List of the Best Universities in Switzerland by Major
Switzerland, a small country in the heart of Europe, may be known for its chocolate, luxury watches, and stunning Alpine scenery. However, in the eyes of academics and professionals, Switzerland is a global center of educational excellence. The country consistently produces top-ranked higher education institutions.
If you plan to continue your studies in Europe, Switzerland offers more than just beautiful views; it offers a certain path to a global career. It’s important to note that finding the best universities in Switzerland isn’t enough just by looking at general rankings.
The key to success in this country is finding the ranking of Swiss universities based on a specific major. Switzerland is home to two elite technology institutions on par with MIT, a leading business school in Europe, and the best hospitality schools in the world.
This article will be your guide to navigating these options. We will dissect why Switzerland is a magnet for skilled students and, most importantly, recommend the best institutions according to your field of study.
Why Switzerland Excels: Criteria and Appeal
The quality of higher education in Switzerland does not happen by accident. It is the result of massive investment and an unwavering focus on innovation and research. This is why Switzerland is globally recognized as an academic powerhouse.
Switzerland is one of the countries with the highest research investment per capita in the world. The close relationship between academia and industry especially the pharmaceutical, technology, and finance sectors—creates an environment where scientific research is quickly translated into real applications and products.
To understand its educational landscape, you need to know about the country’s Dual Education System. Switzerland distinguishes between:
1. Federal Institutes of Technology: Funded and managed by the federal government, these institutions focus heavily on science, engineering, and research. This is where powerhouses like ETH Zurich and EPFL are located.
2. Cantonal Universities: Managed by each canton (province-level), with a broader focus, including humanities, law, and social sciences.
Despite their very high quality, an interesting fact is that tuition fees in Switzerland, especially at public and federal universities, are relatively affordable for foreign students, often much cheaper than in the US or the UK. This combination of quality and reasonable cost makes Switzerland a very attractive choice.
Best Universities in Switzerland by Most Popular Majors
Choosing the right university based on your major is a crucial decision in your academic journey. Switzerland not only offers stunning Alpine views but also a world-class education system.
Based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, Switzerland placed 29 subjects in the global top 10. Here is a comprehensive guide to the 9 best universities in Switzerland based on their excellent majors that you should consider.
1. ETH Zurich – Engineering and Pure Sciences
ETH Zurich dominates the fields of science and technology, holding the position as home to the world’s best programs for geophysics, geology, and earth and marine sciences.
This university, which has trained more than 20 Nobel Prize recipients, offers excellence in five main areas: Architecture and Civil Engineering, Engineering Sciences, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, System-Oriented Natural Sciences, and Management and Social Sciences.
If you aspire to be a world-class scientist or engineer, ETH Zurich is the perfect choice, ranking 7th globally according to QS 2026.
2. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) – Engineering and Technology
EPFL ranks 10th for engineering and technology and 11th for natural sciences according to the QS Subject Rankings. This highly international university has almost half of its total students coming from 112 different nationalities.
The campus, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, is fully operated by renewable energy from hydropower, reflecting a commitment to sustainability that can inspire you to develop environmentally friendly technology solutions. EPFL offers innovative programs in robotics, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology.
3. EHL Hospitality Business School Lausanne – Hospitality and Tourism
The hospitality sector is dominated by Swiss institutions, taking the top three spots for the best programs in the world and eight entries in the top ten. This oldest hospitality school in the world offers a comprehensive education, combining management theory with direct industry practice. If you are interested in a career in the global hospitality industry, you will benefit from EHL’s alumni network spread throughout the world.
4. University of Zurich – Medicine and Dentistry
The University of Zurich shines among the global top ten for dentistry and recorded the biggest increase in chemistry. With seven faculties, including the Faculty of Medicine and the Vetsuisse Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, it offers comprehensive medical programs.
As the largest university in Switzerland with over 25,000 students, you will have access to very complete medical facilities and research laboratories. The university’s international reputation in medical and pharmaceutical research has resulted in various important breakthroughs in the health field.
5. University of Basel – Life Sciences and Pharmacology
The University of Basel excels in the fields of life sciences and pharmacology. Its strategic location on the border of three countries provides a unique advantage. The university’s Faculty of Science and Faculty of Medicine work closely with giant pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis and Roche, which are headquartered in Basel. If you are interested in biomedical research and drug development, the University of Basel offers extraordinary opportunities with advanced research facilities.
6. University of St. Gallen – Business and Marketing
The University of St. Gallen achieved the 18th global ranking for marketing and is known as one of the best business schools in Europe. This university, which specializes in business, economics, law, and social sciences, has a highly-rated MBA program. If you aspire to be a global business leader, you will benefit from St. Gallen’s strong alumni network in various Fortune 500 companies.
7. University of Bern – Environmental Science and Dentistry
The University of Bern holds the top position for the h-index in dentistry and ranks ninth overall for that field. In addition, this university excels in environmental science and politics with eight faculties covering various disciplines.
Its location in the Swiss capital provides the advantage of direct access to government institutions and international organizations. The university’s Faculty of Science offers excellent programs in climate change and environmental sustainability.
8. University of Geneva – International Relations
The University of Geneva excels in the fields of natural and social sciences. This university has students from over 150 countries. Programs in international relations, diplomacy, and global studies directly benefit from its proximity to the UN, WHO, and other international organizations. If you are interested in a career in international organizations or diplomacy, the University of Geneva offers unparalleled internship opportunities and professional networks.
Read Also: 8 Highest Paying Jobs in Switzerland in 2025, Number 5 is a Surprise!
9. Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) – Communication and Informatics
USI offers the uniqueness of being the only Italian-speaking university in Switzerland outside the Ticino region. It excels in communication, informatics, and architecture. The Mendrisio Academy of Architecture, which is part of USI, is known for its innovative approach to sustainable design. The Faculty of Communication, Culture, and Society offers programs that combine traditional media with digital technology.
Conclusion
Choosing the best university in Switzerland is an investment that is proven to provide a high return. Whether you are pursuing Engineering and Science at Federal Institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL, delving into business at the University of St. Gallen, or mastering the art of hospitality at EHL, Switzerland promises the highest academic standards.
To win the competition, start processing your documents now and ensure the major you choose aligns with the university that truly excels in that field. With thorough preparation and dedication, you will be ready to become part of the elite academic community at the heart of global innovation.
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