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 Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Molecular Biology

This Master’s degree in Molecular Biology is offered by the Biozentrum of the University of Basel. It provides direct access to molecular biology research and teaching at the international top level in a working atmosphere which equally promotes professional and personal development. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Critical Urbanisms

The English-language master's program Critical Urbanisms at the University of Basel trains a new generation of graduates who are capable of bridging the rifts between city and country as well as north and south in order to better understand the complexity of urban living environments in the 21st century and the extraordinary challenges to tackle the current urbanization.

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

Energy Science and Technology

The Energy Science and Technology program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is a unique opportunity to understand the production and use of energy in our society.

Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Computational Science

The goal of the specialized program in Computational Science at University of Zurich is to provide students with in-depth techniques in computational and simulation science.

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

Earth System Science

How are forest fires related to climate extremes? How is the rise in oceanic water levels related to the melting of glaciers? Knowledge in natural sciences and interconnected thinking enables students of the Earth System Science course from University of Zurich to understand events in different spheres of the Earth.

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

Specialised Translation

The Master of Arts in Specialised Translation programme of University of Geneva will help you find your place in the fascinating world of translation and confront the challenges related to technological developments. 

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

Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology (Fast Track)

The Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology (Fast Track) course from University of Zurich is intended for exceptional students envisioning an academic career. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,842/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Finance and Money

The specialized Master's program in Finance and Money at the University of Basel provides students with the conceptual knowledge and the methodological skills required for professional financial decision making. 

Master Full-time On-campus
1½ year$2,175/yr
University of Basel3,9(12)
Basel, Switzerland Top 1% in Worldwide

Religion, Economics and Politics

In this master’s course in Religion, Economics and Politics from University of Basel, the students deepen the connections between religion, economics and politics from different, complementary scientific perspectives. The course addresses pressing social issues relating to religion on a local, national and global level.

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

Biology - Neurosciences

The graduates of the Biology - Neurosciences course from University of Zurich have skills in scientific research. Their knowledge allows them to understand complex biological systems. They recognize relevant problems in Biology and are able to plan and conduct experiments using a variety of techniques to address these problems. 

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

Digital Neuroscience

The specialised master programme in Digital Neuroscience from University of Fribourg provides unique opportunities for an intense learning experience in the area of neuroscience and digitisation. 

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,226/yr
University of Zurich4,2(56)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 2% in Worldwide

Biology - Paleontology

The Biology - Paleontology program’s graduates from University of Zurich have skills in scientific research. Their knowledge allows them to understand complex biological systems. They recognize relevant problems in Biology and are able to plan and conduct experiments using a variety of techniques to address these problems.

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

Agricultural Sciences

In the Agricultural Sciences program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology students develop expertise in Agricultural Sciences and apply it in a professional environment during an internship.

Master 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

Pharmaceutical Sciences

The outstanding feature is that the Pharmaceutical Sciences program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology combines a thorough scientific education with industry-​specific training. Students acquire in-​depth knowledge in various fields of Pharmaceutical Sciences and gain scientific skills and insight into drug development prozess.

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

Digital Business Administration

Bern University of Applied Sciences's Master’s in Digital Business Administration prepares you to make companies and organisations fit for the digital future.

M.Sc. Full-time Blended
2 years$2,431/yr
ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences4,0(27)
Wädenswil, Switzerland +2 Top 6% in Worldwide

Chemistry for the Life Sciences

In the life sciences, competencies from the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, (bio)analysis, green chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology are required. This is where you, as a specialist, can bring your expertise to bear with this Chemistry for the Life Sciences programm offered at ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 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 Fribourg4,3(7)
Fribourg, Switzerland Top 3% in Worldwide

Experimental Biomedical Research

The Specialized Master of Science in Experimental Biomedical Research provides opportunities for a broad learning experience in the area of biomedicine. At the University of Fribourg, this programme emphasizes research training and acquisition of practical skills that will enhance the students' capacity to take on a future employment and/or develop a career in research. 

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

Sociolinguistics

The unique master's program in Sociolinguistics in the German-speaking region offered at the University of Bern is a two-year program devoted to various aspects of the relationship between language and society and their reciprocal influence.

M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,431/yr
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology4,1(54)
Zürich, Switzerland Top 0.1% in Worldwide

Landscape Architecture

The Landscape Architecture  master program at ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology imparts landscape architecture skills in analysis, design and planning, materials and construction, natural sciences and the humanities, which optimally deepen and complement the bachelor's degree in architecture or landscape architecture.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,868/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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