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 Lausanne3,8(14)
Lausanne, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Public Management and Policy

The increasing complexity of the tasks carried out by the State and the manner in which it performs them require us to look at public service and the modernisation of public administrations in a new way. The Master of Arts (MA) in Public Management and Policy is offered at the University of Lausanne.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,484/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Nanosciences

In the Nanosciences programme at the University of Basel, the interdisciplinary approach is pursued through 2 project work in different disciplines, in addition to the Master's thesis.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Prehistoric Archaeology

The Master in Prehistoric Archaeology programme of University of Geneva addresses themes such as general prehistory, the prehistory and protohistory of Europe and Africa, ethnoarchaeology, theoretical archaeology, palaeoanthropology and archaeozoology. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,280/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 Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Economic History

Historians and economists use different models and terminologies to explain economic developments, and business and economic policy decisions. The Economic History course  offered by The University of Zurich removes these barriers to understanding to build a productive relationship of cooperation between the two disciplines.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
Bern University of Applied Sciences4,0(20)
Bern, Switzerland

Wood Technology

With a MSc in Wood Technology at the Bern University of Applied Sciences, you will enjoy excellent career prospects across sectors, in an increasingly globalised, digitally connected world.

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

Social Anthropology

The MASA program at the University of Bern addresses all the varied aspects of Social Anthropology. The program also focuses on innovative research in both traditional areas, such as kinship, social exchange, religious and ritual practices, ethnicity, material culture and the human-environment relationship, and new fields such as gender studies and the anthropology of climate change.

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

Eastern European Studies

Students in the Eastern European Studies program at the University of Bern learn about the specific political and social problems in East European societies, which are still in the midst of a transformation.

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

Data Science

The University of Zurich offers a Master of Science degree in Data Science, designed to be completed over four semesters. This programme provides advanced academic education and is delivered in English, equipping students with essential skills for a career in data analysis and processing.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Biology - Cancer Biology

Students choosing this Biology - Cancer Biology program from University of Zurich are interested in understanding basic molecular pathways that regulate genome instability events underlying cellular transformation, crucial characteristics of cancer initiating cells, their interaction with tumor microenvironment and their molecular characteristics that offer therapeutic opportunities.

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

Science, Technology and Policy

Looking to deepen your natural sciences or engineering knowledge and address grand societal challenges? The Science, Technology and Policy program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology will prepare you to tackle real-​world issues with scientific and policy expertise.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Civil Engineering

The Civil Engineering program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology will enable students to undertake independent practical or scientific professional work as civil engineers and generally lasts four semesters. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
Bern University of Applied Sciences4,0(20)
Bern, Switzerland

Life Sciences - Food, Nutrition and Health

As a student of this degree programme in Life Sciences - Food, Nutrition and Health at the Bern University of Applied Sciences, you will engage with cutting-edge issues at the intersection of food and nutritional sciences and develop specific expertise along the entire value chain.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1½ year$2,431/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

Earth Sciences

The Master in Earth Sciences programme of University of Geneva is an advanced programme in multiple areas of Earth Sciences that combines basic science and practical applications.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,280/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

English Literature and Linguistics

The English Literature and Linguistics course from University of Zurich expands on the Bachelor's study program.

M.A. 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

Health Sciences and Technology

The Health Sciences and Technology program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology trains specialists who use science and technology in the service of human health and thus create new opportunities in the prevention, diagnosis and therapy of diseases.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,868/yr
University of Lausanne3,8(14)
Lausanne, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Medical Biology

The Master of Science (MSc) in Medical Biology degree offered by University of Lausanne is intended for students who are interested in biological research in the medical field.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,484/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Biomedicine

The Biomedicine course at University of Zurich is directed to all students with a strong interest for the sciences and medicine. The courses address those enjoying Chemistry, Physics and Biology, those interested in understanding the anatomy and function of the human body and those curious to learn how diseases arise, how diseases can be diagnosed and cured.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland4,0(7)
Basel, Switzerland

Transversal Design

Embark on a journey of interdisciplinary exploration with the Transversal Design MA program at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland. Delve into the dynamic field of transversal design, where creativity intersects with technology, society, and the environment, shaping innovative solutions for complex challenges.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,599/yr
University of Geneva3,9(30)
Genève, Switzerland Top 0.5% in Worldwide

International and European Law

The Master in International and European Law programme of University of Geneva follows the Bachelor programme to complete students' basic legal training.

LL.M. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,280/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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