production cycles and the sustainable use of our natural resources.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Biology - Microbiology

The practical and theoretical parts of the Biology - Microbiology course offered by University of Zurich focus on the interactions between microorganisms and their interaction with higher organisms as well as on microbial processes that occur in fresh water.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Sustainable Societies and Social Change

Addressing the role of society as central to transformative social change, the Sustainable Societies and Social Change Masters program at the University of Geneva offers conceptual handles and practical tools for better understanding how societies are organized and regulated, while delivering instruments for supporting social change.

Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,280/yr
University of Bern4,2(11)
Bern, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Molecular Life Sciences

The program in Molecular Life Sciences of the University of Bern is run jointly by the Institutes of Cell Biology and Plant Sciences and the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of the Science Faculty. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Drug Sciences

The MSc in Drug Sciences at the University of Basel provides theoretical and practical skills in the field of the discovery, development and safety aspects of drugs. This Master program is focused on a future career in industrial or academic research, product development or in a regulatory agency.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,175/yr
Bern University of Applied Sciences4,0(20)
Bern, Switzerland

Conservation-Restoration

The central objective of this MA programme in Conservation-Restoration at the Bern University of Applied Sciences is to train you to engage in interdisciplinary exchange, in order to make appropriate recommendations for the conservation of cultural artefacts. You will also become practised in implementing these recommendations.

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr

Physics of Life

The Physics of Life degree at University of Basel provides training in cutting-edge research in biophysics, at the interface of physics, mathematics, engineering, and life sciences. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

  • To qualify for a Masters in Switzerland, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Most programmes require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you need to provide proof of language proficiency, typically TOEFL or IELTS scores for English-taught programmes. Some universities may also require a motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and a CV. It's important to check specific entry requirements for each programme, as they can vary. For detailed information on application processes, visit top universities in Switzerland.

  • Switzerland is home to several world-renowned universities. The ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne consistently rank among the top institutions globally. The University of Zurich is also highly regarded. These universities offer a range of affordable master's degrees, with tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year. For a comprehensive list and rankings, explore the top universities in Switzerland.

  • Master's degrees in Switzerland are affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The Swiss government heavily invests in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low. Additionally, the strong economy and high standard of living contribute to the overall affordability of education. This makes Switzerland an attractive destination for international students seeking budget-friendly, high-quality education. With tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year, Switzerland offers some of the most economical master's programmes in Europe.

  • For cheap master's degrees in Switzerland, language requirements depend on the programme's language of instruction. English-taught programmes typically require TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores often around 90 for TOEFL and 6.5 for IELTS. German-taught programmes require proof of German proficiency, usually at the B2 level or higher. Some universities may accept alternative tests like the Cambridge English exams. It's crucial to check specific language requirements for each programme to ensure you meet the criteria.

  • Yes, international students in Switzerland can study part-time while pursuing their master's degree. The Swiss government allows students to work up to 15 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. This flexibility enables students to gain work experience and offset living costs. However, it's important to balance work and studies to ensure academic success. Many universities also offer part-time master's programmes, providing additional flexibility for working students.

  • While tuition fees for master's programmes in Switzerland are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, can vary significantly depending on the city. On average, students should budget between €1,000 to €1,500 per month for living costs. Other expenses may include health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents, and semester fees, which cover university services and amenities. It's important to plan for these costs to ensure a smooth study experience in Switzerland.

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